Behind the Groove

Jazz is the backbone of the instrumental music community at CSArts. One section is getting bigger than just music, and building something complex and limitless.

The jazz section of the Instrumental Music conservatory has groups called combos. They are small groups of jazz musicians looking to take their music beyond the basics. The combos experiment with ideas, improvise, try something new, and share their passion with others. They come in different levels, at the top being the “Ambassador Combo.” 

“The Jazz Ambassador Combo” is the flagship small jazz group ensemble at CSARTS. Students who have the opportunity to perform in this high-octane group are paired together through skill and dedication,” said Ambassador director Eric Hirshhorn.

Music is more than just showing up. “Through rehearsals and a constant flow of off-campus actual gigs and performances, the students are expected to have, at a minimum, 20 songs ready at the will, as well as in working arrangements of pieces by the students themselves and other artists,” said Hirshhorn.

Practices, rehearsals and performances eat up hours inside and outside of school. Tthey’re a great way to both expand musical skill and also get into the practical logistics of performing,” said Ambassador participant, Gabriel Cabardo.

You can support CSArts Jazz Musician at their next performance at the CSArts Holiday Enchantment even on December 11th at the Pasadena Nazarene Church.  They’ll be playing from 6-7pm and 8-8:30pm. 

“It’s a pleasure to see these peeps absolutely rip through these pieces and knock it out onstage with a concept and everything, “ said Hirshhorn.