West Chester University Celebrates 100 Years of Jazz
Three-Day Celebration Honors the Legacy of the Criterions Jazz Ensemble and Looks Toward the Next Century
West Chester University (WCU) will celebrate 100 years of jazz with a three-day celebration November 6–8, bringing together current students, faculty, alumni, and friends of the University's jazz program for concerts, educational opportunities, social events, and a special performance featuring internationally acclaimed vibraphonist and educator Stefon Harris.
The 100th anniversary celebration will invite Criterions alumni to return to campus to be honored and celebrated at several events throughout the weekend. Alumni bands will perform during multiple events throughout the weekend, and a grand Soiree will provide opportunities for former Criterions to reconnect.
The anniversary also marks an investment in the future of jazz at WCU. Through the West Chester University Foundation, the 100 Years of Jazz campaign is raising funds to establish an endowment dedicated specifically to the jazz program. The permanent endowment will provide ongoing operating support, helping the program expand and remain a vital part of WCU for generations to come. Donations can be made at West Chester University Foundation's 100 Years of Jazz campaign.
“This anniversary is about not only celebrating where we've been, but it's also about looking ahead,” said Jonathan Ragonese, director of Jazz Studies at West Chester University. “The Criterions Jazz Ensemble is shaped by generations of extraordinary students, faculty, and alumni. We want to bring that community back together, honor the legacy they created, and help ensure that this tradition continues for the next 100 years.”
Guest Artist Stefon Harris
Acclaimed vibraphonist and educator Stefon Harris will lead several events throughout the weekend. Harris was recognized multiple times in the DownBeat Critics Poll and is one of the most sought-after musicians and educators in jazz. He has built an international career as a performer, composer, and educator, working with leading artists while also dedicating himself to mentoring the next generation of musicians. The Los Angeles Times has heralded Harris as “one of the most important young artists in jazz.”
A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music, Harris emerged on the national jazz scene in the 1990s and has released numerous recordings as a bandleader and collaborator. His work is distinguished by an innovative approach to the vibraphone and a commitment to expanding the possibilities of contemporary jazz.
Criterions History
The Criterions Jazz Ensemble— affectionately known as the “Crites” for short—is touted as the longest-running university jazz band in the country. Originating in the 1920s as a student-led ballroom dance band, the band provided entertainment for university dances, proms, and post-Friday night football games. As musical styles and the University evolved, the ensemble became a faculty-led jazz ensemble in the early 1980s, when the Wells School of Music established its jazz curriculum.
Today, the Criterions are WCU's Wells School of Music’s premiere jazz ensemble. Known for its mastery of American popular songs and jazz standards, the Criterions have performed throughout the country, recorded albums, and hosted many of the leading jazz artists of their time.
100 Years of Jazz Celebration Events Include:
100 Years of Jazz Welcome Concert - Criterions Jazz Ensemble and Statesmen – FREE and Open to the Public on Friday, November 6, at 7:30 p.m., Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Building
The Criterions Jazz Ensemble and Statesmen team up for an unforgettable kick-off to the 100th celebration. Profs. Mark Allen and Jonathan Ragonese lead this exciting evening as we welcome jazz alumni back to campus.
Stefon Harris Masterclass – FREE and Open to the Public on Saturday, November 7, at 2 p.m., Philips Autograph Library, Philips Memorial Building
Stefon Harris will lead a masterclass for WCU students and members of the University community. The masterclass will give WCU students an opportunity to learn directly from one of today's prominent jazz artists and educators.
A Dance Soirée: Celebrating 100 Years of Jazz on Saturday, November 7, from 6:30–10:30 p.m., WCU Science and Engineering Building (SECC)
Ballroom
$100 Ticketed event; Dinner and Drinks Included; RSVP required at: https://www.wcufoundation.org/e/jazz
Guests will dance the night away at A Dance Soirée: Celebrating 100 Years of Jazz, featuring an Alumni Dance Band and the current Criterions Jazz Ensemble performing music inspired by the Big Band Era.
Preceded by a cocktail hour, the evening will bring together current and former members of the Criterions community for an evening of music and dancing. Dinner and drinks are included. Dean Chris Hanning, Director of Jazz Studies Jonathan Ragonese, and other notable members of the Criterions community will join alumni and current students in celebrating a century of jazz at WCU.
100th Anniversary Celebration Featuring Stefon Harris – Ticketed Event on Sunday, November 8, at 3 p.m., Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, Philips Memorial Building. Tickets at https://wcupatix.com/wells-school-of-music
The weekend will culminate with the 100th Anniversary Celebration featuring guest artist Stefon Harris. Harris joins the Criterions to celebrate their rich legacy and usher them into the future. An all-star Alumni band will perform alongside Harris, as well as the current Criterions Jazz Ensemble. Newly commissioned works in honor of the band by Bob Mintzer and Orrin Evans will be premiered. A once-in-a-century event!