Biography
- Originated from the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA (now the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA). The ensemble functions as a training ground for rising jazz stars within the Institute’s extensive education ecosystem.
- Public debut traces to 2010–2011 at Berklee College of Music’s Cafe 939, featuring early members such as Billy Buss (trumpet), Godwin Louis (alto sax), Victor Gould (piano), Hogyu Hwang (bass), Nick Falk (drums), and Matt Marantz.
- Notable appearances include performances at UCLA’s Fowler Museum (2014) and LA World Stage jam sessions (2018), among other educational outreach events that emphasize community engagement and cross-cultural exchange.
- The ensemble has historically participated in the Institute’s international outreach, with tours and programs designed to bring high-level jazz education to audiences worldwide. The broader Institute supports the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Competition, a cornerstone of the jazz ecosystem that has launched numerous artists’ careers, and the ensemble has served as a platform for emerging winners and Fellows.
- Social channels for formal updates and ensemble activities are linked to the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz channels, ensuring fans receive accurate, official information.
Discography Highlights
- Collaborative recordings tied to Institute showcases and educational ensembles, featuring early members who later gained wider recognition in the jazz community.
- Live performance sessions captured for educational outreach, demonstrating the ensemble’s emphasis on improvisation, ensemble interplay, and contemporary reinterpretations of jazz standards.
Upcoming Tour Information
- Upcoming dates are announced through the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz Performance at UCLA channels.
- Events are typically presented as standalone performances; date to be announced or RESCHEDULED dates will be indicated as applicable.
- To secure your seats, check official Institute announcements and purchase via our straightforward, no-fuss process.
For official updates and more about the ensemble, follow the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz channels and the UCLA program pages. This is your inside track to the ensemble’s activities, tours, and educational outreach.
Performer Socials and Official Links
Venue and Location Details
Venues vary by performance and city. When attending, expect high-quality acoustics, professional lighting, and audience-friendly seating arrangements. Our team works with venues to ensure a smooth ticketing process and clear event information for fans across the the city area and beyond.