The Western Oregon Jazz Orchestra is WOU’s large jazz ensemble. This group performs the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Charles Mingus, Thad Jones, and Bob Brookmeyer, as well as original music by WOU students and faculty. Previous guest artists and clinicians include Scott Wendholt, Adam Larson, Greta Matassa, Allen Toussaint, Cuong Vu, Nancy King, Victor Barranco (US Army Blues), and Mel Brown. Each term the Western Oregon Jazz Orchestra performs multiple concerts, records, and tours off campus.

Auditions are held at the beginning of each term. Contact Dr. Keith Karns for audition information.