Amy & David Bakken
Katherine & Rob Binns
Valerie Cisler
Maria & Kurt Dietrich
Beth & Dan Flaherty
Carol & Paul Heid

Education PARTNERS

“Attending live jazz performances is one of THE BEST possible ways a student of music can grow their understanding of the art form. And as we all know, college students may not have the financial ability to attend shows. Jazz Coterie sponsors have provided an amazing opportunity. Thank you!”

Prof. Mathew Buchman | UWSP Director of Jazz Studies

“The first time I saw Benny Benack III was on the show “Live From Emmet’s Place.” Never would I think I’d see this charismatic colossus in real life. Benny’s charming, conversational stage presence gave me a whole new perspective on performing. And afterwards, I was able to just go up and talk to him and the band. Jazz Coterie has given me so many opportunities as a student to hear and meet some of the greatest jazz musicians alive.”

Colt Maichle | UWSP Jazz Studies Student

“Every time I make my way out to witness the performers coming through the Jazz Coterie series, I am utterly inspired to put my all into improving my own abilities. There is nothing more encouraging than hearing and speaking with someone who has worked hard to make it to the place you want to one day be. Thank you to the sponsors who make my (and my colleagues’) continued attendance possible!”

Jessie Crandall | UWSP Jazz Studies Student

“It is so great to see our students experiencing live music of this caliber at the Jazz Coterie Concerts. It enhances the importance of advocating for jazz music education and performances in our communities. Thank you for bringing this opportunity to our students.”

Prof. José L. Encarnación | Lawrence University Director of Jazz Studies

“A huge thank you to the Jazz Coterie sponsors who underwrite the cost of free student tickets. As an aspiring jazz musician, it meant to the world to me to have a performance of world-class artistry availible so close to home, and without having to worry about a financial barrier. This freedom allowed me to support the artists and the local venue without having to break the bank, and provided an enjoyable evening of inspirational virtuosity.”

David Pickar | Lawrence University Music Student

“I’d love to take this opportunity to say thanks to all that make it possible for students like myself to experience Jazz Coterie events. I haven’t had a chance to see Jazz outside of UW Stevens Point—and the energy and atmosphere within the venue was something that I hadn’t experienced before that performance. I am quite grateful that I was able to go, and incredibly hopeful to make it to more in the future.”

Garrick Hartley | UWSP Arts Management Student

“I really enjoyed going to the Karrin Allyson concert, because it was the first time in a really long time that I've been able to see live music. It was especially moving that a couple in the audience began dancing, because it felt like, for a moment, we went back in time, pre-pandemic, to a time when people could get up and dance to live music. It felt magical, to be honest.”

MK Waid | UWSP Music & Media Studies Student

“As a Professor within the Theatre & Dance Department at UWSP, I see Jazz Coterie as an amazing opportunity for students to be immersed in new forms. Expanding students' horizons is always a goal of our work, and it's been incredible to see student involvement with performances of Jazz Coterie. I hope the series will continue to offer these live performances, and more and more students will experience Jazz Coterie for the opportunity that it provides!”

Tyler Marchant | UWSP Professor of Acting & Directing

“Thank you for the wonderful opportunity! Hearing Ms. Allyson with the trio added to my already large appreciation of jazz. I was mesmerized to hear all her pieces (especially some of her original songs) performed at such a high level.”

Chris Eaton | UWSP Music Ed. Student

“The performance was absolutely amazing. Having this opportunity was special because it allowed me to get away from busy life and take a moment for myself. The ticket sponsorships made it possible because I need to save every bit I can for college.”

Austin Vonderloh | UWSP Music Ed. Student

“This performance was one of the first that I had been to since before the pandemic and It was a real treat to be able to go out and see live music again. What an incredible opportunity to be able to attend such an amazing live performance for free as a university music student!”

Jackson Guha | Lawrence University Music Student

“Feeling the energy coming off the bandstand was something I realized I had missed and needed. As a jazz studies student, seeing jazz of this quality in person was so refreshing. Thanks so much for the amazing evening! Looking forward to more nights with Jazz Coterie.”

Ben Lewis | Lawrence University Music Student