Formerly known as Jazz Ensemble I until January 2012 _(Richards), the Jazz Orchestra has been performing for over 40 years. The Jazz Orchestra has been considered one of the most visible performing groups from the School of Music as well as the university’s showcase jazz organization _{(Sch. of Music).}  The Orchestra performs a combination of pieces composed by students and published pieces by jazz artists from Duke Ellington to some of today’s contemporary artists _{(Sch. of Music)}. Participation in the Orchestra is based on auditions every semester _{(Sch. of Music)}. The Orchestra generally consists of about 20 performers, both music majors and non-music majors _(Richards). The Orchestra does tour the Midwest region for recruitment of talented players as well as for jazz festivals and competitions _(Richards). They have both traveled nationally as well.