USU Jazz Orchestra Thrills Audiences in Italy With Prestigious Festival Performances

LOGAN, UT — A Utah State University jazz orchestra recently returned from a tour through Italy, where they performed at five prestigious festivals.

The Caine College of the Arts Jazz Orchestra, directed by Associate Professor Max Matzen, performed at festivals including Umbria and Ancona on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity spanning July 7-17.

The 20-piece orchestra, composed of top-tier students selected through a rigorous audition process, demonstrated the high level of excellence that defines Utah State’s music program. These young musicians, guided by the expertise of Professor Matzen, performed alongside the Aggie Music Project, or AMP — a quartet of distinguished professors — which opened each concert. The students also immersed themselves in the rich culture of Rome, visiting iconic sites such as the Colosseum and the Vatican, further broadening their educational experience.

“This performance tour was a transformative experience for our students,” said Nicholas Morrison, the dean of the Caine College of the Arts. “They gained invaluable insights as jazz musicians and in the broader context of their roles as artists on the world stage.”

The opportunity to perform in such renowned venues was made possible by the generous support of the community, including donors Tim and Sylvia Newman. Their commitment to the arts ensured that these talented students could shine in an international spotlight, representing Utah State University with distinction. The overwhelming support from alumni, local leaders, and the community underscores the shared belief in the power of music education to shape future leaders.

For the students, this journey offered unparalleled professional development. Playing for enthusiastic Italian audiences, they experienced firsthand the profound impact their music can have on people’s lives. This unique opportunity allowed them to apply the comprehensive skills they’ve developed in their coursework, from performance to theory, in real-world settings—a rare and valuable experience for any aspiring musician.

“After each show, the students spent time talking and interacting with the audiences — in a mixture of broken English and Italian — and for many of them, that was one of the best parts of our trip,” Matzen said. “The passion for music amongst the audiences there is enormous and the energy was just fantastic. This trip affirmed for our students that their passion and hard work can resonate deeply with people around the world.”

As the Caine College of the Arts continues to nurture the next generation of artists, this tour serves as a shining example of what’s possible when talent meets opportunity. The support of donors and the involvement of the community play a crucial role in making such experiences accessible to students, ensuring that Utah State University remains a place where artistic excellence thrives.

For more information about the Caine College of the Arts and future performances, please visit cca.usu.edu.