MSU Jazz Studies rings in 25 years with guest trumpeter Sean Jones

The Michigan State University College of Music kicks off its 25th anniversary celebration of the Jazz Studies Program, led by bassist and director Rodney Whitaker, with the opening concert of the MSU Federal Credit Union, or MSUFCU, Jazz Artist in Residence series. On Sunday, Oct. 12 at 3 p.m. in Fairchild Theatre, MSU Jazz Orchestras will share the stage with renowned jazz trumpeter Sean Jones, acclaimed for his soaring sound, commanding technique and deeply expressive style.

The MSUFCU Jazz Artist in Residence program, now in its 13th year, is a well-established initiative that has brought nearly 50 highly acclaimed guest artists to campus since its beginnings. Artists spend a week working closely with students through master classes and workshops, while also touring regionally with MSU jazz ensembles to mentor aspiring jazz musicians at middle and high schools. The residency culminates in a public concert, giving greater Lansing jazz fans the chance to experience these artists alongside MSU’s own nationally recognized ensembles.

“Thanks to the continued generosity of the MSU Federal Credit Union, hosting top-tier jazz artists has become an essential part of our program,” said Whitaker. “We’re thrilled to welcome Sean Jones to MSU as we kick off this year’s residency series and celebrate 25 years of Jazz Studies at the College.”

Praised as a leading voice in jazz trumpet, Jones served as lead trumpeter of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra for several years and has built an international reputation as a soloist, bandleader and educator. His artistry bridges the depth of jazz tradition with a spirit of innovation, qualities that make him a compelling performer and mentor for aspiring jazz musicians.

“Sean Jones is one of the most inspiring trumpet voices in jazz today,” said Anthony Stanco, assistant professor of jazz trumpet. “Our students are eager to learn from him and I personally look forward to sharing the stage with him. I think our audiences will be captivated by the energy and artistry he brings.”

Jones’ residency marks the first of four dynamic artists featuring René Marie (jazz voice, Dec. 7, 2025), Harvey Mason (jazz drums, March 15, 2026) and Anat Cohen (jazz clarinet, April 18, 2026). Launched in 2013 through a $1 million endowment from MSUFCU, the residency program represents the largest investment in the College’s jazz program. Each year, guest artists perform across the state in more than a dozen concerts and educational events with MSU ensembles, providing valuable learning opportunities for students and bringing jazz into communities that rarely have access to live performances of this caliber.

Reserved seating tickets are $19 for adults, $17 for seniors (age 60 and older) and $9 for students with ID and anyone under 18 and can be purchased online by calling (517) 353-5340 or at the door.

2025–2026 Jazz Artists in Residence Schedules

Sean Jones, trumpet — October 6–12, 2025
For a full bio, visit: https://peabody.jhu.edu/faculty/sean-jones/

• Monday, Oct. 6, 6 p.m. – Blue Mondays, MSU Federal Credit Union
• Wednesday, Oct. 8, 7 p.m. – Workshop/Concert, Community Music School–Detroit, 3408 Woodward Ave., Detroit
• Thursday, Oct. 9, 7 p.m. – Concert, Byron Center High School, 8500 Burlingame Ave. SW, Byron Center
• Friday, Oct. 10, 7:30 p.m. – Concert, The Carr Center, 15 E. Kirby St., Detroit
• Saturday, Oct. 11, 3 p.m. – Concert, City Opera House, 106 E. Front St., Traverse City
• Sunday, Oct. 12, 3 p.m. – Concert, MSU Auditorium, Fairchild Theatre, 542 Auditorium Rd., East Lansing

René Marie, voice — December 1–7, 2025
For a full bio, visit: https://renemarie.com/about/

René Marie is a GRAMMY-nominated vocalist, composer, arranger, educator and activist whose artistry spans jazz, folk, Americana and classical influences. Known for her powerful storytelling and rich hybrid style, she has released 11 recordings and performed worldwide. Her work draws from her Southern upbringing and deep life experiences, delivering performances that celebrate both musical tradition and human resilience.

Harvey Mason, drums — March 9–15, 2026
For a full bio, visit: https://harveymasonmusic.com/bio/

Harvey Mason is one of the most recorded and in-demand drummers in contemporary jazz. His decades-long career includes founding the group Fourplay, performing with Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters and contributing to hundreds of recordings across genres. Beyond his instrumental mastery, Mason has also produced, composed and scored works for film and studio, making him a versatile force in jazz and popular music.