Thursday was a jazz-filled day for Binghamton University, with a jazz clinic, a mid-day concert and an evening performance.

The Harpur Jazz Ensemble ended the day with their annual jazz concert at the Osterhout Concert Theater in the Anderson Center at 8 p.m.

According to Mike Carbone, director of the Harpur Jazz Ensemble, the Ensemble has seen audiences ranging from 750 to 1,200 people. Last night’s performance filled the theater with about 900 guests.

The Ensemble, a group since 1969, has, according to Carbone, always been “a high-standard, hard-working, dedicated and fun group to be involved with on campus.”

“I joined the Jazz Ensemble because I love jazz, and everyone works so well together,” said Stefanie Devito, a junior bio-chemistry major. “Everyone in the band has such a strong passion for jazz that comes through in their music.”

According to Carbone, the group usually puts on two to three shows a year, including one in the Anderson Center and a smaller concert either on or off campus. Most concerts feature at least one guest performer.

Thursday night’s show featured jazz trumpeter Walter White.

Students who attended also had an ear for music.

“The guest made the show completely different and brought the performance to a whole new level,” Jacob Lee, an undeclared sophomore, said.

Sean Kim, a sophomore majoring in bio-chemistry, echoed Lee’s admiration and added that although this was his second time attending a Harpur Jazz Ensemble performance, “[he] really liked it and enjoyed the guest performer.”

The Harpur Jazz Ensemble has worked with various other artists including Clark Terry, Slam Steward, the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and Frank Hampton.

Students must audition to become a member of the group. Registration will be the first Tuesday night of the first week of classes, Jan. 29, in the Fine Arts Building, room 24, from 7 to 10 p.m.

“There is an emphasis on learning big-band repertoire,” Carbone said.

Although students do not need to have a lot of experience, Carbone said that some jazz experience is always good. The group is also not only looking for instrumental players; they occasionally add jazz vocalists into their program as well.

Students with any questions can e-mail Carbone at mcarbone@binghamton.edu.