Penn State to Welcome Ulysses Owens Jr. Big Band
Penn State will host a night of powerful jazz when the Ulysses Owens Jr. Big Band makes its debut at Eisenhower Auditorium on Tuesday, Sept. 10, 2025. The concert begins at 7:30 p.m. and promises high-energy performances with a mix of classic and modern sounds.
Owens, a three-time Grammy Award-winning drummer, leads an ensemble that blends the spirit of big band jazz with fresh arrangements. Audiences can expect a dynamic program featuring music from legends like John Coltrane, Terence Blanchard, and Marvin Gaye, alongside unexpected renditions of songs from bands like Nirvana.
First Black Jazz Drummer at Juilliard
In 2001, Ulysses Owens Jr. became the first Black jazz drummer accepted into the Juilliard School. His path to that milestone started early. He began playing drums at just three years old and later earned a full scholarship to Juilliard.
This achievement not only highlighted his talent but also opened doors for others in the world of classical and jazz education. Today, Owens continues to champion diversity in the arts and inspire younger generations to embrace jazz.
Blending Art, Education, and Community Impact
Beyond the stage, Owens dedicates himself to education and community development. He co-founded Don’t Miss a Beat, a nonprofit that merges performing and visual arts with academic success. The program supports children and teens by combining creativity with structured mentorship.
Speaking about his mission, Owens once said:
“We need new generations of listeners, but also people who have not listened to this art form before. One of the things I love about this is that I found people buying this big band record who had never bought a jazz record before, let alone a big band record.”
A Modern Voice for Jazz Appreciation
Owens believes jazz must continue to reach new audiences to stay alive. His work reflects that belief. From leading ensembles to recording albums, he always brings innovation while honoring jazz’s roots. His music attracts both longtime fans and first-time listeners.
By performing with his big band at Penn State, Owens hopes to ignite that same passion in the audience. The performance is set to highlight jazz as both timeless and constantly evolving.
