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The Tennessee Technological University Jazz Ensemble was formed in 1948 by then Chairman of Music, Col. Maurice Haste. Tennessee Tech, then, is one of the first colleges in the South to have a jazz ensemble. Starting in the 1950s, the Troubadours played regularly at dances both on and off campus.

Many alumni of the Troubadours are now prominent educators and performers. The Boots Randolph Band, Disneyland, The Jack Daniel's Silver Cornet Band, and Opryland USA are just a few examples of organizations whose musical performers are former members of the Troubadours.

Today, the Troubadours continue to perform throughout the region. In addition, the band hosts an annual jazz festival featuring some of the finest names in jazz. Past guests have included Allen Vizzutti, Louie Bellson, Dan Hearle, Buddy Baker, Roger Pemberton, Bob Mintzer, Dominic Spera, David Baker, Jeff Jaskell, Tom Ervin, Jerry Tachoir, Jamey Aebersold, Frank Mantooth, Jimmy Rupp, Tom Wolfe, and others. The Troubadours have appeared on CBS Sunday Morning with Charles Kuralt, as part of a story on jazz great Louie Bellson.

The Troubadours are part of a jazz ensembles program at Tennessee Tech that features two big bands as well as classes in jazz improvisation. For more information about the Troubadours and other jazz activities at Tennessee Tech, e-mail Mr. Chris McCormick, Director of Jazz Activities. Or, he may be reached by phone at (931) 372-6182.