The Georgia State Johnny Mercer Jazz Combo, a newly formed graduate ensemble directed by acclaimed jazz pianist and educator Kevin Bales, is quickly making its mark. Comprising top GSU jazz studies majors Ryan Walton, Joel Powell, Omie Crockett, Joshua Huffman and Joshua Barnes, this group showcases the premier talent of Georgia State University’s jazz program. Each member receives generous support through the Georgia State University Library, which houses the Johnny Mercer Special Collections and Archives, dedicated to preserving the legacy of Johnny Mercer and supporting music education at the School of Music.
The combo made its debut at the 2024 Savannah Jazz Festival in September, hosted by Savannah Jazz, a nonprofit committed to preserving and promoting jazz in the region. The festival also featured notable artists such as Gino Castillo & the Cuban Cowboys and the Doreen Ketchens Band. For Ryan Walton, a percussionist in the ensemble and recipient of a Savannah Jazz Festival scholarship, the experience was especially memorable. "I had a good time playing in Savannah. It was my first time being back since high school. We [the combo] got to spend a good amount of time bonding and hanging out,” Walton shared.
Following their trip to Savannah, the combo performed as part of the Music in the Park Atlanta event on October 20 at Gallery 992 in Atlanta’s West End. Founded in 2010 by saxophonist Kebbi Williams, Music in the Park aims to provide live music and diverse cultural experiences to residents with limited access to arts and cultural programming.
Walton, who is also passionate about the combo's creative direction, spoke about the group's unique approach to music-making. "The thing that I’ve been most happy with in the Mercer Combo is the ability to bring in original music. I’ve brought in some of mine, Josh has brought in some of his, and the band has been really receptive and great to work with," he said. "As students, we’re pushing to play original music and arrangements to get a feel for working with a professional band, rather than just regurgitating the same standards. The faculty have given us a lot of freedom and support to find our own way."
Looking ahead, the group is scheduled to perform at several upcoming events, starting with a set at GSU's Centennial Hall on Thursday, December 5, from 8:30 to 10 a.m., for the Provost’s Holiday Party. In January 2025, the group will be featured at the prestigious Jazz Education Network (JEN) Conference, where they’ll take the stage alongside other leading collegiate and professional jazz ensembles from around the world.
These upcoming performances, especially the January appearance at the JEN Conference, reflect the GSU Johnny Mercer Jazz Combo’s commitment to advancing jazz education and reaching broader audiences. The School of Music and the combo are grateful for the support from the University and are excited to bring this talented ensemble to even more public-facing events around the city.
About the Jazz Program
The Jazz Studies program at Georgia State University offers students opportunities to participate in quality jazz ensembles, including large jazz bands and jazz combos, as well as academic courses such as jazz improvisation, jazz arranging, and jazz pedagogy. The program has a tradition of collaborating with esteemed guest artists and composers like Jeff "Tain" Watts, Miguel Zenón, Etienne Charles, Mike Holober and Tom Scott.
Students receive personalized instruction through one-on-one lessons with experienced faculty, allowing for deep exploration of their instruments or areas of study. Additionally, jazz students engage with Atlanta's vibrant music scene, performing at various venues and events, including the 2023 Atlanta Jazz Festival and the Atlanta Visitor’s Bureau Luncheon.