Drake Jazz I is the premier jazz ensemble at Drake University, based in Des Moines, Iowa. Their jazz program is very vibrant and active around the regional area. Drake Jazz I tours regionally every year, and internationally every four years. In 2018, they travelled to China and performed for the Ambassador at the U.S. Embassy; in 2022, they toured in South America. Other countries they have performed in are England, the Netherlands, France, Germany, Switzerland, and Italy. Drake I has won the collegiate division at the Eau Claire Jazz Festival, run by students of the University of Wisconsin, all eight times the ensemble has attended. The big band is directed by Andrew Classen, a Professor of Trumpet and Jazz Studies. In addition to leading Drake Jazz I, he also works with the Turner Center Jazz Orchestra, is principal trumpet with the Orchestra Iowa, has played with numerous Broadway shows, toured internationally and recorded several albums.
