Originally founded in 2019 as BlueNote Vocal Jazz Ensemble, Touch of Blue:  New American Vocal Ensemble is a jazz-based and improvisatory vocal group at the University of Michigan, performing a range of music from standard to graphic scores, and from contemporary jazz-influenced words to brand new commissions from living composers.  We align ourselves with jazz musicians and traditions through collaboration and improvisation, and we seek to uplift marginalized voices in the separation of vocal and instrumental jazz.  Our mission is to inspire diverse audiences through the exploration and presentation of jazz-centric American vocal music, with a commitment to uplifting and celebrating this music through both improvisatory and more conventional performance modes.

Touch of Blue is made up of kind-hearted, curious, and passionate students representing a variety of degree paths who all bond over their love for the art of vocal jazz.  We perform 1-2 concerts a semester, with gigs throughout the entire school year.  From performing at the Big House as part of the Class of 2022's Commencement Ceremony to performing as part of the UMMA Study Days series, Touch of Blue is always engaging in the arts within the Ann Arbor community.​

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Interested in Auditioning?  Find all the information you need HERE