MacJazz, directed by Joan Griffith, is an 18-piece big band that performs and records classic and contemporary big band jazz. MacJazz performs every year at the Twin Cities Small College Jazz Festival, as well as at local jazz venues. One of the missions of MacJazz is to host locally and internationally known jazz artists for residencies and concerts. The list of artists who have visited Macalester includes Maria Schneider, Geri Allen, Uri Caine, and vocalists Debbie Duncan and Connie Evingson. MacJazz often features new compositions by past and present members.