Smooth sounds of jazz

    Swingin’ vibes and vibrant energy initiated the Jazz Band’s annual Fall Concert in Russell Auditorium on Nov. 2 and 3. 
    The 27-piece band was under the direction of Dr. Todd Shiver, an associate professor of music and the director of bands. Accompanied with Dr. Bob Wilson, the MC, the night was filled with laughs and personality.
    The constant banter between Shiver and Wilson set up a heart-felt evening in pure appreciation of jazz music and history. They both described their experiences in the Czech Republic and their admiration for the European enjoyment of jazz.
    The musical arrangements varied from Nat King Cole’s “Straighten Up and Fly Right” to Michael Bublé’s “Feeling Good”. Bublé’s piece was a favorite to many, including freshman Kirk Bowers.
    A freshman Athletic Training major and jazz enthusiast, Bowers said the overall tone was happy and he felt the band was just having a good time.
    “The upbeat and fast-paced loud music sparked my interest back during the early high school years,” Bowers said.
    The inspired and jovial atmosphere was set by a colorful, mood setting back drop. The polite and interactive audience also created an environment of rich and bright energy.
    Freshman Joel Graham enjoyed performing in the concert as much as the audience enjoyed the show.
    “Performing is quite a rush” Graham said. “It’s great just being up there and interacting with the audience through the music, it’s so rewarding.”
    As a 13-year veteran of the trumpet, Graham has always been inspired by great trumpet players, such as the late Maynard Ferguson and Bud Herseth.
    “The jazz band here is much different than high school, and I like it mainly because there is less focus on the pedagogical aspect and more emphasis on performance and having fun,” Graham said.
    The evening progressed with presentations of Charlie Barnet’s “Skyliner” and Bill Liston’s “Why Musicians Can’t Dance”. However, the vocal input from Laura Dees spiced up songs like “Boogie Blues” and “Straighten Up and Fly Right”.
    Trumpet player Philip Joiner gave a passionate rendition of “Feeling Good”, arranged by Douglas O’Grady. His execution of body movement and deep expressions thoroughly impressed the crowd.
    Additionally, James McMillan’s wailing trumpet solo in Benny Golson’s “I Remember Clifford” soulfully touched the audience with its somber and emotional tone. The several sax solos from Kyle Christmas cannot be forgotten.
    Attendee Bren Thomas, a freshman theatre major, heard the jazz band concerts were amazing. He was not disappointed.
    “[I]will definitely go to another; I felt hip by being there,” Thomas said.
    The Jazz Band will next perform a Holiday Concert, which will be held on Dec. 1 in Russell Auditorium at 8 p.m. The Holiday Concert will be the first in over 30 years. Shiver said, “The tickets are expected to sell out, so be sure to buy your ticket in advance.”
    Proceeds from the concerts will go toward the cost for the band’s trip to the Czech Republic .

Posted by Colonnade Archives on Nov 10 2006. Filed under Features. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry