MTSU School of Music presents Jazz Ensemble I student concert Feb. 19

In this undated photo, members of the Jazz Ensemble I at Middle Tennessee State University stand with their instruments on the stage of the Hinton Music Hall of the Wright Music Building on campus in Murfreesboro, Tenn. (Photo submitted)

MURFREESBORO — Middle Tennessee State University’s premier student big band, Jazz Ensemble I, will perform a program of classic and contemporary big band jazz later this month in a one-night concert.

The free concert begins at 8 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 19, in the Hinton Music Hall of theWright Music Building at 1439 Faulkinberry Drive. A parking map is available at https://bit.ly/3IOkyuL.

The program will highlight a wide range of styles, from timeless swing to more contemporary works, emphasizing both ensemble precision and individual improvisation. The concert will reflect the ongoing evolution of the big band tradition while honoring its rich history.

“This concert gives our students the opportunity to engage deeply with the big band tradition while performing music by composers who have shaped the sound of modern jazz,” said Jamey Simmons, director of Jazz Studies.

The concert’s repertoire will feature music by some of the most influential voices in jazz composition and arranging, including Thad Jones, Bob Mintzer, Duke Ellington, Donald Brown, Bill Holman and student arranger Daniel Kuk.

“We’ve put together a program that challenges our students musically and creatively while honoring the legacy of these great composers,” Simmons added. “It’s a concert that will appeal to longtime jazz fans as well as those new to the music.”

For more information, email James.Simmons@mtsu.edu or call 615-898-2724.

More Jazz Artist Series concerts

Mark your calendars for other concerts in the series this academic year, with the second MTSU Jazz Artist Series concert scheduled for March 5.

The third concert is part of the MTSU Illinois Jacquet Jazz Festival, set for March 28.

It includes a full day featuring performances of school ensembles and MTSU groups, jam sessions, educational sessions and the 5:30 p.m. headline concert featuring an international headliner with MTSU Jazz Ensemble 1.

Dedicated to the memory of tenor saxophonist Illinois Jacquet, the festival seeks to educate, inspire and entertain audiences in the Middle Tennessee area. For information, visit https://www.mtsu.edu/music/jazzfest.php.

For more information about the MTSU Jazz Artist Series, visit http://www.mtsu.edu/music/jazzseries.php.

— DeAnn Hays (deann.hays@mtsu.edu)