Evangel University Jazz Ensemble to perform concert

October 30, 2007
Contact: Paul K. Logsdon, Director of Public Relations and Publications, (417) 865-2815 ext. 7292

Springfield, Mo. — The Evangel University Jazz Ensemble, directed by Matthew Warner, will perform a concert at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 1, in the Barnett Recital Hall.

The program will also feature a guest performance by The Jazz Educators Big Band, a local jazz band composed of professional musicians and music teachers.

There is no charge for admission, and the public is invited to attend.

Evangel’s Jazz Ensemble will perform classic and contemporary big band jazz, including works from the repertoire of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, the Stan Kenton Orchestra and Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band.

Two of the selections will feature vocalists Derek Logsdon, senior biology major from Springfield, Mo., and Alyseia Smith, freshman public relations/advertising major from Rockford, Ill.

“I am excited to present some interesting and challenging music with our students,” said Matt Warner, director and assistant professor of music. “They have worked hard to refine some very difficult arrangements.”

The Jazz Educators Big Band, directed by Bob Holden, will perform music from the libraries of Count Basie, Maynard Ferguson, Buddy Rich and Gordon Goodwin.

Bob Holden is a retired Springfield music teacher, professional trombonist, band leader and composer/arranger.

“I am excited that Bob Holden and the Jazz Educators Big Band are volunteering their time and talents to perform at Evangel University,” said Warner. “Not only do they play at a high technical level, they play passionately and for all the right reasons.”

Warner, also a member of JEBB, will be featured on the saxophone.

For additional information, contact Matthew Warner at (417) 865-2815 ext. 7213.