The MSU Professors of Jazz continue fusing modern jazz tunes with Christmas classics for a holiday concert. The ensemble presents the tenth annual “A Jazzy Little Christmas” concert on Saturday, Dec. 16 at 8 p.m. in Fairchild Theatre.
The MSU Professors of Jazz ensemble is comprised of MSU College of Music jazz faculty members. The ensemble performs together several times a year at benefits, clinics, and concert halls (including Detroit Symphony Hall).
Members: Etienne Charles, trumpet Randy Gelispie, drums Diego Rivera, tenor saxophone Xavier Davis, piano Randy Napoleon, jazz guitar Michael Dease, trombone Rodney Whitaker, bass
The concert includes popular renditions of holiday favorites specially arranged for jazz and some of the jazz professors’ own improvisational twists. Works like “Winter Wonderland” by Felix Bernard, “Christmas Time is Here” by Vincent Anthony, “Jingle Bells” by James Lord, “Silent Night” by Franz Xaver Gruber, and many more.
Whitaker, bassist for the group and director of Jazz Studies at the College of Music, says he loves this festive time of year and always looks forward to the concert. “My fellow musicians and I love putting this program together,” he says. “Every song holds some special memories for us, and we look forward to performing and celebrating the season with our community of jazz patrons.”
This concert is part of the MSU Federal Credit Union Showcase Series and is generously sponsored by Craig and Lisa Murray; Wolverine Development Corporation, and Joseph Maguire.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (age 60 and older), and $10 for students with ID and anyone under 18, and can be purchased online, at the College of Music box office, by calling (517) 353-5340, or in person (333 W. Circle Drive, East Lansing), or at the door.
For more information: http://music.msu.edu/event-listing/a-jazzy-little-christmas-2
SOURCE: PRESS RELEASE
