Jazz Ensembles to Present Fall Performances

Jazz Ensemble

The award-winning jazz and African-American music studies program, in the department of music and dance, will present two concerts this month.

Jazz Ensemble I, directed by Jeffrey W. Holmes, and Chapel Jazz Ensemble, directed by Felipe Salles, will both perform on Tuesday, Oct. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in Bowker Auditorium. Jazz Ensemble I will be performing a new original from the ensemble’s tenor saxophonist Simon White, along with “Walkin’ About” by Thad Jones, “Acha” by Bob Mintzer, Horace Silver’s “Strollin’” arranged by Rob McConnell and Kenny Wheeler’s “‘Smatter” arranged by jazz program alum Chris Merz. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $5 for senior citizens and non-UMass students. Admission is free for UMass students. Tickets may be purchased at the Fine Arts Center Box Office, by phone at 413-545- 2511, or online at fineartscenter.com/musicanddance. 

Later this month, the department will present a free performance by the Graduate Composers and Jazz Lab Ensembles, led by graduate students Haneef Nelson and Chris Robinson, on Tuesday, Oct. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in Bezanson Recital Hall.

Free and secure parking is available in nearby University lot 71 off Massachusetts Avenue and lot 62 via Thatcher Way or Stockbridge Road. Visit the Fine Arts Center website for more information.