Percussion Ensemble To Perform Homecoming Concert
A homecoming concert by the Alma College Percussion Ensemble will
feature an encore performance of the group’s Jazz Port Townsend show
that produced rave reviews and three standing ovations.
The concert will take place during the College’s homecoming weekend at
8 p.m. Friday, Oct. 12 in the Remick Heritage Center at Alma College.
Tickets are $10 for adults and free for Alma College staff, students
and youth 18 and under.
Seating is reserved. Call (989) 463-7304 for ticket information.
“This concert will differ from previous concerts in that its genre is
jazz and only jazz,” says faculty conductor David Zerbe. The program
will include works by composers Charlie Parker and Clifford Brown and
songs like “Latin Train” by Arturo Sandoval.
“The students own this music, and it shows in their musicality and stage presence,” says Zerbe.
The show was originally performed last July at the Centrum professional
jazz festival in Port Townsend, Wash. Alma’s student percussionists
were the first college ensemble ever invited to perform on the
festival’s main stage.
“Alma College’s Percussion Ensemble displayed the high level of
professional musicianship that we present at the Centrum Jazz
Festival,” says John Clayton, artistic director of the Centrum Jazz
Program. “Not only are they technically proficient, this ensemble plays
with soul.”
Gregg Miller, associate director of Centrum, was initially skeptical of
having a college ensemble perform among the professionals. But he says
he was impressed at the professionalism and organization of the group.
He commented on its versatility, preparedness and relationship with
Zerbe.
“You can’t build that kind of relationship overnight; there’s a great balance of respect and support,” says Miller.
Posted: Wed, October 3rd, 2007 at 8:47AM
