The concert begins with an early energetic dance, a Cakewalk from 1898 by Will Marion Cook. Ragtime music in the early 1900s is represented by the music of Scott Joplin. James Reese Europe took his early jazz band to Europe during World War I, playing a syncopated version of Marseillaise and a jazz march honoring the soldiers. Duke Ellington’s classic 1931 Rockin’ in Rhythm brought a new sophistication to jazz. Nat King Cole’s 1943 hit Straighten Up and Fly Right was popular with both black and white audiences. In the 1950s Ray Charles’ 1954 I’ve Got a Woman was #1 on the charts. The last half of the concert will feature Bill Nicks and His Motown Machine. Nicks was one of the original Motown drummers, and his group will play famous Motown hits loved by everyone.
Family friendly, all ages are welcome. This is a free but ticketed event.
For tickets visit performingarts.nd.edu or call 631-2800.