The nation’s oldest Collegiate Jazz Festival returns Feb. 21 to 24 (Wednesday to Saturday) to the University of Notre Dame featuring 11 collegiate ensembles being judged by five acclaimed jazz artists. Sponsored by the Student Union Board, the four evenings of performances will feature diverse jazz from both student and professional musicians.
Performing during the festival will be combos and big bands representing Western Michigan University, Indiana University, the University of Illinois, Roosevelt University, Alma College, Shenandoah University, Slippery Rock University, Southern Illinois University, Columbia College, Capital University, as well as Notre Dame.
The Notre Dame Jazz Band I will open the adjudicated performances at 6p.m. Feb. 23 in Washington Hall. The traditional Judges’ Jam will conclude Friday’s session at 9:45p.m. featuring trumpeter Jon Faddis, saxophonist James Carter, pianist Joan Hickey, bassist Rodney Whitaker and drummer Carl Allen. Six more bands will take the stage beginning at 6p.m. Feb. 24.
Also included in this year’s festival will be performances by Notre Dame ensembles on Feb. 21 and 22 in the LaFortune Student Center’s Ballroom. The festival judges once again will offer free instruction sessions in a clinic format at 2p.m. Feb. 24 in the Notre Dame Band Building.
All events are open to the public and free of charge for students and those under 18. Tickets are required for adults for the Feb. 21 and 22 sessions ($7 for both nights or $5 for one night) and are available in advance at the LaFortune box office or by calling 574-631-8128.
Contact: Chris Francica or Lisa Goepfrich, 574-631-6171, cjf@nd.edu
Originally published by at newsinfo.nd.edu on February 14, 2007.