The College of Wooster’s Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo to present combined concert Nov. 4

The College of Wooster’s Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo will perform a combined concert on Friday, Nov. 4 at 7:30 p.m. in the Freedlander Theatre (329 E. University Street). The performance features two guest soloists, singer Devon Sandridge and tenor saxophonist Henri Ford.  

Sandridge, who is originally from Chicago, studied voice under acclaimed jazz musician Henry Johnson. He has performed at a variety of venues across Chicago and released his debut album, “Storyteller,” earlier this year. Ford is a veteran saxophonist and also hails from the Chicago area.  

Jeff Lindberg, professor of music at the College, directs the Jazz Ensemble, and Greg Slawson, adjunct instructor of music, directs the Jazz Combo. The concert will feature music from a variety of jazz artists including Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Freddie Hubbard, Joe Williams, Stevie Wonder, and Pee Wee Ellis. 

Several students will perform solos at the concert. Jazz Ensemble trumpeter Ash Arons ’23 will be featured in the song “New Concerto for Cootie” by Duke Ellington. The Jazz Combo will feature singer Linat Westreich ’23 in the song “Teach Me Tonight,” and Westreich and David Dotson ’23 will be featured in the song “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder.  

Lindberg teaches courses in jazz history and improvisation and also directs the Wooster Symphony Orchestra. Lindberg also is a co-founder and creative director of the Chicago Jazz Orchestra, Chicago’s oldest professional jazz orchestra in continuous operation. Slawson is an adjunct instructor of music, jazz piano, and music technology at the College. 

This concert is free and open to the public. For more information, contact the Department of Music at 330-263-2419 or mpuster@wooster.edu. 

Posted in News on October 25, 2022.