The Northwestern jazz ensemble and Just Jazz Combo are preparing to bring evening of elegance, rhythm and improvisation to a soirée immersed in the rich tapestry of jazz.
NW’s jazz band and the Just Jazz combo will be providing to their audience Saturday, Feb. 24 at the Jazz Soiree.
Jazz band member Katelyn Ten Pas says that “(the jazz band) tries to pick a variety of music to play. We want people to dance and have a good time.” Ten Pas states that the jazz band is playing around 18 songs, with genres varying from swing dance to Latin.
Another jazz band member Abby Haun enjoys the variety of music genres that will be performed. “We have slow ballads, Latin rhythms, fast songs, iconic classics, and modern jazz hits,” Haun said. “We will feature several soloists from every section, including Sophonise Neilson on vocals!”
Students not in jazz band are encouraged to dance along to the jazz music. “The dance will be chill,” Haun said. “People come to have fun. Knowing how to dance is not required, although lessons are available beforehand. Come, have fun, eat snacks, worship God through good music and good people.”
Haun appreciates the energy that an audience to the jazz ensemble will bring. “It is one thing to perform in front of an audience, but allowing people to really engage with the music makes everything better,” Haun said. “When people bring their enthusiasm and energy, it is contagious! The band feels it, Dr. Carlson feels it, and it makes the night so much more fun! I hope people can come, relieve some stress, and enjoy time with friends.”
“I am most excited to see the music we play come to life,” Ten Pas said. “It’s repeat repeat until you see what it was created for.”
Admission is five dollars and doors open at 7 p.m. for those who want dance lessons, and the event shall take place 8 to 10 p.m.
