The Yakima Valley College Jazz Ensemble will perform its first concert of the year on Monday, December 4, at 7:00 p.m. under the direction of new Director of Jazz Studies Jeffery Smith. The performance will be held in Kendall Hall Auditorium (Building #12) and will highlight traditional Big Band swing from the 40s through the 60s. The YVC Jazz Ensemble will perform with guest ensemble The Three Rivers Jazz Orchestra — a group of adult and professional musicians in Central Washington.
Smith is the band director at West Valley High School and brings with him a wealth of talent, energy, and new enrollment to YVC’s music program including Running Start students from West Valley, Eisenhower, Davis and Selah high schools says Heather Harrison, humanities secretary.
Smith is already looking ahead for performance opportunities in the winter and spring quarters.
“YVC Jazz will explore and perform compositions from modern composers, including Maria Schnider, John Fedchock, Carla Bley and many others. Be ready for rock, fusion and funk to chase away the winter blues,” says Smith.
According to Smith, the band will focus on Latin-based jazz in the spring and plans to include one of the preeminent Latin musicians and composers working today — Los Angeles recording artist and trombone player Francisco Torres will be featured as a guest clinician and performing artist.
The event is free and open the public. Visit YVC’s calendar for more information on upcoming events and activities.