The Yakima Valley College Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combos will perform on Monday, March 11, at 7:00 p.m. under the direction of Director of Jazz Studies Jeffrey Smith. The performance will be held in Kendall Hall Auditorium (Building #12) and highlights music by Christine Jensen, Radiohead, Mike Tomaro and more.
“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.
Smith, who also serves as a band director at West Valley High School, has focused his energies this year on new enrollment to YVC’s Jazz program including Running Start students from area high schools. Opportunities such as the March concert give students experience performing works by some of the jazz world’s most influential composers.
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 March concert is free and open the public. Visit YVC’s calendar for more information on upcoming events and activities.