MSU Professors of Jazz continues its tradition of fusing modern jazz tunes with Christmas classics for a concert full of holiday cheer. The ensemble presents its concert, “A Jazzy Little Christmas,” at 8 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 19. in Fairchild Theatre, MSU Auditorium.
The MSU Professors of Jazz is comprised of MSU College of Music faculty members. The ensemble performs together several times a year at benefits, clinics, concert halls (including Detroit Symphony Hall) and jazz festivals.
The Professors of Jazz members are: Etienne Charles, trumpet; Randy Gelispie, drums; Diego Rivera, tenor saxophone; Xavier Davis, piano; Randy Napoleon, jazz guitar; Michael Dease, trombone; Rodney Whitaker, bass.
Rodney Whitaker, bassist for the group and director of jazz studies at the College of Music, says he “looks forward to this concert every year! My colleagues and I really enjoy getting to play our holiday favorites to finish off the semester and ring in the holiday season.” In addition to the professors’ Christmas favorites, the program will include original compositions and arrangements written by the professors.
This concert is part of the MSU Federal Credit Union Showcase Series and is generously sponsored by Wolverine Development Corporation, Joseph Maguire; Craig and Lisa.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $18 for seniors (age 60 and over), and $10 for students with ID and anyone under 18. They can be purchased online, at the College of Music box office, by calling (517) 353-5340, or in person (333 W. Circle Drive, East Lansing), or at the door.
