Middle school, high school and junior college bands will once again gather for Friends University’s 27th year of the Jazz Festival. This year, the tradition will be carried on by new Jazz director, Dr. Robert Brooks.
“I am thrilled to continue the time-honored tradition of planning and hosting the Friends University Jazz Festival. We invite you to join us for a full weekend of outstanding jazz performances featuring talented guest artists,” said Dr. Brooks.
Friends University is proud to announce the headliner musician on Saturday’s Feature Concert will be Bobby Shew. Shew is a well-known and well-loved American jazz trumpet and flugelhorn player. Throughout his career he toured as lead trumpeter for the likes of Elvis Presley, Barbra Streisand, Steve Allen, Paul Anka and Tom Jones. Besides performing, Shew has also authored a few books, co-designed/developed a series of instruments and parts for Yamaha and taught at the University of Southern California, California State in Northridge and California Institute of the Arts.
Jazz Festival daytime activities on Friday, Feb. 14 will include Friends University’s Jazz Ensemble I performance at noon in Sebits Auditorium. Later that evening there will be a Jazz Vocal Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble II concert that will feature additional special guests: Dr. Andy Wheelock, Ben Carrasquillo and Dr. Lara Brooks.
All activities Feb. 14-15 will take place at Friends University in the Riney Fine Arts Center – Sebits Auditorium.
Tickets are priced as follows:
- Friends University’s Jazz Ensemble I
February 14, 2020 – 12 p.m. – Free - Friends University’s Jazz Ensemble II
February 14, 2020 – 7:30 p.m. – $12 for adults, $9 for seniors/students - Friends University Feature Concert with Bobby Shew
February 15, 2020 – 7:30 p.m. – $16 for adults, $12 for seniors/students
For more information on these events or to purchase tickets, contact the Fine Arts Box Office at 316-295-5677 or visit friends.edu/jazzfest.
Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.
