In celebration of April’s designation as Jazz Appreciation Month, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s Ella Fitzgerald Center for the Performing Arts will be jamming with three jazz events in one weekend; April 11-13.
The main event, the Big Band Bash, takes place on Saturday at 5 p.m. Ensembles from Bowie and Morgan state universities along with UMES will gather on one stage to perform music from some of the greats—Charlie Mingus, Duke Ellington, Frank Foster and Count Basie. Each band will play a half-hour set and combine for the finale.
“These are some of the most talented young, up-and-coming jazz musicians in Maryland,” said Brian Perez, director of the UMES jazz ensemble and combo. “They will all be in the same place for one night, so be sure not to miss this opportunity.”
A 7 p.m. concert on Friday showcases UMES’ music program with performances by the university’s Jazz Ensemble along with the Jazz Combo. Alumni return Sunday to perform at 4 p.m. under the direction of Perez and alumni Mercury Morris and Patrick McHenry.
“We hope the community will come out to enjoy one or more of the concerts,” Perez said. “It’s a great opportunity to appreciate one of America’s original art forms.”
The concerts are free. Call 410-651-6571 for more information.
