"The atmosphere was just awesome." - Staff Writer / Jackson Hesley
A stellar group of talented student musicians morphed Boyd Recital Hall into a soulful jazz lounge this past Tuesday as members of Rowan’s Small Jazz Ensemble dished out some smooth and vibrant tunes in their first concert of the semester.
Five groups of students of varying sizes poured their hearts out to the audience with various unique compositions. Some groups brought a chill and comforting sound, the music you’d love to hear in a coffee shop, sitting down while enjoying a warm cup of goodness. Others were more energetic, the kind of colorful music that makes you want to get up and move around, which was evident as many audience members swayed in their seats or bobbed their heads in tune with the music.
The crowd brought out families, friends, Rowan students, and lovers of jazz. Erin Echegaray-Matthews, a Junior Pre-Vet student, came out to support a friend performing in the concert.
“I was only going to stay for [my friend’s] performance, but I ended up staying longer than I expected. The atmosphere was just awesome. I love jazz, and the musicians really went all out with this performance,” said Echegaray-Matthews.
Musicians brought a plethora of instruments to the table in their performances, creating a unique auditory experience with each group and even each song. Fabio Vilorio, a sophomore music composition major, played the piano for his group.
“We had a lot of rhythm instruments: vibraphone, guitar, and piano, which is not usual for a small jazz group,” said Vilorio.
This blend of instruments brought a unique but fun challenge, as Fabio puts it. He said the fun comes in working in “time to shine” when playing, but also knowing when to give another instrument its own spotlight so as to not overwhelm listeners.
The performances are part of the Small Jazz Group Ensemble class available for all students, regardless of major. Students earn credit for participating, working with performing Arts College professors, Douglas Mapp, Behn Gillece, and Dan Monaghan. Professors provided the students with the pieces they would have to learn for their concert while giving feedback, help, and critique in weekly practice sessions.
“My professor [Behn Gillece] even composed an original piece that we performed called ‘Mindful Moments’ and also arranged ‘The Nearness of You,’ which was really fun to play,” said Vilorio.
A huge aspect of jazz is improvisation, and students of this ensemble were able to demonstrate their skills through a series of solos. Solo performances came from the piano, electric guitar, trumpet, trombone, bassoon, multiple saxophones, and the vibraphone while being accompanied by backing from upright bass, electric bass, and drums.
“I especially loved all the solos. I didn’t know they came up with those on the spot, which just makes it even more impressive,” said Echegaray-Matthews.
The College of Performing Arts has many upcoming events that are free for Rowan students to attend, including several ensembles that will resume after Spring Break. The Small Group Jazz Ensemble will perform again on Tuesday, April 15, for their final concert of the semester.
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