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MILLIGAN COLLEGE, TN (April 16, 2003) – The Milligan College Jazz Ensemble, along with members of the community, will present a spring concert on Monday, April 28, in Seeger Chapel at 7:30 p.m. in recognition of Jazz Appreciation Month.
The ensemble is under the direction of Rick Simerly, associate professor of music, and features musicians from Milligan College and throughout the area.
“Our jazz ensemble serves as not only a musical opportunity for Milligan students but also as a community jazz band for students of local universities, community colleges, area high schools and adults from throughout the region,” states Simerly.
Individuals from ETSU, Northeast State, Science Hill High School, Sullivan South High School, and the community will participate.
“This diversity of ages, personalities and experience gives our ensemble a distinct camaraderie and feeling of mutual respect among its members. It also contributes to a high quality of musicianship, because we are all constantly learning from each other.”
The concert will feature a variety of jazz selections, soloists, guest artists, and a gospel medley. Appearing with the ensemble will be pianist and arranger Bill Scott, vocalist Loretta Bowers, and Milligan’s own a capella singing group, Heritage.
Selections will include “Sweet Georgia Upside Down,” recorded by the Bill Watrous band, “The Tennessee Waltz” from the Bill Holman library, “Nesnir Eaves,” an original by Allen Vizzutti, and “A Little Minor Booze” from the Stan Kenton band.
In addition, a Bill Scott composition entitled “Old Time Gospel Medley” will feature several different gospel songs as well as Bill Scott on piano and vocalist Loretta Bowers. A rousing rock version of the song “Higher and Higher” will close out the evening, featuring Bowers and the singing group, Heritage, which is under the direction of Mike Imboden.
This program has something for everyone and represents a lot of work and commitment from its members. We hope the community will attend this free evening of jazz,” said Simerly.