Sept. 25, 2012: History of jazz discussion with members of Count Basie Orchestra

Tuesday, Sept. 25, 7-8:30 p.m.
Student Union, Den

You are invited to a special reception and discussion with members of the Count Basie Orchestra. Director Dennis Mackrel and other orchestra members will help illuminate the work of Count Basie and prepare us for their big concert in Anchorage (Sept. 29, 8 p.m., in the West High School Auditorium) by discussing the history of the jazz tradition.

Originally founded by Count Basie in 1936, the Count Basie Orchestra is a 16-18 member big band that's performed and recorded in various incarnations since then. Since Basie's passing in 1984, the group has evolved. Dennis Mackrel currently leads the Count Basie Orchestra and maintains it as one of the elite performing organizations in jazz. The Count Basie Orchestra has won 17 Grammy Awards and 20 Downbeat and Jazz Times polls, more than any other big band in jazz.

Admission is free, but seating is limited. Light refreshments will be provided before the presentation.

Please R.S.V.P. by contacting Janette Thornton at jcthornton@uaa.alaska.edu or (907) 786-4070.

Brought to you by UAA Multicultural Center and KLEF 88.1-FM.