Distinguished Concerts International - New York

VU Jazz Ensemble to Perform with Renowned Artists at New York City's Town Hall

April 15, 2008

Vanguar University web site

The Vanguard University Jazz Ensemble has been invited to New York City by Distinguished Concerts International New York (DCINY) to perform at the first installment of the Jazz at Town Hall Series along with other renowned jazz artists such as Jon Faddis, Ralf Lalama and Ray Vega on Wednesday, April 23 at 8:00 p.m.

The ensemble, under the direction of Kenneth R. Foerch and consisting of a diverse group of students with a passion for music, was invited last summer to participate in this prestigious series by director of jazz education and performance for DCINY, Rob Derke, after listening to VU's Jazz Ensemble CD, Sea Changes. Performances such as these are limited to an invitation-only basis, making their welcome and participation in Jazz at Town Hall all the more impressive.

Jazz at Town Hall, a unique new education and performance opportunity presented by DCINY, supports dedicated jazz students in their quest to combine their advanced studies with professional-level performing experience. Prior to appearing in concert in New York's legendary Town Hall, home to many jazz greats of the past, students from around the country come to New York to attend master classes, rehearsals, seminars and sectionals, working side-by-side with DCINY's faculty.

In addition to the jazz series, DCINY provides opportunities for choral, instrumental and chamber ensembles, as well as conductors and soloists, to perform at different venues in NYC. A strong component of DCINY's mission, as stated in the DCINY motto, The Art of Performance - The Power of Education, is to enhance the concert experience through educational programs and incentives. These include support in meeting performance standards and optional master classes and seminars.

DCINY also helps to develop an appreciation for jazz repertoire and the significance of jazz music as an American art form for its audience.

For more information on DCINY or to buy tickets for the event, visit www.dciny.org. For additional information on the VU Jazz Ensemble and other groups in VU's music department, go to www.vanguard.edu/music.