Popular Masters: A Night of Jazz Brilliance with the Presbyterian College Jazz Band
November 13, 2023
Presbyterian College Jazz Band is set to ignite the stage with their upcoming concert, “Popular Masters,” under the expert guidance of Dr. Giovani Briguente, Director of the ensemble. This musical extravaganza is scheduled for Monday, November 20, 2023, at 7:30 pm in Belk Auditorium on the campus of Presbyterian College (PC) in Clinton. The concert is free and open to the public, and casual attire is encouraged. Mark your calendars and get ready to experience an unforgettable night of music.
Have you ever associated the term “master” with popular music? While it’s common to attribute this descriptor to classical maestros like Mozart and Beethoven, it’s not something you typically hear regarding legends of jazz like Dizzy Gillespie or Count Basie. However, the “Popular Masters” concert aims to challenge this preconception and expand the notion of mastery in the world of music.
The evening’s program will be a journey through the works of jazz greats, featuring classics that have stood the test of time. The playlist is a homage to some of the most influential musicians who’ve left their indelible mark on the genre.
The concert will open with the bluesy allure of Count Basie, a true master of the genre. His compositions will set the tone for an evening. Thelonious Monk’s “In Walked Bud” is dedicated to the iconic Bud Powell (the composition was written as a dedication for him), continuing the celebration of jazz legends.
In addition to these timeless classics, the PC Jazz Band will perform four more remarkable pieces. The enchanting “Misty” by Erroll Garner will grace the stage, followed by the historic collaboration of Seymour Simons and Gerald Marks in “All of Me.” The partnership of Morton Garson and Bob Hilliard will be celebrated through the beautiful “Our Day Will Come.” Finally, the concert will conclude with “I Could Write a Book” by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart.
Jazz is an American music style known for its diverse performance practices. This diversity will be celebrated in the concert as well. The audience can look forward to the mesmerizing rhythms of bossa nova, as the band pays tribute to two masters of the genre, Tom Jobim and Luis Bonfá.
And if that’s not enough to get your toes tapping, the concert will also feature a fusion of Latin jazz with Dizzy Gillespie’s “Woody ‘n’ You,” adding a touch of rhythmic excitement to the evening.
Get ready for a night of musical mastery that will expand your horizons and leave you longing for more. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado or just looking for a fantastic night out, this concert is sure to delight and inspire. Join the PC Jazz Band on November 20, 2023, at 7:30 pm in the Belk Auditorium for an unforgettable evening of jazz. See you there!
