2007 News archive

Alumni-led guitar ensemble

01/02/2007 - 10:53am

Alumnus Kevin Brunkhorst directs the St. Francis-Xavier University Guitar Ensemble in a performance of his composition "Atlas of Epicurus."

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ECwM8YVB-Zg

Daniel Bruce releases CD

01/02/2007 - 11:03am

Guitarist and recent Jazz master's grad Daniel Bruce has released a CD entitled "A Single Thread." Every one who plays on the CD is a current or past student in the program. There will be a CD release show on Jan. 25th. For more information on that and and sound clips, see www.danielbrucemusic.com.

From the site:

 

Quote:

A Single Thread, Daniel Bruce's first album as a leader, has just been released on NohJoh records. It features all original compositions and one track from bassist/composer Aidan Plank. The group consists of Brian Donohoe (tenor saxophone), Ken Edwards (trumpet, flugelhorn), Daniel Bruce (electric and nylon string guitars, lap steel), Matt Lawless (piano, Fender Rhodes), Scott Trayer (acoustic bass), Ross Pederson (drums).

 

 

Landon Mattox in China

01/02/2007 - 11:11am

There's no telling where a jazz degree will lead. Guitarist and jazz master's graduate Landon Mattox's path led to China, for teaching and language study.

Landon recently got a job at XingHai Conservatory of Music in Guangzhou, where UNT's Dr. Gene Cho gives lectures every year. He'll be teaching one course in jazz this term in the department of modern music. He's also been playing concerts and recording sessions.

Here's a recent photo taken in YangShuo entitled "cormorant fisherman."

Carlos Rengifo's blog on Colombian musicians

01/02/2007 - 11:28am

Bassist and jazz studies alumnus Carlos "Fifo" Rengifo has a video blog on Colombian music and musicians:

notasdelbajomundo.blogspot.com

Eric Ordway wins jazz chair in Jazz Knights

01/02/2007 - 7:07pm

Trombonist and UNT jazz alumnus Eric Ordway recently won the jazz chair in the Jazz Knights, the USMA Band at West Point. See his site for more information: www.ericordway.com.

Paul Tynan releases CD

01/03/2007 - 12:41pm

Trumpeter, composer, and alumnus Paul Tynan released his new CD, “Radio Infrequency,” on December 1, 2006.

From the press release:

 

Quote:

The album “Radio Infrequency” features compositions by Trumpet/Flugelhorn player Paul Tynan. The compositions are creative/improvised in nature and should be cataloged under JAZZ. Catalog number: NJCD-7206.

 

The supporting musicians are Dallas based guitarist Noel Johnston and legendary Canadian pianist, Dave Restivo.

“It must be stated now that Paul Tynan, Noel Johnston and Dave Restivo are amazing musicians. Their incredible technique as individuals and as a group enables confident adventurings… As with all jazz musicians trying to create something new with a hundred years of jazz history in tow, influences are heard and noticed. But Paul, Noel and Dave definitely have discovered a personal language for an abstract conversation.”

-From the liner notes by Jazz Master Tim Hagans.

Paul Tynan currently resides in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada and is a professor in the music department at St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish. The Album was recorded in Nova Scotia.

For pictures & more information, please visit www.nohjohmusic.com

 

Steve Wiest receives Fellowship Award and has Arrangement Included on Upcoming Danish Radio Jazz Orchestra CD

01/03/2007 - 12:44pm

Jazz composer and trombonist Steve Wiest (UNT Grad '88 and former 1:00 member) was awarded the prestigious 2007 Artist Fellowship in Music Composition by the Wisconsin Arts Board. This fellowship comes with an $8,000.00 award which will be used towards Steve's next solo recording.

During January, 2007 Wiest's arrangement of the Mike Stern classic Upside Downside (Lab '87) will be recorded by the Danish Radio Jazz Orchestra with Mike Stern as soloist and bassist Chris Minh Doky conducting.

The North Texas Hang at IAJE

01/03/2007 - 3:04pm

At the 2007 conference of The International Association for Jazz Education in New York, NY, the University of North Texas Jazz Studies program will host a reception for its alumni.

It will be held at the Hilton Hotel, New York, NY, on Friday, January 12th, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. in the Gramercy Room. There will be a cash bar. If you are an NT alum and you plan to be at the conference this year, don't miss the party.

2007 Summer Jazz Workshops Registration Form Available

01/19/2007 - 10:34am

See the Workshops page for updated information about our summer 2007 workshops.

Kenny Barron Trio will headline North Texas Jazz Festival

01/20/2007 - 4:40pm


The Kenny Barron Trio will headline the North Texas Jazz Festival in Addison, which happens on March 29-31, 2007.

For more information, see the new festival website.

Jazz Lecture Series lineup for Spring 2007

01/22/2007 - 10:58pm

These are the guest artists for MUJS 3470, Jazz Lecture Series. Each guest will give a talk, play, and respond to students' questions in two sessions held in the Recital Hall in the Music Building at 9:30-10:50 and 2-3:20.

January
23 Introduction
30 Wycliffe Gordon, Trombone

February
6 John Stowell, Guitar
13 Clay Jenkins, Trumpet
20 Ronald Shannon Jackson, Drums
27 Rufus Reid, Bass

March
6 Dave Pietro, Saxophone
13 J.D. Walter
27 Kevin Hays, Piano

 

Michal Garcia's photos from IAJE 2007

01/22/2007 - 11:04pm

Michael Garcia, trumpeter, vocalist, and current student, is also a talented photographer. A selection from his photos taken at IAJE in New York in January, 2007 is available here:

The photo above of Calley McDowall of the UNT Jazz Singers was taken by Namhi Kim. Michal lent her his camera because he was performing with the singers, too.

UNT Latin Jazz Ensemble releases CD "En Clave"

01/27/2007 - 11:27am


The UNT Latin Jazz Ensemble, directed by José Aponte, has released its first CD, "En Clave". It's available for $15 from the UNT Jazz Studies office. It will be added to the recordings order form soon.

Wycliffe Gordon kicks off Jazz Lecture Series

01/30/2007 - 4:36pm

Trombonist and educator Wycliffe Gordon began the spring 2007 jazz lecture series.

Jake Hanlon selected for Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program

02/02/2007 - 4:58pm

Guitarist and UNT jazz studies graduate student Jake Hanlon has been selected for the 2007 Betty Carter Jazz Ahead program in Washington, D.C.

Congratulations, Jake!

Rufus Reid is the 2007 Gomez Artist

02/07/2007 - 8:26am


Each year, the Glenn E. Gomez International Artists Endowment for Jazz Studies brings a prominent jazz artist to campus for four days of workshops and peformances, culminating in a concert with students and faculty.

The 2007 Gomez artist is bassist and educator Rufus Reid. The concert will take place on Thursday, March 1, 2007, at 8 p.m. in Winspear Hall. The link for purchasing tickets online is on the College of Music events page. Read more about him at rufusreid.com.

Vocal Jazz Forum Schedule

02/07/2007 - 8:28am

Vocal Jazz Forum happens on Fridays at 3 p.m. in room 263.

2/2- Hildegunn Gjedrem/Calley Bliss McDowall
2/9 - Rosana Eckert, UNT Jazz Faculty & special guest and alumna Alison Wedding, with Stefan Karlsson (piano), Fred Hamilton (bass), and Mike Drake (drums)
2/16 - Kathryn Stachitus/Chris Fluitt
2/23 - Hyo Choi/Kyla McIntyre
3/2 - Christa Crawford/Chris Nicholas
3/9 - Francesca Johnson/Matt Gaskins
3/16 - Spring Break begins - no forum
3/23 - Spring Break - no forum
3/30 - North Texas Jazz Festival - no forum
4/6 - Sasha Tuck/Danielle Madison
4/13 - Music Ed Group/Candace Washburn
4/20 - Jazz Singers I concert - no forum
4/27 - Dwayne Pedigo/Michal Garcia

Ross Lafleur wins ASCAP Young Composers Award

02/19/2007 - 3:56pm

Ross Lafleur, guitarist, composer, and recent graduate of the Jazz Studies master's program, has won an ASCAP Young Jazz Composers Award for "Guileless," a piece he wrote and recorded while at UNT. It was recorded by Ross's Jazz Forum group as part of the recording time at Panhandle Studio in Denton that is now part of the class. Tim Barclay, Eymard Furtado, Joe Johnson, and Brian Zeglis were also on the recording. The award came with a cash prize and an invitation to ASCAP's annual Jazz Wall event in New York.

New (and Old) UNT Recordings Released

02/21/2007 - 9:14pm

On the recordings page, you'll find new listings for Lab '69, Lab '76, Live in Australia 1986, Lab '86, Étranger (Jazz Chamber Vol. 3) and En Clave (Latin Jazz Ensemble). The order form has also been updated.

Ji Young Lee releases CD

02/21/2007 - 9:21pm


Pianist and Jazz Studies M.M. alumna Ji Young Lee has returned to Seoul, Korea after finishing a tour with the late Maynard Ferguson. Since then, she has been teaching and playing extensively in Seoul.

She released her debut album, "Confession," in November 2006. For more information, see cdbaby.com/cd/jiyounglee.

Jangeun Bae plays with Greg Osby

02/21/2007 - 9:50pm

Pianist and Jazz Studies M.M. alumna Jangeun Bae recently played with the Greg Osby group in Philadelphia. Here's a video and a review. For more information, see www.myspace.com/jbfunkyjazz.

Rufus Reid is here this week

02/27/2007 - 9:43am


Rufus Reid is our Glenn E. Gomez International Jazz Artist in Residency this week. The concert is on Thursday, March 1, at 8 p.m. in Winspear Hall. Tickets can purchased online via the College of Music events page.

Latin Jazz at the Syndicate

03/02/2007 - 4:22pm


Bongosero Nate Werth played with the Latin Jazz Ensemble on Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2007 at the Syndicate. More photos
This is just one example of the intense, high-level music-making that is plentiful around here. We tend to take it for granted, but I think it would strike a visitor as very special.--the web editor

L5 Electric Guitar Ensemble releases "A Collection of Signs"

03/08/2007 - 9:13am

The new CD by the L5 Electric Guitar Ensemble, directed by Fred Hamilton, features compositions by Tom Kessler, Fred Hamilton, Tim Goynes, Lindsey Miller, Dan Bruce, Chris McQueen, and Jerome Covington. On guitars: Dan Bruce, Tim Goynes, Tom Kessler, Chris McQueen, Lindsey Miller; Cooper Appelt, acoustic and electric bass; Ryan Jacobi, cymbals and drums. Recordings order form

Snarky Puppy news

03/08/2007 - 3:06pm

Snarky Puppy, the original music group led by alumnus, bassist, and composer Michael League, and whose membership includes current and former students, will go on another tour from March 18-March 22, with shows in Mississippi, New Orleans, and Houston.

The band will open for Victor Wooten's band on Monday, April 23rd at the Granada Theater in Dallas.

The band has a new CD coming out in two weeks as well as a live DVD set to be released in April.

Read and hear more:
www.myspace.com/snarkypuppy or www.snarkypuppy.com.

Why does the site look different?

03/19/2007 - 2:41pm

The site looks different because the software used to maintain it, Drupal, has been updated to the latest version for security reasons. The site now uses Garland, the default theme for Drupal 5.1.

All of the content is the same and is found in the same locations as before.

UNT Alums to Perform with Bob Mintzer at Collin Jazz Festival

03/26/2007 - 10:28pm

The Collin County Community College Faculty Combo, consisting entirely of UNT alumni, will perform this Friday, March 30, 2007, for the opening night of the 15th annual Collin Jazz Festival with special guest Bob Mintzer. The combo, made up of current or former members of the Collin jazz faculty, includes Kris Berg (bass, director of jazz studies), Tom Burchill (guitar), Mike Burgess (trombone), Kent Ellingson (piano), Kevin McNerney (saxophone), John Simon (drums), and Dave Von Blohn (trumpet).

The concert begins at 8:00 p.m. in the John Anthony Theatre at Collin's Spring Creek Campus, Jupiter Rd. between Parker Rd. and Spring Creek Pkwy. in Plano. For ticket information, please email Kris Berg at .

North Texas Jazz Festival in Addison is This Week

03/28/2007 - 5:25pm

You can find complete information about the festival here:

North Texas Jazz Festival in Addison

Photos of the North Texas Jazz Festival by Michal Garcia

04/03/2007 - 9:02am


Francisco Mela, drummer with Kenny Barron Trio. Photography by michalgarcia.com

Michal Garcia, current UNT Jazz Studies student, is also a talented photographer.

 


Matt Sawyer, member of UNT One O'Clock Lab Band. Photography by michalgarcia.com


Tim Goynes, member of UNT One O'Clock Lab Band. Photography by michalgarcia.com

UNT Jazz to be featured in PBS documentary

04/06/2007 - 12:45pm

"State of Tomorrow," a new documentary on public universities, includes a segment on the UNT Jazz Studies program. Here's an excerpt from the UNT press release about the series of broadcasts on PBS station KERA:

"June 04, 2007 - 11 p.m. -- Episode 10: "Passion for Jazz"
featuring the UNT Jazz Studies Division. Considered controversial at the time of its founding in 1947, the jazz studies program has grown into one of the most renowned in the nation. Former students include singer Norah Jones and musicians who have gone on to play for the Tonight Show band, the Saturday Night Live band and Stan Kenton's band. The episode follows Evan Weiss, one of the youngest trumpet players in the university's Grammy-nominated One O'Clock Lab Band, directed by Neil Slater, as Weiss prepares to perform at a concert with guest artist Wayne Bergeron, an acclaimed trumpeter."
 

Lab Band Madness is coming

04/06/2007 - 12:52pm

Lab Band Madness, the annual spring concert that features all of our lab bands, will happen on Tuesday, April 17, starting at 7:00 p.m. in Winspear Hall.

Tickets can be purchased online by going to the College of Music events calendar and following the link to online ticket purchases.

UNT Alumni in the News

04/14/2007 - 8:45am

Here are some links to recent articles about UNT jazz alumni:
Tim Ries
Robert Gomez
Midlake
Stockton Helbing
David Weiss
Brandon Rogers

 

One O'Clock Lab Band at Blues Alley in Washington, D.C.

04/22/2007 - 9:53am

The One O'Clock Lab Band, directed by Neil Slater, will play three night at Blues Alley in Washington, D.C., this week as part of the third annual "Big Band Jam!"

Here's a Washington Post article about it, and a mention on the site DCist.

Bassist Joe Johnson accepted into Thelonious Monk Institute

04/22/2007 - 9:57am

Joe Johnson, currently the bassist in the One O'Clock Lab Band, has been accepted into the Thelonious Monk Institute jazz program at Loyola University in New Orleans.

Here's the UNT Press release and a Pegasus News item about it.

Denton Arts and Jazz Festival April 27-29, 2007

04/22/2007 - 10:02am

You can find the program of the festival at the festival site.

UNT student ensembles play on Saturday at the Celebration Stage starting at 10:50 a.m. The Jazz Faculty play at 4 p.m. on Saturday on the Jazz Stage. Current students and alumni will play throughout the festival.

One O'Clock Band tour itinerary, May 2007

04/24/2007 - 3:17pm

The UNT One O'Clock Lab Band, directed by Neil Slater, will be touring Washington, D.C. this week. The band has been invited to perform at several venues (John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Blues Alley, Windsor Hall), and will be recording a live CD (at the hottest jazz club in DC, Blues Alley) while on tour.

The schedule:

Wednesday, April 25, 7:30 pm Concert at Windsor Hall, Cumberland, MD

Thursday, April 26, 8 pm and 10 pm Concerts at Blues Alley,
Washington, D.C. (concerts recorded for live CD)

Friday, April 27, 8 pm and 10 pm Concerts at Blues Alley,
Washington, D.C. (concerts recorded for live CD)

Saturday, April 28, 6 pm Concert at the Kennedy Center, Millennium
Stage, Washington, D.C. (concert broadcast on the internet)

Saturday, April 28, 8 pm and 10 pm Concerts at Blues Alley,
Washington, D.C.

Information:
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Video/Audio will be archived for viewing over the internet

Blues Alley
http://bluesalley.com/

Windsor Hall
Cumberland Jazz Society

One O'Clock Lab Band
http://www.jazz.unt.edu

Snarky Puppy opens for Victor Wooten

04/24/2007 - 4:38pm

Snarky Puppy, the band led by alumnus & bassist & composer Michael League, opened for Victor Wooten at the Granada Theater in Dallas on April 23, 2007. Other members of the band include current and former UNT jazz studies students. Two photos. Note to other UNT jazz studies student & alumni bands: I'll be glad to post your news, too. Send it along. --webmaster

Alumnus Scott Agster's group Snowblind

04/25/2007 - 1:16pm

Andrea Carter's profile of Snowblind, a group that includes trombonist and One O'Clock Band alumnus Scott Agster:

 

 

Is Denton the nation's next hot music scene?

04/29/2007 - 4:55pm

That's what the Ft.Worth Star-Telegram asks in this article:

star-telegram.com/138/story/84245.html

Video of the One O'Clock Band at the Kennedy Center

04/29/2007 - 8:17pm


The one-hour concert by the UNT One O'Clock Lab Band, directed by Neil Slater, at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage in Washington, D.C. is available at the Millennium Stage website. Requires the latest RealPlayer plugin.

Pianist Michael Weiss will play at the Syndicate May 1

04/30/2007 - 9:29am

On May 1, Michael Weiss will give a jazz piano masterclass and will play at the Syndicate in the Union at 9 p.m. Admission is $5.

From the press release:
"By way of Dallas and Indiana University, Weiss began his career in New York in 1982, establishing his reputation working with a host of jazz legends – Johnny Griffin, Art Farmer, Lou Donaldson, Frank Wess, Benny Golson, Wynton Marsalis and Slide Hampton to name a few. As a leader Weiss performs in New York at the famed Village Vanguard, Blue Note and has headlined at the Detroit International Jazz Festival, Smithsonian Institution and Detroit's Symphony Hall. Weiss has appeared on several NPR programs such as Piano Jazz, Jazzset and Making the Music. Reviewing Weiss' Vanguard debut last October, the New York Times said Weiss was a "confident and sparkling presence on the piano," playing with "sensitivity and logic ,along with crisp control."
As a composer Weiss has received several awards and commissions. He is the grandprize winner of the 2000 BMI/Thelonious Monk Institute's Composers Competition, and is a recipient of the Doris Duke/Chamber Music America New Works grant. Following releases on the CrissCross, DIW and SteepleChase labels, Weiss' latest recording is Soul Journey (Sintra Records)."

Nick Groesch to tour with The Polyphonic Spree

05/03/2007 - 9:13am

Pianist and current jazz studies major Nick Groesch is rehearsing for an upcoming tour with The Polyphonic Spree. The tour will take the Dallas-based band all over the U.S. and to Japan and Europe over the next six months. Nick joins a list of UNT alumni who have played with this band that includes Logan Keese, Mike St. Clair, Evan Jacobs, and Matt Bricker, who has been with the band for the last two years and composes and arranges music for the horn section. Current students Jay Jennings, Nick Wlodarczyk, and Buffy Jacobs will also be on this tour.

Alumnus Drew Phelps jams with Warren Buffett

05/07/2007 - 12:09pm

Bassist and UNT jazz studies alumnus Drew Phelps jammed with Warren Buffett (ukelele), on his gig with the Quebe Sisters Band at the Berkshire Hathaway shareholders meeting in Omaha. \

Three UNT Jazz students honored in Down Beat awards

05/07/2007 - 12:13pm

Down Beat's 30th Annual Student Music Awards recognized these three UNT jazz studies students. Congratulations to the students named below and the rest of the members of the Donohoe/Goynes quintet.

Jazz Soloist
College Outstanding Performance
Brian Donohoe, saxophone

Jazz Group
College Co-Winner
Brian Donohoe/Tim Goynes Quintet

Jazz Vocalist
College Outstanding Performance
Chris Fluitt

 

Lynn Seaton's 2007 Bass Workshop is full

05/08/2007 - 4:45pm

Enrollment for Lynn Seaton's 2007 bass workshop is full as of May 23, 2007.

There are spots for bassists still available in the combo workshop.

We will post updates here.

Jay Saunders Lead Trumpet Masterclass

05/14/2007 - 11:35am


Jason Levi

Lead trumpet students of Jay Saunders spent the spring 2007 semester studying the style and sound of lead trumpeter Al Porcino. The list of recordings to study came from Al himself. The students then transcribed the lead parts and performed them just as Al did. At a jazz trumpet departmental recital on April 24, 2007, trumpet students performed lead parts played by Al Porcino.

More information and photos

 

Michael Brecker's last recording produced by UNT alum Dave Love

05/29/2007 - 3:28pm


Pilgrimage, the last recording by the late Michael Brecker, has just been released on the Heads Up International label. UNT alum Dave Love, Associate Executive Producer/President of Heads Up International, signed Brecker to the label and was the associate executive producer for the recording. Follow this link for more information about the CD including sound clips. Heard on the CD along with Michael Brecker are Pat Metheny, John Patitucci, Jack DeJohnette, Herbie Hancock, and Brad Mehldau.

Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra records second CD with guest artist Jerry Bergonzi

05/31/2007 - 2:01pm


photo links to a larger version
UNT alumnus Alan Baylock ('95) relaxes with Jerry Bergonzi and the Alan Baylock Jazz Orchestra after completing "Setting the Standard," the group's second CD. The band includes UNT alumni Antonio Orta, Andy Axelrad, Luis Hernandez, Joseph Henson, Doug Morgan, Rich Sigler, Ben Patterson, Jeff Martin, Joe Jackson, and John Pineda. A Fall 2007 release is expected. For more information see www.alanbaylock.com.

Wil Swindler wins IAJE Gil Evans Commission

06/04/2007 - 9:12am


UNT alumnus Wil Swindler (2001) has just been awarded the IAJE Gil Evans Commission. His composition will be performed at the 2008 IAJE conference in Toronto.

Drew Phelps plays Western Swing

06/07/2007 - 4:36pm

UNT jazz studies alumnus Drew Phelps will be playin' with the Quebe Sisters Band July 7th - 8:00 PM at the Town & Country Coffeehouse in Lake Dallas. Featuring Grace, Sophia & Hulda Quebe on 3-part harmony fiddles and vocals, swinging archtop guitarist Joey McKenzie and Drew on bass. The QSB play a unique blend of western swing (Bob Wills & The Texas Playboys), hot jazz & swing standards (Benny Goodman, Mills Brothers, Duke Ellington), and vintage country shuffles. For more information on the show and the QSB, visit www.quebesistersband.com.

Carl Murr is on the road again

06/21/2007 - 7:52am

Trombonist, composer/arranger, and UNT jazz alumnus Carl Murr has gone on the road with country star Toby Keith. He'll join trumpet player Willie Roy and saxophonist Roman Dudok, both North Texas alums.

Hildegunn Gjedrem will perform at IAJE Toronto

06/21/2007 - 8:25am

Vocalist, composer, and current UNT jazz studies graduate student Hildegunn Gjedrem and her group have been accepted to play a concert at the 2008 IAJE Conference in Toronto. The concert will feature music from the the CD of her original music and arrangements she will release in August entitled "The End of the Beginning."

Dan Bruce CD reviewed

06/21/2007 - 8:29am

The CD "A Single Thread," by guitarist, composer, and recent UNT jazz studies graduate (M.M.) Dan Bruce, was reviewed in Fingerstyle Guitar Magazine, issue 65. Dan's composition "Some Towns" is on the accompanying CD, and notation and tab for the piece is included as a PDF.

From the review:
"Are you ready to step out of the generally conservative world of solo fingerstyle guitar and challenge your boundaries? If so, take a listen to Daniel Bruce. Daniel hails from Dayton, Ohio and currently resides in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area. This last December he received his masters in jazz guitar from the prestigious University of North Texas and also released his first project as a leader, titled A Single Thread.
Daniel made his first appearance in Fingerstyle in September of 2004 with his stellar arrangement of the Gershwin classic "Embraceable You." We at Fingerstyle knew upon hearing Daniel for the first time that he was a special talent, and his new project only reinforces that belief.
A Single Thread features seven of Daniel's originals. He is backed by Brian Donohoe (tenor sax), Ken Edwards (trumpet, flugelhorn), Matt Lawless (piano), Scott Trayer (acoustic bass) and Ross Pederson on drums.
Daniel Bruce ranks with the best of the best in the contemporary jazz guitar world."

Here's a youtube clip of "Some Towns" from Dan's master's recital.

Alumni news from Frank "Bubba" Kolb

06/21/2007 - 9:39am

Frank "Bubba" Kolb, a One O'Clock Lab Band alumnus from the late 1950's with Bob Morgan and Marv Stamm, can be reached at fkolb@cfl.rr.com. He was a staff musician on trombone and piano with Walt Disney World in Orlando for 18 years. He was leader of the house trio at the Village Jazz Lounge, Disney World from the late 70s to mid 80s. He will be playing with Ira Sullivan in Cocoa Beach, FL in mid-July, 2007. He married music major Laura (flute) in 1970. Thanks to Laura Kolb for sending this news.

Joe Johnson wins second place in ISB Jazz Competition

06/23/2007 - 11:39am

From the UNT press release by Carolyn Bobo:

"Joe Johnson, who received a bachelor’s degree in jazz in May, won second place in the 2007 International Society of Bassists Jazz Competition at Oklahoma City University June 4.

The society, founded in 1967, has about 3,000 members in more than 40 countries.

While at UNT, Johnson studied with Lynn Seaton, associate professor of music.

Johnson previously was selected as one of seven students worldwide to attend the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz Performance. In the two-year graduate-level program beginning Aug. 23, he will perform around the world and learn from the masters of jazz. Formerly based at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, the Monk Institute will be located at Loyola University in New Orleans this year to help revitalize the city after Hurricane Katrina."

Jonathan Beckett starts doctoral program at U of Illinois

07/13/2007 - 9:24am

Jonathan Beckett, an alumnus of the One O'Clock Band and a recent Master's graduate, will start work towards a D.M.A. in Jazz Performance at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign this fall. We wish him all the best on this new endeavor.

Combo Workshop 2007 Photos

07/20/2007 - 5:54pm


Photos of the 2007 Combo workshop are available here.

Alumni news from Craig Pilo

07/23/2007 - 4:41pm

Drummer Craig Pilo has been touring with Frankie Valli for the last two years and with Edgar
Winter for the past three months. He released a solo CD called "Just Play" featuring
Mitch Forman, Tom Kennedy and UNT alumni sax player Roman Dudok in May of 2007.
He did a recent interview for the Jersey Boys Blog. When not touring, Craig resides in Los Angeles and gigs with Angela Carole Brown. He played on her 2005 release called "The Slow Club," which also featured Bob Sheppard and Billy Childs. "All my work," Craig writes, "has stemmed from my time and education at UNT." For more information visit www.craigpilo.com.

FORJAK, a band made up of current students, releases CD

07/23/2007 - 4:49pm


FORJAK has just released a CD entitled "Look Between Us." Band members include Taku Saito, guitar; Jisun Choi, piano; Cooper Appelt, bass; Tony Spiro, drums.

The band is preparing for a 16-show tour of Japan and Korea in August.

The CD is available from SiTMoM Records.

Jason Levi posts videos of Wayne Bergeron and the One O'Clock Lab Band

07/24/2007 - 10:47am


One O'Clock Band lead trumpeter Jason Levi has posted several videos here:

http://www.youtube.com/user/levitrumpet

Wil Swindler/Stephen Smith CD reviewed

07/24/2007 - 10:43pm

The CD by the Chamber Jazz Ensemble, the ten-piece, Austin-based group led by Swindler and Smith, both alumni, is reviewed at ejazznews.com.

Jeff Antoniuk and The Jazz Update reviewed

07/24/2007 - 10:45pm

Alumnus Antoniuk's group is reviewed here at DCist, a website about Washington, D.C.

UNT small group led by Brian Girley will play at IAJE in Toronto

07/25/2007 - 10:12am


Current graduate student and alto saxophonist Brian Girley, shown above playing with the Two O'Clock Lab Band at the 2006 Denton Arts & Jazz Festival, and his group will play at IAJE in Toronto in January, 2008. The rest of the group includes Evan Weiss, trumpet; Jiri Levicek, piano; Cooper Appelt, bass; Ross Pederson, drums.

Landon Mattox joins faculty at Xinghai Conservatory

07/26/2007 - 4:25pm

Recent UNT master's graduate Landon Mattox has been named a lecturer at Xinghai Conservatory in Guangzhou, China. He will teach Jazz History, Jazz Improvisation, Introduction to Jazz Styles, and Jazz Guitar.

Landon writes, "The jazz department is pretty much starting this coming term. XingHai has hired 3 other foreign lecturers. One from France will teach Jazz Composition and Theory, One from Germany will teach Latin Music and Classical Guitar and One from California will teach percussion."

Ryan Hurn to tour with Les Brown band

08/08/2007 - 11:18am

Drummer and recent graduate Ryan Hurn, who currently lives in Branson, MO, will begin touring with the Les Brown band this month.

Alumni news from Pat Coil

08/09/2007 - 10:08am


Pianist Pat Coil attended UNT between 1972 and 1976, and sends the following update:
"A brief history since school: Woody Herman Band '76 - '79, had a band called "ReCoil" in Dallas "81 - '83, moved to L.A. and toured and recorded with Carmen McCrae, Ernie Watts, Scott Henderson, Jeff Berlin & Grant Geissman. Did TV/Film work '84 - '94. Released 3 solo records on Sheffield Lab Records, the 3rd one produced by NT alum Lyle Mays. Moved to Nashville in '94 & got into recording biz - (country, gospel, jazz - yes there is jazz in Nashville!, contemporary Christian etc.) Released trio record "True North" featuring former alum Jim White on Liberty Hill Records. Sextet record, "Birdhouse" to be released in Sept. "07, also featuring Jim White. Toured with Amy Grant & Vince Gill. Toured & recorded with Michael McDonald for 4 years. Currently recording and teaching jazz piano, improv & combos at MTSU (Middle TN State). My most important influences at NT: Rich Matteson, Jack Peterson, Lyle Mays & Leon Breeden. My web site is: patcoil.com. I would love to hear from past friends and class mates."

Trombone auditions

08/14/2007 - 8:34am

The trombone lab band auditions will take place on Monday, August 27 from 1pm-7pm in MU116 and will be presided over by Steve Wiest and Tony Baker. The audition sign up sheet will be posted on Tony Baker's door (MA121) on Monday, August 20.

Vocal auditions

08/14/2007 - 12:49pm

Complete audition information may be found on the Vocal Jazz at UNT page. Follow the first link to "Vocal Jazz at the University of North Texas."

 

Drumset auditions

08/14/2007 - 1:16pm

Sight reading auditions for drummer placement in Jazz Ensembles will be held in room 133 on Saturday, August 25. A sign up sheet for those auditions will be posted on Monday, August 20 on the percussion bulletin board across from room 131. Drummers need only to bring sticks and brushes.

Bass Auditions

08/14/2007 - 4:30pm

Jazz Lab band auditions for bass will be daytime Friday 8/24 and Saturday 8/25. Audition time sign up sheets are posted on the door of Lynn Seaton's office, room 279.

Guitar auditions

08/15/2007 - 7:53am

Jazz guitar auditions are Friday, Saturday and Sunday before the first day of classes.

Keyboard auditions and proficiency

08/15/2007 - 7:55am

Jazz piano auditions for ensemble placement are held on Thursday, Aug. 23 (11:00AM-1:00PM) & Friday, Aug. 24 (10:00AM-1:00PM, 2:00-5:00PM). A sign-up schedule is posted on office door 351.

The Jazz Keyboard Proficiency Exam (JKPE) is taking place on Thursday, August 23rd between 2:30-5:00PM. A sign-up schedule is posted outside room 351.

Trumpet and Jazz Chair auditions

08/15/2007 - 10:22am

Lab Trumpet Auditions (Lead and Section)
Friday August 24 - 1PM to 3 PM
Saturday August 25 - 10 AM to 3 PM

Jazz Chair Auditions (Sax, Trombone and Trpt)
Sunday August 26 - 6PM to 9 PM
Note: Some may be asked at the Sight Reading Audition to come on Monday Night.
Do not sign up for a Sunday audition until you have been instructed to do so by the person running your sight reading audition.

Max Roach (1924-2007)

08/16/2007 - 1:04pm

We note with sadness the passing of Max Roach.

Peter Keepnews's obituary in the New York Times.

Saxophone auditions

08/17/2007 - 3:37pm

The Lab Band sign-up sheet (for saxophone sight-reading audition) is posted on the door of Professor Riggs' studio, Room 330 in the College of Music. The auditions are scheduled for Thursday, 7/23/07 & Friday, 7/24/07 in Professor Riggs' room, 330. Call backs for saxophone sectional auditions will be posted on the Lab Band Bulletin board, Monday morning 8/27/07 and will begin at 1:00 pm in Kenton Hall. Call back for Lab Band saxophone improvisation auditions will be held in Lab Band East 7/27/07 in the evening. Times to be posted.

Saxophone Concert band/Wind Symphony auditions (round one) will be 8/25/07 in Professor Nestler's Room, 2005, beginning at 9:00 am. This sign-up sheet is in the Wind Studies Office.

Lynn Seaton performs with Jazz Knights

08/18/2007 - 10:54am

This news article covers a concert by Lynn Seaton on Aug. 5, 2007, with the Jazz Knights at West Point.

One O'Clock Lab Band performs Sept. 28 at UTD

08/18/2007 - 10:57am

Follow this link to a press release about the 2007-8 UT-Dallas jazz concert lineup.

New UNT Faculty Member Steve Wiest Featured on the Cover of Jazz ED

08/18/2007 - 3:24pm


UNT Assistant Professor of Jazz Composition/Arranging and Trombone was the featured artist in the june/july issue of JazzEd magazine. You can still view the article as well at www.jazzedmagazine.com.

Meeting for all new Jazz Studies majors, Aug. 22

08/18/2007 - 3:40pm

On Aug. 22 at 1 p.m. in Kenton Hall there will be a meeting of the jazz faculty with all new Jazz Studies majors, undergraduate and graduate. Important and timely information will be conveyed, including information about proficiency exams and auditions.

Jeremy Wilson joins Vienna State Opera and Philharmonic

08/19/2007 - 11:02am

Trombonist Jeremy Wilson, who was a member of the One O'Clock Lab Band last year, has won a spot with the Vienna State Orchestra and Philharmonic.

Read more in the Denton Record-Chronicle story.

Announcing The U-Tubes

08/19/2007 - 3:31pm

This Fall, UNT Assistant Professor of Composition/Arranging and
Trombone, Steve Wiest will be directing a new jazz trombone band called
"The U-Tubes" (named after the end of a trombone slide) The group will
consist of 5-8 trombones, full rhythm section and will feature original
compositions and arrangements by UNT students and faculty along with
selected works from the classic jazz trombone band repretoire. For more
information about this new ensemble go to Steve Wiest's blog on this
site, or drop him an e-mail at swiest@music.unt.edu.

Bass auditions

08/20/2007 - 12:12pm

Jazz lab auditions take place each semester the week prior to the start of classes. They consist of sight-reading typical big band charts (reading notes, walking bass lines and soloing). Sign-up sheets will be posted on the door of Lynn Seaton’s office #279 in the Music Building. Bring both acoustic and electric basses if you play both. Bring a cable for the electric bass. Please be prepared to play (instruments out of the case and tuned) ten minutes before your scheduled audition time.

 

Josh Hanlon to teach at St.F.X.

08/22/2007 - 5:11pm

Josh Hanlon, Adjunct Instructor of Jazz Piano at UNT and recent alumnus (M.M. '06), will travel to Canada in the spring semester to teach at St. Francis Xavier University on a short-term appointment. He will teach applied jazz piano, modern jazz styles, combo, and jazz theory. He joins Paul Tynan and Kevin Brunkhorst as UNT alumni on faculty at St.F.X.

Official Texas Jazz Orchestra at the Duck Inn, Sept. 2

08/26/2007 - 3:30pm

THE OFFICIAL TEXAS JAZZ ORCHESTRA, directed by Jim Riggs
Big band jazz classics from the books of Count Basie, Thad Jones Mel Lewis, Buddy Rich, Bob Mintzer, Stan Kenton, Duke Ellington, Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson and featuring musicians that performed with them.

FEATURING LEON BREEDEN, CLARINET
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 2, 2007 - 6:30 - 9:00 PM
TIERNEY’S DUCK INN
503 Main Street - Lake Dallas, Texas
Call For Reservations (940 497 - 2412)
$7.00 COVER, STUDENTS $5.00

SAXOPHONES
JIM RIGGS, JOHN MURPHY, RANDY LEE, CHRIS MCGUIRE, ROGER HOLMES

TRUMPETS
JAY SAUNDERS, KEITH JOURDAN, JACK EVANS, RODNEY BOOTH, MIKE STEINEL

TROMBONES
STEVE WIEST, DAVE WINSLOW, CHRIS SEITER, JOHN OSBORNE

RHYTHM
STEFAN KARLSSON- PIANO, KIRBY STEWART - CONTRABASS, ED SOPH - DRUMSET

Who visits this site?

09/04/2007 - 11:53am

Data from Google Analytics show that this site had 4,255 visitors between Aug. 4 and Sept. 3, 2007 who requested 33,020 pageviews. They came from 77 countries:

The most viewed pages are these:

The ones with a year or month in the title are photo pages.

Dan Haerle and Friends in Concert, Sept. 10, 2007

09/04/2007 - 1:51pm


Pianist Dan Haerle will present a program of his original music with Fred Hamilton, guitar; Lynn Seaton, bass; and Ed Soph, drums. The concert will happen in Kenton Hall on Monday, Sept. 10 at 8 p.m. Admission is free.

Alumni Ken and Harry Watters Record Together, featured in AAJ

09/09/2007 - 9:36am

This article by Allen Huotari at All About Jazz profiles UNT alumni Ken and Harry Watters, has an interview with Ken, and tells about their new recording, Brothers (Summit).

Alumnus Ari Hoenig profiled with Kenny Werner Trio

09/09/2007 - 9:39am

This profile of the Kenny Werner Trio by Andrea Canter at Jazz Police includes UNT alumnus Ari Hoenig.

Alumnus David Fague profiled

09/09/2007 - 9:43am

This post on Michael Breckenridge's blog profiles David Fague, UNT jazz studies alumnus, tenor player (now doubling on acoustic bass) and Director of Jazz Studies at Gonzaga University in Spokane, WA, and guitarist Nick Schauer. Includes photos.

Alumnus Michael League profiled in his hometown paper while on tour with Snarky Puppy

09/09/2007 - 9:51am

Bassist League talks with a local paper in his native Virginia while on tour with his band Snarky Puppy in profile.

Faculty open the Tuesday night Syndicate series

09/10/2007 - 10:31pm

On Sept. 11, the UNT Jazz Faculty will open the Tuesday night small group series at the Syndicate in the University Union. Starting Sep. 18, student small groups will play there on Tuesdays throughout the semester.

Students, faculty perform at Costa Rica International Jazz Festival

09/11/2007 - 1:57pm


A group of current and former UNT students and faculty performed and taught masterclasses at the Costa Rica International Jazz Festival in San José during the week of August 5-11, 2007.
Pictured above are current UNT students Joe Janes (saxophones) and Esteban Alvarez (piano), former UNT students Jorge Ginorio (percussion) and Ross Schodek (bass) and UNT percussion instructor José Aponte (drums).

Small Group Program welcomes George Garzone as guest artist

09/13/2007 - 1:18pm


Saxophonist George Garzone will visit UNT from Oct. 29-Nov. 1, 2007 as an artist-in-resident for the Jazz Small Group Program, which is directed by Stefan Karlsson. He will work with all of the combos in scheduled coaching sessions; present two masterclasses as part of the regular small group forum series; and perform with Ed Soph, Fred Hamilton, and Stefan Karlsson at the University Union Syndicate on Tuesday, October 30, starting at 9 p.m. Admission is $7 for those who are not part of the small group forum class.
Photo credit: AT THE REX HOTEL WITH ANDREW RATHBUN, JULY 2, 2007, TORONTO, CANADA. Photo by Marek Lazarski of cooljazzphotos.com

Small Group Program welcomes guest artists RUDDER

09/13/2007 - 1:23pm


The Jazz Small Group Program, directed by Stefan Karlsson, will sponsor a 2-hour session with the New York-based group, RUDDER, on Friday, October 12th between 3:30-5:30 p.m. Admission is $5 cover for those who are not part of the small group forum class. This event will take place in the Lyceum Theatre in the University Union. The session will include: performance, rehearsal techniques, how to better prepare yourself and your group for this competitive business, and individual experiences. The personnel for Rudder is:
Chris Cheek - Saxophones
Henry Hey - Keyboards (UNT alumnus)
Tim Lefebvre - Bass
Keith Carlock- Drums (UNT alumnus)
http://www.myspace.com/rudderbandnewyork
https://www.facebook.com/ruddermusic/

Photos of Leon Breeden with the Jim Riggs Big Band

09/13/2007 - 1:37pm


Ron Kukal's photos of Leon Breeden sitting in with the Jim Riggs Big Band on Sept. 2, 2007 are here.

Ryan Jacobi presents a solo drumset recital

09/14/2007 - 8:23am

Current jazz studies major Ryan Jacobi will present a solo drumset recital on Sept. 18 at 8 p.m. in the Merrill Ellis Intermedia Theatre (MU 1001 in the music building). Admission is free. Ryan will present solo drumset interpretations of works by Hanna-Barbera, Gustav Holst, Edgar Allan Poe and Vincent Van Gogh. He will be joined by special guests Brandon Brown and Billy "FLO" Pyter, professional Chicago hip-hop dancers.

Tom Luer tours with Queen Latifah, plays in Lima

09/18/2007 - 12:11pm


UNT alumnus and tenor saxophonist Tom Luer will be touring with Queen Latifah to promote her new album, "Travlin' Light". The first tour date is in Dallas. He performed a concert in Lima, Peru in June. For more information, see www.tomluer.com.

Lily Maase performs, gives talk in Denton, releases CD

09/18/2007 - 12:28pm


Alumnus and guitarist/composer Lily Maase visited Denton in early September to play a CD release show for her CD unbind at Dan's Silverleaf, and to give a talk at guitar departmental.
On unbind, fellow UNT grads Matt Wigton and Fred Kennedy are the rhythm section, Evan Smith and Peter Van Huffel are the saxophonists, and two other UNT grads, Jeff Morris and Kevin Patton, are featured in guest electro-acoustic appearances. Vijay Iyer and Adam Benjamin of the LA-based band Kneebody also contributed some music. The CD is set for official release on October 11th, and it should be available at CDBaby.com within the week.
Hope you are well!
For more information, see:
www.lilymaase.com
www.myspace.com/elasticityfest
Photo credit: www.lilymaase.com

News from the Jay Saunders trumpet masterclass

10/03/2007 - 11:02am

Students of Jay Saunders are studying 3 of New York’s busiest lead trumpet players this semester: Craig Johnson, Tony Kadleck and Frank Greene. Johnson and Greene are also UNT jazz studies exes.
The first masterclass (October 1st) concentrated on Craig Johnson. The students transcribed 3 selections each from a list provided by Craig. Each student then gives a short lecture on the specific aspects of execution and style he observed. He selects one example; the entire class listens to the excerpt while studying the transcription; then the selection is performed by the student-lecturer.
Excerpts were selected from Johnson’s lead playing with: Maynard Ferguson in the early 1990’s; the 4 CD’s he recorded with John Fedchock’s New York Big Band; “Sing, Sing, Sing” with the New York Voices; “Thought Trains” with Mike Holober’s Gotham Jazz Orchestra and the 3 CD’s he recorded with Bill Mobley’s Jazz Orchestra.
Tony Kadleck’s lead playing is next. Anyone in the area is invited to observe the masterclass – to be scheduled in early November. Contact Jay Saunders at jsaunders@music.unt.edu for more information.

Jazz Lecture Series guests for Spring 2008

10/08/2007 - 2:08pm

The Jazz Lecture series, also known as MUJS 3470, will welcome the following guest artists in spring 2008:

January
15 Introduction
22 Taylor Eigsti (Piano)
29 Jay Leonhart (Bass)

February
5 Chris Potter (Tenor Saxophone)
12 TBA
19 Bruce Forman (Guitar)
26 Jim Hall (Glenn E. Gomez International Jazz Artist)

March
4 Steve Davis (Trombone)
11 Frank Greene (Trumpet, alumnus)
18 Spring Break
25 Nasheet Waits (Drums)

Hyuck Bang's teaching position

10/10/2007 - 3:41pm

Current Jazz Studies master's student Hyuck Bang has an adjunct teaching position at Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. His teaching assignment includes private and class applied guitar instruction and applied lessons in jazz improvisation and theory for a pianist and bassist.

Fred Hamilton's new CD

10/12/2007 - 9:26am

Fred Hamilton plays bass on a new CD by Woody Witt (saxophone) that also features Tim Hagans (trumpet), Joe LoCascio (piano), and Minneapolis drummer J.T. Bates. It is titled "Live at Cezanne" and is on the Apria label.

Rosana Eckert featured in Digital Music Education Project

10/15/2007 - 1:21pm

Rosana Eckert was recently interviewed for a Digital Music Education Project created and sponsored by the Monterey Jazz Festival. The project is an online collection of excerpts from interviews done with 16 jazz
artist/educators including Randy Brecker, John Clayton, George Duke, Bob Mintzer, Michele Weir, and Peter Erskine. Each artist speaks about their primary musical influences and offers a list of recommended listening for
the aspiring jazz musician. There is also a listening library, organized by instrument, where the artists offer tips and techniques specific to their instrument. The project can be found at https://soundcloud.com/mjf

Jazz Repertory Ensemble plays new music Oct. 16

10/15/2007 - 1:26pm

The Jazz Repertory Ensemble will play new music by Göran Strandberg (Sweden), Darcy James Argue (Canada/New York), Florian Ross (Germany), Lars Jansson (Sweden), Jamie Begian (New York) in a free concert on Tuesday, Oct. 16, 20007, starting at 8 p.m. in Kenton Hall.

Alumna Sujin Nam presents Q&A on Film Music

10/16/2007 - 10:05am


Join in a Question and Answer session about film music with Sujin Nam, UNT Alumna in Jazz Studies.
Thursday October 18, 2007 at 4 p.m. in Kenton Hall, UNT College of Music.

Credit Highlights:
Film Scores:
Drive (2008), The Fifth Patient (2006), Starting Over (2004, 2005)
Shanghai Ghetto (2002), The Visit (2002) and more…..

Score Coordination:
Spider-Man 3 (2007), Spider-Man 2 (2004), Beauty Shop (2005),
Hide and Seek (2005), An Unfinished Life (2004),
The Hurricane (1999), In Too Deep (1999),
Entrapment (1999) and more.

Orchestration:
Lucky You (2007), Ghost Rider (2007), Hard Luck (2006),
The Exorcism of Emily Rose (2005), The Hunt for the BTK
Killer (2005), The Grudge (2004), Getting Hal (2003) and more

Alumnus Steve Hall featured in St. Joseph, MO paper

10/21/2007 - 11:47am

You can read about Steve's life and career as a drummer here.

UNT Jazz profiled in Down Beat

10/21/2007 - 11:50am

If you missed the profile of the UNT jazz studies program in Down Beat, you can read it on the author's site. Eric Bishop was an intern at Down Beat during the summer of 2007 when he researched and wrote the feature.

Alumnus Jerry Tolson's father profiled in Mt. Pleasant, IA paper

10/21/2007 - 12:10pm

UNT Jazz is a like a family. Here's some family history. Saxophonist and educator Jerry Tolson earned a master's in music education and jazz at UNT in the 1980s and now teaches at the University of Louisville. This is a profile of his father, Glenwood Tolson.

Two profiles of alumnus Conrad Herwig

10/21/2007 - 12:14pm

These profiles talk about his project The Latin Side of Miles, 'Trane and Wayne. profile 1 | profile 2

Lily Maase releases CD

10/23/2007 - 10:14am

Lily Maase, Brooklyn-based guitarist and composer and UNT Jazz alumna, released unbind, the recording she has been working on for the past 2 years with her NYC band, the Suite Unraveling, on the Addtract composers' label earlier this month. It is now available for sale online through CD Baby. The record features 7 new compositions by Maase, as well as guest appearances by Vijay Iyer, Adam Benjamin of Kneebody, Kevin Patton, Jeff Morris, Mike Maher, and Make a Circus's own Adam Kinner.

The official NYC release party is on November 30th at the Cornelia Street Cafe in Greenwich Village.

http://cdbaby.com/cd/suiteunraveling

Floyd Graham Society newsletter

10/24/2007 - 11:12am

Here's a link to the current issue of the Floyd Graham Society newsletter, courtesy of Pati Haworth.

Academia and Stress

10/24/2007 - 4:59pm

I am writing this to students who are currently at UNT and those who think they may come to school here. I have noticed something. Some of my students have glazed over eyes and seem up tight a lot. There is a significant amount of stress upon university students in a program that demands excellence and has a history of outstanding performers. UNT has tremendous competition for placement in the best lab bands and for undergraduates and graduate students the comparison between students gets intense. "I don't play as good as so-and-so." "I play better than so-and-so, why did he/she get in a better band than me?" These internal negative or inflated positive outlooks become hard to deal with. Ultimately, when you combine that with a heavy academic load, recitals and gigs many nights a week and typically not enough sleep you have a recipe for an emotional crash.

I have a suggestion. Don't take yourself and school so seriously. Look at music like a game. When I was a child, I remember friends coming to my house and asking, "Can Freddie come out and play?" My best friends and I would make up wonderful imaginary games: sailing small boats down a rain swollen ditch and tossing rocks at them seeing if our bombs could sink them, hide and seek in the twilight hours, endless basketball games. And it was fun! Really fun! I think that is why we call it playing music.

Wasn't music really fun when you first realized you could make stuff up? No one bothered to stop and criticize you because you blew a ii-V or your time was not happening. You just had fun playing your instrument. Do you feel like you have lost that in the rigorous academic approach to music?
You owe it to yourself to regain control of your music. I don't mean that you should not practice and strive for mastery. But, when it doesn't go like you thought it should, you have a bad musical day, someone criticizes you, you stop and think about what is important and what is not. What you can change and what you cannot. Some criticism is helpful, if it is not, throw it away. Just shake it off. If you are off your musical game for a moment, think about this: it is not that important. Music may cause people to forget their troubles for a moment, but it will not cure their cancer, heal their marriage problems, save them from an improvised explosive device in Iraq or any number of terrible things. In the scope of life, a bad day in music would be a great day for someone who lives under a bridge.

It is in your thinking that you create your own life. Ease up on yourself and everyone around you. Enjoy the day while you are able. Count your blessings, look for the silver lining, enjoy the glass half-full.

If you cannot do it on your own, maybe you need to talk to someone who will listen to you. Or, if you cannot get out of the slump, maybe you need to talk to a counselor.

Finally, don't say yes to everything. Take some time to read a book for enjoyment, get some exercise on a regular basis, eat good and healthy food and try to get regular amounts of sleep. Living in constant "jet-lag" is not good for your mental and emotional well being.

One more thing: you are important, you have meaning, you are loved, you have something to say and something to add to this world. Live life with meaning and have fun doing it!
Fred

Marchel Ivery (1938-2007)

10/30/2007 - 4:12pm


The UNT jazz community notes with sadness the passing of Marchel Ivery, shown above in a photo from September 2005, when he played at the Syndicate with Stefan Karlsson, Tom Warrington, and Ed Soph.

For many years, Marchel was a friend and colleague of faculty and students. He played at UNT most recently in July 2007 during the small group workshop. As we receive news of events in his memory, we will post information here.

Lab 2007

11/01/2007 - 7:28pm

Lab 2007 CD/DVD $20.00 (Release Date: November 12, 2007)
For the first time ever, a bonus DVD is included as part of the lab band CD package. Commemorating 60 years of the North Texas jazz program (1947 - 2007), and 40 years of annual lab albums (1967 - 2007), this CD/DVD combination includes music videos of the actual studio recorded takes, behind the scenes footage, interviews with Neil Slater, production team (Phil Bulla, Craig Marshall, Michael Vazquez, Graham Richards) and members of the One O'Clock Lab Band. Also included is a special segment "Why I Came to UNT" featuring interviews with student members of the One O'Clock Lab Band. This is the latest and greatest from the internationally renown flagship of the North Texas jazz program under the direction of Neil Slater. Order Form

Notice: Regarding Lab 2007 computer compatibility
Lab 2007 is manufactured to play in all standard CD and DVD players. The disc will also play in all computer DVD drives, and on the majority of computer CD drives. Some computer drives may not be compatible with the dual-sided disc technology. In the event you cannot import the CD tracks and desire to have the files as MP3 files to play on your computer or portable device, you can obtain those files by contacting Craig Marshall at cmarsh@music.unt.edu. You will need to provide information located on the disc as proof of purchase.

Live from Thailand

11/01/2007 - 7:30pm


Live from Thailand CD/ DVD set $25.00 (Release Date: February 28, 2008)
The One O'Clock Lab Band performs live in concert from Bangkok, Thailand. Enjoy the full concert on CD, as well as DVD (concert was originally broadcast throughout Asia). In addition, a full length DVD documentary is included that covers the entire tour in Thailand. Highlights include: meeting His Majesty the King, performing for and along with him at his palace; presentation of an honorary degree to His Majesty; back-story of how the King first met the One O'Clock Lab Band in 1967 at the White House during a State visit; Interviews with Leon Breeden, Dan Haerle, Ed Soph, Lou Marini; archival photos and the 1967 White House concert audio recording from the LBJ Library; Interviews with Neil Slater, College of Music Dean Dr. James Scott, Chancellor Lee Jackson, Dave Shrader, Tom Hoemeke, and others who were on the tour; and a special segment "Why I chose to attend UNT" featuring interviews with student members of the One O'Clock Lab Band. Pre-Order Form

Live at Blues Alley

11/01/2007 - 7:31pm


Live at Blues Alley Double CD set $20.00 (Release Date: March 28, 2008)
In April, 2007, the One O'Clock Lab Band appeared in a three-night exclusive engagement at famed jazz club Blues Alley in Washington, D.C. Recorded to multi-track each night, this double live CD set captures the energy and excitement that took place during this special event. Pre-Order Form

Rich Perry, guest artist with the One O'Clock Lab Band

11/09/2007 - 3:26pm


On Tuesday, Nov. 20, 2007, at 8 p.m. in Winspear Hall, tenor saxophonist Rich Perry will be the guest artist with the One O'Clock Lab Band, directed by Neil Slater.

Read the UNT press release

Buy tickets online

Dan Bruce's CD reviewed at AllAboutJazz

11/12/2007 - 3:48pm

The positive review by Martin Gladu is here.
(Will someone please tell Martin that this university changed its name from North Texas State University to the University of North Texas in 1988?)

Alumnus Jim White in the news

11/21/2007 - 12:16pm

This newspaper article on drummer Jim White, who teaches at the University of Northern Colorado, focuses on his work in country music.

New Keith Javors project

11/21/2007 - 4:55pm


Alumnus Keith Javors has released his debut recording with the ArtistShare project, entitled "The Free Project."

For more information and sound samples, see www.keithjavorsmusic.com.

New Michael Kraft CD

11/21/2007 - 4:58pm


Alumnus and bassist Michael Kraft has released his debut CD, "Latin Journey."

Further information and audio clips are available at cdbaby.com/cd/michaelkraft and myspace.com/kraftonbass.

Eckert, Wedding featured at Jazz Singers fall concert

11/23/2007 - 11:04am


Rosana Eckert and Alison Wedding are the featured artists at the fall concert of the UNT Jazz Singers, directed by Paris Rutherford. The concert will take place on Friday, Nov. 30, 2007 at 8 p.m. in Winspear Hall. Read the news item in the Denton Record-Chronicle. Learn more about Vocal Jazz at North Texas.

Jazz Repertory Ensemble in spring 2008

12/02/2007 - 8:44pm

The repertory ensemble will study and play music by Lennie Tristano and Thelonious Monk. Instrumentation will be piano, guitar, bass, drums, and up to six horns (or vibraphone). Auditions will take place during Jan. 11-13, 2008. Send Prof. Murphy an email to be added to the mailing list to get notified about the day and time.

Jazz Singers release "In Case You Missed It"

12/02/2007 - 10:46pm


The UNT Jazz Singers, directed by Paris Rutherford, have released the CD "In Case You Missed It." It features performances by the 2006 and 2007 Jazz Singers. Track listing and personnel can be found here. Here's a sample of the title track (comp. Bobby Watson, arr. Paris Rutherford).

Dan Haerle's CD "The Truth of the Matter" on iTunes

12/04/2007 - 3:13pm


Dan Haerle's new release is now available on iTunes. His trio includes Jack Mouse and Bob Bowman.

Dan Haerle's "Parting Thoughts" continue to attract new readers

12/05/2007 - 2:32pm

On April 29, 2002, Dan Haerle gave a talk that included his parting thoughts for music students

They've recently been discussed here and here.

Steve Wiest is nominated for a Grammy

12/06/2007 - 3:43pm

New Jazz Faculty member Steve Wiest is nominated in the Best Instrumental Arrangement category (field 23, category 86). We'd include a screencap of the page but the Grammy site is kind of busy at the moment.

Congratulations, Steve!!

Alumnus Gary Eckert coaches Shelton choir in "Clash of the Choirs"

12/22/2007 - 10:26am

UNT alumnus Gary Eckert arranged for and coached the Oklahoma City-based choir led by Blake Shelton in NBC's "Clash of the Choirs," which aired during the week of Dec. 17, 2007. Here's a Ft. Worth Star-Telegram article about it. Eckert's next project is with Bobby McFerrin's Voicestra.