CHANTILLY CULTURAL LIFE – A JAZZ EVENT
December 9th, 2008 categories: Community Life
When you want to do something a bit different, consider a drive out to Shenandoah University (SU) and take in one of their outstanding concert events. If you take the “scenic route” by heading west on Route 50 you will pass by a wonderful pub we have written about, Hunter’s Head Tavern.
If you have aspiring musicians in the family, you should know about SU’s reputation in the area of music education. Many famous musicians and other artists have gone through the University’s music program. Taking in one of SU’s concerts would be a wonderful “field trip” for your young musician. You can check out SU’s concert schedule here.
The last one I attended featured the SU Jazz Big Band as the opening act, followed by the evening’s main event, a concert by The Statesmen of Jazz.
The Statesmen concerts are actually supported by a not-for-profit organization of the same name based in Florida. Their primary mission is the promotion of the jazz art form through concerts and educational events. The artists performing with the Statesmen rotates, but there is a common theme: these are some of the finest jazz artists in the world. Many of these musicians are virtual legends…true jazz royalty.
I appreciate the work of this organization. Jazz is an American treasure, one of our only indigenous art forms. For decades American jazz musicians have traveled throughout the world, occasionally as official State Department representatives and very often through our jazz military bands, spreading good will.
The Statesmen of Jazz were led by vibes player (and drummer) Chuck Redd.
Jazz Vibraphonist Chuck Redd leading The Statesmen of Jazz
Chuck is a local artist with a national reputation. His extensive background includes having been a long time member of the Mel Torme All-Star Jazz Quintet. He has been featured on over 65 recordings and has toured around the globe. He and the Statesmen gave a brilliant performance. Chuck’s concert schedule, which includes many local performances, is on his web site.
Shenandoah University Jazz Big Band
