Jazz Studies ensemble at the Lincoln Center

East Carolina University jazz studies ensemble A performed at the Lincoln Center in New York on February 28. The performance featured a premiere performance of the composition “Aha” composed by ECU Distinguished Professor of Music Bob Mintzer, funded by ECU Jazz Friends Mr. and Mrs. Victor Chapp. In addition, Billy Taylor, namesake of Greenville’s Billy Taylor Jazz festival, performed a solo intro to his composition, “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free” with the ensemble.

On the trip the ensemble performed at Francis Hammond Middle School in Alexandria to 200 children (Vaughn Ambrose, SofM Alum is Director of Instrumental Music at Hammond), and at Bowie State University for student body and music students. The Bowie State performance was filmed for the Prince Georges County cable TV network and ABC World Wide Web.

ECU school of music and jazz studies alums Vaughn Ambrose, director of instrumental music at Francis Hammond Middle School, and Dorsey Mitch Butler, director of jazz studies at Claflin University were featured as guest conductors and special guest soloists.

Lenora Helm, UNC-Central jazz vocal studies professor and ECU jazz studies graduate teaching assistant, performed with the ensemble.