 "Photo: Courtesy of Robert Whitehead")
In an entertainment period of blaring and obnoxious clatter, crazy outfits, and off-the-wall attitude, the CSUSB Jazz Ensemble’s music is a pleasant escape.
Their music and harmony are pleasantly contrasted against the harsh noise of what some may consider “popular” music today. They are a shining example of a great genre of music that is unique, and they know how to incorporate variety and put on a great show.
String bass player Jonathan Frias said, “We make a mixture of a lot of different types of music, even hip-hop.”
The department is open to any musician or music lover. It doesn’t matter who you are or what your major is, if you have an interest in jazz or making music for that matter, go out and audition to be a part of the diverse ensemble.
“The department is open to anyone, especially people with other majors. We are trying to spread our music to other departments. I’m really not sure if people know much about the music department and how welcoming we are,” said Frias.
Dr. Robert Knop is the director of the group which has experience performing all genres of music and puts forth an enjoyable show with a lot of energy using instruments such as saxophones, trombones, trumpets, bass, guitar, piano and drums.
The group of students, who rehearse weekly, hold concerts frequently on campus and perform around the Inland Empire on a regular basis.
The Jazz Ensemble is known to perform at jazz festivals, schools and the annual ‘Lake Arrowhead Village Jazz Series’ in Lake Arrowhead, CA. They even collaborate during shows with high school music groups that provides for an entertaining and inspiring illustration of musical magic.
The Ronald McDonald House of Loma Linda Medical Center also has had the advantage of hearing the group through the ensemble’s community performances.
The CSUSB music department has a lot to be proud of. In 2007 and 2008 the ensemble was invited to play at the Reno Jazz Festival. They even placed in the top ten during 2007. The Jazz Ensemble has been invited again for the 2010 Reno Jazz Festival.
Legendary blues icon B.B. King also shared a stage with the ensemble November 2009 here at CSUSB. The Jazz group was King’s opening act.
They were also privileged with the opportunity to lend their musical ability and present their talent at CSUSB’s 40th Anniversary Gala.
CSUSB’s Jazz Ensemble played its last show on campus for the winter quarter but will be holding various shows throughout the spring quarter with their first show starting on May 21st.
Other musicians, singers and groups will also hold their own shows throughout the spring quarter and rest of the year.
Anyone interested in performing with the CSUSB Jazz Ensemble or Vocal Jazz Ensemble should contact Knop at (909) 537-5463.
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