“The Music and Legacy of Bill Evans” is the theme chosen for our School of Music’s 17th annual JazzFest, which begins Tuesday, March 19, and continues through Friday, March 22.
The late Bill Evans was a multiple Grammy-award winning jazz pianist and composer, whose innovations, compositions and interpretations developed and influenced the style of jazz piano today. He played with the Miles Davis Sextet and with musicians throughout the New York jazz scene for more than 30 years.
The music festival will also feature pianist David Thompson as the 2019 Bittle Jazz Artist-in-Residence. A resident of nearby Medina, Thompson was introduced to Evans as a teen and calls it the “defining moment in my life in terms of experiencing such beauty revealed and expressed in such a powerful way. That was the day I began to play the piano again."
UA's Bittle Jazz Residency is generously supported by Frances Yates Bittle. For more information, call ext. 8301 or email concerts@uakron.edu.
Here is the schedule:
Our Jazz Combos and Lab Band will perform works by Bill Evans on Tuesday, March 19, at 7:30 p.m. in Guzzetta Recital Hall. Jack Schantz conducts. Free.
- A Movie Night is planned Wednesday, March 20, at 7:30 p.m. in Guzzetta Recital Hall with a special showing of the documentary film,“Bill Evans, Time Remembered.” Music and introductory remarks will be provided by by Bittle Artist David Thompson. Free.
- David Thompson and the Faculty Jazz Combo will perform Thursday, March 21, at 7:30 p.m. at the Stage Door at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. Tickets are $12 for general admission, $6 for non-UA students and free for UA students with Zip Cards. Call 330-253-2488 or visit UA Events
- David Thompson and the Student Big Band will perform Friday, March 22, at 7:30 p.m. at the Stage Door at E.J. Thomas Performing Arts Hall. Tickets are $12 for general admission, $6 for non-UA students and free for UA students with Zip Cards. Call 330-253-2488 or visit UA Events.
