ENMU Hosting 2002 Jazz Fest on Oct. 24-25

Date: 10/17/2002
Contact: Wendel Sloan at 505.562.2253
Reporter: Colleen Wright

PORTALES – Eastern New Mexico University is hosting the 2002 Jazz Fest on Oct. 24-25.

Highlights of this second annual event will include the Albuquerque Latin Jazz All-Stars and the ENMU Faculty Jazz Players at 7 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 24 in the University Theatre Center, and the 62nd Army Band Jazz Combo and the ENMU Jazz Ensemble with guest artist Ed Soph at 7 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 25 in the University Theatre Center.

In addition, Soph will present a free clinic from 4-5:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 in Buchanan Hall in the Music Building.

Soph has traveled around the world presenting his clinic. He is also the author of three books: Essential Techniques for Drumset, Fundamental Studies for Drumset, and The Big Band Primer. He also had his video, A Musical Approach, distributed by Warner Brothers.

Chris Beatty, assistant professor in the ENMU music department, began the festival last year. According to Beatty, the music department is making the festival a community-wide event. "We are trying to diversify it this year." Beatty said. "We want to give everyone the chance to appreciate the art form."

ENMU Multicultural Affairs, The New Mexico Jazz Workshop, the Associated Students Activities Board, and the Office of Student Activities and Organizations are also sponsors.

The festival is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Beatty at 505.562.2471.

University Jazz Ensemble

Tira Neal – freshman music major from Artesia.  (photo by Richard Salas)

J.D. Hipp – freshman music major from Roswell.  (photo by Richard Salas)