3/1/2004

Contact: K.E. Schwab  -- 724-738-2199;  e-mail: karl.schwab@sru.edu

SRU JAZZ ENSEMBLE TO RELEASE LATEST CD AT OCT. 20 CONCERT

            SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. – The dedication of graduated seniors and the enthusiasm of incoming freshman are being saluted in the Slippery Rock University Jazz Ensemble’s latest CD “Arrivals & Departures,” set for release at the ensemble’s 8 p.m. Oct. 20 concert in Swope Recital Hall.

The release celebration marks the ensemble’s third CD under the direction of Stephen Hawk, associate professor of music, who explains, “We decided to dedicate the latest CD to the seniors and freshmen who are continuing to build a rich tradition of jazz excellence at the university.

    Jazz Ensemble I graduated eight seniors last year and several are now pursuing graduate degrees in music, including Pat Kennedy, Jason Kush and Ross Chilcott at The University of Texas, The University of Miami and Kent State University respectively.

    "We are very proud of all of our students and their accomplishments. Last year's seniors were a particularly special group of young people who came into the group and really grew up together. They shared many of the ensemble's highlights including a European Tour, as well as sharing the stage with such jazz greats as Rufus Reid, Randy Brecker and Bob Mintzer.”

    The campus concert will include selections from the CD which offers “Count Bubba,” “April in Paris,” “Cute,” “First Circle,” “Always and Forever” and others.

PN, WPN, PgN, PR