FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Feb. 11, 2009

Contact: K.E. Schwab  

724.738.2199

 karl.schwab@sru.edu

SRU hosts 15th annual PMEA District 5 Jazz Festival, concert

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. - Curtis Johnson, former director of jazz studies at West Virginia University, and David Glover, assistant professor of music at Slippery Rock University, will be guest directors for the 15th annual Pennsylvania Music Educators Association District 5 Jazz Festival hosted this weekend by SRU's music department.

            Thirty-seven, high school jazz musicians from schools in Beaver, Butler, Lawrence and Mercer counties were selected from 70 students who auditioned for the festival, said Stephen Hawk, professor of music, festival organizer and founder.

            The two-day festival includes a 2 p.m. Saturday concert in Swope Recital Hall. Admission is $5 for adults; students are admitted free.

            Participating students will rehearse from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and 9 a.m. to noon Saturday in Swope Music Hall.

            Schools represented at the festival are Ambridge, Beaver Falls, Butler Sr. High, Center, Mars, Neshannock, Sharpsville, Slippery Rock, Seneca Valley and Union.

Slippery Rock University is Pennsylvania's premier public residential university. Slippery Rock University provides students with a comprehensive learning experience that intentionally combines academic instruction with enhanced educational and learning opportunities that make a positive difference in their lives.