The SC Jazz Masterworks Ensemble to present “The Art of the Big Band” on August 24
The South Carolina Jazz Masterworks Ensemble is comprised of many of the most outstanding jazz musicians, soloists, and bandleaders from across the Carolinas. The band will open its second season at the Harbison Theatre at Midlands Technical College with a concert on Saturday, August 24 at 7:30 PM.
The concert will feature big band classics, music from the great American song book, and modern originals by the group’s members.
“With 18 amazing musicians, the musical possibilities are almost unlimited,” says Dr. Robert Gardiner, the founder and director of the SC Jazz Masterworks Ensemble and the President of the SC Jazz Foundation. “We will present a variety of different grooves, textures, feels, colors, rhythms and melodies. Our goal is to present music with great beauty in one moment and contrast that with a musical moment of dramatic intensity.”
Gardiner challenges the nonjazz fan to consider giving this ensemble and performance a chance. “Our music is fun, accessible to everyone, easy on the ears and I think we put on a great show. Join us on Aug. 24 and you will see what I mean.”
The ensemble will present several original compositions and arrangements by ensemble members, Dr. Dick Goodwin and Bert Ligon. Bert is the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of South Carolina and Dick is a distinguished Professor Emeritus at the University of South Carolina and has been a significant force on our musical landscape for four decades.
Dr. Robert Gardiner has been teaching, playing, promoting, and advocating for jazz for three decades. He has created and directed jazz ensembles at the middle school, high school, collegiate, community, and professional level.
Robert is a Professor of Music at Lander University and has served as the director of the Lander University Jazz Ensemble for the past 16 years. He is also currently leading the Capitol City Big Band and the Robert Gardiner Jazz Quartet. Robert has performed with Aretha Franklin, The Charleston Symphony, The Four Tops and many others.
