Vancouver Island University's Big Band is celebrating the 100th anniversary of the first jazz recording with a concert featuring Delfeayo Marsalis.
"It's an amazing opportunity for the students," said Greg Bush, Vancouver Island University Big Band director, about the students performing with Marsalis.
He said the music department started hosting a concert in the spring, in addition to the yearly end-of-semester concert, with a guest artist last year and he hopes that it will become a tradition. Bush said it gives Nanaimo community members the opportunity to see a great show and support VIU students.
Performing with a professional musician inspires students, said Bush, who added he's seen a number of students practicing their performing on their own time and "getting polished."
It also creates memories that the students will take with them throughout their life, said Bush. It's not the theory classes or lectures that will stick with them, but the time they performed with a professional musician such as Marsalis, he said.
The VIU Big Band is comprises of students who have auditioned from all four years of the music department program.
Marsalis performs with the Vancouver Island University Big Band on Thursday (March 16) at 7:30 p.m. at Malaspina Theatre. The concert is a Festival Nanaimo partnership event presented by Hinkkala and Associates.
Tickets are $20 or $10 for students available in advance by calling 250-754-8550 or by visting www.porttheatre.com.
In addition to the concert, Marsalis will lead a number of free workshops. A music workshop is Wednesday (March 15) from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Building 320, Room 105. On March 16 a trombone workshop is 10-11:30 a.m. and a music and history workshop is from 1-3 p.m., both are held at Malaspina Theatre.
For more information about Marsalis, please visit www.delfeayomarsalis.com.
arts@nanaimobulletin.com