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The Arts

Student Players Shine at Elmhurst Jazz Fest

By March 4, 2011November 16th, 2018No Comments

Kirkwood performers earn recognition, meet famed musicians 

The 44th annual Elmhurst College Jazz Festival/Chicago was held on Feb. 25 through Feb. 27, 2011 and featured over 40 colleges and universities throughout the United States. The Kirkwood Community College Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo I groups accepted an invitation to participate at this prestigious event where musicians are given an opportunity to hear and share music in an educational format.

Kirkwood Instrumental Jazz Director Tim Feldkamp led the groups in their festival performances. The students interacted with featured, nationally known guest artists in master class and clinic settings. Students also received feedback regarding their performance from the festival adjudicators Michael Abene, piano; Byron Stripling, trumpet; and Dennis Mackrel, drums.

Outstanding soloist awards presented to Kirkwood student musicians in the big band went to Jordan Rammelsburg, drums; Chase Garrett, piano; Ben Henzgen, bass; and Joe Couture, alto sax. Along with learning from some of the greatest jazz musicians of the day, the festival featured the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra from New York City, plus performances by Matt Wilson’s Arts and Crafts.

The Kirkwood Jazz Ensemble served as Kirkwood musical ambassadors, performing at various high schools in eastern Iowa en route to the festival. The annual festival is hosted by Elmhurst College on the near-west side of the Chicago Metro.