Jazz Ensemble from SWOSU to present free concert at Amarillo College

The Jazz Ensemble of Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) will perform music by many well-known artists on Nov. 10 at Amarillo College, where one of the Ensemble’s proud alums has taught music for more than 30 years.

The concert, which is free and open to the public, is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 10 at the Concert Hall Theater on AC’s Washington Street Campus. Opening for the SWOSU Jazz Ensemble will be AC’s own Jazz Band.

Dr. Jim Laughlin, longtime professor of music at AC, received his bachelor’s degree in music performance and education from SWOSU, and he encourages everyone with an interest in jazz to attend the free concert.

“My experience and education at SWOSU put me on the path for a wonderful career in music and jazz education,” Laughlin said. “They continue to have an outstanding program, and I’m so pleased they’ve chosen to visit and play for us here at AC.

“I am certain that everyone who attends the SWOSU Jazz Ensemble’s concert, which also includes a performance by our AC Jazz Band, will enjoy it immensely.”

The SWOSU Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Richard Tirk, professor of music, and graduate assistant Tyler Macon, will be playing arrangements from the likes of Thad Jones, Sammy Nestico, Willie Maiden, Bill Holman, Phil Kelly and Chick Corea. Additionally, Louis Prima’s popular hit Sing, Sing, Sing, is on the program.

SWOSU has a rich history of jazz excellence with their ensembles performing across the region and hosting an annual jazz festival since 1970. Many alums of the program have gone on to become professional musicians or outstanding music educators. Some of the top artists who have attended SWOSU include such luminaries as Clark Terry, Wycliffe Gordon, and Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band.

During his own time studying music at SWOSU, Laughlin performed with many notable artists as well, some of whom are Clark Terry, Rich Matteson, Dianne Reeves, Urbie Green and Gordon Goodwin.

For more information about SWOSU Jazz and the 53rd Annual SWOSU Jazz Festival, which in February will be headlined by the Tia Fuller Duo, please visit swosujazz.com. For more information about the AC Jazz Band, please visit actx.edu/music/jazzband.