MOLLY VANDENBERG
Staff Writer
Fredonia is definitely known for its lively music scene. Sometimes you need a little break from the common rock or punk shows.
On April 22, Ellicottville Brewing Company’s upper level was packed with people of all ages in anticipation for the jazz tunes to come from the Fredonia Big Band and the Fredonia Jazz Ensemble.
Fredonia Big Band opened to a very enthusiastic crowd. The music was fitting of the space in EBC, even though it was cramped for the players. It was like EBC was once a jazz speakeasy in a past life, and if not, definitely just for the night.
The soloists in the group received many enthusiastic cheers as people held their drinks up in the air. Some familiar tunes were integrated into the music such as “Pop Goes the Weasel” which made an appearance in the form of a trumpet solo.
The Big Band has been around for a significant amount of time on campus and in the area.
“The Big Band itself started as a jam band that played funk tunes at bars. It started in the early 2000s, and around 2007 it grew into a big band,” said Tye Granger, a junior music education and performance on saxophone double major. Granger played the lead tenor saxophone in the Fredonia Big Band.
The Fredonia Jazz Ensemble’s set closed out the night. The Ensemble has played EBC in the past, and it was obvious from the positive crowd response that their performance was long awaited.
This event was hosted by the Fredonia Jazz Workshop. They’re an all student-run group that aims to promote jazz on Fredonia’s campus. The bands involved include the Fredonia Jazz Ensemble, the Fredonia Big Band, Fredonia Jazz Combo and Carousel Strings.
All of these bands are completely student-run, with student directors as well.
“We have one concert on campus every semester, but most of our gigs are off campus to prepare our musicians for the ‘real world,’” said Granger.
If you want to get your jazz on, keep your eyes posted for upcoming performances next semester.