Wyoming Jazz Ensemble Presents Ellington in Wyoming at UW Oct. 18

The University of Wyoming Department of Music’s Wyoming Jazz Ensemble will present “Ellington in Wyoming” Thursday, Oct. 18, at 7:30 p.m. in the Buchanan Center for the Performing Arts concert hall.

Tickets cost $12 for the public, $8 for senior citizens and $6 for students. Tickets are available at the Performing Arts box office and the Wyoming Union information desk, by calling (307) 766-6666 or going online at www.uwyo.edu/finearts.

The Wyoming Jazz Ensemble, led by UW Jazz Studies Director Ben Markley, will celebrate the legacy of Duke Ellington. The ensemble will perform a mix of Ellington’s songs, including “Black, Brown and Beige,” a suite that Ellington introduced at his first Carnegie Hall concert.

Considered one of the most significant composers in American music, Ellington’s contributions to jazz helped define the style. His music captured the sound of America while telling the story of African-Americans during his lifetime.

“It is one of my great pleasures to share the important work of Ellington with UW students,” Markley says. “The iconic sounds of Ellington’s orchestra have shaped the course of jazz since its inception. The genius of his music is something we look forward to sharing at our concert.” 

The Wyoming Jazz Ensemble is Wyoming’s premier big band and regularly has earned the highest ratings at national jazz festivals. The group has received acclaim for accompanying well-known jazz artists who have performed on campus.

For more information, call Kathy Kirkaldie, UW Fine Arts coordinator, at (307) 766-2160 or email kirisk@uwyo.edu.