Jazz Ensemble I

April 25, 2003 :: No. 215

Jazz Ensemble I under the direction of Chuck Tumlinson, continues to build an audience for its following wherever it performs, from the Fullerton College Jazz Festival where they finished second in the university jazz ensemble category, to the University’s Presidents Convocation, and then as one of three university ensembles invited to perform at “Autumn Eve,” a tribute to Woody Herman in Hollywood’s Kodak Theatre. In addition they have been honored to have many recent wonderful guests artists including trumpeter Randy Brecker and saxophonists James Moody and Herb Geller.

In regards to the program, Tumlinson chose some of the selections with a special purpose in mind. Tumlinson explains, “I choose ‘My Lament’ as a showcase piece for Jeff, providing him a spotlight to share his consummate musicianship in this his final concert before graduating. He is an exquisite player and participated in the all-Cal State Jazz Ensemble that performed in April at Long Beach State, and he’s been invited to return to the Henry Mancini Institute this summer,” states Tumlinson. “Other selections chosen are in celebration of the lives and music of two great jazz artists this world lost in the last year. ‘Silverado’ I chose in memory of Bob Berg, a great contemporary jazz tenor saxophonist who died suddenly in a car accident last December, and ‘Red Top’ for Lionel Hampton, legendary jazz vibist and band leader who passed away in August, 2002.”