What to watch for at Christmas gala jazz
What to watch for at Christmas gala jazz
Joel Boettger discusses the preparation process for this annual concert.
The anticipation is building as Bethel College prepares to host its annual Gala Jazz Concert, a night filled with the sounds of jazz that will showcase the talents of the college's jazz program.
“I don’t program with themes in mind,” explained Professor Joel Boettger. "I pick the music I know will work for my band and then try to place it on the program in a logical sequence that has a musical arc."
This results in a diverse repertoire that spans ballads, vocal charts, holiday classics, and the timeless allure of straight-ahead swing. This approach ensures that concertgoers will experience a musical journey that is both rich in variety and seamlessly woven together to create a cohesive and engaging performance.
"I sit down with a cup of coffee and listen to two to three hours of big band charts to get an idea of what I want," Boettger shared. The selection of music involves considerations of style, difficulty, and the unique challenge each piece poses to the band.
Boettger also highlighted the dedication of the student musicians and their commitment to excellence. "The student musicians are the reason for the concert. We can't perform without them," he said. The upcoming concert is a testament to the hard work and passion that both students and faculty pour into the preparation process.
Attendees can look forward to several standout performances. Eli Regier's original arrangement of "Pure Imagination" in the jazz combo portion of the evening is noted for its imaginative qualities, offering a fresh take on a classic.
Vocalist Sophia Chindamo will grace the stage, lending her voice to the holiday classic "Man with the Bag." Boettger expressed confidence that the entire concert would be an enjoyable experience for all.
Beyond the concert's immediate impact, Boettger also shared his hopes for the future of the Bethel College Jazz program. "I hope the Jazz program will evolve to be more robust and to incorporate other music not typically placed under the jazz umbrella," he stated.
The Gala Jazz Concert serves as a vital platform for showcasing the program's growth, providing a snapshot of the progress made over the course of the academic year.
The Gala Jazz concert is Thursday night at 7:30 p.m. in Krehbiel Auditorium.