Legend Joins UW’s Jazz Orchestra at Shannon Hall
Johannes Wallmann leads the University of Wisconsin Jazz Orchestra. Photo courtesy of Johannes Wallmann.
This summer will bring sun, smiles and because of the Isthmus Jazz Fest, tunes.
The annual event on June 19-20 will be bigger and feature Headliner Freddy Cole, regarded as one of the most influential singers in jazz music. Jazz music surrounded Cole growing up as the younger brother of Nat “King” Cole.
The UW Jazz Orchestra , comprised of both undergraduate and graduate students, will open for Cole’s performance on Saturday, June 20 and later join him to perform a couple songs.
The UW Jazz Orchestra has an extensive performance schedule throughout the year, including many performances and collaborations with guest artists, Director Johannes Wallmann said.
Now in it’s 27th year, this summer’s festival has expanded to include live music in Shannon Hall, the Rathskeller and the Terrace stage. The glistening backdrop of Lake Mendota either during the performance on the Terrace stage or after an indoor performance, allows for the congregation of students, alumni and community members.
Eric Siereveld, a UW-Madison graduate student and trumpet player in the UW Jazz Orchestra, says the opportunity to participate in Isthmus Jazz Fest and perform with Freddy Cole is a valuable educational and performance experience, that him and other students are looking forward to.
“From everything I hear, Freddy is a wonderful guy to work with,” Siereveld said. “It is one thing to gain perspective from a seasoned performer in the classroom, but another thing to gain it on stage.”
“Being able to perform at Memorial Union, on campus, lets the community hear a local and university band keep up with a well recognized jazz performer,” Siereveld said.
All performance except Cole’s Saturday night are free and open to the public. Tickets to Cole’s performance can be purchased online or at the Union Box Office.
