Neil L. King returns to Fairmont State for jazz ensemble concert Wednesday
The Fairmont State University Department of Music is excited to announce a special Jazz Ensemble Concert which will take place in Colebank Hall at Fairmont State University at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 29. The concert will feature jazz classics as well as some lighter holiday charts.
Under the direction of Neil L. King, the Fairmont State University Jazz Ensemble will present its annual fall concert in Colebank Hall. The ensemble embraces the talent of students from all over West Virginia. The jazz ensemble has been working diligently to prepare for this event, which will include pieces with significant historical value. Selections will come from the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Benny Carter, Mike Tomaro and Christian McBride.
Neil L. King, a Fairmont resident and a 1992 graduate of Fairmont State will be directing the ensemble.
“I am pleased to be back at Fairmont State University. Fairmont State University is very dear to my heart, having grown up in Fairmont” said King.
King has played professionally with many talented musicians and orchestras including the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra, The Huntington Symphony Orchestra, Christian McBride, Benny Golson, The Glenn Miller Orchestra and Bobby Vinton.
“We are excited to have Neil King directing the Jazz Ensemble and teaching Jazz improvisation this year. In addition to being an alum of Fairmont State, he has an extensive professional performing career throughout the region “said Robert Hickey, director of bands at Fairmont State University. King’s extensive background and experience includes teaching in the Monongalia County school system where he serves as the music curriculum supervisor of instrumental music. King is also the director of bands at Suncrest Middle, and prior to Suncrest Middle, he was a band director at University High School in Morgantown for 17 years. In addition, King has served as an adjunct faculty member off and on since 2004 where he instructs the brass ensemble. He is also the chairman for Jazz Education in the West Virginia Bandmasters Organization.
The Jazz Ensemble Concert is free and open to the public. No registration is required.
For more information please contact Robert Hickey at (304-367-4206) or rhickey@fairmontstate.edu.
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