Moeser Auditorium’s first look at UNC’s 2024 Summer Jazz Workshop

Performers playing the opening tune Open Sesame passionately. This performance is the first of many through UNC’s Summer Jazz Workshop.

 

Walking into Moeser Auditorium, the crowd is buzzing in excitement to listen to the tunes the musicians are going to play. People of all ages gathered to appreciate jazz and the elements of jazz that make it a significant part of music. After a casual introduction, the concert starts smoothly.

They called the first tune Open Sesame. This tune was powerful from the syncopated beats from the saxophone solo, along with helpful accompaniment from the piano, drums, bass, and trombone.

The second tune played was called Brooklyn en la casa, and true to its name, the tune sounded like taking a leisurely drive through the streets of Brooklyn, also having the element of surprise having loud moments.

The third tune had an evident shift in tone. There was soul written all over it. There were church-like elements to how the tune was played, and the musicians added their own touch of playfulness to take the tune to the next level.

The fourth tune was called “A Moment to Breathe” and started with a slow and gentle solo from the piano, providing a moment for the performers to take a break. In comparison to the other tunes, the song sounded sweet and soft, then gradually got more dynamic as the tune progressed.

The last tune had created engagement with the crowd, the musicians urging the audience to clap the beat throughout. Cheers and praise filled the crowd from the variety of tunes the performers played.

The performers put their whole body into playing, whether that meant swaying to the beat or bopping their heads showing the amount of passion they have for music. The level of playing was evident as well, hands gliding over their instruments like it’s second nature.

Collective improvisation was used throughout the whole performance, also showing the expertise and dedication the performers have to be able to display their talents. The crowd fed off of their energy, making the concert very enjoyable.

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