Today the Valdosta State University Department of Music is hosting the 4th annual Titletown Jazz Ensemble. The event is free and starts at 7:30 p.m. in the Whitehead Auditorium.

The Titletown Jazz Ensemble will feature the VSU jazz ensembles as well as the jazz ensembles from Lowndes and Valdosta High Schools.

“The Titletown Jazz concert serves as a showcase for the outstanding local jazz programs and also celebrates this exciting and unique American art form,” said David Springfield, the director of the VSU Jazz Ensemble.

The performances will consist of the New Jazz Ensemble, (which is made up of both non music and music majors) directed by Joren Cain, the VSU Jazz Ensemble directed by David Springfield, Lowndes High School Jazz Ensemble directed by Jon Bowman and Valdosta High School Jazz Ensemble directed by Andrew Hill.

“I also hope it will celebrate the role that music (specifically jazz) plays in our educational institutions, and will demonstrate the enthusiasm and dedication exhibited by all the students involved,” Springfield said.

Both VSU jazz ensembles offer a great melodic experience that uplifts the atmosphere into a wonderful musical performance. Overall, the program is designed to prepare students for a profession in jazz education, jazz composition and performance.

The VSU Jazz Ensemble has made many noteworthy appearances and has opened up for the Buddy Rich Band.

These jazz performers have even toured overseas to places such as Europe, Netherlands, Switzerland and Germany.

The group performs four times a year on the VSU campus.

The New Jazz Ensemble performs at least two concerts a year on campus. This group is for students who would like to improve skills in jazz performance and experience.

If you are interested in being a member of either VSU ensembles, auditions are at the beginning of every school year. Students can also visit their department website, valdosta.edu/music/jazz/.

For more information about the Titletown Jazz Ensemble and/or the Valdosta State Jazz Studies Program, please contact David Springfield at (229)-333-5805 or daspring@valdosta.edu.