The Wayne State College Jazz Ensemble will present a dynamic evening of jazz music at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 15, in the Ramsey Theatre, located in the Peterson Fine Arts Building on the Wayne State College campus.
The concert is free and open to the public, offering attendees a chance to experience a diverse array of jazz styles performed by student musicians. Under the direction of Michael Genslinger, instructor of music at WSC, and the conductor of the jazz ensemble, they will perform a vibrant program that spans a variety of jazz genres, from classic standards to contemporary hits. The performance will feature several standout student soloists, showcasing their musical skills and individual artistry.
Among the featured performers are Isaac Voboril who will take the stage on baritone saxophone; Riley Gausman on trumpet and Alex Casillas on drums. Ryan Johnson will also perform on auxiliary percussion, while Rachael Nuernberger will perform on flugelhorn. Additional student performers include Taylor O’Dell on alto saxophone, Cohan Pietz on tenor saxophone and Mason Naderhoff on piano.
“I’ve always loved listening to music, but I’ve never actually been to one of the live concerts before,” Cayla Mentor, a Wayne State College student, said. “When I heard about the jazz ensemble performance, I knew this was the perfect opportunity to finally experience it.” Mentor a former musician who has several projects up on Spotify said “There’s something about being there in the moment — feeling the energy, hearing the instruments up close. It’s going to be a whole new world for me.”
“The audience should approach this concert with an enjoyment of different jazz styles and an appreciation of the skill of the student performers.” said Genslinger, “I am very proud of the jazz ensemble students and the work they have done this semester”
The ensemble is performing a wide variety of songs such as “Coconut Champagne”, “My Funny Valentine”, “Go Tell It on the Mountain” and “Superstition”. “I really want the audience to leave the concert knowing they had a fun time and wanting more. With all the stresses of the world, maybe we can be a source of relaxation and inspiration for an hour.” Genslinger said, “We have a few that we are really excited about, but I think the students really enjoy playing Coconut Champagne” on which song the students look forward to performing.
He hopes with this performance people will look forward to their next performance which will happen April 22 “We will be performing at the President’s Holiday Gala on December 8 in Ramsey Theatre.” He said. “We will also be going on tour during the spring semester and will be putting on a joint concert with the WSC Symphonic Band.”
Another concert will be happening on Nov. 25 which will be the percussion ensemble.
