HAYS – The Fort Hays State University Jazz Ensembles will host a concert at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 18, at Beach/Schmidt Performing Arts Center as well as at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, April 26, at the Downtown Pavilion during the Spring Art Walk. 

Between 20-24 students perform in both Jazz Ensemble I and II, with auditions taking place at the beginning of the year for placement. 

This year’s concert will feature music from Buddy Rich, Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra and Stan Kenton. 

During the Stan Kenton piece, four mellophoniums will be used. “It is similar to a mellophone used in marching bands but has a different wrap with the tubing and a brighter, more present sound,” said Bradley Dawson, assistant professor of music. 

“Anyone who appreciates big band jazz should plan to attend. We have a wide variety of music and I think the audience will not be disappointed,” said Dawson.