Gold Company continues run of high-profile gigs
Nov. 8, 2003
KALAMAZOO--The Gold Company Sextet, an offshoot of Western Michigan University's internationally acclaimed vocal jazz ensemble, Gold Company, will perform in Eastern Europe in December, then travel to New York in January to perform at an important jazz educators conference.
The group of six singers and four-piece band is under the direction of Dr. Stephen Zegree, WMU professor of music. The sextet will give featured professional concerts Dec. 12-17 in Estonia and Latvia, and then head to the International Association of Jazz Educators Convention Jan. 21-24 in New York City, where it will deliver a featured performance on Jan 22.
The announcement of the upcoming performances comes shortly after Gold Company was invited to take part in a new choral showcase in France in fall 2004 as the United States' only representative and only student group included.
"This is yet another example of the high regard for our programs, both nationally and internationally, and is a further testament to the considerable talent of our students, faculty and staff," says Zegree, who is regarded as being among the best vocal jazz educators in the world.
The Gold Company Sextet is a highly select ensemble that has performed throughout the United States, Canada, Europe and South Africa. Recent concerts include a performance at Lincoln Center in addition to IAJE conventions. The group has appeared with such guest artists as Bobby McFerrin, Damon Meader of New York Voices, and Janis Siegel of Manhattan Transfer.
Vocalists
Justin Avery (tenor) is a senior jazz studies major from Traverse
City, Mich.
Joe Beutel (bass) is a sophomore voice performance major from
Fort Wayne, Ind.
Tim Buchholz (tenor) is a junior jazz studies major from Stevens
Point, Wis.
Katie Campbell (soprano) is a senior jazz studies major from
Valley Village, Calif.
Nayanna Holley (soprano) is a sophomore jazz studies major from
Los Angeles.
Johnaye Kendrick (alto) is a junior jazz studies major from San
Diego.
Musicians
Matt Heredia (bass guitar) is a junior jazz studies major
from Grand Rapids, Mich.
Jevin Hunter (drums) is a sophomore music major from Detroit.
Darius Pimpleton (piano and saxophone) is a senior music major
from Muskegon, Mich.
Matt Warnock (guitar) is a music performance graduate student
from Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.
Media contact: Mark Schwerin, 269 387-8400, mark.schwerin@wmich.edu