Jazz Seminar and Concert Set for Oct. 31-Nov. 5

A talented group of international jazz musicians will convene on the University of Pittsburgh campus for the 46th annual Pitt Jazz Seminar and Concert, the longest-running event of its kind in the country.

Jazz Week, set for Oct. 31 through Nov. 5, will include evening lectures, seminars by guest musicians, community appearances, and a performance by the Pitt Jazz Ensemble. All events are free and open to the public.

The week culminates with the Pitt Jazz Concert at 7:30 p.m. Nov. 5 in Carnegie Music Hall, 4400 Forbes Ave., Oakland.

Guest artists this year will include: Ambrose Akinmusire, trumpet; Dwayne Dolphin, bass; Perry Hughes, guitar; David McMurray, saxophone; Jamison Ross, drums; Fred Wesley, trombone; and Cassandra Wilson, vocals. The entire ensemble will perform under the direction of Geri Allen, pianist, associate professor, and director of Pitt’s Jazz Studies Program in the Department of Music.

Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actress S. Epatha Merkerson, best known for her role as an NYPD lieutenant on the police drama Law & Order, will serve as master of ceremonies.

Orchestra or floor seats at the Pitt Jazz Concert are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. General admission is $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Tickets for students with a valid ID are $10 in advance and at the door.

Tickets can be purchased at http://music.pitt.edu/tickets, by calling the University of Pittsburgh Stages box office at 412-624-PLAY (7529), or by visiting the box office located on the Cathedral of Learning’s 16th floor, weekdays from noon to 5 p.m.

The Pitt Jazz Seminar and Concert, founded by former Pitt Jazz Studies Director Nathan Davis, was the first academic jazz seminar in the country to feature international artists connecting with aspiring student musicians in a lecture format, then performing together as an ensemble. Information about seminars and other activities will be forthcoming.