UofL music institute to focus on intersection of jazz, symphonic orchestra

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Jazz bassist and composer Rufus Reid will give a public concert at the University of Louisville Feb. 3 as part of the African American Music Heritage Institute.

The concert starts at 8 p.m. in Comstock Concert Hall, School of Music. General admission is $5. Children under 10 and UofL students with a valid student ID get in free. Tickets may be reserved at 502-852-6907 or purchased at the door.

Reid will perform original music related to this year’s institute theme “Jazz Meets the Symphony.”

Reid has performed on countless hard bop, bebop, swing and pop sessions in his career. As a composer, Reid explores the intersection of classic jazz with the textures of the symphonic orchestra. A movement in the 1950s known as third stream explored this same territory. Reid’s compositions draw from both worlds resulting in a unique approach and reflection of the contributions of African Americans to all genres of music.

The 2014 African American Music Heritage Institute is an annual event created 18 years ago by jazz studies professor Jerry Tolson to promote cultural diversity. In addition to Reid’s concert, other institute events are a master class for UofL School of Music students at 3 p.m. Feb. 3, Bird Recital Hall, and a workshop presentation for area students and their instructors at 10 a.m. Feb. 4, Comstock Concert Hall. Both events are free and public.

For more information, contact Jerry Tolson at 502-852-6972.