FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 3, 2009

Webster University Big Band Concert Featuring Jazz Compositions by Howie Smith

What/Who:

The Webster University Big Band, under the direction of James A. Martin, will perform a concert of Big Band compositions from the creative mind of Howie Smith.

The featured compositions by Smith are:

            “Nock First”

            “Wha’t Is”

Additional pieces from the libraries of Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie and Ryan Kisor will be performed.

When:    

Monday, February 23, 2009, 7 p.m.

Where:           

Winifred Moore Auditorium, 470 E. Lockwood Ave.

Cost:                      

$5 at the door.

More Info:           

Call 968-7032, or the Fine Arts Hotline at 968-7128.

Howie Smith
A virtuoso saxophonist and composer, Howie Smith does not easily fit into a single category. As a performer he has worked with musicians, organizations and composers as diverse as Lester Bowie, John Cage, the Cleveland Orchestra, Mark Dresser, Mike Nock, Elvis Presley, Vernon Reid, Double Bass Drum and the Tone Road Ramblers. His recorded performances range from the big bands of Phil Wilson and Frank Mantooth to the Australian quartet Jazz Co/op to saxophone concertos by Edward Miller, Salvatore Martirano and David Baker. He has also presented numerous concerts and workshops throughout the United States, Canada, South America, Europe and Australia.
His catalogue of compositions includes works for conventional big bands and combos; for string, wind and percussion ensembles; for electronics and for mixed media. His music for jazz ensembles is available through the Doug Beach/Kjos, Kendor Music Inc., Otama Music and Walrus Music Publishing.