Angelo State Big Band to Swing into Spring with Count Basie Tribute Concert

SAN ANGELO, TX - Angelo State University's Jazz Ensembles program will present its first concert of the spring season on Friday, Feb. 21, at 7 p.m. in the Brooks & Bates Theatre at the San Angelo Performing Arts Center, 82 Gillis St. in downtown San Angelo.

Titled "A Tribute to Count Basie," the concert is open and free to the public. It will feature the ASU Big Band's celebration of one of the most influential bandleaders in jazz history, including an iconic lineup of some of Basie's most legendary compositions:

• "Moten Swing"
• "Jumpin' at the Woodside"
• "Splanky"
• "All of Me"
• "Corner Pocket"
• "Li'l Darlin'"
• "Cute"
• "April in Paris"
• "One O'Clock Jump"

Under the direction of Dr. Trent Shuey, ASU assistant director of bands, the ASU Big Band will capture the essence of Basie's signature swing, smooth phrasing and dynamic arrangements that defined the golden era of big band jazz.

The ASU Big Band is made up of about 20 student musicians performing on saxophones, trumpets, trombones and tuba, as well as a full rhythm section.

The ASU Jazz Ensembles program offers diverse and creative, small- and large-group jazz performance experiences. It covers a wide range of styles, including bebop, Latin jazz, free jazz, funk, hip hop and many others. ASU is proud to offer performances in this uniquely American art form.