BC Jazz Band to host free concert Feb. 18

The Brazosport College Jazz Band will present a jazz concert at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, February 18 at The Clarion at Brazosport College in Lake Jackson. The concert is free and the public is cordially invited.

“We will be showcasing the broad range of jazz, including everything from traditional New Orleans favorites to Big Band classics and some contemporary jazz settings of popular hits,” said BC Jazz Band Director Richard Birk.

One of the featured performers on the concert will be Brazosport College student saxophonist Alec Benitez, who was named the top community college jazz alto saxophonist in Texas. Benitez recently performed with the Texas Community College Band Directors Association All-State Jazz Band in San Antonio at the Texas Music Educators Convention.

Also featured on guitar will be BC music faculty member Evan Oxenhandler, who will be joining the BC Jazz Band on several pieces.

Some of the selections to be performed include:

“Sing, Sing, Sing” – Louis Prima’s big-band flag-waver made famous by Benny Goodman.

“Cantaloupe Island” – a funky classic by jazz pianist Herbie Hancock.

“What’d I Say” – one of Ray Charles’ top hits.

“Island Breeze” – a laid-back Caribbean original by saxophonist Mike Tomaro.

“Blues Bari Pie” – a rockin’ bari sax feature by Andy Clark.

“Second Line” – a traditional New Orleans Mardi Gras favorite.

For more information about the Feb. 18 jazz concert, please call (979) 230-3156.