Hawk Express Jazz Band
By: Rebeka Porter
The Quincy University Music Department held the annual Hawk Express jazz band concert on Nov. 13, 2016, at the Connie Niemann Center for Music. Christine Damm, assistant professor of music and director of the Hawk Express jazz band, conducted the concert.
The jazz band performed many upbeat songs and featured QU students in each performance.
“My goal was to make great music and have fun doing it. To have the students grow musically, together. I think the jazz band is a great musical outlet for people. It’s a great way to showcase all the talents of the students. It’s a wonderful way for them to make music and enjoy (it),” Damm said.
Annie Weiler, a sophomore at QU, performed the song Fever, written by Eddie Cooley and Otis Blackwell, arranged by Roger Holmes, alongside the jazz band.
“Everyone’s so friendly. And even when I was scared to go up there performing, everyone was like, ‘Annie, you’re going to do so well.’ Afterwards, everyone was whispering to me, ‘That sounded so good.’ I love how supportive and friendly they are. I love them,” Weiler said.
Amy Stollberg, director of choirs, was happy to see two of her choir students performing at the concert.
“I’m proud of Annie Weiler and Sam Dust. They were both vocalist on this concert. They did an awesome job. I’m looking forward to hearing them singing some more solos at the next jazz band concert,” Stollberg said.
The jazz concert had a great turnout from a variety of faculty, Quincy community members, and families of the performers. There wasn’t a large presence of QU students.
“I would love if more of the students would come out and support musicians. I think a lot of people don’t know all the hard work and dedication that goes into these groups. And jazz band music’s fun. You are not going to be bored at the jazz concert. It’s all upbeat and fun to listen to. And the students have fun making music. You can really see that,” Damm said.
Upcoming events include:
Symphonic Band Concert: Nov. 30, at 3 p.m.
Saxophone Quartet Concert: Dec. 10, at 1 p.m.
Saxophone Day Concert: Dec. 10, at 4 p.m.
Choral Christmas Concert: Dec. 11, at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
