Sunday, Nov. 19, at 4 p.m., the Lakeland Civic Jazz Orchestra and the Lakeland Jazz Impact will present “Autumn Serenade” in the Dr. Wayne L. Rodehorst Performing Arts Center in the D-Building of Lakeland’s campus.

Directors Ed Michaels and Demetrius Steinmetz crafted a hearty program for “Autumn Serenade” that is both joyous and tranquil. While musical serenades are typically light and subdued, the lineup of artists is anything but, featuring works of jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Dave Wolpe, Les Hooper and Sammy Fain, among others.

The concert will also include a performance of “Tomorrow’s Stars” by Ohio’s own Len Orcino, whose longstanding career in teaching and composing makes him one of the most accomplished jazz pianists in the greater Cleveland area. Orcino has also played euphonium in the Lakeland Civic Band.

“‘Autumn Serenade’ is a fitting title for this concert, taking place the weekend before Thanksgiving,” says Michaels. “With fall’s beauty still in full bloom, there’s excitement in the air for the holiday season that lies ahead, and you can feel that joy within every piece being performed.”

Concert tickets can be purchased at the box office upon arrival or online at lakelandcc.edu/arts. Ticket prices are $10 for adults, $6 for Lakeland alumni, senior citizens and veterans and $2 for current Lakeland students with ID. Online purchasers should bring their order confirmation to show at the door. The Dr. Wayne L. Rodehorst Performing Arts Center is on the first floor of the D-Building on Lakeland’s campus, located at 7700 Clocktower Drive, Kirtland, Ohio, 44094, just off the I-90/State Route 306 exit. Free parking is available.

ABOUT THE LAKELAND CIVIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA

The Lakeland Civic Jazz Orchestra was organized in 1973 under the direction of Charles Frank to provide jazz performance opportunities for Lakeland Community College students and community musicians.

Composed of Lakeland students, amateur musicians and semi-professional players, the Lakeland Civic Jazz Orchestra consists of a full rhythm section (piano, guitar, bass, vibraphone and drums) as well as saxophones, trumpets, trombones and the occasional singer.

Those interested in auditioning may contact Demetrius Steinmetz at dsteinmetz2@lakelandcc.edu.

ABOUT THE LAKELAND JAZZ IMPACT

The Lakeland Jazz Impact is an honors youth jazz ensemble bringing together the finest young jazz musicians in Northeast Ohio and is one of the only groups of its kind in the area.

Led by Ed Michaels, it performs on campus, at the Lakeland Jazz Festival, and in recent years has appeared regularly at The Bop Stop at the Music Settlement in Ohio City.

The group welcomes all jazz style instruments including alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trombone, trumpet, piano, guitar, bass and drums.

Jazz students in grades eight through 12 are encouraged to audition for the Lakeland Jazz Impact by contacting Ed Michaels at emichaels@lakelandcc.edu.

By: Charles Hegedus, Mrktg and Commun Specialist