The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Jazz Orchestra performs the music of Frank Zappa when it presents Jazz Isn’t Dead, It Just Smells Funny on Thursday, December 12 at 7:30 p.m. at the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center (PAC).
“Zappa’s music is complex and technically challenging, yet simultaneously catchy and accessible,” said Orchestra Director Trever Veilleux. “These qualities make it perfect for an educational setting. Its music that is fun to play, but hard to play correctly!”
The program features a range of material drawn from Zappa’s large catalog, with an emphasis on the composer’s jazz-rock compositions from the late ‘60s and early ‘70s.
“The music takes full advantage of the 25-piece Jazz Orchestra,” said Veilleux. “Zappa often wrote for large ensembles and uncommon instruments and I feel very fortunate that we had students audition that play things like bass clarinet, electric violin, or glockenspiel. Being able to cover all these different parts adds authenticity to the performance.”
Joining the Jazz Orchestra will be guest vocalists and dancers performing original choreography by Dori Yamada.
Jazz Isn’t Dead, It Just Smells Funny is an open seating event. Admission is $7 General, $5 Seniors, Students & Children. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. For more information, or to order tickets, contact the PAC Box Office at 932-7490 or artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.