The University of Hawaiʻi at Hilo Jazz Orchestra’s Frank Zappa tribute concert returns for its seventh annual performance at the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center December 11 and 12 at 7:30 p.m.
This year’s show will feature Zappa songs never before played by the UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra.
“We've got a really exciting set planned for this show,” commented UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra Director Trever Veilleux. “It’s a great mix of accessible songs and face-melting instrumentals that show off the band’s talents. And this show isn't only for Zappa fans; we often hear from audience members who were not familiar with Zappa that they love the show!”
A recurring favorite in Hilo, the Orchestra’s Zappa tributes are often performed to sold-out crowds. The music takes a journey through hard rock, elegant jazz, delightfully bizarre neo-classical tangents, driving progressive adventures, and soulful rhythm and blues, all culminating in a sound that can only be described as “Zappa.”
The UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra has enjoyed worldwide recognition for its exciting performances of Zappa's music and have been invited to Germany to perform next summer. In 2017, Zappa's son and Grammy award-winning guitarist Dweezil Zappa came to Hilo to perform with the band, and they have earned the endorsement of Ahmet Zappa and the Zappa Family Trust. The Orchestra is the subject of the documentary film Zappa U, which follows the band in the months leading up to the 2016 Frank Zappa tribute concert.
Tickets are open seating priced at $12 General, $10 Discount, $5 Students w/ Valid ID, and Children 17 years and under. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.
For more information, or to order tickets, contact the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center Box Office at 932-7490 or artscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.
For disability accommodation, contact Dori Yamada at 932-7496 (V) or 933-3334 (TTY) at least 10 working days prior to the event.