UPCOMING EVENTS
NOVEMBER 2024
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT SAN ANTONIO COLLEGE OF LIBERAL AND FINE ARTS SCHOOL OF MUSIC
Pop Gets Jazzed
28 October 2024
7:30 P.M. | UTSA Recital Hall
Is jazz popular music? While it may not match Taylor Swift in ticket sales, jazz has been a significant force in popular music since the early 1900s. This art form has consistently evolved, drawing from Broadway hits in the “Great American Songbook” to reimagined tracks by artists like The Beatles, Nirvana, and Radiohead. In "Popular Music Gets Jazzed," we celebrate jazz's unique role as a mirror to current musical trends and a vibrant medium for artistic exploration.
Through interactive discussions and live performances of familiar songs, we invite you to witness jazz's ongoing influence on the popular music landscape. This engaging program fosters a relaxed learning atmosphere for music lovers of all ages to discover the deep connections between jazz and popular music.
Artists' Bios:
Dr. Graeme Francis:
A versatile percussionist and music educator from Prince Edward Island, Canada, Dr. Francis has been performing and teaching for over two decades. Known for his dynamic presence with orchestras, chamber ensembles, and jazz groups, he has performed at venues like Carnegie Hall and The Apollo Theatre. Dr. Francis proudly endorses Yamaha, Zildjian, Vic Firth, and Remo products.
Dr. Utah Hamrick:
The Director of Jazz Studies at Texas State University, Dr. Hamrick has led ensembles to multiple accolades and performed with top jazz artists. With deep roots in both jazz and pop collaborations, his experience extends to work with Willie Nelson and soundtrack contributions for films such as Bernie and All is Bright.
Chris Villanueva:
A graduate of the University of North Texas, Chris Villanueva has an extensive jazz performance career across the U.S. and internationally. Known for his versatility across genres from jazz to Latin Rock, Chris has also been recognized by the Latin Grammy Awards for his work as a co -arranger and keyboardist.
Special Thanks
We arefortunatetobe surroundedbyabeautifulcommunity offaculty, staff, students, alumni, family, friends, and community members. Ourdeepestand sincerestgratitudegotothefollowingpeoplewhomakeourwork possible Thank youfor your unwavering supportof UTSA Music!
Dr. Glenn Martinez Dean, Collegeof Liberal and FineArts
Dr. Tracy Cowden Director, School of Music
Dr. Stacey Davis Associate Director, School of Music
Naomy Ybarra AdministrativeServices Officer
Steven Hill AdministrativeAssociate
Jared Davis Senior Events Manager
Joey Berrios Marketing Coordinator
Jordan Rodriguez School of Music Choral Librarian
Lauri Garcia Jones UndergraduateAdmissions Counselor
Dr. Susan Dill Music EducationArea Coordinator
