The University of Idaho Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival opening concert featured Byron Stripling, the All-Star Quartet and Lionel Hampton School of Music Jazz Band 1, with performances that earned multiple standing ovations Wednesday.
The All-Star Quartet, comprised of Bruce Forman on guitar, Kevin Kanner on drums, Josh Nelson on piano and Shawn Conley on bass, took the first hour-long set and entertained the audience with jazz standards such as “A Night in Tunisia” and “God Bless the Child.”
After intermission, the Lionel Hampton School of Music Jazz Band 1, directed by Associate Professor and Director of Jazz Studies Vern Sielert, took the stage to perform with Danish jazz singer Traincha Oosterhuis. Oosterhuis sang a series of classic vocal charts including “When I fall in love” and “I Wish you Love.”
Trumpeter Byron Stripling was the headline act bringing his New Orleans jazz style and repertoire, which included “St. James Infirmary” and “Basin St. blues.” Earlier in the day Stripling presented a clinic on musician Louis Armstrong’s influence on jazz and how the legendary trumpet player changed the genre in many ways.
UI freshman Sarah Marthinsen said Wednesday’s concert was amazing and there was a lot of energy on stage and in the crowd. Marthinsen, a music major, also said the concert made her excited to participate in clinics and watch other concerts during Jazz Fest.
Jolene Pflaum, bass trombone player in Lionel Hampton School of Music Jazz Band 1, said the energy created by the performers on stage was a great start to Jazz Fest. “It was a great experience playing with these amazing performers and a lot of fun too,” she said.
Every night during Jazz Fest, guest artists will perform during concerts at various locations on campus or in the Kibbie Dome. For more information about upcoming clinics and performances visit www.uidaho.edu/jazzfest.
Ryan Tarinelli can be reached at [email protected]