Spotlight on Ernie Wilkins

Jazz Ensemble I, directed by Wil Swindler, presents an evening featuring the utterly compelling romp that is the music of Ernie Wilkins. Wilkins may not be a household name, but he was truly one of the jazz greats, noteworthy for his exciting and varied arrangements and compositions. As a saxophonist, Wilkins performed and recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, Kenny Clarke, and Charles Mingus among others. As an arranger, he made noteworthy contributions with the Count Basie Orchestra, Cannonball Adderley, and Maynard Ferguson. His swinging music is always solid and remarkably enjoyable. Jazz Ensemble II is directed by Shilo Stroman.