The Emporia State Jazz Ensemble and Faculty Jazz Combo played their first concert of the year, “Jazz Around the World,” on Sept. 26 at Albert Taylor Hall. Though admittance was free to the public, optional donations to the United Way of the Flint Hills were accepted upon entry. 

The ensemble played pieces by musicians from far and wide including popular English musician Sting, as well as well-known American jazz musicians Herbie Hancock and George Duke, and the Brazilian artist who pioneered Bossa Nova, Antonio Carlos Jobim. 

“Jazz is really a melting pot of music influences from Africa, Europe, South America… the songs we’ll be playing tonight represent a lot of different styles and give the audience a good overview of the styles that make jazz what it is,” said Director of the ESU Jazz Ensemble and ESU Faculty Jazz Combo, Dr. Gary Ziek

The concert not only brought jazzy sounds from around the globe to Emporia, but also collected donations for United Way of the Flint Hills. 

“I’m not really sure when the tradition started …  Hopefully it can raise a little money for charity. Anything we can do to help people is always a great goal,” said Ziek. 

United Way of the Flint Hills is a non-profit organization operating in Chase, Coffey, Greenwood, Lyon, Morris, Osage and Woodson counties to ensure access to health, income and education. To inquire about donations, services or how to volunteer for United Way of the Flint Hills you can visit their website or call (620) 342-7564.