All posts by bconley

Jazz for Justice 2019

May 5, 2019 bconley

The Torpedo Factory in Alexandria, hosted this year’s JAZZ for JUSTICE event, featuring the NOVA Nighthawks with our very special guest Warren Wolf and TC Williams Jazz Ensemble!

The 6th Annual Alexandria JAZZ 4 Justice Benefit Concert at The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, April 30th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The evening began with some music from one of NOVA’s Jazz student ensembles providing some wonderful sounds for the start of a great evening.

We had some artists from the Torpedo Factory take part in the evening as well. Pat Sargent (Studio 325), printed up some postcards for the evening that were beautifully done.

Pat Sargent creating post cards for The 6th Annual Alexandria JAZZ 4 Justice Benefit Concert at The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, April 30th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Rosemary Feit-Covey spent the evening doing demos on her card making on the second floor, in (Studio 224)

Rosemary Feit-Covey (Studio 224) at The 6th Annual Alexandria JAZZ 4 Justice Benefit Concert at The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, April 30th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Lisa Schumaier was also there on the first floor in (Studio 16).

Patrons gathered and enjoyed an evening of music, art and silent auctions

The MainStage music portion started off with an introduction of The T.C. Williams Jazz Ensemble by Brett Johnson from The Torpedo Factory.

They had people dancing in no time.

There were proud parents friend and family everywhere.

And of course we had some of own NOVA support, come to check out the band!

There was a great crowd with a lot to enjoy between catching up and checking out the art!

Everyone looked like they had a great time enjoying conversation, the music the art and the reason for being there, JAZZ 4 JUSTICE!

The evening included a raffle some amazing prizes!

The later half of the evening featured the NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble featuring our very special guest, Warren Wolf! Warren is a world class performer and we were so lucky to have him. He’s traveled the world and played or recorded with the best: “Wynton Marsalis and The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Jeremy Pelt and “Creation”, Nicholas Payton, Tim Warfield, Adonis Rose, Donal Fox, Anthony Wonsey, Aaron Goldberg, Cyrus Chestnut, Lewis Nash, Willie Jones, Eric Reed, Mulgrew Miller, Terri Lyne Carrington, Yoron Israel, Larry Willis, David “Fathead” Newman, Stefon Harris, Reuben Rogers, Kevin Eubanks, Curtis Lundy, Steve Davis, Duane Eubanks, Ron Carter, Wycliffe Gordon, Robert Glasper, Esperanza Spaulding and many others.”

Warren Wolf performs with the NOVA Alexandria Jazz Ensemble at The 6th Annual Alexandria JAZZ 4 Justice Benefit Concert at The Torpedo Factory in Old Town Alexandria, April 30th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble performed:

Flying Home by Benny Goodman and Lionel Hampton, arr. Dave Barduhn

Satin Doll by Billy Strayhorn, Duke Ellington, and Johnny Mercer, arr. Jerry Nowak “

Whisper Not by Benny Golson, arr.

Marty Paich “Maiden Voyage” by Herbie Hancock, arr. Mike Tomaro

Stardust by Hoagy Carmichael, arr. Bill Holman“

Moment’s Notice by John Coltrane, arr. Mark Taylor

Señor Mouse by Chick Corea, arr. Mike Tomaro “

Bag’s Groove by Milt Jackson, arr. John Clayton

Is That You? by Bryan Kidd

Oye Como Vaby by Tito Puente arr B Minzter

No Scuffle Shuffle by Dominic Spera

Not your Momma’s Samba by Paul Baker

La Malanga by Eddie Palmieri arr A Caceda

Nice ‘n’ Easy by Lew Spence, arr. S Nestico

Two Seconds to Midnight by AlanBaylock

Such Sweet Thunder by Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn arr. M Kamuf

Flow Chart – Paul Baker

The evening was a hit and all for a GREAT cause! JAZZ4JUSTICE

The concert for this event benefits the charitable endeavors of the Alexandria Bar Foundation, Legal Services of Northern Virginia and the music scholarship fund at NOVA.

In 2001, Fairfax attorney Ed Weiner attended a student recital at George Mason University. He was impressed by the music, but distressed by the small audience. As the President of the Fairfax Law Foundation (FLF), he saw an opportunity for a new part- nership — the GMU School of Music would provide the musical

talent and the local Bar Association would provide the audience and sponsors. Thegoal would be to raise funds to support local Legal Aid, as well as the university’sjazz program. With the support of George Mason and FLF leadership, Jazz 4Jus-ticeTM was born.

Today, through partnerships with 7 universities and numerous local Bar Associa- tions, 48 Jazz4Justice concerts have been held across the Commonwealth: George Mason University, James Madison University, Virginia Commonwealth Universi- ty, Christopher Newport University, Northern Virginia Community College, the University of Virginia, and the University of Mary Washington. These concerts have raised over $450,000 for jazz programs and an array of educational and chari- table legal services benefiting Virginia’s local communities.

Jazz4Justice has received awards from the American Bar Association and the Virginia State Bar. J4J is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization. Visit us atwww.jazz4justice.com.

Alexandria Bar Foundation

The Foundation of the Alexandria Bar Association is an integral part of theBar’s structure. The Foundation works with local organizations to providescholarships to high school seniors and provides grants to local organiza-tions to help them serve the community more effectively. The Foundation’s “Beat the Odds” program has been singled out for awards for their contribu-tions to the City of Alexandria and its citizens. The Alexandria Bar Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.

Concerts

Vox Terra

April 30, 2019 bconley

An Evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts featuring the Third Millennium Ensemble. The evening brought together works from various composers illustrate environmental experience for places, wildlife and societal impacts on the earth. A beautiful partnership of music expressing our partnership with our planet.

A lovely and inspiring concert was begun by percussionist, Bill Richards who performed Suomineito for solo vibraphone by NJ Zivkovic. The Finish title, ‘Suomineito’, is from the language of the ‘Suomi’ People and essentially means, Finish girl. The work was inspired by a Finish folk song.

Bill Richards on Vibraphone for Vox Terra, an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Terra Secundum, a piece our very own Jonthan Kolm, includes five movements that cover the journey through an apocalyptic planet event. The piece works through, Portal, Fossils, Blackout, Wasteland and Equilibrium.

Jonathan Kolm discussing his work Terra Secundum before it’s performance by the Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Barbara Brown did a wonderful rendition of Givanni Sollima’s Lamentatio for solo cello. What a lovely piece. The work is for cello and human voice. It includes the vibration of the two as well as a bowing bounced percussion on the strings themselves. It’s really a wonderful work.

Barbara Brown performs with Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Barbara, Hui-Chuan Chen and Sally McLain performed Very Angry Birds by Piotr Szewczyk. A feverishly energetic work for Bass, Piano and Violin.

Sally McLain and Barbara Brown performs with Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Sally McLain and Hui-Chuan Chen performing with Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

Pamel Helton Performed Elegy for The Earth for Bass Clarinet and Sound. It was an amazing work that used whale sounds with emulated whale sounds from the bass clarinet. Just lovely.

Pamela Helton performs with Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

The final piece of the evening was Music of Amber by Joseph Schwantner. The work perfectly ended the evening with a journey that took us through the movements Wind, Willow and Whisper, ending with Sanctuary.

The Third Millennium Ensemble performing for Vox Terra: an evening of Environmental Music, Art and Inspiration at The Center for Design, Media and the Arts at Northern Virginia Community College in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley.

We are very lucky to the Third Millennium Ensemble come to our campus. Please visit www.thridmillenniumensemble.org for more information on upcoming concerts.

Concerts, Music Department

The 2019 Children’s Concert!

April 2, 2019 bconley

On Thursday, March 7th we gathered in the concert hall at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center for a great evening of music and fun, all around.

The finale of the evening! The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The NOVA Community Band began the evening with The Thunderer by John Philip Sousa, followed by Children’s March “Over the Hills and Far Away” by percent Grainger.

The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Clarinet soloists, Brian Jones and Charles West joined the band for Il Convegno by Amilcare Ponchielli. Hearing them together was a treat! What incredible nuance!

Charles West and Brian Jones with NOVA Alexandria Community Band at The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Trombonist Harry Watters took the crowd with Cherokee by Ray Noble and Over the Rainbow, by Harold Arlen and Yip Harburg. What a phenomenal stage presence!

The last piece from The Band for their first performance section, offered up a beautiful World Premiere by composer Robert Thurston, titled “Civil Discourse” which featured Dennis Edelbrock on Trumpet. The piece’s complexities and journey was stunningly written and we were lucky to have Robert Thurston in the audience to hear it performed.

The George Mason Elementary School Jazz Band rocked the house with Michael Sweeney’s “Blue Machine” and the Sesame Street Theme by Joe Raposo. Director, Heather Rosner, has everyone at a superb level of musicianship.

The George Mason Elementary School Jazz Band, under the direction of Heather Rosner. The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The annual Recognition for Student Winners from Alexandria City public Schools in the Visual and Performing Arts Categories of the National PTA Reflections Program was another heart-felt moment. Each student winner had the opportunity to tell the audience about their award.

Student Winners. The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The George Washington Middle School Jazz Ensemble, under the direction of Richard Seracino, performedDouble Play by Carl Strommen, Buckjump by Troy Andrews and Mdke Ballard, and Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing” by Stevie Wonder.

The George Washington Middle School Jazz Ensemble. The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

The final number of the night brought school children from area elementary and middle schools together with the NOVA Alexandria Band.

Denny Edelbrock with the kids and NOVA Alexandria Band. The 2019 Children’s Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Thursday, March 7th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

They all played Havana and Fanfare and Fireworks!!! What a great experience it was for everyone!!!

Please join us at The Torpedo Factory in Alexandria for a great benefit concert with the NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble!

Also, PLEASE COME TO THE LAST CONCERT OF THE SEASON!

May 3rd, 8:00-9:30PM at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center!

We will have a combined concert featuring ALL of our ensembles! The Community Choir, The NOVA Alexandria Community Band and the NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Band!

We look forward to seeing you soon!

For more information contact Lisa Eckstein at Leckstein@nvcc.edu

Faculty Recital, Uncategorized

Faculty Classical Recital

March 3, 2019 bconley

This spring’s Faculty Recital was wonderful! On Tuesday, February 26th, 2019 we all gathered at 2:00pm in the Music Department Recital Hall and were taught by our very own masters. The recital began with Trombonist Harry Watters and Guitartist Kenneth Hall performing All The Things You Are by Jerome Kern.

Harry Watters and Kenneth Hall performing at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Pianist Christine Hagan followed with the lovely piece of Fantasia by Giles Farnaby.

Chris Hagan at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

John Kocur joined her for Romance by William Grant-Still. A wonderful rendition!

Chris Hagan and John Kocur at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Our Violin teacher, Rami Kanaan and accompanist Bettye Cooley performed Meditation from Thais by Jules Massenet and Czardas by Vittorio Monti.

Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Jonathan Caudill, on of our very talented voice teachers performed Liszt’s Die Lorelei, and Monti’s ‘A Vucchella.

Jonathan Caudill at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Our piano teacher Ja-Hye Koo played the ever amazing Ondine by Maurice Ravel.

Ja-Hye Koo at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

The recital ended with Jonathan Kolm joining Ja-Hye to perform Jonathans three movement composition “Four Hand Suite”

Ja-Hye Koo and Jonathan Kolm at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Jonathan was kind enough to put this together and we owe him our gratitude! Jonathan is also having a world premier of his piece Arboreal Dreams by The United States Air Force Band Woodwind Quintet, this Saturday in room 118 of Northern Virginia Community College – Alexandria Campus, Center for Design Media and the Arts at 7:00PM Parking is FREE!!!! Flyer is at the bottom of this page : )

Jonathan Kolm at the Faculty Recital. Tuesday, February 26th, 2019, 2:00 p.m. Recital Hall, Fine Arts Building at Northern Virginia Community College, Alexandria Campus. Photo by Britt Conley

Hope to see you Saturday!!!

Uncategorized

The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights!

February 22, 2019 bconley

Chorus had an exciting time putting on a great evening of Broadway Tunes. It all began with “There’s No Business Like Show Business!” Seriously… It’s true. Our host?, Director of the NOVA Community Chorus, Chad Steffey.

The evening featured some incredible works, mainly showing off some of our individual Chorus members. This was their night. These volunteer soloists picked their own songs and sang their hearts out! David Shilton sings C’est Moi from Camelot.

David Shilton. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

They took turns for a well over an hours worth of Broadway Tunes! Mary Shilton sang What I did for Love, from A Chorus Line.

Mary Shilton. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Bernie Cohen’s “If I Were a Rich Man” from Fiddler on the Roof, was wonderful.

Bernie Cohen. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Our Guest Artist, Soloist, Emi Eiting, sang multiple songs, including What More Do I need? from Saturday Night, Times Are Hard For Dreamers, Vanilla Ice Cream, from She Loves Me and Meadowlark from The Baker’s Wife! Emi is a freelance performer, choral conductor, pianist, director choral adjudicator and vocal coach working in Northern Virginia. Her voice just fills the hall beautifully.

Emi Eiting. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

There were so many phenomenal Tunes! The Ensemble Women sang, “And All That Jazz” from Chicago, followed by the Ensemble Men adding “Gee, Officer Krupke from West Side Story.

With a trip down memory lane we embarked on a great 60’s feel, What a Piece of Work is Man/How Dare They Try from Hair. The work featured Margot Hanclich, followed by Alison Sheahan singing On a Clear Day.

Margo Hanclich and Alison Sheahan. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Alison Sheahan. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Tom Munger and Bernie Cohen had us, “Brush Up on Your Shakespeare” from Kiss Me Kate!

Tom Munger and Bernie Cohen. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

Dylan Nohilly, asked, “Try to Remember” from The Fantasticks.

Dylan Nohilly. The NOVA Community Chorus Presents Broadway Lights at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on February 19th, 2019. Photo by Britt Conley

After a lovely round of soloists, the Chorus came in with a stunning rendition of Singing in the Rain! You can hear a part of it on Instagram! instagram.com/musicatnova Follow us and if you take pictures of our concerts feel free to hashtag #musicatnova, so that we can all enjoy them : )

This was followed by a beautiful and soulful, Send in the Clowns from A Little Night Music. The final piece of the evening was Do You Hear the People Sing from Les Misérables!

If you want to catch the Chorus soon, we are having our Spring Concert, here at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on May 3rd at 8:00pm! Please bring family and friends to help support all the efforts of our students and community with this, our Combined, Chorus, Band and Jazz Ensemble Concert.

For more information contact Lisa Eckstein at Leckstein@nvcc.edu

See you Soon!

Uncategorized

2018 Holiday Concert

December 15, 2018 bconley

The evening NOVA Holiday Concert began with Chad Steffey directing the NOVA Community Choir in Magnificat in C Major, D. 486 by Franz Schubert. Soprano – Shelby Young, Altos – Halina Banas-Jones & Jackie Cohen, Tenor – Dave Shepherd and Bass singer Dylan Nohilly performed beautifully.

The NOVA Community Chorus. A Holiday Concert, Tuesday, December 11th, 2018. Featuring The NOVA Community Chorus, The NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble and the NOVA Alexandria Band. Photo by Britt Conley.

This was followed by, “In the Bleak of Winter” by Harold Darke, featuring Tenor Marcos Sonnenber-Nieves and Soprano, Barbara Shepherd.

It was so wonderful to hear a variety of holiday works. “Ocho Kandelikas” Landino Song for Channukah, by Flory Jagoda was lovely and the final choral work was simple and beautiful, “A Merry Christmas” West Country traditional Song, arranged by Arthur Warrell.

The Jazz Ensemble was on it! Their holiday program included, “Mary Did you Know?” by Mark Lowry and Buddy Green.

The Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble. A Holiday Concert, Tuesday, December 11th, 2018. Featuring The NOVA Community Chorus, The NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble and the NOVA Alexandria Band. Photo by Britt Conley.

They did a great rendition of Gordin Goodwind’s jazz arrangement for Hark! The Herald Angels Sing/

Jay Livingston and Ray Evans’ Silver Bells was a huge hit.

Of course the biggest surprise was a jazzy Joy to the World. We were all so excited during the applause, I accidentally got of this fun image : )

The NOVA Alexandria Band was at the ready, for the next section. We began with A Chanukah Celebration, arranged by David Bobrowitz.

The NOVA Community Band. A Holiday Concert, Tuesday, December 11th, 2018. Featuring The NOVA Community Chorus, The NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble and the NOVA Alexandria Band. Photo by Britt Conley.

I love it when the band don a great cap!

Minor Alterations: Christmas Through the Looking Glass by David Lovrien, followed, just before Greensleeves.

The students have been working hard all semester and this was a perfect night to shine! They all did an amazing job!

The Christmas March was really fun!

For the finale, Lisa turned to the audience to conduct the Singalong, Christmas Finale! The lyrics were on the back of the program : )

The audience really enjoyed it!

We were luckily joined by our NOVA leadership! President Ralls, our Alexandria Provost, Annette Haggray and The Dean of the Arts, David Epstein were all in attendance.

The concert was huge hit and the round of applause was rewarding for all.

The students work so hard in all our Music Programs, between the Band, Choir and Jazz Band and this is their big opportunity to perform for family and friends. We really appreciate your support.

Please Join us for our next, wonderful evening Concert at The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center! The Band will be putting on the Annual Children’s Concert! Thursday, March 7th, 2019 at 7:30 pm. The Concert will feature special guest soloists: Trumpeter Dennis Edelbrock, Trombonist Harry Watters, and clarinetists Brian Jones and Charles West! We will also provide the world premier of a piece by composer Robert Thurston! Joining us will be The George Mason Elementary School Jazz Band, The George Washington Middle School Jazz Ensemble, The Alexandria City Public Schools Student Finalists in the National PTA Reflections Program and the band will be joined by area School Band and Orchestra Students!!! It’s going to be quite the night!!!!

For more information, please contact Lisa Eckstein leckstein@nvcc.edu

Uncategorized

NOVA Night at the Carlyle Club!

November 8, 2018 bconley

NOVA Alexandria Jazz students performing Monday, November 5th, 2018 at the Carlyle Club in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley

NOVA Alexandria Jazz Ensembles performed at the Carlyle Club on Monday night! The evening began with “The Generation Gap” One of the great Jazz combos in the Jazz Studies Program, featuring:

John Butler, alto saxophone and flute; Christopher Kaplan, guitar; Burvin Jenkins, guitar (group leader); Jacqueline Rodriguez, piano; Cristhian Arango, bass and Fernando Galleas, drums.

Our second Ensemble, The Jazz Standards, features: Michael Barr, alto saxophone; Marie Himel, tenor saxophone and flute; Andrew Grabowski, guitar; Bryan Dicks, guitar; Rodney Avery, piano; Marcus Levitan, bass; Kurt Steinbacher, drums; Steven Melnick, voice

NOVA Alexandria Jazz students performing Monday, November 5th, 2018 at the Carlye Club in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley

he Director of our Jazz Studies program, John Kocur, set the story for the NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble’s evening theme “The Sounds of Hollywood.”

John Kocur, director of Jazz studies at NOVA Alexandria directed the evening of NOVA Alexandria Jazz students performing Monday, November 5th, 2018 at the Carlyle Club in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt Conley

The program included:

Zip-Ah-Dee-Doo-Dah

Flirtibird

Call Me Irresponsible

Soul Bossa Nova

I Wanna Be Like You

Everyday I Have The Blues

You’re Welcome

The Jazz Band did a wonderful job. The music was fun, energized and soulful! Especially Soul Bossa Nova!

The NOVA Nighthawks Jazz Ensemble (Big Band) features:

Saxophones: Kevin Bennett, John Butler, Caryl Greenfield, Marie Himel and Susan Shapiro

Trumpet: Larry Craven, Ludwig Goon, Grason Stewart, Jacob Shapiro and Ronald Umbeck

Trombone: Thomas Fonda, Adam Kissel and Jason Smith

Rhythm Section: Roger Wood, guitar; Andrew Grabowski, guitar; Brian Kang, guitar; Rodney M Avery, piano; Owen Squire, piano; John Kang, bass; Luke Neyland, drums and Joseph Dirsa, drums.

Aside from having such a great ambiance, at the Carlye Club, we also enjoyed the amazing menu. A night of dinner and jazz is always fun. Some got up and danced the night away!

NOVA Alexandria Jazz students performing Monday, November 5th, 2018 at the Carlyle Club in Alexandria, Virginia. Photo by Britt ConleyWe’d like to thank The Carlyle Club for this phenomenal opportunity for our students to perform in an amazing venue.

To see the NOVA Jazz Ensembles again, they will be marching in the the Alexandria, Saint Patricks Day Parade on March 2nd! If you can them there, post a photo on Instagram! #Musicatnova

The Jazz Ensembles will be performing at The Torpedo Factory on April 30th from 6:30-10:00pm for JAZZ for JUSTICE.

They will also be at The NOVA, Spring Concert on May 3rd in the Schlesinger Arts Center at 8pm!

For more information about our events, please visit www.facebook.com/MusicAtNOVA

And

www.instagram.com/musicatnova

Concerts, master class, Music Department

Jon Metzger Master Class!

November 8, 2018 bconley

Internationally known vibraphonist, three time Grammy nominee, author and winner of the National Endowment for the Arts, JON METZGER, visited NOVA Alexandria on November 2nd for a master class in music. The students were absolutely thrilled to have the opportunity to learn from him.

Jon Metzger works with our NOVA Jazz ensemble students. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

He performed with our jazz faculty before the harder work of the master class. “All the Things You Are” was beautifully improvised by Jon, Kevin Pace and John Kocur.

Internationally known vibraphonist, three time Grammy nominee, author and winner of the National Endowment for the Arts, JON METZGER, performing “All The Things You Are”, November 2nd for a master class in music at The Center for Media, Design and the Arts at the Alexandria Campus of Northern Virginia Community College.

He also performed with the faculty again, including Wade Beach, at the end of the class. I have never heard “Stella by Starlight” performed so conversationally before. Honestly, it was class in and of itself.

The students learned so much about how to up their abilities and perform at an even higher level.

Jon Metzger performs with our NOVA Jazz ensemble students John Butler, Fernando Galeas, Bryan Dicks and jazz faculty Kevin Pace. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

Yon worked through collaborative jazz performance concepts with Rodney Avery on piano and Mary Himel on saxophone.

Yon Metzger, Rodney Avery on piano and Mary Himel on saxophone. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

His innovative ideas on piano technique, collaborating through octave ranges during improvisation, where a lesson for all of us.

Rodney Avery and Jon Metzger working through some piano options on November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

Andrew Grabowski on guitar, Kevin Pace on bass, Rodney Avery, Jon Metzger, and Kurt Steinbacher on drums, working on musicianship with Jon. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

He coaxed Andrew Grabowski into the nuances of a whole new level of soloing. It was amazing to see how quickly he could change each students approach.

Jon Metzger performs with our NOVA Jazz ensemble students. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

One of the great joys for everyone was jamming with Jon. The students were thrilled! What an incredible opportunity, this was.

Jon was able to funnel years of professional knowledge toward each students specific needs. It was a joy to hear the differences one master class could make.

Bryan Dicks and Jon Metzger. Master class on November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

After working with everyone, he answered question from all of us in the audience as well as the musicians he had just been coaching.

Jon Metzger answers questions from our NOVA Jazz ensemble students and audience. November 2, 2018 at the Center for Design, Media and the Arts. Photo by Britt Conley

Truly, a great time was had by all! They are still talking about it!

A special thanks to Musser for helping sponsor Yon and to everyone who participated and the audience who came to learn!

Band, Concerts

2018 Fall NOVA Alexandria Band Concert

October 31, 2018 bconley

The NOVA Alexandria Band performing Overture for the Winds by Charles Carter at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

What a night!!! A collaborative evening featuring The NOVA Alexandria Band, The George Mason University Wind Symphony, special guest french horn soloist Kat Fitzpatrick and two wonderful works by our very own student composers, Matthew Bandman and Nathan Pereda.

The NOVA Alexandria Band performing Overture for Winds by Charles Carter (1926-1999) at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The NOVA Alexandria Band is a community band and mixes musicians of all ages and backgrounds.

Matthew Bandman took the time to explain his new composition Roses of Galante. What a wonderful work!

Matthew Bandman, one of our student composers explains his piece, Roses of Galante, performed by the NOVA Alexandria Band at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Matthew Bandman’s Roses of Galante being performed by the Alexandria Band. What a lovely piece!

Pianist, Nathan Pereda performing “Roses of Galante” by Matthew Bandman, with the NOVA Alexandria Band performing ” at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Soloist Kate Fizpatrick, from the Air Force Ceremonial Brass, joined the band for Moreceau de concert by Camille Saint-Saens.

Soloist Kate Fitzpatrick joins The NOVA Alexandria Band performing Morceau de Concert at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Kate has also performed with the Airmen of Note and spent 17 years with the Air Force Band.

It’s always nice to see family and friends capturing the members of The NOVA Alexandria Band at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Ashley Begley performing Shepherd’s Hey by Percy Grainger

After intermission, Mark Camphouse and the George Mason Wind Symphony began their program with the house standing during The Star-Spangled Banner by John Stafford Smith.

Mark Camphouse conducting the George Mason University Wind Symphony at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The George Mason University Wind Symphony at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

They performed Festive by Edward Gregson, Be Thou My Vision by David Gillingham, March Militaire Francaise by Camille Saint-Saens and Rolling Thunder by Henry Fillmore. The most amazing work of their night, however was “Remembering the Many” by Justin David Casinghino. His work is a, “reflection on the atrocities of mass gun violence in our American schools.” What an incredibly stunning work.

Mark’s Bio is more than impressive! Here are some highlights, 2018-19, marks, Mark Camphouse’s 41st year of full-time teaching in higher education. He is the director of Concert Bands, conductor of the GMU Wind Symphony and a full faculty member for Music there as well.

Camphouse has 30 published works for wind band and performs around the U.S. and abroad in such prestigious venues as Carnegie Hall, The Kennedy Center, Symphony Center in Chicago, the royal Albert Hall in London and many more. Overall, he has served as guest conductor, lecturer, and clinician in 43 states and in Canada, Europe, China and Costa Rica. We are so pleased to have him collaborate and share the stage with us.

The final performance of the night, combined the GMU Wind Symphony and the NOVA Alexandria Band for a work that knocked us off our feet! Perseverance by Nathan Pereda.

Nathan Pereda describing his composition Perseverance, to be performed by NOVA Alexandria Band and The George Mason University Wind Symphony at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Nathan is another student composer who created a work about persevering through depression and getting through life.

I can’t even begin to express how good this piece was. Well, You can hear it for yourself! I’ll be adding Matthew’s work as soon as I get that! In the mean time, Here’s Nathan!

Combined George Mason University Wind Symphony and the NOVA Alexandria Band. Lisa Eckstein, conductor

https://youtu.be/c2rwKTpCNSM

We are so proud of both of them!

Lisa Eckstein conducts, Perseverance, with the combined, NOVA Alexandria Band and The George Mason University Wind Symphony, at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The standing ovation was immediate! What an incredible night!!!

The standing ovation for Perseverance, by Nathan Pereda, with the combined, NOVA Alexandria Band and The George Mason University Wind Symphony, at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Mark Camphouse and Lisa Eckstein at the end of the concert and performance of Perseverance, by Nathan Pereda, with the combined, NOVA Alexandria Band and The George Mason University Wind Symphony, at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Mark Camphouse let our student composers know how wonderful their works were.

Mark Camphouse and Lisa Eckstein at the end of the concert let Matthew Bandman and Nathan Pereda know just how good their works are, at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 25th, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Please keep in touch with us by joining our FB page www.facebook.com/musicatnova and share this post.

Our next Holiday Concert will be at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall on Thursday December 11th from 8:00 – 10pm.

Our next event here at the school is a concert/master class by famed vibraphonist Jon Metzger. He is coming for our recital series at our Music Department Recital Hall in room 118 at the Center for Design Media and the Arts at our Alexandria Campus, right up the hill from the Schlesinger Concert Hall.

Additionally, please consider coming to our Recital Series below

Also please consider coming to spend an evening at the Carlyle Club, Nov. 5: with our NOVA Jazz Ensemble Night, 7:30-9:30pm, Carlyle Club in Alexandria, (tickets & food minimum required).

Thursday, Nov. 8: Air Force Band Wind Quintet Concert, 7:30-9:30pm, the Lyceum in Alexandria. Come hear the world premiere of a piece by NOVA faculty member, Dr. Jonathan Kolm, commissioned by the Air Force Band Quintet.

Tuesday, Dec. 4: NOVA Student Jazz Combos Recital, 7:30-9pm, AFA Black Box Theater in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts – Room 103 in the Foyer.

Wednesday, Dec. 5: NOVA Student Chamber Ensembles Recital, 5:30-7pm, AFA Room 118 – Recital Hall for the Music Department, in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts.

Friday, Dec. 7: NOVA Student Piano Recital, 7:30-9pm, AFA Room 118 – Recital Hall for the Music Department, in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts.

Saturday, Dec. 8: NOVA Student Instrumental Recital, 2-3:30pm, AFA Room 118 – Recital Hall for the Music Department, in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts.

Saturday, Dec. 8: NOVA Student Voice Recital, 5-6:30pm, AFA Room 118 – Recital Hall for the Music Department, in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts.

Sunday, Dec. 9: Crystal Williams Cello Recital, 3-4pm, AFA Room 118 – Recital Hall for the Music Department, in the Center for Design, Media and the Arts.

Chorus, Concerts

Sacred and Profane Concert

October 18, 2018 bconley

Last night’s concert, Sacred and Profane brought together four choral ensembles. The NOVA Community Chorus, The George Mason University Chorale, The George Mason University Singers and the The Justice High School Chamber Choir! It was a phenomenal night, full of beauty and a powerhouse of sound for the second half!

The evening began with Hark, I Hear the Harps Eternal, arranged by Alice Parker (b. 1925), And I Saw a New Heaven by Edgar Bainton (1880-1956) and a wonderful rendition of I Sing Because I’m Happy, arranged by Rollo Eilwork (b.1970).

The NOVA Community Chorus and The Justice High School Chamber Choir performing their fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Our Master of Ceremonies for the night, Chad Steffey, Director of the NOVA Community Chorus, wonderfully informed the audience about the evening’s works.

Chad Steffey with The NOVA Community Chorus and The Justice High School Chamber Choir performing their fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Sacred and Profane fall choral concert at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. Photo by Britt Conley

The kids did a incredible job and sounded lovely!

Dr. Stan Engebretson conducted the George Mason University Singers in, O Jesu Christ, meins Lebens Licht by J. S. Bach.

They went through selection from Neue Liebeslieder, Op. 65 by Brahms and a lovely work showcasing, soprano soloist, Ashlyn Rock.

Bryan Stenson, associate Conductor led The George Mason University Singers in Only in Sleep by Erik Esenvalds. Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The audience enjoying the George Mason University Singers at our fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Tenors, Lugman Fulmer and Ross Helunds soloed Ride in the Chariot, a spiritual, arranged by Brandon Waddles.

A student enjoying video taping the concert to help him get ready for his concert report due later in the semester. The Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Their performance finished with Saints Bound for Heaven, a southern harmony from 1835.

The audience our fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The George Mason University Chorale followed with four wonderful works: The Last Works of David by Randall Thompson (1899-1984), Flight Song, by Kim Andrew Anrnesan (1980) Ukuthula, a South African Folk Song and River in Judea by John Leavitt (1956).

They were conducted by Lisa Billingham and Dannty Cabrejos, assistant conductor with Jane Moore Kaye as the collaborative pianist.

The George Mason University Chorale performing at our fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Ukuthula naturally brought out a swinging of individuals in the audience. You just wanted to dance with them!

The George Mason University Singers at our fall concert Sacred and Profane at the Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center on October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

The second half of the concert combined all four choirs:Dr. Stan Engebreston conducted, Jane Moore Kaye and Luke Ratcliffe accompanied with collaborative pianists Michael Barranco and Andrew Lewis with Colton Morris and victor Younge on Percussion.

They brilliantly performed selection from Carmina Burana!

The NOVA Community Chorus and Justice High School Chamber Choir, The George Mason University Singers and The George Mason University Chorale, combined Choirs at the Sacred and Profane concert at the Rachel M. Schlesinger Concert Hall and Arts Center. October 16, 2018. Photo by Britt Conley

Soprano, Bridget Nesfield and baritone Vasili Varfis sing Tempus est iocundum, a selection from Carmina Burana by Carl Orff.

A resounding, standing ovation capped the an evening powerhouse of sound! What a phenomenal night!!!!

Please come for our next concert! It’s next week!!!

Thursday, Oct. 25, the George Mason University Wind Symphony under the direction of Mark Camphouse and the NOVA Alexandria Band under my direction will present a FREE concert!

Come and hear favorites by Camille Saint-Saens, Percy Grainger, John Philip Sousa, Henry Fillmore, David Gillingham, Edward Gregson, Charles Carter, Rossano Galante, and new pieces by young composers Justin David Casinghino, Matthew Bandman, and Nathan Pereda. This concert will also feature Air Force Band member, Kate Fitzpatrick, as French Horn soloist!

We hope to see you there!

Blog post by Britt Conley

NOVA Alexandria Music Department

All posts by bconley

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2018 Holiday Concert

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Jon Metzger Master Class!

2018 Fall NOVA Alexandria Band Concert

Sacred and Profane Concert

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