| 10/24/2007 |
| United States Navy Jazz Band Commodores Coming to the Robson PAC |
| By: |
 The Navy's premier jazz ensemble, the
"Commodores," presents the finest in America's truly original music,
November 5 at the Robson Performing Arts Center. A specialty unit of
the United States Navy Band in Washington, D.C., the group features
18 of the Navy's top jazz and "big band" musicians. Under the
leadership of Senior Chief Musician Philip M. Burlin, the Commodores
combine the best of jazz and popular music in the concert that is
free to the public. Call 699-7390 for more information.
Since their founding in 1969, the Commodores have become one of the most acclaimed jazz ensembles in the country. Many jazz legends have appeared with the group, including Jerry Bergonzi, Ray Charles, Louie Bellson, Terry Gibbs, Bob Mintzer, James Moody, Chris Potter, Clark Terry and Eugene "Snooky" Young. In addition, they have appeared on ABC's "Good Morning, America." They are highly sought after by the nation's foremost jazz festivals and educational conferences such as the International Association of Jazz Educators Convention, The Midwest Clinic, the Detroit/Montreux Jazz Festival and the Elkhart (Ind.) Jazz Festival. They are also featured at the annual Navy Band International Saxophone Symposium. The Commodores trace their roots to before World War II, when Band members with jazz experience formed dance bands and rehearsed on an as-needed basis for specific occasions. Responding to public demand for unique types of music as well as the changing needs of Navy recruiting, then Ensign Ned Muffley formed a dance band in 1966 from members of the concert and ceremonial units, and in 1968, preparations began to make the ensemble a separate group. In January 1969, the "Dance Band" officially became the "Commodores" jazz ensemble. Their performances are high-energy affairs that not only pay tribute to the legendary big bands of yesterday, but also feature original compositions by members of the group. In 2005, the Commodores released their latest compact disc, Three Shades of Blue, which featured many of these new compositions in addition to fresh arrangements of popular favorites. The Commodores continue to preserve the great heritage of jazz while also being an innovative force for the future. Though the concert is free on Monday, November 5th, it is still a ticketed event in order not to have to turn folks away. You can pick up your tickets at the Robson Performing Arts Center box office or send a self addressed stamped envelope to the center at 101 E. Stuart Roosa, Claremore, OK 74017. Ticket holders must be seated 10 minutes before the concert. Unclaimed seats will be released to non-ticket holders at that time. The tickets are limited to six per customer. Call 699-7390 for more information.
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