University of Arkansas Monticello - Boll Weevil Yearbook (Monticello, AR)

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al eenat Left to right: Julia Lovett, David Wilson, Thomas Husak, Michael Reddick, Katherine King, Billy Hogue, Bart Fogartie, Lawrence Boswell, Larry Steel, David Stuart, Barbara Luke, Neal Woods, Chuck Campbell, Melvin Crockett, Dewayne Jeffers, Larry Ross. When Dr. Thomas Husak formed the Jazz-Rock Ensemble last September, he wanted to give his students the opportunity to participate in a truly American art form — jazz. “I wanted to give my students the chance to play, learn, write and study the only form of music that is truly an American creation,” said Husak. ‘‘Jazz is our music, and it’s just as important as any other.” Husak created the 19-member ensemble at the beginning of the school year. In the past several months, the group has appeared in concert in high schools all over south Arkansas, and made a 30- minute appearance on Arkansas Educational Television, with the hope of more television dates’ in the future. As indicated in the group’s name, jazz is not the only music the ensemble plays. “We try to play a wide variety of music that we feel is relevant to today’s tastes and attitudes,’’ commented Husak. “We range from rhythm and blues to traditional jazz and even some progressive country tunes. We also play what I call fusion pieces, fusing the sounds of jazz and rock together.” Most of the group’s tunes are Husak arrangements and many are his original compositions. He wants to teach his students to arrange and compose also. ‘“‘We do more than just play music and have a good time,” explains Husak. ‘“The Jazz-Rock Ensemble is a lab, a practical exercise in the study of contemporary popular music.” ; 56 Student Life

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Mark McCollum, a combination musician, comedian, actor and impressionist presented a free concert in the FAC March 5. The event was sponsored by the Student Activities Board. A versatile performer, McColium recently won the Third Annual San Francisco Comedy Competition and has appeared on the Showtime and Home Box Office Comedy Specials, “‘The Big Laugh-Off.’” McCollum’s performance included impressions of famous characters, cartoon heroes, and musical artists ranging from Joel Grey and Maria Muldaur to Led Zepplin. According to an entertainment critic for the Los Angeles Times, McCollum’s impressions “‘are so on- target they might as well have been Memorex.” McCollum was selected by the Activities Board after watching his performance at the regional conference of the National Entertainment of Campus Activities Association in Ft. Worth, Tex. Student Life 55

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