Westfield State University - Tekoa Yearbook (Westfield, MA)

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Ferguson Brings House Down 24 Columbia recording artist Maynard Fer- guson graced the WSC campus with an unforgettable performance in a concert on October 21. Dever Auditorium was filled to capac- ity. Even those individuals who were un- able to find seats were content to stand in the back of the hall. As the house lights dimmed, twelve vi- brant young musicians exploded into a Jazz piece from Ferguson ' s latest album. Walking onto the stage with trumpet in hand, Ferguson greeted his many fans with an exhibition of his extensive tal- ent. The audience interupted him at in- tervals with cyclones of applause. It is no exageration to say that the band literally brought the house down. During one of their more resonant pieces, three ceiling tiles came thundering down into the au- dience. No one was hurt, and the band contin- ued to delight the audience with an El- ton John piece. In appreciation for a fine performance, the audience gave Maynard Ferguson and his orchestra a standing ovation.

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Ken Manzer ' Charms As Ken Manzer took his place at the piano, a feeling of anticipation filled Juniper Park Auditorium. As the first chords were struck, it was fairly obvious that Mr. Manzer was once again going to charm his audience with the magic of his music. Ken Manzer is well known at WSC for his annual piano concerts at Juniper Park. At each concert, Manzer delights his followers by playing a combination of both classical and modern composi- tions. This concert was no exception. The audjence was entranced with Manzer s ability to make the piano come alive. Manzer becomes part of the piano, creating music that is both beautiful and alive. The audience can feel this and quickly becomes captivated. No one should miss Ken Manzer in concert!

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Count Basie The WSC Jazz Rock Ensemble sponsored Count Basie and his orchestra on December 8, 1975. Once again they provided the Westfield Community with a top name in entertainment. Even for non-jazz afficionados, Count Basie is a well known name. This band demonstrated a high level of professionalism and musical talent. Unlike the Maynard Ferguson band, Count Basic ' s orchestra did not play much improvisational jazz. However each of the band members played at least one solo. There were also two vocal numbers near the end of the program. The band received a standing ovation and performed an encore. A triumph for the college ' s jazz studies program, and an impor- tant evening of entertainment for all music lovers. 2S