Q & A
with Allen University professor and Jazz Combo member,
Kenneth Green
By Allen University librarian, Stephanie Diaz, M.L.I.S.
 |
| (L-R) Allen University Jazz Combo members Kenneth Green II, Tavares Weston, Aaron Mathews, Alvoy Bryan Jr., Ph.D. on the steps of Arnett Hall, 2012. |
Q: How are you associated with Allen University?
A: Professor in the Music Department
Q: How long have you been associated with Allen University?
A: 6 years
Q: How long have you been interested in jazz and what sparked your interest in the genre?
A: When I began playing trumpet at age 11, my parents bought me cds of Jazz trumpeters like Wynton Marsalis, Miles Davis, Louis Armstrong and South Carolina native Dizzy Gillespie. Their sound, musicianship, passion and originality sparked my interest in all things Jazz.
Q: What instrument do you play in the Jazz Band, and how long have you played?
A: Trumpet. 18 years.
Q: What do you love about playing your instrument?
A: I love to play the trumpet simply because of its brilliant and metallic sound.
Q: What can audience members look forward to in your upcoming performance at the annual Jazzfest?
A: The theme for this year's festival is "Let Freedom Swing" and all of the participants will feature music primarily from the swing era. I am most excited that Imada Igodan, a fantastic vocalist will join the Allen University Jazz Combo for this performance.
Q: What are you looking forward to at this year’s Jazzfest?
A: As a native of Columbia, I am looking forward to my first performance outside the State House, and meeting jazz lovers and performers from around the nation.
Q: What would you tell Allen students, if they’re interested in participating in the Jazz Band?
A: The Jazz Ensemble is a one credit course that meets on Fridays at 1:00 PM. Students interested in joining the group are encouraged to visit the Music Office Building (Room 104) or call me at (803) 376-5787.
Thank you Mr. Green!
 |
| © 2012 The Skipp Pearson Jazz Foundation www.skpfoundation.org |
Come listen to great music, enjoy FREE swing dance classes, and show your support for Allen University's Jazz Combo at the Jazz Under the Stars 8th Annual Jazzfest!
See the AU Jazz Combo play Friday (today), September 7 from 7 PM to 9 PM on the South Carolina State House north lawn!
Swing dance classes will be going on from 6 PM to 11 PM
The party will continue at 10 pm at Le Cafe Jazz (930 Laurel Street) with performances from Skipp Pearson, Nick Brewer, Reggis Sullivan, and Brendan Bull. The word is, a very special guest will also be in attendance!
Visit http://jazzunderthestars.webs.com/ for more details about the Jazzfest.
