Johnson marks first concert in Jazz Artist Series
By Alicia Tuszynski, Staff Writer
The University of Indianapolis Music Department continued its Jazz Artist Series Jan. 23 that featured nationally recognized percussionist and Indianapolis resident Kevin Johnson. The concert series began during the fall semester, and the concert marked the beginning of the second half of the series.
Director of Jazz Studies and associate professor Harry Miedema created the jazz artist series, which features a different artist every month. While implementing the series, Miedema said he kept one main objective in mind.
“The purpose of the series is to service the community. I want people of all ages to hear jazz where they can be admitted,” he said.
Most jazz clubs require the age limit of 21 and older, but the Jazz Artist Series is open to all ages.
“So far it has been a full house and [many people have stood] at the concerts,” Miedema said.
Kevin Johnson and his trio had a full house as well. The trio included bassist Joe Deal, pianist and songwriter Steve Corn and percussionist Kevin Johnson. The informal setting allowed the audience to talk with the performers and ask questions between songs.
Johnson told the audience about his ability to get his foot in the door when he partnered in the recording studio with his father, late trombonist J.J. Johnson.
“I am very proud of that legacy,” Johnson said.
Steve Corn handwrites all melody parts for each instrument, but he still allows freedom and individual solos during performances.
“The solo adds a lot more color to tell the story,” Johnson said.
According to the UIndy Website, all Jazz Artist Series concerts are free and take place in Room 115 of the Christel DeHaan Fine Arts Center. Future concerts will feature Frank Glover on Feb. 13, David Allee on March 19 and Steve Allee on April 2.
Miedema’s Bossa Rio Sextet will kick off UIndy Jazz Week starting Feb. 25. The concerts will feature bands from the Midwest.
All concerts are free for students of public schools or colleges. Monday and Tuesday night concerts are free to the public.
Wednesday through Saturday concerts are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors (65 or older).
