FHU Plans Addition of Jazz Band to Campus Offerings
Henderson, Tennessee — (Feb. 17, 2023) — Freed-Hardeman University will add a jazz band to its musical offerings this fall, according to Vice President of Academics and Provost C.J. Vires. Scholarships will be offered to new and current students for participation in the new ensemble following auditions, he said.
The goal is to have 20 or more students participate in the band which will perform at various campus events including Homecoming and basketball games. In addition, Vires expects them to travel to area high schools and jazz festivals. He anticipates some smaller jazz combos to naturally emerge from this effort.
“The jazz band will provide another performance ensemble and enhance our music education program,” Vires said. Currently, FHU has two vocal performance groups. “Music education majors are expected to be able to teach both vocal and instrumental music. This ensemble will provide an opportunity to learn about and experience both,” he said.
A decade has passed since FHU last offered a band experience. Vires hopes the addition of the jazz band will grow the number of music majors on campus as well as increase participation in the vocal groups.
FHU expects to name the director of the group in February and announce audition dates soon thereafter. “I expect we will have four or five dates for on-site auditions as well as the opportunity to audition virtually,” Vires said. For further information about the jazz band, one may address questions to Vires at cvires.fhu.edu.
The mission of Freed-Hardeman University is to help students develop their God-given talents for His glory by empowering them with an education that integrates Christian faith, scholarship and service. With locations in Henderson and Memphis, FHU offers associates, bachelor’s, master’s, specialist and doctoral degrees. More information is available at http://www.fhu.edu.
