CSM JazzFest Returns April 24 – 25

Rhythm and brass will fill the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) La Plata Campus during the 21^st annual JazzFest. The two-day event takes place Friday, April 24 and Saturday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m. at the Hank Willoughby Foundation Center for the Arts (FA Building).

The festival brings the joy of jazz to Southern Maryland to both longtime fans and first-time listeners.

“Music has a powerful way of connecting people,” said CSM Music Professor Dr. Stephen Johnson. “JazzFest offers the community a unique opportunity to listen, move, and enjoy some great jazz together.”

On Friday night, audience members will hear the Randy Runyon Project, a jazz combo made up of CSM staff and community musicians, who will perform funk, fusion, and jazz classics. Guest artist Greg Boyer, best known as the trombonist for George Clinton’s Parliament Funkadelic, will join the group on stage.

Along with his work with Parliament Funkadelic, Boyer has played with a variety of groups, including Prince’s NPG, Chuck Brown, Bootsy Collins, Eric Benét, Hank Williams Jr., Eryka Badu, Lalah Hathaway, Alex Bugnon, David Sanborn, Fantasia, and others.

Boyer will return Saturday to perform with the Charles All-County Jazz Band, selected students from Charles County high school jazz bands, and Solid Brass, a group of CSM students, community members, and active and retired military band members. The Randy Runyon Project and Solid Brass are led by CSM staff member Randy Runyon.

JazzFest isn’t just about great live music, it’s also a chance for area high school musicians to learn from the pros. Boyer will lead workshops to offer feedback, inspiration, and insight into the art of jazz.

“We have a lot of musical talent in Southern Maryland, and it’s important that we offer opportunities to foster their education and keep their love of music growing,” said Dr. Richard Bilsker, Arts and Humanities Department Chair. “Not only do these students get a chance to learn from one of the greats, but the workshops are also open to the public, allowing the community to see their teaching in action.”

Find additional information about the performances and purchase tickets on the event webpage.