This past week, Elon University’s Jazz Ensemble hosted auditions for performers for this upcoming semester, which is typical for the group. But this semester, the group is under a new director: Professor Dr. Craig Whittaker.
Whittaker said he is excited to provide a meaningful experience to his ensemble.
“What I am looking for is a positive experience for the students where they learn not only how to perform jazz and enjoy it more thoroughly, but to also gain an understanding of the rich cultural heritage of American jazz music,” Whittaker said.
Whittaker’s ensemble is made up of a collection of students ranging from returning performers to newcomers. One of those newcomers is senior Wesley Rose, a music education and music performance double major who plays piano. Rose said he was heavily influenced to try his hand at jazz by the previous ensemble director, Professor Jon Metzger.
“When I heard Professor Jon Metzger perform at the music faculty gala of my first Elon semester, his vibes [he gave off while playing] convinced me that he had something special to teach,” Rose said. “Even though Professor Metzger is not directing the ensemble this year, his advice is constantly going through my mind. The challenge is letting that show in my playing.”
While many of the members of the ensemble have academic ties to music, some play with the ensemble for recreational reasons. Junior Patrick Dudiak said his involvement with the ensemble stemmed from a background in music during high school.
“Performing with this group has helped me expand my skills to such a higher level,” Dudiak said. “It is such a talented group that I am humbled to be a part of and I always walk away a better musician than I went in.”
The ensemble has a lot to work with as the diversity of this group grows with incoming members. Senior music education and music performance double major Michelle Warshany has been a flutist with the ensemble since last year, and she looks forward to exploring new territory with the group.
“I am excited to work with the new members,” Warshany said. “We have a new vocalist and the majority of our rhythm section is also new. They will help us create a unique sound for this semester.”
Since she is a returning member, Warshany knows that while the group has a lot of potential, there will be a period of adjustment while the group learns how to play together effectively.
“Sometimes it's tough to change membership from year to year and even semester to semester,” Warshany said. “Communication in jazz is key to playing well. Adjusting can be a little tricky at first.”
Rose also recognizes the initial challenges of group flow, but he said he can’t wait to learn from his seasoned peers and expand as a musician.
“As a new member, I have plenty to learn,” Rose said. “But everyone had to audition for a spot, and that brought us together as a group from the start. For me, the experience of past members is good motivation to show them what I have to offer.”
The Jazz Ensemble is a diverse group and each member will have their part to play in making an original sound this semester. Though the task may seem daunting, Warshany has faith in the ability of the new director to guide them.
“I am looking forward to working with (Whittaker) and the fresh perspective he will offer our group,” Warshany said. “I hope that we can achieve the high standards he's set for us this semester.”