2008 Woodie Awards
Kosins gives PSU an 'upbeat' music experience
Lisa Norris
Issue date: 10/9/08 Section: Campus Life
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Collegio Reporter
A crowd of nearly 175 attendees filled the Crimson and Gold Ballroom at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, to experience the music of the One and Two O'clock jazz ensembles, accompanied by award-winning vocalist Kathy Kosins.
The upbeat and lively music resonated through the Overman Student Center, testing the venue's acoustic capabilities.
Director Todd Hastings led the Two O'clock ensemble, marking his return to the Music Department after an absence last semester. This ensemble featured several freshmen experimenting with improvisation during a live performance.
"Sometimes getting up in front of an audience and playing an improvised solo can be intimidating," said Hastings.
But audience member Rennon Roach said she didn't notice any stage fright.
"I've really enjoyed this performance," said Roach, an undeclared freshman. "Cooper Neal's guitar solo was probably my favorite piece."
Guest artist Kosins, known for blazing through sessions and mixing her original material with the style of the romantic swing era, said she was pleased to perform with the PSU jazz ensembles, and attended vocal lessons with students earlier in the day.
"She has a very unique style and collaborating with her was a very educational experience," said AJ Beu, senior in music education.
With McCray Hall still undergoing renovations, the ballroom had to be transformed into a mediocre concert hall.
"Our building is undergoing renovations with heating and air and lowering ceilings. We are back in the building on the first and second floors as of today," said Robert Kehle, director for the One O'clock ensemble.
Renovations have kept students from using the practice rooms in McCray this fall.
"Our practice rooms are on the third floor and we've had to borrow spaces in other buildings for rehearsals," said Kehle. "I'd like to personally thank the chairs of the departments who helped free up space for those rehearsals."
Despite the limited rehearsal space, the opening concert was slated earlier than usual.
The next PSU jazz ensemble performance is slated for Dec. 4 at Memorial Auditorium. For more information about this and other events within the Music Department, contact Jill Allen at music@pittstate.edu or by telephone, 235-4466.
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