September 24, 2009
Contact: Sara R. Leonard
Concert and Production Manager
413/542-2195

AMHERST, Mass. – The Amherst College Jazz Ensemble will perform alongside clarinetist Darryl Harper ’91 and pianist Earl MacDonald in their annual Homecoming Weekend concert on Saturday, Oct. 24, at 9:30 p.m. in Buckley Recital Hall in the Arms Music Center at Amherst College.

Under the direction of Bruce Diehl, the Jazz Ensemble and their featured artists will perform music of the big band era as well as some current tunes.         

Originally from Philadelphia, Harper began performing professionally at the age of 16. For more than 20 years he has performed in venues around the world and has recorded multiple albums on the Hipnotic Records label. MacDonald is the director of jazz studies at University of Connecticut. In addition to his award-winning work as an innovative teacher, he has composed for the U Conn Jazz Ensemble and served as musical director and pianist for the Maynard Ferguson Big Bop Nouveau Band.

Tickets can be reserved in advance beginning on Oct. 12 by emailing concerts@amherst.edu or calling 413/542-2195. They will also be available at the door. Ticket prices are $8 for the general public, $4 for seniors, children and students with ID. Admission is free to FiveCollege students with ID.

###