The University of Virginia Department of Music presents A Swingin’ Halloween, featuring the UVA Jazz Ensemble under the direction of Sharel Cassity, on Friday, October 30, at 7:30 p.m. in Old Cabell Hall. The concert features special guest artist Richard Johnson, piano, with a performance by Carol Morgan, trumpet.
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Richard D. Johnson is an acclaimed pianist and cultural leader who has performed with Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Arturo Sandoval, and other jazz greats. A former U.S. Musical Ambassador, Johnson bridges jazz tradition and innovation through performance, education, and creative leadership.
Carol Morgan is a New York City–based jazz trumpeter, composer, educator, and author who studied at Juilliard, released seven CDs as a bandleader, and has toured extensively around the world. As both an artist and teacher, her goal is to help people discover and enjoy music more deeply.
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Under the direction of Sharel Cassity, the UVA Jazz Ensemble continues its tradition as one of the nation’s most imaginative and forward-thinking collegiate jazz programs. Bringing together talented student musicians from across the University, the ensemble explores the rich traditions of jazz while embracing contemporary influences through performances that celebrate creativity, collaboration, and artistic expression.
Inspired by the philosophy of Duke Ellington, the UVA Jazz Program encourages every performer to develop an individual musical voice while contributing to the ensemble’s distinctive sound. Students study the history and language of jazz alongside opportunities to perform classic repertoire, contemporary works, original compositions, and innovative arrangements.
The Jazz Ensemble performs two major concerts each academic year in Old Cabell Hall, as well as additional performances throughout the Charlottesville community. As an expanded big band, the ensemble frequently features flutes, vocalists, and other instruments that broaden the traditional jazz orchestra palette, creating performances that are both dynamic and engaging.
Individual tickets are $10 General Admission, $9 for UVA Faculty and Staff, and $5 for students. UVA students receive free admission with advance ticket reservations. Tickets are available through the UVA Arts Box Officeonline, by phone at 434-924-3376, or at the door beginning one hour before the performance. UVA students should reserve complimentary tickets through the UVA Arts Box Office student ticket portal at least 24 hours in advance.
Old Cabell Hall is located at the south end of the University of Virginia’s Historic Lawn, directly opposite the Rotunda. For directions and parking information, please visit the Department of Music’s Directions and Parking page.
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