Chattanooga Times Free Press - ChattanoogaNow
Lee’s Presidential Concert Series continues with Imani Winds
Lee alumnus Jay Poff launches Performing Arts Series on Friday
A nationally renowned wind ensemble and a Lee University alumnus will present concerts on the Lee campus this weekend as the university gears up for its centennial celebration.
The Grammy Award-nominated quintet Imani Winds is featured in tonight’s Presidential Concert Series in Pangle Hall at 7:30 p.m.
Hailed by the Philadelphia Inquirer as “what triumph sounds like,” Imani Winds has created a distinct presence in the classical music world through dynamic playing, culturally relevant programming, virtuosic collaborations and inspirational outreach programs.
Imani Winds, based in New York City, is comprised of Valerie Coleman, flute; Mark Dover, clarinet; Monica Ellis, bassoon; Jeff Scott, French horn; and Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboe.
Their concept on connectivity has led to programs of traditional chamber music as well as music by 21st-century composers such as Frederic Rzewski, Jason Moran and Simon Shaheen.
Imani Winds first came to prominence at the 2001 Concert Artists Guild International Competition, where they were selected as the first Educational Residency Ensemble in the competition’s history. The group has released four CDs, the first of which was nominated for a Grammy in 2006, and has performed all over the world.
Tickets are $15 adults, $5 students and senior adults. Call 423614- 8343 or buy them online at www.showclix.com. ›
Lee University School of Music kicks off the new season of its Performing Arts Series on Fri- day, Oct. 26, at 7:30 pm. in Squires Recital Hall on campus.
This series, whose artists are chosen by a School of Music faculty committee, is designed to bring friends of the School of Music to perform and to offer masterclasses for Lee students. Baritone Jay Poff, a Lee alumnus, will be the first to visit. Poss will sing a concert of Broadway and cabaret hits.
During his time at Lee, Poff was involved in Lee Singers and also performed with the Lee University Chorale and Lee’s Opera Theatre. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music business.
Now living in Huntsville, Alabama, Poff has more than 25 years of church and community theatrical experience and has won four Huntsville Wings awards for his performances.
Admission is free, but tickets are required because of limited seating. They may be obtained at showclix.com.