FSU’s Department of Music, Theatre and Dance Presents “An Evening of Jazz: Celebrating 50 Years of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra”

Nov 4, 2025 8:00 AM

The Frostburg State University Department of Music, Theatre and Dance proudly present “An Evening of Jazz: Celebrating 50 Years of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra” on Saturday, Nov. 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Pealer Recital Hall at FSU’s Woodward D. Pealer Performing Arts Center.

The FSU Jazz Orchestra, under the direction of Dr. Brent Weber and featuring trumpeter Dr. Donny Albrecht, will perform a vibrant tribute to the iconic big band formed by trumpeter Thad Jones and drummer Mel Lewis in 1965.

In 1965, Jones and Lewis founded the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra in New York City, launching a legendary ensemble that redefined the big band genre. Beginning with three Monday night performances at the Village Vanguard in February 1966, the band’s innovative sound, driven by Jones’ harmonically rich compositions and Lewis’ dynamic leadership, captivated audiences and secured an indefinite engagement that continues today as the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra—the longest-running steady gig in jazz history. Over its thirteen-year initial run, the orchestra produced fifteen albums, toured globally, including a historic 1972 Soviet Union tour, and introduced timeless works like Jones’ “A Child Is Born,” “Fingers,” “Little Pixie,” and “Tiptoe.” Featuring top-tier soloists and a “small group within the big band” approach, the ensemble blended virtuosic improvisation with sophisticated arrangements, setting a new standard for jazz orchestras.

The FSU Jazz Orchestra will perform Thad Jones’ classics, including “This Bass Is Made for Walkin’,” “Quietude,” “A Child Is Born,” and “Us,” alongside other notable works such as Michael Brecker’s “Spherical,” Hank Levy’s “Decoupage,” Joey Calderazzo’s “Midnight Voyage,” and Gerry Mulligan’s “Mullenium.”

Tickets are available at tickets.frostburg.edu, through the University Box Office in Lane University Center 203 (Monday–Friday, 10 a.m.– 4 p.m.), by calling 301-687-3137, or at the door on the evening of the performance. Ticket prices are $11.73 for adults, $6.53 for seniors, military, and FSU employees (credit/debit card), and free for students and children. Cash prices are $11 for adults, $6 for seniors, military, and FSU employees, with free admission for students and children.

For more information, contact the FSU Department of Music, Theatre, and Dance at 301-687-4109 or music@frostburg.edu