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Ferguson Concert Critique

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I have always had a great love for Jazz. Its creative expression, as well as the continuous transformation of its harmonic structures and forms, excites me. When I heard about the Maynard Ferguson concert, I was thrilled and knew that it was a must-attend. I first saw Maynard Ferguson at the Cross & Sword Amphitheater in St. Augustine, Fla. The concert took place in spring 1998. I was anxious to see Maynard Ferguson, the king of Jazz. Maynard was well renowned for his extremely high register control on the trumpet. Ferguson was very warm towards all the members of his band. Even if I thought the concert was all about him, he gave all the musicians a chance to be in the spotlight. He would shake a hand at each soloist after the performance as if it was a way of saying, “the night is as important to me as it is to you”. One would always tell when it was Ferguson’s turn as he would come to stage with style. He would tilt his head as he stood near the microphone then plant his feet on the floor and aim the bell of his trumpet upwards. He would then breathe in air, as much as his lungs would take. The audience looked anxious, and they knew something special was coming. The performance was powerful and caused the excitement of the concert to reach a climax. The audience were exhilarated by the unpredictable rhythm and …show more content…

He covered Jazz principles by producing original songs. Bob James was present, and he performed the keyboard solo on, “Soar like an Eagle.” the audience seemed very happy as the saxophone section buzzed on “The Fly”. The synthesis and pop-jazz pieces were wonderful, and the band employed the big band sound. The albums featured well-known artists either as guest soloists or members of his studio. The artists include; David Sanborn, Steve Gadd, Stanley Clarke, Chick Corea, Nathan East and Steve Khan. “Theme from Star Trek” by Militello's flute solo became one of my best performers in the ensembles of

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