Famous trombonist slides into Flagstaff

Famous trombonist

You don’t have to go to New York or New Orleans to experience some of the best jazz in the country. NAU’s Jazz Festival is bringing it here.

NAU’s Jazz Ensemble One will play with world-renowned trombonist Conrad Herwig during a concert, 8 p.m. Fri., Feb. 23 in Ardrey Auditorium on the Flagstaff campus.

Herwig said he is looking forward to sharing the bandstand with NAU’s Jazz Ensemble One.

“I’ve heard of the fantastic reputation of NAU’s jazz program based on its acclaimed recordings and the impeccable resume of director Joel DiBartolo,” Herwig said. “It’s an honor and a pleasure to come to Flagstaff and perform with his band.”

DiBartolo, director of NAU Jazz Studies, said Herwig is considered the “best trombonist on the planet.”

Advance tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for children, seniors and NAU employees. Tickets at the door are $18 for adults and $15 for children, seniors, students and NAU employees. For tickets call 523-5661.

Herwig has recorded 16 albums. His CD, Another Kind of Blue—The Latin Side of Miles Davis, was nominated for a 2005 Grammy Award. It was a follow-up release to his 1998 Grammy-nominatedThe Latin Side of John Coltrane. Herwig has performed on numerous Grammy-award winning releases including, on Joe Lavon Nonet’s CD, 52nd St. Themes.

Herwig began his career in 1980 with the Clark Terry Big Band and then joined the Buddy Rich Orchestra for tours throughout the United States and Europe. He’s played with many orchestras and musicians including, Miles Davis, Carmen McCrae, Frank Sinatra and Quincy Jones.

“Improvisation defines our culture and jazz music is an integral part of our collective American consciousness, reflecting who we are in the world,” Herwig said. “Working and jamming with student jazz musicians at NAU is an exciting prospect.”

NAU’s Jazz Ensemble One is a 15-member big band composed of jazz study students. Known for its quality, the band’s history includes three CD recordings and a number of first-place honors.