Lincoln Academy Performing Arts Dept. filled the foyer at Skidompha Library April 7 with lively music and deliciously displayed desserts.
Five different performance groups, two under the direction of Liz Matta and three student-led groups performed a varied, energetic and entertaining program for the capacity crowd.
Desserts, huge strawberries dipped in dark chocolate and other delights were available for preview early in the evening and auctioned off to delighted bidders in the intermissions.
The music, both under Matta’s direction and in all three student-led ensembles were well performed and rehearsed, making the entertainment seamless and enjoyable. There was something for everyone.
For those yearning to hear a big band sound there was Woody Herman’s “Woodchopper’s Ball” and Herbie Hancock’s “Watermelon Man.”
If there’s a preference for a little John Coltrane, the Sextet had that well in hand. The Blues Quartet offered up, “Lie to Me” and “Superstition” and the evening wound up with the Jazz Ensemble offering a splendid rendition of Mantooth/Zawinal’s, “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” and a rousing finale of “When The Saints Go Marching In.”
Delectable treats for the palette and jazz for the ear made the night a rousing success for all concerned. Many in the audience had attended the opening of the Lincoln Academy Student Art Show next door earlier in the evening.
An exhibit of Fine Arts combined with a finely performed Jazz Concert all by students from Lincoln Academy encouraged and increased support for both arts areas.
This dual event illustrates the cooperation of the entire community, River Arts and Skidompha Library in encouraging well-rounded arts education for all Lincoln County students.
The Concert Band and Wind Ensembles, more arms of Lincoln Academy Performing Arts, have an upcoming concert Sun., May 1 at 1 p.m. in the Bailey Gym. If the Jazz ensembles are an indication of the quality to be expected, saving the date is highly recommended.
