The Jambar

Issue date: 11/3/09 Section: Features

Media Credit: Adam Rogers / The Jambar

For some people, there is always that certain song that is so relatable, they define it as the theme of their very existence. After listening to it for an innumerable amount of time, that song sounds fresh for them, even after hitting the stop button.

For the students and instructors of Youngstown State University's jazz program, it is this very scenario that drives them in every performance. It is not just any song, but more so jazz itself with its underlying complexity and depth that continues to shape each listener and musician involved.

In Kilcawley Center's Chestnut Room, the members of the jazz ensemble rehearse for an upcoming performance.

Sounds of instrument tuning, short riffs and melodies crash like a train wreck in the room. Saxophonists play loud, short notes while drummers repeatedly crack their sets in search of the right sound. The black baby grand piano cuts through the air as a student makes some last minute attempts at rehearsal.

To the average listener, it is almost unbearable, but to those accustomed, it is second nature.

YSU jazz instructor Dr. Kent Engelhardt walks in, and after a short speech the ensemble forms together and attempts to cover some classic jazz standards.

While some students ponder the volume of their instrument and certain parts of the pieces, Engelhardt only smiles and waves it off.

"Just let it play," Engelhardt says.

Then it starts to make sense.

All the distracting and ugly combinations of sounds disappear.

In place of the noise comes a soft harmonic collection of sound and dynamics.

The ensemble extends their playing from soft ballads to exciting big band takes, diversifying their playing skills.

Every so often as the music breaks down, certain students rise up for their shining moments.

Joe Sheller, a junior and member of the ensemble, starts his saxophone solo. His fingers moving wildly on his instruments, Sheller closes his eyes and bends his arms up as the sounds get louder. His instrument is almost glowing now in the dimmed room.

Sheller shows an excitement and powerful focus during his solo that he said comes after dedicated work.? "I practice about three to five hours a day," Sheller said.

Sheller has been a member of the ensemble since his freshman year. He described the jazz program as comparable to the music itself.

Continued...

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