The Swinging Owls took the stage at the Performing Arts Center for the first half of their fall concert.
The ensemble is not just made up of Temple music students, but also of faculty and those with a passion for jazz music in the Philadelphia community. Directed by Chris Oatts and Josh Lee, the pair are alumni of Temple.
Lee discussed the diversity that his band encapsulates: “It’s made up from high schoolers to people who’ve played for forty years. We showcase the talent by playing the music of the swing era. It’s playing the standards; the building blocks of the repertoire of big band jazz.”
Guitarist Michael Myers, a member of the Swinging Owls, opens up about his experience with getting involved. “I’m not fully in the music program here. When I asked an advisor, they said this was a great place to get started because the other bands are audition-only.”
“With my lessons, the ensembles, and my few academic classes, I just balance that in itself. I do my work when I can and keep practicing,” says Owen Krewson, a vocalist in the group. Krewson is a student at the Boyer College of Music and Dance, pursuing a degree in voice.
The ensemble performed a variety of jazz pieces on Monday. They showcased their talent through solos and group pieces.
The Swinging Owls are just one of the many performances that students are able to see live. For more upcoming events at the Performing Arts Center, visit Temple’s Calendar of Events.
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