August 17
6:30pm Noelridge Park
Road Scholars (The Music of Spyro Gyra)
In the 1980s, the music of Spyro Gyra ignited the interest of a young Damani Phillips who was just beginning his journey as a jazz saxophonist. The band had a unique ability to combine accessible melodies, such as their pop hit “Morning Dance,” while still maintaining the high musical standards that commanded the respect of the jazz community. Damani recruited his University of Iowa colleagues, mallet percussionist Dan Moore and pianist William Menefield, along with Iowa all-star rhythm players, Steve Charlson, bass and Tim Crumley, drums; to celebrate this incredibly fun, inviting and vibrant music that you rarely get to hear live.
The Harlan Jazz Combo
The Harlan jazz band has had quite a year. They won the 3A division of the Iowa Jazz Championships and five students successfully auditioned for the prestigious Jazz All-State Band. Several of these students also participated in the University of Iowa’s first High School Jazz Combo contest, where they won the prize of opening for UI jazz director Damani Phillips’ Road Scholars.