It’s always a lovefest when Wichita State University’s Jazz Arts I ensemble and the Madrigal Singers present their Valentine Jazz Concert. The School of Music’s fifth annual Valentine concert is at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 11, in Miller Concert Hall, Duerksen Fine Arts Center.

 

Jazz Arts director Tom Fowler said the music will feature traditional big band selections such as “Just Friends,” “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore” and “Shiny Stockings.” The Jazz Arts ensemble and Fowler will leave on a tour to Kansas City-area schools two days after the concert. Their tour program includes big band crowd pleasers from the 1930s forward.

 

The Madrigal Singers, directed by Tom Wine, will step out of their traditional classical style with such vocal jazz ballads as “Someone to Watch over Me” and “Embraceable You.” The evening will give both genders a chance to shine on their own as the women croon “What’ll I Do” and the men sing the hit song from Sweeney Todd, “Not While I’m Around.” The group will be belting out a few up-tempo jazz favorites including “Sweet Georgia Brown” and “I Could Write a Book.”

 

One of the traditions that will continue is the opportunity for some students to step out as soloists in front of the group. The evening will highlight Valentine-themed favorites “Baby It’s Cold Outside” and “Satin Doll.” As a special treat, local jazz favorite Donna Tucker will be the guest host for the evening. Along with sharing her insights into some of the music performed during the evening, she will sing the haunting ballad “My Funny Valentine.”

 

As usual, said Wine, it’s a fun evening of entertainment for all generations.