Lawrence University jazz program earns pair of awards courtesy of DownBeat magazine
APPLETON, Wis. (WFRV) – Lawrence University's jazz program was recognized nationally as it won a pair of awards in DownBeat magazine's Student Music Awards, announced on Thursday.
The Lawrence University Conservatory of Music congratulated two student jazz ensembles, the 'LU Jazz Ensemble' and 'Latin Jazz Ensemble,' who earned the awards.
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The LU Jazz Ensemble, directed by instructor of music Patty Darling, was honored with the 'Undergraduate College Award' for the Large Jazz Ensemble Category.
The Latin Jazz Ensemble, which is directed by José Encarnación, associate professor of music and director of jazz studies, was the winner of the award in the Latin Group category.
In a release provided by the school, Encarnacion cited the students' desire to learn and commit to many forms of music.
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'The students we get here are smart, they're curious, they like to explore,' Encarnacion said via the release. 'So, we bring them different kinds of music, and they're in, they're engaged. For me, it's seeing how they grow, how they engage with the art. That's the reward.'
This marks the eighth time the program has earned top undergraduate ensemble awards in the last eight years.
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Lawrence University jazz program earns pair of awards courtesy of DownBeat magazine
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