MOBILE, Ala. – In honor of the 100th anniversary of George Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue,” University of Mobile’s Alabama School of the Arts will host a special concert on Tuesday, Oct. 29, at 7 p.m. at the Burnett Event Center. This landmark event will feature a premiere performance of an original arrangement for jazz band, marking the first time this original orchestration will be performed by a jazz band in the United States. Tickets are now available for purchase at umobile.edu/asotaseason, and this one-of-a-kind performance is not to be missed.
A Jazz Band Premiere: A New Take on a Classic
Traditionally performed with a full orchestra, Rhapsody in Blue has been reimagined in this orchestration created specifically for a jazz band, penned by Texas-based Southern Baptist musician Billy Bob Dempsey. Known for his dynamic and innovative compositions, Dempsey’s work on this project has paved the way for a fresh, lively interpretation of Gershwin’s masterpiece, said Kenn Hughes, associate dean of the university’s Roger Breland Center for Performing Arts and director of the UM Jazz Band.
“Rhapsody in Blue, written in 1924 by George Gershwin and commissioned by Paul Whiteman, is THE composition that brought a new era of American Music to all audiences,” Hughes said. “It combined elements of classical and jazz music which helped to define ‘The Jazz Age.’
“Here we are, 100 years after it was written, and the most accomplished pianists perform this work with symphony orchestras all around the world, establishing it as one of the premiere works of all time.”
To learn more about the history and impact of Rhapsody in Blue and the university’s upcoming performance, watch a video.
Pianist Kadisha Onalbayeva Featured
The concert will showcase pianist Kadisha Onalbayeva, a Steinway Artist who has performed Rhapsody in Blue at concerts across the world. She said she is thrilled to collaborate with University of Mobile’s jazz band.
“I love working with students because I learn so much,” Onalbayeva said. ” Working with our students on this piece has been truly inspiring. It’s given me new opportunities to connect with them on stage and share this iconic work in a meaningful way.” Her unique artistry and passion for teaching elevates this centennial celebration to new heights, promising an unforgettable experience for concert-goers.
Student Spotlight: Bringing Gershwin to Life
Among the performers is senior math major and music double-minor Jack Mims, who plays the tenor sax, flute and clarinet in jazz band. Mims is excited to bring Rhapsody in Blue to life in this special performance.
“I love Rhapsody in Blue. My favorite part about it is that it’s beautiful, fast and upbeat. It’s just so fun to play,” said Mims, reflecting the enthusiasm shared by his fellow student musicians.
A Night to Remember
This once-in-a-lifetime concert will take place at the Dr. Lonnie & Lynne Burnett Event Center on campus. The performance begins at 7 p.m. and tickets are available through umobile.edu/asotaseason.
View the full ASOTA season schedule and purchase tickets at umobile.edu/asota. To learn more about the University of Mobile, visit umobile.edu/um-info.
About the University of Mobile
The University of Mobile is a Christ-centered university with a vision of “Higher Education for a Higher Purpose,” founded to honor God by equipping students for their future professions in an environment where they are known. Located 10 miles north of Mobile, Alabama, on a campus of over 880 acres, the university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in over 75 academic programs.The University of Mobile was founded in 1961 and is affiliated with the Alabama Baptist State Convention.
For information about the University of Mobile, areas of study, admissions and more, visit umobile.edu, connect with UM on social media @univofmobile, or call Enrollment Services at 1.800.WIN.RAMS or 251.442.2222
Baleigh Essary is the Content Creator for the Office for Marketing and Public Relations at the University of Mobile. Baleigh earned a Bachelors of Science in Management along with a minor in Graphic Design from UM in December of 2023. Baleigh is an active member and volunteer at More Life Church in Grand Bay. She is an avid photographer, and you will always find her with her Owala in one hand and caffeine in the other. One thing about Baleigh is that when she travels, 99% of the time it will be to visit her home-away-from-home, DISNEY!