N.C. A&T’s Jazz Ensemble Presents Spring Concert “Mood Swings”

EAST GREENSBORO, N.C. (April 30, 2025) — A dynamic blend of sounds will fill Harrison Auditorium as the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University Jazz Ensemble hosts its annual spring concert, “Mood Swings,” on Thursday, May 1 at 7 p.m.

The concert is free and open to the public, welcoming jazz enthusiasts and music lovers to enjoy an evening of talent and creativity.

This year’s performance will showcase music from the swing era, bebop, and Afro-Cuban traditions, including selections made famous by Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Dizzy Gillespie. Featured pieces will include “Manteca,” “Rockin’ in Rhythm,” “Come Sunday” and “Everyday I Have the Blues.”

The concert will also highlight performances from N.C. A&T’s Vocal Jazz Ensemble, INDIGO, and include special appearances by the jazz faculty.

“We want to make sure everyone knows who we are,” said Jonovan Cooper, DMA, teaching assistant professor and director of the University Jazz Ensemble. “Mood Swings” reflects the way we play —unpredictable, dynamic, and always keeping the audience on their toes.”

The N.C. A&T Jazz Ensemble performs throughout the year at various events across the state and nation. Known for its versatility, the group’s repertoire spans big band classics, bebop, fusion and more. In addition to its large ensemble, the group features smaller jazz combos and vocal jazz groups, offering a wide range of musical experiences for audiences.

Last year, the ensemble explored the “Cool Jazz” era, inspired by the nonet album “Birth of the Cool” by the late American jazz trumpeter and bandleader Miles Davis.

“The students’ growth has been significant, and they are performing more challenging music and treating it with great attention to detail and sensitivity,” said Cooper. “A&T’s jazz ensemble made a big statement at the HBCU jazz festival. Not with words, but with their approach to the art form.”

Earlier this month, ensemble students participated in the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and Virginia Arts Festival HBCU Jazz Residency. There, they received instruction on musical sensitivity, accompanying vocalists, adapting to room acoustics and balancing their sound regardless of sonic limitations.

“I am extremely excited about this upcoming concert and invite the community to join us,” said Cooper. “They will not be disappointed!”

For more information about the concert or the N.C. A&T Jazz Ensemble, contact Cooper at jtcooper1@ncat.edu or 336-285-2020.