Winona State University and Saint Mary’s University combined talents on Thursday, October 13th for United Way of the Greater Winona Area. The benefit concert involved both SMU and WSU big bands and combos under the direction of Dr. John Paulson and Dr. Rich MacDonald.
These students went to a great effort to help out Winona-area families. Twenty students from each campus were involved in the evening. They spent long hours practicing and perfecting their talents. They got together every week for a month to make sure they had perfected everything; from listening to them at the concert, they definitely had.
The event went off without a hitch at the Signatures Event Center in Winona. It was a perfect place to have a concert, with the beautiful lighted candles on each red-accented table. The environment was very warm and inviting for a jazz-filled night.
The concert started off with the WSU Jazz Ensemble, directed by Dr. Rich MacDonald. They performed “Soon” by George Gershwin, “La Fiesta” by Chick Corea, “Dizzying” by Ryan Kisor, and many more wonderful songs. The SMU University Jazz Combo then performed, directed by Dr. John Paulson. They started off with “The Preacher” and “I’ll Take Romance,” both by Kurt Weil, and played many more songs. Both Universities captured the essence of jazz and had people moving to the music. .
The Jazz for Winona-Live United benefit raised $300 through donations at the door. That money will be used to help provide services for area families.
We had a great evening, and we’re so grateful for all the hard work and dedication shown by the bands and combos.  |
| Winona State University Jazz Band |
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| Saint Mary's University Jazz Band |
