With a theater full of enthused audience members, the Ashland University Jazz Orchestra performed 18 musical pieces. 

On March 22 at 7:30 p.m., The annual Maplerock Jazz Festval took place for its forty-third time. 

The Jazz Orchestra Vice President, Kyle Doershuk believes the event is not one to miss. The main excitement is thanks to the guest artists, Matt Ellis, Larry Harms and more.  

Some songs presented were, The Best Is yet to Come composed by Coleman and Leigh, arranged by Quincy Jones, The Kid From Red Bank by Neal Hefti and more. 

 Jazz is more free than other music genres, said Doershuk. 

 “The informal-ness of it,” he said. “It’s pretty laid back … and there’s not really any form to it. I like how it’s, ‘You come in, and you play.”  

The group’s Treasurer, Grant Vance, agreed saying the music makes audience members feel like they are someplace else.  

The AU Jazz Orchestra hosts many events throughout semesters. Coming up, audience members can expect more jazz at The Nest on April 18.  

More information on AU’s performing arts events can be found on Ashland Engage. 

Follow @aujazzorch on Instagram to stay in-the-know on upcoming events.