Faculty Jazz Collective to play Oct. 6 in town

Composed of WWU Music faculty members Mike Allen, Miles Black, Adam Thomas, and Julian MacDonough, the Faculty Jazz Collective has been busy since its inception just two years ago. They have toured throughout the region to bring attention to the art form of jazz, performed regularly each Wednesday for the Bellingham community, and debuted their first full length album in April of 2012.

We caught up with Mike Allen, program coordinator for Jazz Studies at WWU and saxophonist for the FJC, to ask him a bit more about this incredible ensemble and their upcoming gigs.

What is the mission of the FJC?

MA: To teach our students, through modeling, the wonderful American art form of jazz, and to be the voice and vehicle in spreading the word about the new direction of Jazz Studies at WWU.

We heard that the FJC will be performing at the new Jansen Art Center. What can patrons expect at your concert at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 6?

MA: Patrons can expect to hear the FJC presenting a range of jazz styles (from sultry swinging originals to up-tempo, high-energy standards) in a perfect acoustic setting with Miles playing their gorgeous Shimmel Concert Grand piano. We have a wonderful guest bassist joining us: Jodi Proznick from Vancouver, B.C.

Will the FJC continue to provide weekly community concerts this year?

MA: The FJC will be starting a new residency beginning Oct. 3 at the Redlight Lounge with free weekly Wednesday night performances from 7 to 9 p.m.