29 Jazz ensemble to perform free concert in Rothschild
Group plays first of three planned concerts
ROTHSCHILD, Wis. (WSAW) - A local jazz ensemble is inviting the public to a free concert Tuesday night in Rothschild.
29 Jazz will perform at 6:30 p.m. at “The Bar.” The performance is the group’s first concert of the year. People can listen to the live music or join in.
About the ensemble
The group started two years ago as an offshoot of the UW-Stevens Point at Wausau Community Band. Its musicians range in age from 17 to 94.
The ensemble is co-directed by Patrick Phalen and Joe Finnegan, a recently retired D.C. Everest band director.
The group has rehearsed every Monday night since September. It plans to perform three concerts.
The setlist includes classics such as The Beatles’ “Norwegian Wood.”
Comments from the co-directors
Phalen said the concert gives the group a chance to connect with the community.
“A lot of people in our community play musical instruments and a lot of them love jazz,” Phalen said. “So, it’s our way of giving back to the community and letting people do what they enjoy, playing jazz music.”
Finnegan said each live performance offers a chance for something unexpected.
“Live music is so important, and so exciting, because you never know what’s going to happen,” Finnegan said. “You think you do, but it always can be different, and surprising, and creative, and that’s the best part of it.”
How to take part
Audience members can join in because improvisation is a key part of the genre.
People who are not ready to play at the concert can contact the group about joining in the future.
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