The students of Glendale College’s music department filled the Auditorium with earthy jazz tunes on Nov. 21.

The jazz guitar ensemble opened the show and performed eight songs, varying in mood. During every song, each of the players had a solo which highlighted their talents.\

“They got to show the audience how well they play,” said Rosalie Moreszes, an audience member. “I was surprised, I wasn’t expecting everyone to be this talented … They were actually great.”

The guitar ensemble has been practicing all semester for this performance and their hard work was noted.  

“I have played with everyone for at least one semester so I feel really comfortable with these guys,” said Juan Salinas, a guitarist in the ensemble. “We put a lot of hard work into this. We practiced at least once a week this whole semester.”

Their passion for music was apparent throughout the set and resulted in an enjoyable show.

Next, the vocal jazz ensemble took the stage with an interactive high energy performance. They began with a surprise vocal improvisation. The singers were sitting in the audience and then made their way to the stage.

Hanna Song gave a memorable performance with her solo in “My Favorite Things” by Oscar Hammerstein II and Richard Rodgers.

“I thought the students did a wonderful job,” said Clare Delto, the vocal ensemble director. “They worked hard to learn the music and had a fun time demonstrating everything they learned through the semester.”

The singers then invited alumni to join them on stage and participate in a vocal improvisation. This required audience participation with a stomp clap.

“One of the alumni came up to me before the performance and said ‘it would be really nice to do something different this semester’ and he suggested the improvisation for peace,” said Delto. “I thought more audience participation would be great.”

The ensemble finished with “Takin’ It to the Streets” by Michael McDonald. They merged with audience the audience, literally dancing and singing into the streets.

“I hope the audience left with joy, taking the music to the streets and spreading the word of how wonderful GCC’s music department is,” said Delto.

For more informations about upcoming concerts, musical activities and music classes available on campus, visit www.glendale.edu/music.