Lavender Jazz presented instrumental solos, surprise singers and warped guitar sounds in Umble Center under purple backdrops and orange overhead lights last Friday. The ensemble boomed throughout the building in a groovy and energetic chorus, playing nine unique songs. According to Greg Smucker, the director and adjunct professor, its “in your face” style paired with the small venue and sizable band added to the fun. “We came over to Umble [from the music center] because we’re getting lost in Sauder when only 100 people or less were showing up,” Smucker said. “And over time the crowd has gotten bigger. The...

By Charlie Aldrich • April 11, 2024 • Arts

Goshen College band Lavender Jazz will be putting on their final show of the school year on Wednesday, April 5, in Umble Center under the direction of Greg Smucker.  The show is set to include full group pieces as well as smaller group combos.  Though Umble Center has not been the normal location for most GC ensembles to perform, Smucker said, “we like the connection we experience with the audience when performing in the Umble Center.”  With a more intimate space, the group often gets the chance to interact with members of the audience better. Jazz as a genre is...

By Sarah Miller • March 30, 2023 • Arts

Goshen College’s Lavender Jazz band is set to have their yearly kick-off this Friday at Goshen Theater. The concert will feature the big band, as well as the two bands or “combos” within Lavender Jazz. The band plays classic jazz hits, as well as swing, blues and music typical of New Orleans and Dixieland.  “Even though there are over 100 years worth of jazz styles to choose from, the band draws primarily from relatively contemporary styles,” said Greg Smucker, director of Lavender Jazz. “Lavender Jazz will be performing arrangements as a big band, which is 14 to 18 members, and...

By Albert Aguilar • October 7, 2022 • Arts