Photos by Kenji Kukuchi
jAZZ Jazz Musicians Meet the Pros Too
M
embers of the Berklee School of Music’s Concert Jazz Orchestra visited Groton in April, coaching student musicians and performing
a public concert in the Hall. The Berklee bandleader,
Greg Hopkins, coached Groton’s jazz ensemble, Soul Sauce, focusing on “Mofongo” by Bob Mintzer, which the group performed during its spring concert. “He worked with the saxophones on accuracy, getting more energy into their playing and tightening up their ensemble,” said Groton’s Director of
Instrumental Music Mary Ann Lanier. Hopkins also helped the rhythm section — piano, guitar, bass, and drums — and the horns — trumpet, clarinet, and alto and tenor saxophone.
Before Berklee’s professional performance, the musicians joined the Groton students, playing side by side. “In a very short time, Greg and the great Berklee players inspired our students and taught them by example,” Mary Ann said.
www.grotonschool.org
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