Jazz artists perform tracks from new CD at Lamar University

 Pianist Joe LoCascio and saxophonist Woody Witt performed last month at Lamar University.
Pianist Joe LoCascio and saxophonist Woody Witt performed last month at Lamar University. | Contributed photo
Pianist Joe LoCascio and saxophonist Woody Witt performed last month at Lamar University's Rothwell Recital Hall.

The music performed in the free event came from their latest CD, "Absinthe: The Music of Billy Strayhorn." Strayhorn, an African-American composer, pioneered many well-known jazz arrangements including Duke Ellington's "Take the 'A' Train."

Associate professor Rick Condit, director of jazz studies, said having artists of such a high caliber visit the university is an excellent opportunity for the students that offers them a chance to listen and learn, as well as to ask questions of seasoned professionals about the life of an artist.

LoCascio teaches jazz studies and composition at Houston Community College, focusing on improvising, arrangement, and composition of a jazz ensemble. He also imparts knowledge regarding music fundamentals and appreciation.

Witt, an affiliate artist at University of Houston's Moore School of Music, is also a professor of jazz at Houston Community College and director of entertainment for Houston's premier jazz club, Cezanne.