This semester’s concert featured UM’s 16-member Studio Jazz Band of the Frost School of Music and guest drummer Adonis Rose, who has performed with nine-time Grammy winner Wynton Marsalis, Dianne Reeves, and Harry Connick Jr.

“All guest performers provide a master class to student musicians,” said Peggy Hollander, who sponsored the event. “These are priceless lessons from talented, seasoned musicians.”
Hollander is a member of UM’s Citizens Board, a select group of business, professional, and civic leaders who promote the University’s philanthropic efforts and programs. She comes from the Succession Group, which has been sponsoring the concerts since 2004.
Margot S. Winick, assistant vice president of Media and Community Relations in UM’s Office of Community Relations, co-sponsor of this Jazz Concert on the Green, said the event is a great opportunity to give back to the community with a free, public concert. This is one of the main reasons the concerts receive Hollander’s support.
“They showcase to the community the UM students playing wonderful music in a scenic setting, and everyone may enjoy without a care or any cost,” Hollander said.
The event is typically held outdoors, behind Gusman Concert Hall, along the shore of Lake Osceola.  But this time, it was moved indoors to Whitten University Center because of a forecast predicting a 60% chance of rain. 

Vivian Miller, director of UM Community Relations, said the staff was concerned that rain could damage the performers’ electrical equipment and spoil the event for special guests—particularly members of the President’s Circle, who donate $1000 or more to the University per year. These guests were treated to gourmet boxed lunches of sandwiches, soufflé cups with pasta or fruit salad, and chocolate chip cookies during the event. 

It never rained, which enabled many attendees to sit out on the University Center patio, picnicking and playing with their pets.

All guests stood to applaud the performers’ finale, Duke Ellington’s “Take the A-Train.”

“I’ve been to several of these concerts in the past couple of years, and I’ve yet to be disappointed,” UM senior Susan Geffen said.

Hollander agreed and said this concert’s performances were “stellar.”