The University News

Issue date: 10/8/07 Section: Culture

Media Credit: Shannon Ayers Greg Abate rocks out on the saxophone.

Red and yellow lights highlighted the piano, bass and drum set on stage. The walls were an indescribable deep blue and on these walls were the faces of Charlie Parker and others who had played their hearts out here many years before. On Friday, Oct. 5, the Activities and Program Council made it possible for UMKC students to experience a part of Kansas City history.

More than 20 UMKC students were ushered into The Blue Room by a man donning a white fedora hat and a pin-striped suit. As it is designed to hearken back to the '30s when Kansas City Jazz was in its prime.

I had never really experienced jazz music before. Stereotypical visions ran through my head.

Boring music without a melody you could follow and probably accompanied by a lot of snapping from the spectators.

You know - your father's music.

In the beginning it was hard to get into. I found myself getting bored so I started to really watch the musicians.

I was amazed at what physical effort playing jazz took. The pianist was crouched so low to the keys his nose could have probably helped his hands. The bassist had a stool but hardly ever used it. The star of the night, Greg Abate, looked as if his saxophone was an extension of his body the way he leaned back and forth to play notes.

It was clear how much these men loved the music they played and by the time Abate began Charlie Parker's "Donna Lee," I started to really enjoy it too.

Others had more experience with jazz music and were adamant about it not just being for older crowds.

Jay Tioleco, graduate student, spoke about the roots of music.

"All popular music today has its roots in either classical, blues or jazz music," he said.

Everyone around seemed to enjoy the outing as well and were excited to experience a side of Kansas City they hadn't before.

Senior Olivia Ighoyivwi, accounting, said the "music is great" and added that "everyone only knows the Plaza and this is a whole new experience."

Junior Elizabeth Hill, English education and psychology, who was in charge of the evening's program agreed with Ighoyivwi.

"Kansas City has a very rich history," she said. "It used to be the number one spot for talent as far as jazz goes. As time has progressed we've gotten away from that. Kansas City is much more than Gates Bar-B-Q and McDonalds."

The Blue Room is open Thursday through Sunday, and is only one of several jazz clubs located in Kansas City. For instance, Foundation keeps Kansas City's jam session tradition alive by hosting late night sessions every Saturday night.

If you ever find yourself bored one evening I suggest taking advantage of Kansas City's unique and vibrant history by trying out a jazz club. Even if you don't think jazz music is for you remember it is all in the interpretation.

As Kansas City's own Parker once said, "They teach you that there's a boundary line to music. But man, there's no boundary line to art."

skat33@umkc.edu

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