The Plummer Jazz Combos, named in honor of Indiana saxophonist Paul Plummer, features students from the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Led by the renowned saxophonist and IU Jazz faculty member Walter Smith III, the groups perform original music composed by each member of the band, and fresh interpretations of standards and songs by modern composers.
The groups seek to incorporate contemporary rhythms and harmony in their music while being rooted in a sense of swing and groove. They have recently traveled Graz, Austria in an exchange with the University of Music and Performing Arts - Graz.
Three different Jazz Combos presented music for WBGO’s Jazz Appreciation Month:
Plummer Combo 16, directed by Dave Stryker, performs "Daahoud" by Clifford Brown, arranged by Dave Stryker, and "Plummer’s Union" by ensemble pianist Jamaal Baptiste. Members of the group are Matt Shugert (saxophone), John Sorsen (trombone), Kenneth Johnston (trumpet), Jamaal Baptiste (piano), Quinn Sternberg (bass) and Jay Tibbitts (drums).
Plummer Combo 17, directed by Walter Smith III, performs an original composition by ensemble guitarist Connor Evans called "Thoroughly a Rusted Life." The group features Tim Fogarty (trumpet), Matthew Babineaux (saxophones), Evan Main (piano), Connor Evans (guitar), Philip Wailes (bass) and Jake Richter (drums).
Plummer Combo 18, directed by Walter Smith III, performs an original composition by ensemble pianist Clay Wulbrecht called "Clay Tong." The group features Barclay Moffitt (tenor saxophone), Amanda Gardier (alto saxophone), Clay Wulbrecht (piano), Jake Jezioro (bass) and Sam Bryson (drums).
Listen for the Plummer Jazz Combos on 88.3FM, or hear their tracks below.
