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WAUKESHA – Putting jazz and poetry together
seems natural at the University of Wisconsin-Waukesha. Combining
them became a formal pursuit in 1998, when the 3-credit Jazz in
Literature course was introduced.
An outgrowth of that course, the 11th
annual Jazz & Poetry Jam will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday, April 11,
in the dining area of the Commons on campus at 1500 N. University
Dr., Waukesha. The free evening of entertainment is open to the
public. Tax filers especially may enjoy “taking five.”
The jam provides a creative outlet for
students and community members. Students from the Jazz in Literature
course read original works of poetry in response to jazz, a piece of
jazz music, or a jazz musician. The UW-Waukesha Jazz Ensemble and a
rhythm section provide live accompaniment for them. Members of the
community are allowed an opportunity to read their own work as
well.
Since UW-Waukesha wedded jazz and poetry, the
nation has accepted them as natural partners as well. Softening the
edges of its reputation as the “cruelest month,” April now is
recognized as National Poetry Month and as Jazz Appreciation Month.
The Academy of American Poets instituted the former in 1996, and the
Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of American History
secured the latter honor in 2001.
Offered each spring semester, the
interdisciplinary Jazz in Literature course is team taught by
Phil
Zweifel, associate professor of English and associate campus
dean, and
Craig Hurst, director of bands and professor of music. Zweifel
will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the jam.
UW-Waukesha has the largest enrollment among the 13
freshman-sophomore University of Wisconsin Colleges campuses,
offering associate of arts & science degrees and the best start on a
college degree and unlimited career opportunities. For information
about programs, admission or financial aid, contact the Student
Services office at 888-2UW-WAUK (888-289-9285) or
visit the Web at
waukesha.uwc.edu.
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