WEST LIBERTY, W.Va., Nov. 20, 2015 — West Liberty University will conclude its 2014-2015 Concert Artist Series with an upbeat jazz performance by the David Leonhardt Jazz Trio. The concert is free and open to the public and begins at 8 p.m., Monday, Nov. 23 in Elbin Auditorium, College Hall.
“Please join us for a most enjoyable program, it will be eclectic, colorful and full of rhythmic vitality,” said Dr. Gerald Lee, WLU associate professor of music.
Leonhardt is a well-known jazz pianist and composer. According to the Leonhardt Jazz Trio website, he began his professional career as a teenager when he performed and studied with noted educator Jamey Aebersold in Louisville, Ky.
Leonhardt went on to acquire more skills backing such diverse jazz talents as Buddy Defranco, Dave Liebman and Buddy Tate. After moving to New York City in his twenties Leonhardt established himself as an international performing artist.
Currently Leonhardt leads his own band with successful appearances at the International Arts Festival (China), the Winnipeg Jazz Festival (Canada) and the French Maison de Dance, as well as festivals and concerts throughout the United States. He also is the musical director for the Shelley Oliver Tap Dancers a popular female dance group.
His 40 years of professional experience has included recordings, television and radio, concerts and festivals, nightclubs and stage shows. Leonhardt has appeared internationally throughout North and South America, Europe, the Middle and Far East with some of the biggest names in jazz.
He leads his own concert ensemble the David Leonhardt Jazz Group and is the founder and president of Big Bang Records with 25 CDs jazz group leader. Leonhardt is on the roster of the Pennsylvania Arts On Tour and gives educational clinics worldwide.
All Concert Artist Series programs are sponsored by the Division of Music at West Liberty University and offer WLU theatre and music students a chance to benefit from performances and workshops with many of the artists.
The Concert Artist Series dates back to 1964. Each year, the series brings world-class musicians and performing artists to the Hilltop campus for public concerts and artist master classes for students.
For more information on WLU, please call 1.866.WESTLIB or visit westliberty.edu.