UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra CD Release Concert

The UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra will perform in concert on Thursday, May 4, at 7:30 p.m. at the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center in celebration of their new album release, “Professor T & The East Side Shredders.”

The acclaimed orchestra will perform original songs from the new album written by director Trever Veilleux.

The album features Veilleux on guitar and vocals and performances from several members of the UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra.

“When it came time to record the tracks for the album I chose some of my favorite musicians to work with,” said Veilleux. “It just so happened that many of them were members of the UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra. These young performers play at a professional level beyond their years.”

Several of East Hawaiʻi’s premier musicians will perform as special guests at the concert: Wendell Ing on keyboards, Jeff Gaeth on saxophone, Gonzo on bass, RaVani Flood on vocals and Gardner De Aguiar on guitar and vocals. Gaeth has performed with artists like Ray Charles and Michael Jackson.

“I am so excited that these amazing musicians not only performed on the album, but will also be joining us for the concert,” Veilleux added. “It’s a great opportunity for our students to get to perform alongside these professional musicians.”

The concert will also feature dance and original choreography by Dori Yamada.  

“I am super honored that Trever asked me to choreograph a few dances for this concert because this show features his original compositions,” said Yamada. “I’ve had the pleasure to work and perform alongside him for the past five or six years now and this one definitely feels the most personal and special because it originated from his creative genius.”

Advance copies of the UH Hilo Jazz Orchestra’s new album will be available for purchase at the concert.  

Tickets are $10 general, $7 discount, and $5 for students with a valid ID and children 17 under under.  

Learn more and purchase tickets online, or contact the UH Hilo Performing Arts Center Box Office at (808) 932-7490.

For disability accommodations, contact Dori Yamada at 932-7496 (V), 933-3334 (TTY) at least ten (10) working days prior to the event.