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The Bakersfield College Jazz Ensemble, directed by Kris Tiner, will present a Fireside Jazz concert featuring the music of Sun Ra on Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Fireside Room at Bakersfield College.

The composer/pianist/bandleader Herman “Sonny” Blount (1914-1993), commonly known as Sun Ra, was recognized for this pioneering musical experimentation, outer-space philosophy (he claimed to be from Saturn), outrageous costumes, and the earliest incorporation of electronic instruments in jazz. His music both encapsulated and influenced the popular music of the 20th century, from swing-era big band roots through bebop, avant-garde jazz, funk, and disco. Artists ranging from John Coltrane to MC5 to George Clinton all professed a deep connection with Ra’s music.

Tiner and the Bakersfield College Jazz Ensemble have prepared a dozen classic Sun Ra compositions for this performance, ranging from his very first recording session in 1956 to his postmodern Arkestra of the 1980s.

The Bakersfield College Jazz Ensemble’s Fall Concert will be held Thursday, November 1 at 7:30 p.m. in the Bakersfield College Fireside Room, located in Campus Center. Tickets are available at the door. Proceeds benefit the Bakersfield College Jazz Program.

For more information, call Kris Tiner at 661-395-4404 or email krtiner@bakersfieldcollege.edu.