Friends University 26th Annual Jazz Festival to honor retiring Jazz Director Lisa Hittle

More than 35 middle school, high school and junior college bands will visit Friends University to celebrate and participate in the 26th Annual Jazz Festival Feb. 15-16, 2019.

On Saturday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 p.m. the festival’s Headliner Concert will feature The Four Freshmen at Crown Uptown Theatre. The wonderful harmonies and arrangements of this group have endured for over six decades, earning their international celebrity. The evening will also feature a big band comprised of Friends University’s talented jazz alumni. Former students and jazz enthusiasts alike will travel across the United States to celebrate the retirement of Lisa Hittle, director of jazz programs at Friends University for 30 years.

“The festival brings in more than 850 middle school, high school and junior college students along with directors,” Hittle said. “Plus, we put on a full night of outstanding jazz performances featuring talented guest artists for the public to enjoy.”

All daytime activities Feb. 15-16 are free and open to the public and will take place at Friends University in the Riney Fine Arts Center.

The Headliner Concert will take place at Crown Uptown Theatre Saturday, Feb. 16, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $10-$50 and can be purchased at crownuptown.com or by calling the theater at (316) 612-7696.

For more information on this event, contact the Fine Arts Box Office at 316-295-5677 or visit friends.edu/jazzfest.

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.

Jazz festival poster 2019-01