We are proud to present an evening with the Pitt Jazz Ensemble featuring Master Drummer Carl Allen and Pittsburgh's own Jazz Master Dwayne Dolphin.

The ensemble, directed by Ralph Guzzi, will play a variety of classic jazz compositions as well as Latin and pop music. Vocalist Ellie Martin and the Pitt Jazz vocal group directed by Doretta Whalen will be featured, along with the assistant director and alto saxophonist, Yoko Suzuki. A premiere arrangement from Pitt student Cailyn Pease will also be a highlight of the evening. Mr. Allen and Mr. Dolphin will bring their combined wealth of experience to our performing students.

Carl Allen's multifaceted career provides the perfect template for what a modern musician should be. As Sid Gribetz of Jazz Times wrote, “more than just another fine drummer, Carl Allen has it all together as a bandleader, businessman, and producer, becoming a force in today’s jazz world.” Allen maintains an exhaustive schedule of recording, touring and teaching. He remains active as a sideman with Christian McBride and Inside Straight, Benny Golson, and others. His most recent engagements as a bandleader inlcude The Carl Allen Quartet as well as The Art of Elvin, a tribute band dedicated to his two drum influences: Art Blakey and the late Elvin Jones.

Dwayne Dolphin has played with Jazz Masters Hank Crawford, Wynton Marsalis, Nancy Wilson, Fred Wesley, Stanely Turrentine, Abbey Lincoln, and Roger Humphries. He is a longtime supporter and friend of the Jazz Program at Pitt and continues a rigorous touring schedule with Roger Humphries' group RH Factor.

Tickets will be available at the William Pitt Union Box Office and at the door. General admission is $10; Student admission is $5.