Jazz saxophonist to join University ensemble for spring concert

The Department of Music will present a special concert featuring the UNC Charlotte Jazz Ensemble with esteemed guest artist Dick Oatts at 7:30 p.m., Tuesday, April 9.

A longtime member of the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis/Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, saxophonist Dick Oatts has performed with the Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, Lester Bowie, Joe Lovano, Sam Jones-Tom Harrell, Paquito D`Rivera, Jim McNeely, Tito Puente, Kenny Wheeler, and Gunther Schuller. Internationally, he has been featured with the Stockholm Jazz Orchestra, Danish Radio Big Band, Norboton Jazz Orchestra and the UMO Big Band in Helsinki.

Oatts has accompanied such vocalists as Joe Williams, Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald, Nnenna Freelon, Mel Torme and Milton Nascimento. He has recorded solos for pop artists Luther Vandross, James Taylor and Everything But the Girl.

The April 9 concert, which includes opening performances by the student Jazz Combo, will take place in the Anne R. Belk Theater in Robinson Hall. Tickets are $8.