The Fresno City College Jazz Combo and Latin Jazz bands performed at the recital hall last Thursday. The Jazz Combo performed in two groups. The orange and yellow bands – providing such songs as Blue Train, Song for My Father, and Toys.

Both bands gave a spectacular performance and seemed to feed off each others energy. Though the turnout was few, that didn’t stop these musicians from giving it their all. FCC third year student at FCC, Greg Rodriguez, played at the Latin Jazz festival. “I think I did pretty good. I practiced my section until the show,” said Rodriguez.

FCC students like fourth year student Katie Steinhauer were thrilled for the opportunity to perform in both bands. Steinhauer gave an amazing show all on her own and was the obvious crowd favorite. Her two distinct styles on the rhythm section showed her exellent skills. “I had a lot of fun up there. Before the show, I just listened to the song recording to get the feel of the music,” said Steinhauer.

Some other solos that stood out were Dan Leon (trumpet), Marvin Davis (alto sax), Andrew Hall (piano), and Matt Lozano (alto sax).

Each band had a style all its own that differed from the everyday styles of today’s music. It gave the audience as well as musicians a chance to step out of the real world and enter realm in which music is endless. This show was a chance to try something new and, judging by the audience, the change seemed to work.

The Jazz Combo band sent the crowd into a sort of bluesy, deep listening sound while the Latin Jazz gave people something upbeat to dance to. Anyone who loves the feeling of music would have loved this show.