It’s no secret that Grand Valley State University supports the cultivation of musical expression on campus. In fact, each semester a big-band group consisting of more than 30 instruments hosts its annual jazz concert.

Last Thursday, however, a few small jazz combos that typically open for the big-band concerts crammed their way into the corner of the Performing Arts Center. The groups played a concert which served as a chance for them to stand on their own musical merits for the first time.

“It’s nice to play here because it’s so good acoustically,” said Dutcher Snedeker, a senior at GVSU. “It’s an informal atmosphere where people can relax and enjoy the gallery.”

Snedeker, pianist for The Wayne Shorter Combo, was one of many to enjoy the newfound opportunity to showcase his talents. He has been playing piano since he was in elementary school, a claim that anyone who attended the concert would be hard-pressed to challenge.

“I like that jazz has no clear definition, especially today,” Snedeker said. “It can hide within styles or stick out on its own. It allows for a breakdown of the wall between the performer and their audience. Jazz is very easy to groove with.”

Part-time faculty Michael Drost, a Grand Haven native that focuses primarily on combos and small group training, supported the concert. Along with Drost was Janet Christonson, a student in the music department that took on responsibility for coordinating everything from the concert’s schedule to how it would feed its guests. Between the two of them, they provided GVSU with a successful jazz experience.

“Janet really pulled everything together,” Snedeker said. “We really couldn’t be more thankful for all the work she put in to making this happen.”

Students that missed the concert shouldn’t be too disheartened. More musical events of a similar nature are planned for the remainder of the semester, including a handful in the month of November.

“Nov. 13th through the 15th, the New Music Ensemble will be collaborating with Korey Terry and the dance ensemble,” Snedeker said. “We’ll be combining live dance with live jazz music. It should be a unique experience.”

Following graduation, Snedeker plans on continuing to build on his skill set through a graduate program. He hopes to use jazz as a means of connecting with a big city and the wider musical scenes that inhabit such areas.

When asked for advice for up-and-coming admirers of the craft, the budding jazz enthusiast had a few solid words of wisdom.

“Don’t rule anything out,” he said. “Just take a chance and go to a show. Listen to variety and explore the greats as well as the moderns. Look at all the members of a combo. Beyond that, if you’re a performer, put yourself in uncomfortable situations. It’s the only way to learn, and it’ll help you realize the level of skill it takes to really enjoy playing music.”

For more upcoming music and dance events at GVSU, visit gvsu.edu/music.