Program announced for JazzMN's concert with John Clayton

Grammy-winning bassist/composer John Clayton is the JazzMN Orchestra's special guest as Minnesota's premier big band launches its 2011–12 season on Saturday, Oct. 1.

Judi Donaghy is  guest vocalist.

JazzMN's artistic director Doug Snapp has announced the evening's program.


First half:

• "And Thad Ain't Bad." An unpublished work Dr. Snapp recently received from jazz composer Bill Holman.
• "Hidden Agenda." Composed and arranged by Eric Richards, recorded by the US Army Jazz Ambassadors, this "world music" piece was inspired by the music of Argentine tango master Astor Piazzolla. 
• "Greetings and Salutations." A kind of funky jazz piece composed by Thad Jones.
• "Whisper Not." An arrangement of the Benny Golson tune by Alan Baylock (US Airforce Airmen of Note), featuring Judi Donaghy on vocals
• "Bluesette." Arranged by Eric Richards as a Latin chart in 4/4. With Judi Donaghy.
• "Girl Talk." Featuring Mary Louise Knutson on piano.
• "Rhythm-a-ning." Another unpublished arrangement Snapp calls a "burning fast swinger."

Second half:

Seven arrangements by John Clayton: "Eternal Triangle," "Heart and Soul," "For All We Know," "Jody Grind," "I Be Serious 'Bout Dem Blues," "Squatty Roo," "Mood Indigo."

The concert takes place on Saturday, Oct. 1, at 7:30 p.m. at the Hopkins High School Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $27/$29 advance, $29/$31 door, $10 student rush. Order online or call 1-866-811-4111.