Frequency to welcome warm weather with show

Frequency, the Troy University Vocal Jazz Ensemble, sings its jazz tunes in concert later this April.

Frequency is composed of 12 student vocalists and is led by professor of music Diane Orlofsky. They will be performing its spring concert, titled “Travels,” in the choir room of Long Hall on Tuesday, April 28, at 7 p.m.

Frequency was started by  Orlofsky in 2009.

“Colleges pretty much everywhere for the previous 10 to 15 years had been doing vocal jazz. It was huge other places,” she said. “So with a very diverse program like we have, it made perfect sense.”

Orlofsky also said there is a lot of educational value in having the ensemble.

“It provides the students with high-quality literature, and the music is difficult,” Orlofsky said.

“It’s big in the area of recruiting … A lot of high schools in this area have show choirs. It’s something that they can segue into when they reach the college level.” Orlofsky also said that the current ensemble is made up of many seniors and that next year will focus on filling those spots.

“Next year is a rebuilding year for us. A lot of these students have been with me for a long time… It’s sort of bittersweet,” Orlofksy said. “You see them coming in, and you see them going out, and you see what a full package they’ve become.”

Frequency collaborated with the dance department last spring when they performed an a capella piece for the dancers to perform to.

“I think it just makes us all richer if we reach across and pull in other people to add to what we do,” Orlofsky said.

Half of the ensemble are nonmusic majors.

“They’ve got great voices. It’s a great place for them,” Orlofsky said.

Frequency participated in the first Vocal Jazz Invitational earlier this semester.

High school students were invited on the campus to observe and listen to frequency.

“We’re never not ready to do a performance,” Orlofsky said. “Performance can take place in many different ways.”

Orlofsky also said that working with these musical groups gives everyone a stronger sense of community.

“Each of those voices on 12 microphones is important. Each person’s got to be ready,” Orlofsky said.

“It’s just the family atmosphere … there’s so much more than the notes on the page.”

“They’ve pushed themselves to explore these different levels, and I’m proud of them for that,” Orlofsky said.

“They desire to communicate their love of the music.”

The concert will feature both accompanied and a capella performances. Admission will be free of charge.