BYU jazz troupe in concert Aug. 2

Synthesis, Brigham Young University?s award-winning instrumental jazz ensemble, is bringing swing, blues, jazz, Latin, and fusion styles to the Stephen Sondheim Center for the Performing Arts at 7:30 p.m. Aug. 2.

A Synthesis concert usually includes favorites by jazz legends such as Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Glenn Miller and Louis Armstrong, along with original compositions and arrangements by group members. The band?s swinging tunes and spectacular soloists are sure to bring the most discerning of audience members to their feet.

Recognized throughout the world as one of the top university bands from the United States, Synthesis was given the opportunity to perform at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games and has received many honors since its formation in 1971. The group also has toured extensively in the western United States, Europe and Russia.

In July 2008, Synthesis traveled to England and Scotland on a three-week extended tour. They played at some of the U.K.?s most selective international jazz festivals, including Birmingham, Marlborough, Wigan, Durham, and Edinburgh.

?We are very excited to continue our relationship with Brigham Young University performing groups and welcome Synthesis to Fairfield for the first time,? said Rustin Lippincott, executive director of the Fairfield Arts and Convention Center. ?It is a unique ability to connect with their audiences, combined with genuine musical talent that has distinguished the caliber of Synthesis, drawing the invitation to Fairfield, a community who shares the love of jazz.?

Ray Smith, director of Synthesis, performs and records music professionally in addition to serving as the director of jazz studies and a professor of woodwinds at BYU. Smith?s talents have been requested by recognized artists such as Kurt Bestor, Johnny Mathis and The Supremes.

Reserved seating tickets for Synthesis are $8. For information, contact the visitor?s bureau at 472-2828 or visit www.travelfairfieldiowa.com.