The University of Idaho Jazz Choir is not an ordinary ensemble, due in part to its size and scope of repertoire, ranging from west African traditional hymns with infectious rhythms and emotional harmonies to the flair of modern pop. The approximately 150 person ensemble is headed by Daniel Bukvich, percussion and theory professor at the Lionel Hampton School of Music. Bukvich composes and arranges all of the music for the ensemble.
Tony Marcolina | Argonaut
University of Idaho Jazz Choir Director Dan Bukvich conducts the award winning Jazz Choir during practice Wednesday.
The group’s unique sound started in 1978 when Bukvich was asked to take over the group from the retiring professor. Since then, the ensemble has been a key part of the University of Idaho and the Moscow community.
The ensemble is nationally recognized, with invitations to preform at multiple conferences and festivals, including a standing invitation to play at the National Music Educator’s Conference that has been around since 1999. The ensemble often receives financial and instrumental donations.
Bukvich said the community is extremely supportive.
“They’re awesome,” he said.
Many community members participate in the ensemble like Russ Fraves, 56, who was originally in the ensemble with his son. Fraves continues to participate because of the variety of repertoire from gospel, classical, modern and jazz.
Approximately half of the ensemble is comprised of non-music majors like Catie Freeman, a law student who has been in the ensemble since 2006. Bukvich said he thinks of the choir as a “composer’s ensemble” rather than a jazz choir.
Bukvich said the group has a unique style.
“This is a research institution. Why do everything the same as everyone else?” Bukvich said. “This is a creative institution.”
Bukvich said there is nothing out there like the jazz choir.
Courtney Gilpin, 22, said attending rehearsal is the most important part of her week.
“The high standard of performance that Dan sets is great,” she said.
Many of the students cite Bukvich’s teaching as to why the ensemble sounds great and is so much fun to be a part of. He expects singers to be spot on and produce the best sound possible, according to Kelsey Hubut, Moscow community member said.
The performances put on by the choir often involve a variety of percussion instruments, including marimbas, xylophones and hand drums. The 150-person choir dances, grooves and sings with excitement.
“Anyone can join, not anyone can stay,” Bukvich said.
The choir holds multiple concerts each year. Their next performance will take place on Nov. 2 at the Haddock Performance Hall in the Lionel Hampton School of Music.
If you want to see the Jazz Choir on a bigger stage with more music, mark your calendars for Dec. 7,when the choir holds their holiday concert in the Kibbie Dome.
Ryan Tarinelli can be reached at [email protected]