Under the Oklahoma sky, the corner of Peniel and Route 66 transformed into a vibrant stage for a recent performance that blended melody and nostalgia. Jazz on the Route, a collaborative showcase featuring the University Singers and the Jazz Band, delivered an unforgettable outdoor concert right on campus.
Attendees enjoyed Route 66-themed refreshments — including root beer, lime, grape, and “blu razzberi” sodas — which added to the event’s retro vibe. This recap highlights the performance through the experiences of two students who were there to soak it all in.
Eli Redinger was deeply impressed by the performance, saying, “They were amazing! I have heard them sing a few times, and they never fail to impress. They are all so individually gifted, and they blend together perfectly.” Redinger was particularly struck by the complexity of their harmonies and the U-Singers’ ability to hold their notes even as they clashed with others. Concluding his thoughts, Redinger emphasized the group’s musical skill: “Jazz is a very unique style of music that requires top-notch musicians. Even if you think you’ve heard jazz music before, listen to the U-Singers and Jazz Band because they will likely surprise you.”
Juliegh Bogue also shared her enthusiasm for Jazz on the Route, stating, “I think that U-Singers did an amazing job. You could clearly see how talented they all were.” She highlighted the impact of their opening number, noting that they made a great impression and set a positive tone for the rest of the performance.
Bogue also spoke about the importance of community support for live music events, suggesting, “We should all be supportive in our community. There’s too much talent in these students to not share with everyone. Advertisement and support from more people on campus could lead to more staff and students showing up to support one another in these kinds of events.”
Jazz on the Route left a lasting impression on the SNU community. With students like Redinger and Bogue expressing their admiration for the group’s talent and style, it’s clear that the ensemble has a special ability to captivate and engage audiences. As Bogue suggests, increased campus support could amplify the group’s reach, allowing even more people to experience the exceptional artistry of the University Singers and Jazz Band.
Photos provided by: Brisa Lopez