In an effort to raise money, The University of Memphis Catholic Center (UCC) will host jazz musician Eric Marienthal in his only Memphis appearance Friday in concert at the Rose Theatre.
Marienthal is the lead saxophonist for Chic Corea, and has also played with the Rippingtons. He has also published several books, including, "Comprehensive Jazz Studies and Exercises," "Ultimate Jazz Play-Along" and "The Music of Eric Marienthal, Solo Transcripts."
"Sweet Talking Jazz" is open to the public and will include songs from his latest award-winning album, "Got you Covered" as well as songs from Chic Corea and the Rippingtons.
Students from the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music and local well-known musicians, like Gene Rush, Jonathan Wires and Karlton Scott, will be accompanying him in one set. University students performing with him include Amy Rempel on piano, Andrew Simons on bass, and James Sexton on drums.
"The concert is a great collaboration between the campus ministry and The University of Memphis," said Brenda Kindelan, campus minister. "And we're expecting a big turnout. We've had a good response in the jazz community."
Marienthal will also conduct a Master Class for both high school and college students with the school of music Friday where he will play and discuss the saxophone. The class is also open to the general public.
"We're really excited about the class. He can really influence upcoming saxophonists by doing this," Kindelan said.
Chad Kitchens, president of the Catholic Student Association, is a fan of Marienthal's work.
"('Got you Covered') has a little more of a west coast feel than what we have here in Memphis," he said. "I know a lot of people in the jazz community are excited to come and see him. Eric is excited as well."
Katie Bell, a junior biology major, is also familiar with Marienthal's work and is looking forward to his performance.
"Marienthal is great," she said. "I'm sure he will be fabulous in concert."
As well as showcasing a different genre of music on campus, the UCC is also hoping to shine light on itself.
"We really want to raise awareness about campus ministry in general," Kindelan said. "I think sometimes the campus houses are invisible, but we can be another component of campus life."
Tickets are $25 adults and $15 for students and are available at Davis-Kidd booksellers. All proceeds of the concert will go to the UCC to expand programs and enhance the facility.
"I'm glad the University of Memphis has been so corporative," Kitchens said. "The concert is a good choice. I think it'll be a good fundraiser."
