An open-air jazz concert will be presented Saturday, April 24th, 2021 at 6:30pm. The event features the MidAmerica Nazarene University Jazz Ensemble and special guests the Trinity Jazz Ensemble led by trumpeter, Mike Parkinson outside of the Bell Cultural Events Center at 2030 East College Way, in Olathe, Kansas.
With Parkinson’s’ return, the Trinity Jazz Ensemble has reformed. Ken Lovern is at the keyboards with bassist James Albright, drummer Sam Platt, saxophonist Doug Talley, guitarist Doug Perkins, and vocalist ‘Brother’ John Anderson rounds out the band.
Kansas Citians will remember Mike Parkinson as the Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Missouri-Kansas City. Mike has since then held administrative and teaching positions at Ohio University, Webster University, most recently as the Music Administrator at Middle Tennessee State University.
Mike is the Director of the Trinity Jazz Ensemble as part of a residency at MidAmerica Nazarene University. Over the years, Mike and Charlene have dreamed of returning to Kansas City. That dream was realized in the summer of 2020, when Mike was offered a position as Educational Specialist for Bach trumpets, a Conn-Selmer brand, and Music & Arts.
He has been recognized for his outstanding teaching. Mike Parkinson was named Amicus Poloniae by the Republic of Poland and received the Jess Cole Award from the Missouri Jazz Educators Association. He is a well-known performer, conductor, and clinician. He is author of BASIE, BEBOP, BALLADS & BLUES, a jazz ensemble repertoire guide, and BEYOND THE BLUES, a score editing-rehearsal technique guide.
“The world needs us to make a daily difference, not to be afraid to be faithful to who you are,” said Mike, “I would never have succeeded without my faith, my wife, friends and the investments made in me by numerous musicians.” Mike is excited to be back in Kansas City, add to the original quintet and to perform on April 24th, opening up MNU’s Spring Swing.
Saturday, April 24 - 2030 East College Way, Olathe, Kansas
6:30pm - Outside the Bell Cultural Events Center www.mnu.edu/fine-arts
Free Admission, and donations are accepted to help the MNU Instrumental Department. Guests are invited to bring lawn chairs and their own food and drinks. Please follow COVID-19 safety protocols including social distancing and wearing face masks while enjoying the event. Thanks!