We Are Uncommon Ground...
Uncommon Ground is continuing to create great vocal jazz in its fourth season as an independent ensemble. It originated with the intent to provide an
outlet for outstanding vocal jazz singing and study in a small group
setting. It performs a variety of jazz literature both unaccompanied and
with a rhythm combo. Members are exposed to various singing styles
including Swing, Blues, Funk, Latin, Doo Wop, Pop and Solo Styling. Uncommon
Ground was formally a for-credit ensemble, directed by Dr. Lauren
Fowler-Calisto, director of choral studies at Christopher Newport University, challenging
the group with difficult, exciting repertoire and practice of improvisation
that pushed her students to continue learning about this distinctly American
art form. In 2009, in the wake of the economic crisis, the ensemble was
unfortunately discontinued in the Department of Music, but rather than simply
ceasing to perform, the remaining members of Uncommon Ground took ownership of
their group and worked with the CNU Office of Student Activities to create it
as a student-run organization.
Since then, this vocal jazz ensemble has been completely student-led. The dedicated members of this group serve in many extra capacities to help the ensemble move forward, such as serving administrative positions on the executive board, organizing auditions and choosing repertoire, and rehearsing twice a week on top of many hours alone in practice rooms.
Uncommon Ground also supports itself financially thru dues and small concerts. If you would like to contribute monetarily the efforts of this fantastic ensemble, it would be graciously accepted. To make a contribution to Uncommon Ground, please see any member of our ensemble after our concert, contact our advisor Dr. Lauren Fowler-Calisto at (757) 594-7825, or contact us via e-mail at [email protected].
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Uncommon Ground is a recognized, student run organization, operating under the standards of Christopher Newport University's Office of Student Activities.
Uncommon Ground is also a recognized, student ensemble within CNU's Department of Music.
For more info about CNU or the Department of Music, please go to www.cnu.edu
Since then, this vocal jazz ensemble has been completely student-led. The dedicated members of this group serve in many extra capacities to help the ensemble move forward, such as serving administrative positions on the executive board, organizing auditions and choosing repertoire, and rehearsing twice a week on top of many hours alone in practice rooms.
Uncommon Ground also supports itself financially thru dues and small concerts. If you would like to contribute monetarily the efforts of this fantastic ensemble, it would be graciously accepted. To make a contribution to Uncommon Ground, please see any member of our ensemble after our concert, contact our advisor Dr. Lauren Fowler-Calisto at (757) 594-7825, or contact us via e-mail at [email protected].
___________________________
Uncommon Ground is a recognized, student run organization, operating under the standards of Christopher Newport University's Office of Student Activities.
Uncommon Ground is also a recognized, student ensemble within CNU's Department of Music.
For more info about CNU or the Department of Music, please go to www.cnu.edu