The 19^th annual Jazz for Tots concert took place Monday night at 7 p.m. in the Music Hall. The concert was presented by the School of Music's jazz program. Admission to the concert was one unwrapped toy or a cash donation to help provide gifts for children this holiday. The event was in cooperation with the Marine Corp's Toys for Tots, which has been brightening children's holidays for 60 years.

The event was directed by UT faculty member Keith Brown who told audience members, "This is our most fun performance of the year."

That statement was confirmed by the night's great lineup of jazz-style carols.  Classic holiday tunes were played such as "Winter Wonderland," "Silent Night," a very funky "Away in a Manger" and many others.  Peformers showcased their skills by playing the traditional carols with a loose jazz persuasion.

The groups were made up of students participating in the jazz ensemble class, where they play and practice weekly for a class credit and are instructed by primarily graduate students.  Along with the UT Jazz Big Band, eleven ensembles performed songs of their choosing.

"One of the most fun things about this performance is that the arrangements are designed by the students themselves," Brown said.

The concert featured multiple types of group structure such as a guitar ensemble directed by graduate student Mark Boling. Also performing was Keith Brown's ensemble featuring a vocal performance of "The Christmas Waltz" with students Pamela Klicka and Emily Mathis making up the vocal duet.

This year's Jazz for Tots brought Christmas cheer and entertainment for audience members while also supplying needed gifts for children this holiday season.