11/17/2014 12:00:00 AM

As the weather turns cold each year the Performing Arts department ensembles present a week-long music series that showcases their diverse talents and inspirations. From contemporary rock to jazz favorites, the series of free concerts is open to the public and runs from December 1 through 7.

On December 1 the All College Choir will share a chorale repertoire with the String Chamber Ensemble, featuring both traditional and modern works (7:00pm, Main Auditorium, 3141 Chestnut Street). On December 2, the Fusion Band and Rock Ensemble will present a joint performance spanning selections from jazz to reggae and rock, including homages to Joe Henderson, Herbie Hancock, The Beatles, Dave Matthews Band, Jimi Hendrix and more (7:30pm, Mandell Theater, 36 and Chestnut Streets). On December 4 the Jazz Orchestra will strike up master works by giants Dizzy Gillespie, Duke Ellington and Ray Charles (8:00pm, Mandell Theater).

Drexel’s vocal jazz ensemble, Naturally Sharp, will take the stage for a matinee on December 6 with 12 singers and a 3-piece instrumental combo for solo and group numbers that sample the blues, novelty pieces, and jazz standards (3:00pm, Mandell Theater). Also on December 6, the Gospel Choir will perform with several regional artists in a powerful and celebratory concert (7:30pm, Mandell Theater). The University Choir will present Ralph Vaughan Williams’ cantata “In Windsor Forest” and a group of smaller choral works and spirituals on December 7 (3:00pm, Main Auditorium), along with a performance of madrigals and chansons by Drexel’s select Chamber Singers ensemble. Later that evening the Concert Band will present original works for the wind ensemble in “Glorious Winds,” featuring guest conductor Dr. John Boyd.

Click here for concert program details, and click here to visit the Music Program Facebook page for live event updates.