NIU Jazz Honors Ronald Carter's Legacy with Tribute Concert

DeKALB – The sounds of tribute filled the air as the Northern Illinois University Jazz Ensemble and the NIU Jazz Orchestra showcased a heartfelt concert dedicated to the late Ronald Carter, an eminent figure in the jazz community. 'This is for Ron,' declared Rodrigo Villanueva-Conroy, director of the NIU Jazz Ensemble, marking the evening's singular purpose.

In an emotional Wednesday performance, Villanueva-Conroy's band and the NIU Jazz Orchestra, steered by Reginald Thomas, not only entertained the audience but also celebrated Carter's enduring influence. The performances occurred after Carter, who significantly impacted jazz studies at NIU, passed away on February 24.

During the concert, Thomas shared his personal journey, crediting Carter as the catalyst for his career as a pianist. The homage continued as Thomas recounted inspirational instances from his days as Carter's student, highlighting the unique teacher-student relationship which transitioned seamlessly into professional collaboration.

Carter, who directed the jazz program at NIU for 23 remarkable years, shaped the lives of numerous students and etched his legacy into the community. Thomas made sure to reserve the final portion of the concert for Carter, playing 'The Neighbor from Naylor,' composed by Carter’s son, and following it with a surprise rendition of 'Down Home Blues,' a piece Carter traditionally used to conclude concerts.

The tribute concert reflected not just Carter's educational contributions but also celebrated the role of women in jazz. Thomas emphasized the importance of recognizing female composers such as Mary Lou Williams alongside their male counterparts. The evening's repertoire included notable works by women, striking a balance between remembrance and empowerment.

As the ensemble prepares for its next performance, members and coordinators look back on the night as a respectful nod to Carter's legacy—a moment that unified both musicians and audience in a shared, profound musical experience.

The venerable jazz program continues to underscore its support for diversity and inclusion in the arts. According to junior jazz performance major Mikayla Chin, NIU stands as a place where hard work is the key to success, irrespective of gender or background.

Their next showcase is scheduled for the Jazz Orchestra on April 18, and the Jazz Ensemble on April 23, with attendees expecting nothing less than the high standard these ensembles have consistently delivered.

tribute, jazz, legacy