Baylor Professors Harmonize Jazz and Academia in Local Quartets

Baylor University is recognized for its academic excellence, but it's not just books and research keeping some of its professors busy. Outside the lecture halls, a group of multi-disciplinary professors come together to share their love for jazz, performing in local quartet bands.

The Waco Early Jazz Quartet

This ensemble features professors with versatile backgrounds. Dr. Theresa Kennedy, a professor of French and director of women’s and gender studies; Dr. Alex Thiltges, a senior lecturer in French; Dr. Simon Burris, a senior lecturer in classics; and Dr. Bob Kane, a professor of chemistry and biochemistry, bring their talents to stages such as the Valley Mills Vineyards and the Waco Downtown Farmers Market.

Kennedy, as the vocalist, embraces the freedom and improvisational nature of jazz. For her, jazz singing is about feeling the groove rather than sticking to strict classical techniques. Inspired by legends like Billie Holiday and Ella Fitzgerald, she finds the dynamic nature of jazz exhilarating – where each performance is uniquely fresh and distinct from the last.

The Uptown Swing Quartet

The success of the Waco Early Jazz Quartet paved the way for the Uptown Swing Quartet, a spin-off band that entertains patrons at the Pinewood Coffee Bar. Thiltges and Burris are also part of this group, along with Dr. Jim Kumahata, a senior lecturer in Japanese, and J.B. Smith from The Waco Tribune-Herald.

Smith, despite coming from a family of musicians, finds that playing jazz guitar in this ensemble offers a new and exciting collaborative experience. The spontaneity and collective improvisation make every performance a surprising journey.

Burris, who is self-taught on both the trumpet and saxophone, emphasizes the importance of playing by ear. He finds joy in the fluid transition from practice to public performances, expressing that the thrill of playing live can be accessible to anyone with the passion for it.

For Kumahata, music transcends cultural boundaries. Bonding over a love for Django Reinhardt's music, he cherishes how music can connect people beyond the barriers of language, creating communal joy without the need for words.

Through their performances, these professors not only fulfill their musical aspirations but also bring together communities, sharing moments of unspoken harmony and pleasure. Their journey underscores music’s role in creating connections and experiences that are universally appreciated.

jazz, professors, quartets