The Swinging Owls, a remarkable ensemble, made their debut on the stage of the Performing Arts Center during the first half of their fall concert. This group is not merely composed of Temple music students; it also includes faculty members and individuals with a deep passion for jazz music within the Philadelphia community. Under the direction of Chris Oatts and Josh Lee, both alumni of Temple, the ensemble brings a unique blend of talent and experience.

Uniting Talent in the World of Jazz at the Performing Arts Center

Ensemble Composition

The Swinging Owls is a diverse collective that encompasses a wide range of musical backgrounds. It's not just about Temple students; it's about bringing together people from different age groups and musical experiences. As Lee mentioned, it's made up of high schoolers alongside those who have played for four decades. This diversity allows them to showcase a rich tapestry of talent through their performances.They play the music of the swing era, which serves as the building blocks of big band jazz. Each piece they perform is a testament to their mastery of these standards and their ability to bring them to life.

Member Experiences

Guitarist Michael Myers, a member of the Swinging Owls, shared his journey of getting involved. He isn't fully in the music program at Temple but saw this as a great starting point. As he said, "When I asked an advisor, they said this was a great place to get started because the other bands are audition-only." This shows how accessible the group is and how it provides an opportunity for those with a passion for jazz to come together.Owen Krewson, a vocalist in the group and a student at the Boyer College of Music and Dance pursuing a degree in voice, also opened up about his experience. He mentioned, "With my lessons, the ensembles, and my few academic classes, I just balance that in itself. I do my work when I can and keep practicing." This highlights the importance of balance and dedication in pursuing a musical career while also being a part of the Swinging Owls.

Live Performances

On Monday, the ensemble treated the audience to a variety of jazz pieces. Through solos and group pieces, they showcased their exceptional talent. Each performance was a moment of pure musical magic, with the musicians seamlessly blending their individual skills to create a cohesive and captivating whole.The Swinging Owls are just one of the many exciting performances that students have the opportunity to witness live. To stay updated on more upcoming events at the Performing Arts Center, be sure to visit Temple's Calendar of Events.