Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo concert

The fall concert of Denison University’s Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo, directed by Pete Mills, will feature special guests Luis Deniz on saxophone and Roberto Occhipinti on bass. 

Deniz, a saxophonist, was born and raised in Cuba, where he started his music studies at the age of 10. He graduated from the National School of Arts in Havana in 2003 and moved to Toronto in 2004. Since then, he has been performing and teaching music and is currently on the faculty of both the University of Toronto and Humber College. 

Occhipinti, a bassist, was born in Toronto and is a well-established musician in the Canadian and international Jazz scene. He has won 5 Juno awards and is equally comfortable playing classical music, jazz, and world music. 

On Sunday, November 12, the Luis Deniz Quartet will perform at 7 p.m. in Burke Recital Hall. Occhipinti and Deniz have collaborated on various projects, including Deniz’s 2022 Juno-nominated album, “El Tinajon,” which is released through Occhipinti’s Modica Music label. The record encompasses all aspects of modern jazz, with a nod to Deniz’s Cuban heritage. On this evening, the duo will be accompanied by the renowned percussionist Jamey Haddad and the critically acclaimed pianist Andy Milne. The concert will showcase music from “El Tinajon” as well as selections from Roberto’s latest recordings. 

The concert scheduled for Sunday does not require tickets. However, the concert scheduled for Monday does require a ticket.