Playing fast and loose at the 9th Philippine International Jazz Festival

Those who like hearing the soothing notes of the saxophone and all that jazz are in for a treat.

In keeping with the month-long 9th Philippine International Jazz Festival and alongside its very own Drum and Bugle Corps, Far Eastern University (FEU) will be presenting internationally-renowned The Executives Band and Hawaiian tenor saxophonist Reggie Padilla.

"FEU is proud to host the upcoming performances of these well-renowned jazz artists, The Executives Band and Reggie Padilla and to be part of the Philippine International Jazz Fest for six consecutive years," said Martin Lopez, director of the FEU-PCC.

The lineup

The Executives Band was initially a small group of professionals who got together after office hours to jam and relax. Formed in 1957, The Executive Band has toured around the Philippines, the US, and Europe. The group proudly counts personalities such as the late former senator and Foreign Affairs Secretary Raul Manglapus among its past members. Its present lineup is currently led by Manglapus' son Francis.

Padilla, meanwhile, is recognized as one of the finest and most creative players in the vibrant jazz scene in Honolulu, Hawaii. He has previously performed with Stephen Bishop and “Asia’s Nightingale” Lani Misalucha.

Lopez added, "We would like to invite everyone to listen to these talented artists and to our equally gifted Drum and Bugle Corps, and be soothed by the power of their music."

FEU's Drumline won 1st place in the 1st Philippine Drum Line Competition in December, 2013.

Events

Padilla will hold a workshop on saxophone playing. Following that, he, The Executives Band, and FEU's Drum and Bugle Corps will give what is expected to be a rousing a performance.

The event is free and open to the public.

For more information and to reserve seats, please call FEU-PCC at 736-4897 or visit www.facebook.com/FEU-PCC. — Vida Cruz/KBK, GMA News