On March 15, 2018, Chabot College Jazz Ensemble performed an amazing Salsa Concert with special guests, vocalist Michelle Talley and the Even Swing Big Band, directed by Jon Palacio Jr. at the Performing Arts Center.

From the very beginning, the audience was encouraged to dance on the dance floor that was provided for them. Individuals of all ages took advantage of it while being serenaded by Michelle Talley and enjoying the rhythms of the Jazz Ensemble.

Michelle Talley, the vocalist of the night, is an upcoming Jazz artist with a passion for the stage. Opening with “Mama Guela” composed by Jon Palacio Jr. really got the crowd moving. Talley has a B.A. in Theater from the University of Santa Cruz. She’s been traveling and singing for about ten years now which led her from The House of Blues in L.A. to the many venues the San Francisco Bay Area has to offer. Be on the lookout for Talley. She’ll surely make a huge impact in the Bay Area jazz scene.

Things ended on a great note with the performance of the Even Swing Big Band. Their momentum didn’t slow down one bit when they performed hit after hit. The crowd’s favorites were “Save the Last Dance for me” and “All The Things You Are” which were composed by Jon Palacio Sr. and Jon Palacio Jr. respectively. There were individuals still dancing the night away, and you could hear the disappointment of the crowd when the band finished their set.

If you haven’t been to the Jazz Ensemble concerts here at Chabot College before, you’re missing out! The next shows are scheduled on May 10, 2018, with The Jazz Combo Concert at the Recital Hall. On May 17, 2018, The Big Band Concert with special guest, Francisco Torres is scheduled at the Performing Arts Center. Support the Arts here at Chabot! You will not be disappointed.