Uncommon Ground is now in its fourteenth consecutive season of great music-making.  It originated with the intent to provide an outlet for outstanding vocal jazz singing and study in a small group setting.  It performs a variety of jazz literature both unaccompanied and with a rhythm combo.  Members are exposed to various singing styles including Swing, Blues, Funk, Latin, Doo Wop, Pop and Solo Styling.

           Up until the past two years, Vocal Jazz was a for-credit ensemble, and Dr. Lauren Fowler-Calisto, director of choral studies at Christopher Newport University, served as the musical director of the ensemble, challenging the group with difficult, exciting repertoire and practice of improvisation that pushed her students to continue learning about this distinctly American art form.  In 2009, in the wake of the economic crisis, the ensemble was unfortunately discontinued in the Department of Music, but rather than simply ceasing to perform, the remaining members of Uncommon Ground took ownership of their group and worked with the CNU Office of Student Activities to create it as a student-run organization.

          Come and enjoy a wonderful concert from a university program that provides excellence in music.  The concert is open to the public.  A free-will offering will be received and a reception follows the concert.