Aberdeen, S.D. –The South Dakota Jazz Festival Concert will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb 29, in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Harvey and Cynthia Jewett Theater at Northern State University.

The concert will feature performances by the Two O’Clock Jazz Ensemble, directed by Northern Professor of Music Dr. Grant Manhart. Guest artists will include local jazz musician Ron Parker, piano; Northern Assistant Professor of Music Fritz Hemke, saxophones; and other local talent.  

The concert will include several styles of big band jazz and Latin jazz, which will feature brothers Paulo Daniel Jimenez and Ever Fernando Jimenez, who are Northern  alumni and originally from Cochabamba, Bolivia. Daniel is pursuing an eventual professorship in world music and percussion and will perform on various percussion instruments. Fernando, more commonly referred to as Fer, will play electric and upright bass.

Daniel and Fer will be working with high school and middle school bands at the festival during the day. These performances and clinics are free and open to the public, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Ever "Fer" Fernando Jimenez, left, and Paulo Daniel Jimenez, right.

Fer pursued his studies in computer science in Bolivia while simultaneously exploring his love for music. He then moved to Aberdeen, South Dakota to study music, which had always been his real passion. Fer holds a degree in music performance from Northern State University. 

Having returned to his hometown of Cochabamba after graduation from Northern, Fer emerged as an active and influential figure in the local music scene. His notable presence has been felt through his participation in prestigious jazz festivals, including the renowned Llajta Jazz and Festijazz. These esteemed platforms have provided Fer with invaluable opportunities to showcase his musical talents.

Fer currently is a member of Moonlight Jazz Quartet (contemporary jazz), DeAnima Jazz Trio (jazz fusion) and he also works as a freelance musician with artists from all over Bolivia. Presently, Fer is the proud proprietor of a music instrument store that collaborates extensively with numerous companies, primarily based in the United States and Asia. 

Daniel has made an indelible mark on the world of music and currently serves as a music educator in Summit, South Dakota, where his passion for teaching and innovative approach inspire students to explore their musical potential. 

As the only music teacher in the school, Daniel teaches general music, choir and band, where he skillfully nurtures their talents and fosters a deep appreciation for music. Beyond the classroom, Daniel's musical journey extends to his work as a versatile freelance musician. Operating from his home studio, he showcases his exceptional skills as a session drummer, lending his artistry to diverse recording projects. 

Notably, he has graced prestigious festivals like Llajtajazz and Festijazz Bolivia. Daniel has performed with esteemed musical groups, including the renowned "D-Jazz Big Band," where he served as a guest artist, and "Sabor Del Sur," which performed for the Levitt Sioux Falls Foundation. In addition to his teaching and performing endeavors, 

Daniel's expertise as a clinician has earned him acclaim. He has been invited to present at esteemed events such as the South Dakota Music Educators Association (SDMEA), Bandmasters conference, All-State band, and MRVED, where his valuable insights and guidance inspire fellow musicians and educators. 

Daniel holds a bachelor's degree in music education from Northern State University, a testament to his unwavering dedication to both music and education. With his multifaceted contributions as a musician, educator, and clinician, Daniel continues to make waves in the music community, leaving an enduring impact on the lives of those he encounters.

Ticket Information

Tickets for the Jazz Festival concert will be available at the door. Cost is $10 for adults and $5 for children. Northern students are admitted for free with student ID. The concert is also an Aberdeen Community Concert for those who have purchased tickets to the concert series.
For more information, please contact Manhart at grant.manhart@northern.edu.