Gretchen R. Iben Arts Series Presents:

The HAT Trio

Sunday | March 9 | 4:00 p.m.

The HAT Trio takes a fresh look at the classic piano, guitar, and bass configuration, drawing on influences from the jazz and classical worlds to explore some of music’s unmarked pathways.

Guitarist Dr. George Turner has performed and recorded music ranging from traditional jazz with some of Illinois’ most established players, contemporary jazz with the Bloomington-based Kevin Hart and the Vibe Tribe, Brazilian music with the Champaign-based Samba Soul, to the poly-stylistic approach of the Champaign-based Almost “A” Quintet.

The group’s pianist Whitney Ashe has performed with jazz luminaries Vincent Herring, Eric Alexander, and Tommy Igoe and has composed for The Capitol Saxophone Quartet, Christopher Creviston and The Rivertown Duo.

Bassist Matt Hughes, a veteran of jazz legend Betty Carter’s working band, has performed with Elvin Jones, Jack DeJohnette, Jimmy Heath, Max Weinberg, and the Duke Ellington Orchestra.

The trio began performing as a unit in Macomb, Illinois where all three are professors of music at Western Illinois University.

View the full program here!

“Throughout the week, there are many worldly things pulling me away from my commitment to God.  I come to church on Sunday at Westminster to reconnect and renew my relationship with Him.  Part of my worship is to ask him for forgiveness for my lack of faithfulness.  I leave, reminded that he loves me, forgives me, and walks beside me every day.  What a profound blessing that is!”