Byron Stripling and Carmen Bradford in Concert at Sursa Performance Hall, Oct. 26

Byron Stripling and Carmen Bradford. Photo providedByron Stripling and Carmen Bradford. Photo provided

By BSU Communications—

MUNCIE, IN – The College of Fine Arts and School of Music at Ball State University will host a special jazz concert featuring renowned trumpeter Byron Stripling and acclaimed vocalist Carmen Bradford at 7:30 p.m. this Saturday, Oct. 26, at Sursa Performance Hall.

The concert, part of the University’s Arts Alive Series, is free and open to the public.

“At Ball State, we value world-class experiences in the arts,” said Dr. Seth Beckman, dean of the College of Fine Arts. “Through our Arts Alive programming, we are able to provide access to extraordinary events that highlight the transformative power of the arts. I’m thrilled that Byron Stripling and Carmen Bradford will be joining us for what promises to be an unforgettable evening of jazz.”

Mr. Stripling, known for his dynamic stage presence and powerful trumpet skills, has toured with the legendary Count Basie Orchestra, bringing jazz classics to life with his extraordinary talent and charisma. His performances are not only a tribute to the greats of jazz but also a showcase of his own unique style and improvisational prowess.

Ms. Bradford, a Grammy-nominated vocalist, has performed with top-tier ensembles such as the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, enchanting listeners with her warm, expressive voice and impeccable phrasing. She has shared the stage with icons like Wynton Marsalis and Doc Severinsen, demonstrating her versatility and artistry across various musical settings.

Arts Alive aims to make arts and entertainment more accessible to students and the surrounding community. The series includes events from Ball State’s David Owsley Museum of ArtEmens Auditorium, the School of Art, and the Department of Theatre and Dance.

To learn more, contact the College of Fine Arts at 765-285-5495 or CFAadmin@bsu.edu.

About Ball State

Founded in 1918 and located in Muncie, Ball State University is one of Indiana’s premier universities and an economic driver for the state. Ball State’s 20,000 students come from all over Indiana, the nation, and the world. The 790-acre campus is large enough to accommodate first-rate facilities and 19 NCAA Division I sports, but our welcoming and inclusive campus is small enough to ensure the friendliness, personal attention, and access that are the hallmarks of the University. Destination 2040: Our Flight Path establishes Ball State’s ambitious goals for our second century. We Fly!