MIAMI--- Grammy-nominee saxophonist, composer and arranger, Troy Roberts, joins the NWSA High School Jazz Combos, in a dynamic evening concert. With a total of 13 students, both combos will perform a mix of jazz standards and some of Troy’s original compositions. Concert will take place at First United Methodist Church of South Miami, October 29 at 7:00 PM (6565 SW 57 Avenue, Coral Gables). Admission to the concert is free.

"The program and level of musicianship here at New World School of the Arts really is a living affirmation to the fruitful future of this art form. I can’t wait to share the stage with these cats!!" eagerly affirmed Roberts who has been teaching a master class at NWSA this month.

Jim Gasior, Dean of Music and Director of Jazz Bands at NWSA, will direct the Combo One performance on October 29. “Troy is a master musician and a spirited mentor,” said Gasior, “our students will be deeply changed by his presence with us.” Combo Two will be directed by Fernando Ulibarri.

Troy Roberts began playing the saxophone at age 13, and was granted an early entrance into The West Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) at the age of 15. During this time, he won the PJS Encouragement Award for two consecutive years, performed at the 2000 Olympics, The Manly Jazz Festival, and other shows around Australia with the West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra. In 2001, he graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) degree winning the acclaimed Bob Wyllie Jazz Scholarship, the Melville Toyota Jazz Scholarship and the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship. The following year he completed an Honors Degree on a student exchange program at the University of Miami, studying with Ron Miller, Gary Keller, Whit Sidner, James Moody, Dave Leibman and Frank Foster. During that time, he also won 2 Downbeat Awards (“Outstanding Soloist” and “Best Group Performance”). Having composed an 8-part suite for jazz quartet and string quartet, Troy launched his latest album, “The XenDen Suite” in the USA whilst in L.A. as the only Australian semi-finalist in the 2008 Thelonious Monk International Saxophone Competition.

For more information about New World School of the Arts, visit nwsa.mdc.edu, or contact the Music Hotline at 305-237-7855.