The Wengert Jazz Artist Concert Series

Wengert Jazz Series 2025–26

The Wengert Jazz Artist Concert Series is made possible by local LVC friend and jazz enthusiast, Rich Wengert, who established and made generous donations to the Strohman Fund for Jazz Studies.

Harrisburg Jazz Collective performs

Harrisburg Jazz Collective

Sunday, October 12 | 3 p.m. | Big Band Summit: LVC’s Valley Jazz Orchestra Homecoming Concert with the Harrisburg Jazz Collective

About the Harrisburg Jazz Collective

The Harrisburg Jazz Collective (formerly the River City Big Band) was formed in 2014 by pianist Steve Rudolph & trumpeter Bill Perbetsky (’81). The ensemble is a classic 16-piece jazz orchestra (4 trumpets, 4 trombones, 5 saxes, piano, bass, and drums) made up of the finest professional musicians in the region, some of whom are alumni of Lebanon Valley College. Their repertoire consists of classic big-band compositions by Thad Jones, Bob Florence, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Stan Kenton, Buddy Rich, Woody Herman and more, plus original compositions and arrangements from members and friends.

John Riley on drums

John Riley

Thursday, December 4 | Masterclass, 11 a.m. | Concert with the Valley Jazz Orchestra, 7:30 p.m.

About John Riley

Grammy-award winning and internationally-renowned drummer, John Riley, joins the Valley Jazz Orchestra as the featured guest artist for their annual fall concert. Featured on well over a hundred recordings, Riley is considered one of jazz’s leading drummers, having performed with many other legendary world-class jazz musicians. For over 30 years he has owned the drum chair in the celebrated Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.

Aaron Parks plays piano

Aaron Parks Trio

Tuesday, February 3 | Masterclass, 11 a.m. | Concert, 7:30 p.m.

Note: This is a ticketed event.

About Aaron Parks Trio

Critically acclaimed pianist and composer Aaron Parks brings his trio to LVC, featuring Ben Street on bass and Billy Hart on drums.

Ingrid Jensen plays trumpet

Ingrid Jensen

April 29–May 1 | Masterclass & Concert(s)

About Ingrid Jensen

Internationally renowned trumpeter/composer Ingrid Jensen is LVC’s 2026 Jazz Artist-in-Residence. During her residency, she will present a masterclass, meet with students, and give a concert with The Valley Jazz Orchestra and Faculty Jazz Group. Jensen has been hailed as one of the most gifted trumpeters of her generation. As a sought-out teacher, collaborator, and soloist, it is easy to see why the New York Times calls her “as versatile as she is vigorous.”

More LVC Jazz Happenings 2025–26

  • August 30, 2 p.m. | The Valley Jazz Orchestra, Play Music on Your Porch Day, Mt. Gretna.
  • September 14, 3 p.m. | Rebecca Lister Recital w/Faculty Jazz Group
  • September 30, 11 a.m. | Common Hour Jazz
  • October 19, 3 p.m. | Larry Marshall Trio
  • October 28, 11 a.m. | Common Hour Jazz
  • November 20, 7:30 p.m. | Contemporary Styles Combo and Workshop Concert
  • February 14, 7 p.m. | Valley Jazz Orchestra Concert, Hershey Area Playhouse
  • March 13, 7:30 p.m. | Faculty Jazz Album Release Concert w/Alan Ferber?
  • March 24, 11 a.m. | Common Hour Jazz
  • April 23, 7:30 p.m. | Contemporary Styles Combo and Workshop Concert