Birch Creek Music Performance Center in Egg Harbor continues to keep the beat of the Big Band Jazz session, but you will notice one important person missing from the faculty ensemble. Drummer Bob Chmel passed away earlier this year after a distinguished music career with over 30 years of faculty experience at Birch Creek Music Performance Center. In addition to playing at Birch Creek, the Kent State University played with the likes of the Glenn Miller Band and Frank Sinatra, Jr. Executive Director Mona Christensen says Chmel had an immense knowledge and passion for jazz music, something he made sure to pass onto his students and audiences.

Tickets are still available at Birch Creek Music Performance Center when they host a special memorial concert in his honor on Friday.  You can listen to our full interview with Christensen by clicking this link. 

Picture courtesy of Birch Creek Music Performance Center