Kansas University’s Jazz Ensemble I has been honored with an invitation to the 42nd Annual Montreux Jazz Festival next month in Switzerland. The invitation to this festival is presented to only a few collegiate jazz ensembles in the world annually.

“The invitation to the Montreux Jazz Festival represents an exceptional opportunity for our KU students to perform on an international stage,” said Dan Gailey, KU director of Jazz Studies.

In its 42nd year, this event is considered one of the biggest jazz festivals in the world. This year’s lineup of concert artists includes such internationally known names as Quincy Jones, Paul Simon, Herbie Hancock, Tower of Power and more.

The Jazz Ensemble I will perform twice at Montreux during the July 15-16 festival, and will schedule other performances in Switzerland and Germany as well.

KU Jazz Ensemble I, directed by Gailey since 1990, has enjoyed a reputation of musical excellence since its inception in 1971.

For more information, call 864-3436.