Music is an artistic expression that is not only heard but also seen. Blues music can be played in the form of Jazz and rock 'n' roll and has become a popular use of instrumental expression.

"We do a Jazz Series annually, and we have a different topic every year. We have some sort of concert in the fall and spring." Jazz Ensembles director Robert Conger said.

The Jazz Lab Band and the internationally acclaimed Jazz Ensemble, directed by Rob Conger, are putting on the event titled Basically Blues. The music is going to focus on the Blues as an art form, and will be based on a 12-measure progression, which means there are 12 measures that tie together and then another 12 measures that tie together and in the end come to make one music piece.

"Some composers we will be using are Sammy Nestico, Count Basie, and Buddy Rich," Conger said.

Blues music started in the late 19th century. It started in the deep south of the United States, and has spread all over the world with performances and recordings.

"Live music from the live Jazz scene has a magic to it that you can't get from just a simple recording," Conger said. "The music is different when it is right in front of you, especially with our audience. We do our best to make the concert exciting and blood pumping."

One of the many student Soloists for the Jazz Ensemble is bass player Kyle Clay.

"The best thing about blues music is the freedom of the music, and for this concert, I am really looking forward to showing people that the blue's isn't just lazy bar music," Clay said. "It can be up-tempo swinging music with very challenging licks, or it can also be the most beautiful ballad."

Conger showcases student solos and gives the students a chance to shine during each concert.

"The students stand up and play their solos," Conger said. "My students are fine musicians and they all practice very hard. They continue to be challenged with every solo and piece given to them."

The band practiced twice a week to prepare for this event.

"The preparation has been going really well," Conger said. "I really love Jazz and I love my students. When we come in for practice we go straight to the music and get a lot of work done."

According to Clay, there is no extra pressure being a soloist.

"Music is a language and musicians express themselves through music," Clay said. "So, soloing is just our way of talking to each other and the audience. Soloing is your chance to put your personal touch into the song. It's a lot of fun."

Basically Blues will begin at 7:30p.m. on Oct. 27 at the Bedell Theater at Southeast Missouri State's River Campus. Tickets for this event and the entire Jazz series can be purchased at the Southeast box office or through metrotix.com.