January 13, 2009 — Han Bennink, a renowned jazz drummer from the Netherlands known for his humor and theatricality, will hold a performance and master class Jan. 19 at the University of Virginia.

The event, presented by the Charlottesville Jazz Society in conjunction with U.Va.'s McIntire Department of Music and WTJU-FM, will be held from 7 to 9 p.m. at U.Va.'s Garrett Hall. It is free to both U.Va. and high school students; tickets are $10 for the general public.

Bennink was a co-founder of the long-standing ICP Orchestra – for "Instant Composers Pool" – and has appeared on hundreds of recordings throughout his long career. He is one of those rare musicians whose abilities and interests span the entire jazz spectrum, from Dixieland to free.

He has performed and recorded with jazz musicians such as Dexter Gordon and Sonny Rollins, as well as European improvisers such as Peter Brotzman, Derek Bailey and Willem Breuker. A graphic artist by training, his work includes sculptures from found objects, and he often designs his own CD covers. He was recently awarded the prestigious Hans Koller European Jazz Prize for 2008.

The event in Garrett Hall will begin with a performance by Bennink and his frequent collaborator, violinist Mary Oliver, also of the ICP Orchestra. They will then be joined by other jazz musicians from the area, including Chapman Stick artist Greg Howard.

The master class will be held from about 8 to 9 p.m. Student musicians of all interests are encouraged to bring their instruments and take advantage of this opportunity to learn from one of the world's greatest jazz musicians.

Tickets will only be available at the door, beginning at 6:30 p.m.

For directions to Garrett Hall and more information, see the Charlottesville Jazz Society's Web site, WTJU’s Web site, or call 434-249-6191.