The University of Arizona’s School of Music is bringing back an old favorite. The Rosewood Marimba Band returns after a 10-year absence, and will be holding a free performance Friday at 7:30 p.m. in Crowder Hall.

Kyle Maxwell-Doherty, a music graduate student, worked to reinstate the band.

“”Before the ensemble took a leave of absence, our ragtime band was well recognized nationally,”” Maxwell-Doherty said. “”I petitioned to bring it back to existence, so we held auditions, and here we are again.””

The concert will feature ragtime music from the 1920s and 1930s. Ragtime offered a polar opposite to the blues and jazz of the time, giving audiences fun, toe-tapping music.

“”It’s a lot of fun, lighthearted music. It isn’t what you normally hear on the radio, even on the AM stations. We all contribute to the music, so needless to say, we enjoy it quite a bit,”” Maxwell-Doherty said.

The band’s concert will be pure percussion, and spotlight a Deagan Artist Special Xylophone, an instrument which is nearing its 100th birthday. The group recently had the chance to work with champion percussionist Bob Becker. The concert will feature much of his and xylophonist George Hamilton Green’s contributions.

During the concert, band members rotate instruments, and each student will perform at least one solo while the rest of the band provide backup.

“”We also encourage our performers to improvise,”” Maxwell-Doherty said.  “”It’s difficult for a lot of first-timers to do, but it’s the highlight of the night when it’s done well.””

Whether you’re a veteral ragtime fan or a new convert, the Rosewood marimba Band guarantes a good time. “”It may not be your typical concert,”” said Maxwell-Doherty, “”but everybody always has so much fun that it’s impossible not to enjoy yourself.””

— Jordan Laliotis