UH-Hilo presents seventh annual Frank Zappa tribute concert

The University of Hawaii at Hilo Jazz Orchestra’s Frank Zappa tribute concert returns for its seventh annual performance at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 11-12 at the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center.

This year’s show features Zappa songs never before played by the UH-Hilo Jazz Orchestra.

“We’ve got a really exciting set planned for this show,” said orchestra director Trever Veilleux. “It’s a great mix of accessible songs and face-melting instrumentals that show off the band’s talents. And this show isn’t only for Zappa fans; we often hear from audience members who were not familiar with Zappa that they love the show!”

A recurring favorite in Hilo, the orchestra’s Zappa tributes often are performed to sold-out crowds. The music takes a journey through hard rock, elegant jazz, delightfully bizarre neo-classical tangents, driving progressive adventures and soulful rhythm and blues, all culminating in a sound that can only be described as “Zappa.”

The orchestra has enjoyed worldwide recognition for its exciting performances of Zappa’s music and was invited to Germany to perform next summer. In 2017, Zappa’s son and Grammy award-winning guitarist Dweezil Zappa came to Hilo to perform with the band, and it earned the endorsement of Ahmet Zappa and the Zappa Family Trust.

The orchestra also is the subject of the documentary “Zappa U,” which follows the band in the months leading up to the 2016 Frank Zappa tribute concert.

Tickets are open seating. Prices are $12 general, $10 discount and $5 for students with a valid ID and children 17 years old and younger. Advance ticket purchase is recommended.

For more information or to order tickets, contact the UH-Hilo Performing Arts Center box office at 932-7490 or rtscenter.uhh.hawaii.edu.