Woodring, originally from the Chicago area, had an early interest for music and the art of playing drums. However, he said joining the jazz band in high school helped him to recognize that interest on a greater scale as well as develop a passion for it. He started playing gigs when he was about 15 years old, and considers music extremely satisfying.

“It gives me happiness. What I’m doing tonight makes me feel like I’m fulfilling a huge part of my purpose in life,” Woodring said.

Like Woodring, Kendrick also had an early passion for music, beginning piano lessons when he was about five years old. He said music and the piano has always been an enjoyable activity for him.

Kendrick teaches an improvisation class at MSU, as well as some private classes and a piano lab for non-pianists. He said he often notices a sense of fear and insecurity in many music students and hopes his teaching will help them conquer it.

“It was something I never intended to teach while growing up, but in the arts there’s a lot of insecurity,” Kendrick said.

“I always tell my students not to let fear get in the way, and recklessly abandon practicality.”

(SCENE) Metrospace Director Tim Lane said the event was an opportunity for the local, emerging jazz group to present their material in a public setting and offer a relaxing night out to the locals.

“My hope is that jazz lovers will take this opportunity to step away from their regular routines and enjoy some jazz while supporting these emerging musicians,” Lane said.

“It’s important for emerging musicians to perform for a live audience.”

The Wednesday night concert was the first leg of a back-to-back event at (SCENE) Metrospace, with an electric act featuring Nathan Alan, Chemical Edge and special guest DL Rossi. The concert begins at 9 p.m. on Thursday, with tickets sold at the door for $5.