The Manhattan School of Music Jazz Orchestra will present a free concert under the direction of composer and MSM faculty member Mike Holober. The ensemble, consisting of undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the Jazz Studies program, will perform selections from Holober’s critically acclaimed work “This Rock We’re On: Imaginary Letters.” A meditation on the beauty of nature and the fate of the planet, this multi-movement work features art songs set for chamber ensemble that take the form of imaginary letters to or from selected “protagonists” -- naturalist authors, artists, and activists who dedicated their lives to appreciating and protecting the earth we inhabit. Each of the vocal works is paired with an instrumental jazz orchestra piece that reflects upon the text of the letter.