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Galvanized Jazz Band back at The Millpond

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Photo by Ben Wilson

The Galvanized Jazz Band Plays Millpond Again   


by Jean Hadley,  Northford, CT

 

January 3, 1971 was the first time the GJB plaid Millpond Tavern in Northford.
After playing 34 years every Sunday night, Millpond closed in 2005. This was not only a huge disappointment for Freddy Vigorito and his band but also their fans.

For the past 17 years, the GJB has continued to play many gigs here in Connecticut, and for several years the band has been busy playing here in Hamden the third Sunday of each month.  Also, the GJB has played Clearwater. Florida’s Suncoast Jazz Festival many times.  They have once again been invited to play Suncoast’s November 2022 Festival.   Make a reservation, support the band and OKOM.

When I heard the Millpond was being restored to its former New England beauty, I immediately called Freddy and asked his permission to call the owner; requesting he consider bringing back the GJB.  Because of Covid, the opening was delayed a year or so.  Finally, Millpond opened its doors Sunday, June 12th to 175 enthusiastic fans anxious to welcome back the GJB.  The response was so great that the original Tavern venue could not accommodate all the people therefore, the location was changed to a much larger venue.

As the crowd gathered, one could hear the chatter and excitement of the fans.

The return of the GJB, seeing friends, reminiscing about old Tavern times brought back memories of the 51 years the GJB has been on the scene.

The evening started out with Bourbon Street Parade which brought out the parasols and, a very loud and cheering crowd.  Parasols, a New Orleans tradition, always create a festive mood.

Freddy’s selection of songs provided a wonderful evening of entertainment.  Songs like Basin Street Blues, Swing That Music and A Hundred Years (vocals by Jim Fryer) were delivered with wonderful artistry.  It was especially touching to hear Jim’s rendition of A Hundred Years as this was Spiegel Willcox’s signature song. More wonderful numbers filled the air and dance floor.  Memories of You,  Memphis Blues, China Town, Tiger Rag and so many more to remind us that OKOM is still very much alive and well.

 To the delight of the fans, Mark Vigorito (cornet) joined his dad on stage.  This was a very touching experience for Freddy’s fans.  We all remember when Mark was a youngster in the audience with his mother Linda.  Tempus fugit!!

 When Tom Palinko (drummer) hit the drums with Big Noise from Winettka, you could hear a pin drop.  His artistry, on drums, is hard to duplicate.  At his finish, the roar of the crowd was deafening.

Last but not least, as always we were entertained by our GJB icon Joel Schiavone.

With his trusty banjo, microphone and his vocals, Joel delighted us with his medley of familiar Sing Along tunes that the audience welcomed with strong voice and much appreciation.  Who can forget You are my Sunshine, Bye, Bye Blackbird, Heart of my Heart and the many others that brought back memories?

The evening came to a close with Joel singing The Battle Hymn, When Day is Done and the band ending with Panama and The Saints.  Parasols et al!!

A  good time was had by all and now we are looking forward to another evening of wonderful entertainment by the Galvanized Jazz Band at the new and beautiful Millpond Gathering, Sunday September, 11, 2022.  Please join us! 

Fred Vigorito (leader…Cornet)         Mark Vigorito (Cornet)
Russ Whitman (Clar…Sax)               Noel Kaletsky (Clar…Sax)
Charlie Freeman (Piano)                 Jim Fryer (Tromb…Ufonium,)
Joel Schiavone (Banjo…Vocals)      Art Hovey (Bass.Tuba)
Tom Palinko (Drummer)

Photos by:  Joan Boutelle, Ben Wilson, Art Hovey

Our Organization

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Marce

Marce Enright

Contact: marce@nejazz.com

Marce, New England Traditional Jazz Plus,
33 Birmingham Court, Milford MA 01757
— Passionate about Dixieland and Traditional Jazz, and other Jazz that touches your soul.  My purpose is to let you know where to find it in New England.  You can help by sending information on Bands and Venues that play our kind of music!

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/marce.enright

 

 

Primavera Thursday Night Jazz Schedule

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Picture of Primavera entrance

Primavera Ristorante

Thursday Jazz Is Pleased to Present
Jazz at Primavera Ristorante   www.primav.com/
20 Pleasant St. Millis MA 02054
Reservations (508) 376-2026
7:00 to 9:30pm   Admission $12  

All Jazz on Hold until Future Notice

2020

 March
  5             Blue Horizon Jazz Band
  12           Dixie Diehards
  19           Eli and The Hot Six  
  26           Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones

 April
  2             Blue Horizon Jazz Band
  9             Riverboat Stompers
16           Eli and The Hot Six
   23          Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones
   30          Saturday Afternoon Trio

 May
   7            Blue Horizon Jazz Band
  14           Dixie Diehards
  21           Eli and The Hot Six 
  28           Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones

 June
  4             Blue Horizon Jazz Band
  11           Riverboat Stompers
  18           Eli and The Hot Six 
  25           Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones

American Jazz from the Roaring 1920’s through the Swing Era of the 1940’s. Come Enjoy Hot and Authentic Dixieland, New Orleans,Chicago style and Big Band music for listening and dancing.

$12 admission will be collected in cash by the hostess seating you. We apologize but we cannot charge the admission to your credit card.  Resv.  (508) 376-2026

                     All arranged by Ellen McDonald.  Thank you, Ellen!!

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Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones

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4 piece band and vocalist

Sarah Gardner sass ‘n Bones

Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones at Primavera Ristorante, January 23, 2020
Sarah Gardner leader/vocals, Jeff Hughes trumpet, John Clark clarinet/alto sax, Herb Gardner piano, Al Bernard helicon

It was a Hot Time in the ol’ Town Thursday, January 23rd!  The Band played great Jazz and Swing,  bolstered by a lively audience of local  musicians and fans.

John on alto sax

John Clark

 

 

 

John Clark resurrected  Benny Goodman on clarinet with That’s a Plenty, and energetic alto sax on Crazy ‘Bout My Baby .

 

 

 

 

Jeff with paper boy cap on backwards on trumpetards

Jeff Hughes

 

 

Jeff Hughes trilling on Them There Eyes, then playing soft, soulful, muted trumpet on I Surrender Dear.

He is constantly listening, softly backing Sarah’s vocals.

 

 

 

Al playing helicon mostly hidden by music stand

Al Bernard

 

 

Al Bernard kept the beat on helicon, never missed a note! Filling in for lack of drums – Bill Reynolds couldn’t make it.

 

 

 

Pops sits back smiling

Herb “Pops” Gardner

 

 

 

Pops Herb Gardner, having played at Eddy Condon’s in NY, knows tunes inside out.  He picked the keys, hands flying back and forth across the keyboard.

 

 

 

Pretty blond Sarah in black dress head back and smiling

Sarah Gardner

 

Sarah kept it all together. She has a clear idea of what she wants to do with a song, but is flexible and adapts to what is happening around her.

She varied songs between Peggy Lee, Boswell Sisters, Billie Holiday,  taking from the American Songbook.

 

 

 

She persuaded Pops to sing Sentimental Gentleman from Georgia.

Note that Sarah Sass ‘n Bones will be back at Primavera on February 27th.

Riverboat Stompers will end January at Primavera on January 30th.  Join us?

 

Steve Taddeo’s Swing Senders with Fred Vigorito and Noel Kaletsky 23 November 2019

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Steve Taddeo’s Swing Senders with Fred Vigorito and Noel Kaletsky

Fred Vigorito cornet, Dave Whitney trumpet, Noel Kaletsky clarinet/soprano and alto sax, Henry ‘Thins’ Francis piano, Ron l’Herault trombone, Dave Zox bass, Steve Taddeo and Tessa Allia drums

Fred Vigorito in black jacket and red tie talks into mic

Fred Vigorito Director

Steve Taddeo announced the Swing Senders Band, then stepped aside and let Fred Vigorito direct the rest of the evening, picking out the songs and musicians to play them.

Fred Vigorito (Galvanized Jazz Band)  and Noel Kaletsky (Bill’s Seafood All Stars) have never been here before;  but when they hit a few notes on Indiana with The Swing Senders, everything  crystallized!

Fred remembered that when he was with the Easy Riders in 1964, Barry Goldwater asked if they knew that song.  They did not, but changed that immediately and played it for him when he was running for President.  Back Home Again In Indiana.

Basin St. Blues.   Ron L’Herault  trombone and vocals – and closing with a superb coda.

Basin Street

Freddy said the Galvanized Jazz Band used a different trombone player every week at the Chowder Pot in Connecticut, where they played for close to 30 years.  Using the finest trombonist in the country gave the band a new sound every time. Galvanized is  now featured once a month at Aunt Chilada’s, 3931 Whitney Ave, Hamden, CT

He asked Ron if he knew the Original Dixieland Jazz Band One step.  They all did.  Noel took out the soprano sax.  Taddeo tapped drums in background.
Without a pause, they segued into Fidgety Feet.

Dixie Jass Band One Step

1923 The New Orleans Rhythm Kings played Tin Roof Blues.  Noel and Clark both played it on clarinet.  Lovely! Tessa Alia was on drums.

Steve Taddeo  was featured on the Jack Palmer / Spencer Williams 1926 tune,
Found a New Baby.  Drummer Tessa Allia watches him!

 

Noel and Fred singing, Fred holding mic

Noel and Fred “sing”.

 

 

We could feel the musical energy building!

Fred said “How do we follow THAT?”    “with Two singers who can’t sing.”  Fred and Noel sang The Sheik of Araby, with the audience chipping in “Without Your Pants On”.

 

 

Dave Whitney took the vocal on Baby, Won’t You Please Come Home? With Fred and Dave trading 4’s. Clark and Noel on saxes. Fred closing with soft cornet.

Fred and Dave trading fours, Dave Zox background

Harold McAleer videotaping every tune!

There was much discussion among the musicians before they began the 1922 China Boy featuring Noel on soprano sax.

China Boy

Steve talked about drumming from 1938 to today, with a tribute to Buddy Schutz who played with the Benny Goodman Quartet.

The front line played the first chorus of Pagan Love Song, with Clark on clarinet and Noel on alto sax.  Thins marvelous piano. The band stepped up a key, all in unison.  They are so incredibly skilled on their instruments, making impromptu improvisations!  Thin’s piano prodding marvelous sounds out of the piano.

Henry ‘Thins’ Francis and John Clark were featured on the first 16 bars of Eubie Blake’s Memories of You, with each of the members taking unique solos.

They blew the roof off with the  1911 Panama – with Clark on bari sax, front line blazing, raising an octave, up, up, and up,  repeating the ending three times!  Awesome!

The Band plays a ferocious Panama!

Nearing closing time – nobody wanted to stop, they encored with a Hot, Swing That Music, John Clark on vocal, two clarinets, Dave Zox playing like angel wings!

Tessa Allia

 

Steve put Tessa Allia on drums.  Tessa goes to the Kennedy School in Waltham and is one of Steve;s students.  Marvelous young lady.  Steve Taddeo surprised us by singing – Flat Foot Floogie with a Floy Floy.

 

 

Steve Taddeo sings Flat Foot Floogie with a Floy Floy

 

 

 

 

 

 

Calming things down, Dave Whitney sang Louis Armstrong’s 1929 Black and Blue,

Dave Zox playing double bass

Dave Zox

 

 

 

 

Dave Zox was free swinging  on Condon’s Oh Baby;  it was like pouring hot fudge over marble!

 

 

 

Fred announced they would do two Armstrong tunes, then anything was possible!
They began with an instrumental Sleepy Time Down South, Whitney’s trumpet remarkably close to Louis.  Then they did the last eight bars of Old Rocking Chair’s Got Me with Whitney singing, Tessa Allia drumming.

It was closing time, but nobody was leaving.  We were in solid anticipation of whatever would come next.

Fred announced a “Lucky Strike Extra”.  He called on Cole Bocciarelli, a young trumpeter from Connecticut, the son of a bass player (now playing with Hartford Jazz Orchestra at The Arch St. Tavern  Monday nights.)   Cole joined the band on High Society, playing splendid cornet, with Noel and John Clark taking turns doing Alphonse Picou’s soliloquy, then all the brass playing it together,  Incredible!

young trumpeter joins the band

Cole Boccoarelli joins the Band for High Society.

Whew! But that wasn’t the end.

Fred said he’d always wanted to do Rudy Valley’s version of the Kid Thomas Orchestra, I’m Confessing That I Love You.   Tessa was back at the drums, all by herself.

John Clark on bari sax, Noel Kaletsky on soprano sax

John Clark and Noel Kaletsky on Bechet tune

 

 

 

They closed with both Noel on soprano sax and John on bari sax, always a hell-raiser, on Sidney Bechet’s Si Tu Vois Ma Mere.

Took our breath away!!

 

 

What a marvelous evening – none of us could have anticipated how great this would be.   Fred and Noel thoroughly enjoyed being here and asked to return again.

Steve Taddeo is planning on repeating this evening – bringing in more great musicians from all over the country to Bemis Hall, 15 Bedford Road, Lincoln MA.   If he has his way,  with the help of Harold McAleer, Lincoln’s  Bemis Hall will become a place in New England to hear Our Kind of Music.   Stay tuned!

Jimmy Mazzy Inducted in Banjo Hall of Fame

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Most beloved and respected banjo and vocalist in the world of traditional jazz.”

Jimmy Mazzy   September 6th 2019
Inducted in the American Banjo Hall of Fame, Oklahoma City

Jimmy’s performance:
https://www.facebook.com/American.Banjo.Museum/videos/361844881432742/

Awards Ceremony: Jimmy’s life is described  at the end – 4:51 or -5
https://www.facebook.com/American.Banjo.Museum/videos/433675577246819/

JIMMY MAZZY – Four-String Performance – Mazzy is one of America’s best known traditional jazz banjoists and vocalists and has been a popular attraction in the traditional jazz circuit since the 1970s. Mazzy has performed extensively in the United States and worldwide, regularly appearing at jazz festivals including the Sacramento, San Diego, Essex, and several Connecticut festivals.

AMERICAN BANJO MUSEUM
http://www.americanbanjomuseum.com/
9 E Sheridan Ave, Oklahoma City, OK 73104

A National Treasure in downtown Oklahoma City. The American Banjo Museum contains over 300 banjos on display and is the only museum of its type dedicated to preserving and promoting the music and heritage of America’s native musical instrument – the…moreA National Treasure in downtown Oklahoma City. The American Banjo Museum contains over 300 banjos on display and is the only museum of its type dedicated to preserving and promoting the music and heritage of America’s native musical instrument – the…more

Alison Brown, Jimmy Mazzy, John Hartford, Bob Snow, Janet Davis and Johnny Baier will be inducted into the American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame during gala ceremonies to be held on Friday, September 6th, 2019 in Oklahoma City as part of the American Banjo Museum’s BANJO FEST weekend. In addition to the Hall of Fame gala, BANJO FEST will include informal performances, jamming, parties and a very special BANJO FEST concert. With details of this fun-filled weekend still in the works, save the dates of September 5-8, 2019 for BANJO FEST 2019 in Oklahoma City.    http://www.americanbanjomuseum.com/hall-of-fame-celebration

 

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jimmy Mazzy is a traditional jazz banjo player and vocalist.

According to jazz writer Scott Yanow, he “has been a popular attraction in the trad jazz circuit since the late ’70s.”[1] He has performed extensively in the United States and worldwide, appearing at jazz festivals across the country including the Sacramento, San Diego, Essex, and several Connecticut festivals. He is a member of The Paramount Jazz Band and the Wolverine Jazz band and also freelances with other groups including the Yankee Rhythm Kings, the Magnolia Jazz Five, and the Back Bay Ramblers.

In 2002, he was voted the No. 1 traditional jazz banjoist, and No. 2 male singer in the Jazzology and Mississippi Rag readership polls.[2] Mazzy has performed regularly with Jeff Hughes, John Clark, Stan McDonald, Ross Petot and many other traditional jazz musicians.

 

Eli and The Hot Six at Primavera Ristorante, June 20, 2019

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Phil Person trumpet, Ted Casher reeds, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter piano, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Eli Newberger tuba, Bob Tamagni drums,

Eli and The Hot Six

Phil Person trumpet, Ted Casher reeds, Herb Gardner trombone, Bob Winter piano, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Eli Newberger tuba, Bob Tamagni drums, Carolyn Newberger washboard, Elaine Woo vocals

The Hot Six kicked it off with one of our favorites, Limehouse Blues.  

Elaine Woo stepped up to sing Mandy, Make Up Your Mind, a song she never heard  before.  Reading notes,  getting into the tune (as she always does) gesticulating, making eye contact with Jeannine James and me, sitting front and center.

Holding mic, head back, singing her heart out

Elaine Woo

 

Eli leads with a bold spirit that encourages spontaneity and creativity.  He asked the members to do the next tune like Sidney Bechet did it, with the front line playing very slowly, while rhythm section played in double time.  Result was an unbelievable  Down By The Old Mill Stream.

Tamagni drumming with both hands on snare drum

Bob Tamagni

 

 

 

Innovative drummer Bob Tamagni, drummed with his hands, while Jimmy Mazzy sang Nobody Knows You When You’re Down And Out.

 

 

 

Elaine introduced Belinda Rathbone  for an obscure tune by Johnny Mercer, Legalize My Name.   Elaine talked about composer Harold Arlen, who composed  Get Happy.  Later she introduced Nat Coolidge for a vocal on Summertime. She followed with I’ve Got a Crush on You and Nice Work if You Can Get it

The videos will show you how tight and hard driving these musicians are, how they listen to each other and to Eli, and play amazing music.

Ted Casher played smoldering tenor sax on Our Love is Here to Stay:

how tight and hard-driving
Never get enough of that tenor sax!

at keyboard, hands flying into the air

Bob Winter

 

 

 

Bob Winter was featured on keyboard with a tune between Klezmer and Dixie – Lena From Palistina.

 

 

 

 

 

Instrumental – Royal Garden Blues

 

up front of band playing trombone

Herb Gardner

 

 

 

Herb Gardner was featured on trombone and vocal with a tune by James P. Johnson and Andy Razaf, Porter’s Love Song to a Chambermaid.

 

 

 

 

What followed was a fantastic Washington and Lee Swing.

 

 

Jimmy singing into mic and playing banjo, with Eli playing tuba behind him

Jimmy Mazzy with Eli Newberger

 

 

 

Our one-and-only Jimmy Mazzy played and sang Stars Fell on Alabama. We are so fortunate to have him here in Massachusetts!!

 

 

 

 

Carolyn Newberger popped in at the last minute, just returned from setting up her Watercolors Art showing  at The Becket Arts Center in the Berkshires:  Opening reception, July 14, 2-4 pm.  She brought the washboard and joined in on I’m Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover.

Carolyn at left, with full band, Eli pointing to her

Carolun Newberger on washboard with The Hot Six

The evening was brought to a close with Jimmy singing Indiana.

Eli and The Hot Six are  here at Primavera every 3rd Thursday of the month with fabulous Jazz and Swing.  Join us next month on July 18th at 7pm.
You’ll always find Jeannine and me sitting front and center.

Marce

Tunes:

Limehouse Blues,
Mandy, Make Up Your Mind,
Old Man River,
Nobody Knows You when You’re Down and Out,
Legalize My Name,
Get Happy,
Lena From Palestina,
Our Love Is Here To Stay,
Porter’s Love Song To a Chamber Maid,
Washington & Lee Swing

VOCAL Set
Summertime,
I’ve Got a Crush on You,
Nice Work if You Can Get It,

Royal Garden Blues,
Stars Fell on Alabama,
I’m Looking Over a Four Leaf Clover,  Carolyn washboard
Indiana

Riverboat Stompers at Primavera May 30, 2019

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Neil Flewelling/cornet, Phil Hower piano, Dave MacMillan banjo, Blair Bettencourt clarinet/mini sax, Frank Batchelor trombone, Gerry Gagnon tuba, Rich Malcolm drums

by Marce

Riverboat Stompers blew the roof off  Primavera Ristorante, playing Our Kind Of Music – Traditional Jazz!  They don’t waste any time –  play one tune after another, many, many great tunes! (See list below.)    Neil Flewelling, cornet,   Gerry Gagnon on tuba,  Dave MacMillan filling in for Jimmy Mazzy, singing and strumming a fine banjo.

They hit the ground running with Darktown Strutters Ball.  Neil sang When You’re Smiling, Rich Malcolm keeping time – drumming with his hands.  Avalon was even Hotter, ensemble parts twining around each other.  Dave took the vocal on From Monday On.

Blair is a very large man, fine musician, here playing a mini-sax. He featured on clarinet.

Blair Bettencourt

 

Blair Bettencourt has a wonderfully relaxed style on clarinet and mini sax, playing warm and vibrant tones on both instruments.  He’s never been in this band before, but he’s been around for over 30 years and knows the music. He listened and focused on the tunes, playing amazing solos.  It was a pleasure to hear him again.

 

Frank using hand for mute on trombone

Frank Batchelor

 

 

There Are Smiles that Make Us Happy, tuba playing 4/4 time, Blair Bettencourt on mini-sax.
Frank Batchelor playing  trombone with flawless, earthy, intonation, used his hand as a mute.

 

 

 

Pretty Baby is on their new CD – see below.

Neil playing cornet with Malcolm on drums behind him

Neil Flewelling and Rich Malcolm

 

Neil Flewelling, leader pro-temp in the absence of Steve Straus, directed the musicians, played melody on cornet and sang his heart  out with  All of Me, the band segueing into Five Foot Two.

 

 

 

 

 

Gerry Gagnon on tuba

Gerry Gagnon

 

 

 

Marvelous ensemble on My Blue Heaven, with Gerry showing his stuff on tuba, playing straight four / four beat without taking a breath, giving the band energy and drive.

 

 

 

 

Phil Hower at keyboard, smiling as he turns pages

Phil Hower

 

 

Phil is constantly playing keyboard  in the background; keeping everyone on their toes.

 

 

 

 Exactly Like You, I Can’t Give You Anything But Love, Neil vocal.

 

Valentina Cass in Blue sweater.

Tina Cass

This turned  into a Happy Birthday tune for Tina Cass, whose birthday was Sunday.  She and Ralph are heading for Canada and will return in five weeks.  We’ll miss them.  They are always sitting front and center, inspiring the band.

 

 

 

The Riverboat Stompers  continued with New Orleans tunes that we all love, Down To  New Orleans segueing to Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans.   Then showing us what it was like in N. O.  with Struttin’ With Some Barbecue. 

playing banjo and singing

Dave MacMillan

 

Way Down Yonder in New Orleans – Dave MacMillan playing around in falsetto voice.  Fun!

He knows innumerable old tunes and sang many, including Sunny Side of the Street, From Monday On, There are Smiles. 

 

 

 

Rosetta:

 

Bourbon St. Parade  was a Barn Raiser! Blair letting himself go on clarinet, pushed by Rich Malcolm’s drums.

Rich on drums almost blotted out by music stand

Richard Malcolm

 

 

 

Rich is a rare treasure.  No slam-banging, showing off.   He kept it simple, keeping them in proper time, with subtle tapping on snare drum, rims, hi hat.

 

 

We couldn’t believe it was almost over.  Where did the time go??  Neil said they would close with a Rap song.   We waited apprehensively –

until he came up with Wrap Your Troubles In Dreams.
We will – until they return on  September 12th.   Come join us – guarantee you will be exhilarated!!

Tunes:
Darktown Strutters Ball
Found a New Baby
When You’re Smiling
Sunny Side of the Street
Avalon
Ain’t Misbehaving
From Monday On
Pretty Baby
Smiles
Rosetta
All of Me
My Blue Heaven
Exactly Like You
I Can’t Give You Anything But Love
Happy Birthday to Tina Cass
Down To New Orleans
Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans
Strutting With Some Barbecue
Way Down Yonder in New Orleans (cut short)
Bourbon St. Parade
Wrap Your Troubles in Dreams.

*          *          *
CD
Get their new Audio CD – just out – and It’s About Time.
— That’s the Name of the CD!
from:   Steve Straus – stephen.straus@comcast.net

Riverboat Stompers at Primavera Ristorante November 27, 2018

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Riverboat Stompers

Frank Batchelor trombone, Neil Flewelling cornet, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals,  Phil Hower piano, Gerry Gagnon tuba, Rich Malcolm drums.  We heard fantastic, Toe Tapping Traditional Jazz, with just a short break from beginning to end!

Frank and Neil shared leadership because Steve Strauss was unable to be here.  We missed his clarinet and jovial repartee.
There were no announcements.  Before each tune, Neil and Frank spent about a minute discussing keys and tempos with the rest of the band, and then, except for one short break, played solid, Classic Jazz from 7 to 9:30pm.

The hot sounds of the jazz age came alive as soon as they hit the first note in Original Dixieland One Step.

singing and playing banjo

Jimmy Mazzy

 

The inimitable Jimmy Mazzy singing and scatting many songs, Somebody Stole My Gal, introducing Sweet Lorraine, It’s a Sin To Tell a Lie,  Blue Turning Grey Over You, and more.

Jimmy will be honored as the 2019 American Banjo Museum’s Hall of Fame inductee in the category of Performance, 4 string Banjo. Hall of Fame ceremonies are held the weekend following Labor Day each year, as part of the ABM’s Banjofest weekend. He is definitely an asset in many bands!!

 

Neil singing

Neil Flewelling

 

 

Cornetist Neil Flewelling took over vocal for I Can’t Give You Anything But Love.

Neil drove two hours to get here, stopping on the way to pick up Marce.  A dedicated musician, he shared the lead with Frank. Neil plays cornet with  passion and emotion coming through his horn, inspiring others to play better.

 

 

The band played livewire ensemble. Rose of Washington Square.  Someday Sweetheart. One of Neil’s favorites – Sleepy Time Down South.  Bei Mir Bis Du Schoen.  Floating Down to Cottontown.  Muskrat Ramble was a barn burner!!

playing enormous tuba

Gerry Gagnon

 

 

Pierre Lemieux was unable to be here.  His enormous footprint was filled by Gerry Gagnon, who transforms the ungainly horn into a viable solo instrument.  He plays in the Boilermaker Jazz Band, Blue Horizon Jazz Band, and more.  He let loose on that monstrous tuba starting with Coney Island Washboard Roundolay.

 

 

playing very sparse drumset

Rich Malcolm

 

Rich Malcolm, staff member at Berklee College of Music, knows Trad Jazz drums, a rare treasure.  He kept it simple, maintaining that beat, keeping them in proper time, with subtle tapping on snare drum, rims, hi hat.  Backing vocals and solos, he only used a soft, discreet hi hat.   He let loose on Coney Island Washboard, Somebody Stole My Gal.

 

looking intently at keyboard

Phil Hower

 

 

Phil Hower offers suggestions on keys and more, relentlessly listening to the other members of the band.  He shrewdly enhances or complements each one, and plays inspiring solos of his own.  it was all great Jazz.

 

 

 

Frank Batchelor stood guard in the band, discussing the next tune, listening to suggestions..  Generally they started with a duet,  Neil on cornet, with Frank playing riffs and  embellishment behind him.  Then each took a solo, and nodded at whoever would play next.  Each musician is a Jazz Titan in his own right, so there was no hesitating.  They generously supported each other without interrupting and stirred up some Fantastic Traditional Jazz!!

Frank Batchellor and Neil Flewelling lead the band,

 

Louisiana Fairytale was on their list.  But they chose If I Had You, eerily similar, which was far down on the list.   There just wasn’t enough time to do all the tunes.   Jimmy took the vocal.  Worked out fine.

The Band backs Jimmy on Somebody Stole My Gal. full 6-pc band playing great Jazz

 

The evening was coming to a close; we wished there was more time!!
Neil closed out this evening of great Jazz, singing Ain’t She Sweet.

They will be back!!  Join us next year on January 31 and March 14.  You’ll hear some fantastic Traditional Jazz!  The Riverboat Stompers never disappoint.

Jeff and Joel’s House Party #9, October 12-14, 2018

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14 Musicians

14 Musicians

Jeff & Joel’s House Party was fantastic again!  The weekend was almost sold out, and more than 40 people have made their reservations to save their seats for next year. I wasn’t able to attend, but thanks to Eric Devine, we have videos and photos!  Marce Freddy Vigorito said: “The Jeff and Joels House Party, was Oct 12, 13, 14, and it was spectacular. It was Paris Washboard Super Swing with: Alan Marquet, Charlie Provost, Louis Mazetier, Daniel Barta, Michel Bonnet! Plus, Noel Kaletsky-clar/sax, Fred Vigorito-cornet, Neil DeFeo-tromb, Steve Taddeo-drums, Albie Bernard-tuba, Lou Bocciarelli-bass, Jeff Barnhart-piano, and Joel Schiavone-banjo!  It was a fabulous weekend! I can’t say it any better than Lou Bocciarelli, one of the finest bass players in the world!  Here’s what he said to his fellow musicians and those responsible for the event”. Lou Bocciarelli: “Hello All . . .Thanks for a wonderful weekend of beautiful music, great performances, funny stories, lots of laughs, and the joy of sharing our time together.  This was special.  Thanks to the volunteers who gave of their time and caring nature.  You made us feel special and important.  To the musicians, your performances were joyous and gracious.  Your easy and inclusive manor made it easy to deal with the terror of wondering if I would “know” the next song.  Joel and Jeff your dedication is appreciated and your jokes and stories were . . . well your dedication is appreciated.  Thank you for including me as well as my son Cole.  Very special. All the best, Lou”

8 musicians plus Cole in the middle blowing away on trumpet

Cole Bocciarelli, joins band on trumpet.

Lou continues: “I’d like to add that we had three new performers this year, two from Paris Washboard, washboard player Charles Provost, and cornetist Michele Bonnet.  They were fabulous!  We also had drummer Steve Tadeo from Mass who was a real crowd pleaser with his Krupa style, and Neil DeFeo from Royaton who dazzled the fans and the musicians with his incredible technical ability.” “Thank you Jeff and Joel, and the volunteers, especially Bob and Robin Rich.  This was their first year managing the event, and they did a great job, and from the feedback we got, the food was fabulous too!  So, you all know what to do now, plan to be a part of this wonderful event next year, November 1, 2 and 3, 2019!   http://jeffandjoelshouseparty.com.”

5 piece band from Paris

Paris Washboard Super Swing

Eric Devine (CineDevine) was on hand with his fine videos of the performances. Here are some of them.  Stay tuned for more; as they become available, links will be added. Eric Devine: “I had a fabulous time at the 9th edition of Jeff & Joel’s House Party again this year. Hope you enjoy this 1919 composition by Clarence Williams and Spencer Williams:”. Royal Garden Blues  Michel Bonnet, trumpet, Fred Vigorito cornet, Noel Kaletsky, reeds, Daniel Barda, trombone, Neil Defeo trombone, Louis Mazetier piano, Lou Bocciarelli, bass, Steve Taddeo drums, Joel Schiavone, banjo.

  There’ll Be Some Changes Made  Paris Washboard Super Swing   Vipers Drag     Louis Mezetier, piano   I Never Knew   Fred Vigorito, cornet Alain Marquet, reeds Daniel Barda, trombone Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals Albie Bernard, tuba Charles Prévost, washboard:   Judy Postemsky said:

Joel Schiavone and Marty Fay

Friday night was close to sold out; if you saw empty chairs, it is because many folks prefer to sit at the round tables, where they can get up more easily, graze the great food. I believe everyone attending was more than pleased with the outstanding food organized and prepared by Robin and Bob Rich.   Many of us helped to set up and serve the food on Saturday and Sunday. The musicians were wonderful throughout all three days!  Joel did just fine – playing his banjo and singing his tunes as he has always performed in the past!   Crazy ‘Bout My Baby – 4 handed piano, Mezetier and Barnhart   It Had To Be You Fred Vigorito, cornet Alain Marquet, reeds Neil Defeo, trombone Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals Albie Bernard, tuba Charles Prévost, washboard Joel Schiavone, banjo   Lonesome Me  – Louis Mezetier This was Steve Taddeo‘s first time at these House Parties.  He said: “The House Party was awesome!  I was nervous driving down there for my first time. But after my first rim shot on the Slingerland Drum Set, I felt like a million dollars playing with all those Greats!  I even had a chance to sit in with the Paris Washboard’s Charles Provost.

Washboard and drums

Al Bernard, Charles Provost and Steve Taddeo

Caravan – Check out hand drumming at 6:15 – both drummers!

Taddeo lets his Gene Krupa loose: Found a New Baby Check back below as Eric Devine’s adds more videos of this fabulous 3-day weekend:

Somebody Stole My Gal
Michel Bonnet, trumpet Alain Marquet, reeds Neil Defeo, trombone Louis Mazetier, piano Lou Bocciarelli, bass Steve Taddeo, drums

It don’t mean a thing if it ain’t got that Swing
Michel Bonnet, trumpet Fred Vigorito, cornet Alain Marquet, reeds Daniel Barda, trombone Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals Lou Bocciarelli, bass Steve Taddeo, drums Joel Schiavone, banjo

Getting Sentimental Over You
Neil Defeo, trombone Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals Lou Bocciarelli, bass Steve Taddeo, drums
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTPrkYmizzE&fbclid=IwAR1e3lfpCssdUpSDBKj_xBFWYfW-UTyxvx10BnMHFuYkqD4yCIhPCefo92E

Basin Street Blues  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0-8sqD7_1xY&fbclid=IwAR10IgYN3P1SoebDaqacBnjOJULBAUG5uiey8-vbF73BMm-IkTvoWzyhhnQ

This Joint is Jumping!  Jeff Barnhart https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_rSk4jG7ZE&fbclid=IwAR2U5PQsB4ScYbMrPOgfDxGfOZFgRt3Bhh5Hp7sSacRejaJr7wvsx51cPvQ

Flat Foot Floogie https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aLVJWpORzN0

Sweet Sue  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CzLozhqkWfs&fbclid=IwAR2zcta7vN0WK_c4Pt6bvZf8HYtMNFSsU__3Vrgkml_E7DHAp_mMVf-rfJY

Blues My Naughty Sweety Gives To Me
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWO8MLHwMUI&fbclid=IwAR3LnqA2oo-IqZ2-YIDsKgk-0O1R4vu1ZE30cgIvIQfxb5zNEV2nYm7QNWo
Noel Kaletsky and Alain Marquet go head to head on clarinet.

Mezetier House Party Blues, Mezetier, Taddeo and Bocciarelli
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvvK5bWcSjQ&fbclid=IwAR2tjSNXwdWEOI10cJN2HzsjjjJz_oT9E3WYjDQHB-E4hbdCatijNd7gHAA

Ain’t Misbehavin’ – Jeff Barnhart
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U3jWiu92msI&fbclid=IwAR2eJ2fcs1ffl9YFWXOfne-4FoGwjtYkI0JFlQujhi1ffCJRNcOtqVIQDOk

China Boy 
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zbMXU6f_10I&fbclid=IwAR3JlFQ1i_L-akJwC4GBZd0DF73U4bNecy5GavURfIDXDJd_fVpU7JkJTJg

It’s a Sin to Tell a Lie – Paris Washboard

Baby Won’t You Please Come Home  Michel Bonnet, trumpet Fred Vigorito, cornet Noel Kaletsky, reeds Jeff Barnhart, piano/vocals Lou Bocciarelli, bass Steve Taddeo, drums

Them There Eyes 

 

“So, you all know what to do now, plan to be a part of this wonderful event next year, November 1, 2 and 3, 2019!   http://jeffandjoelshouseparty.com.”