Jazzin’ With The Stars – 2014

Posted on March 19, 2014 by admin

JAZZIN WITH THE STARS CONCERT APRIL 12 BENEFITS
AUTISM SERVICES AND RESOURCES CONNECTICUT;
APRIL IS AUTISM AWARENESS MONTH

Concert features 50s artist Dave Somerville with
The Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band with a guest vocalist
on the autism spectrum

Jimmy Jay in black jacket, white wide-brim hat

Jimmy Jay, DJ to the Stars

(Middletown, CT)—
On Saturday, April 12 from 1:30 pm to 3:30 pm, The Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band will be united with guest star Dave Somerville of the 50s group, “The Diamonds” in a Jazzin’ with the Stars concert at John Winthrop Middle School,1 Winthrop Hills Rd, Deep River, CT. The MC for the event will be Internet radio host and DJ to the Stars, Jimmy Jay.

Jason Senn, Essex vocalist on autism spectrum

Young vocalist, Jason Senn of Essex, CT, who is on the autism spectrum, will also perform with the band. This is the third concert in the successful “Jazzin’ with the Stars” series, conceived by philanthropist Bill Logozzo, The Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band’s founder and drummer.

In honor of Autism Awareness month, proceeds from the concert will benefit Autism Services & Resources Connecticut (www.autismconnecticut.org). Based In Wallingford, CT, the organization offers education and information on the complete range of treatments and providers, without advocating any particular intervention, approach or program so that families, and to the extent possible, individuals with autism, can select the services and supports that are most appropriate for their individual circumstances. This philosophy is driven by the recognition that autism presents itself differently in different people, and that no one intervention has been proven to be 100% effective.

Dog Days Adoption (www.godogdays.org) of Essex, CT will also benefit from the concert proceeds. The group, run entirely by volunteers, organizes adoption events and provides financial assistance, rescue and education about making a smart dog adoption choice.

“A Direct Heartbeat To Your Soul”

The Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band performing at Mohegan Sun Casino

The Heartbeat Dixieland Jazz Band has been performing throughout Connecticut for more than 10 years, including regular appearances at Smarty’s in Niantic, CT, Oliver’s Tavern, Essex, CT, the Wolf Den at the Mohegan Sun Casino and area jazz festivals, including The Hot Steamed Jazz Festival in Essex, CT. Heartbeat’s music covers the spectrum of the history of jazz and often includes a variety of musical styles from ragtime and New Orleans Dixieland to swing and gospel, with a little boogie-woogie thrown in.

At the Jazzin with the Stars concert on April 12, the band will be made up of some of New England’s most proficient jazz musicians: John Clark (reeds), Noel Koletsky, (reeds), Fred Vigorito (cornet/trumpet), Skip Hughes (trombone and vocals), David Uhl (bass), Steve Keeler (guitar), Shari Lucas (piano) and Bill Logozzo (drums).

Dave Somerville, Lead Singer of The Diamonds

Special Guest Star

Dave Somerville, Guest Star
A leader in 50s rock and roll, Diamond Dave Somerville was the original lead singer in the group, The Diamonds, with such hits as “The Stroll,’ “Little Darlin’” and “Why Do Fools Fall In Love.” In February 1956, they signed a long-term contract with Mercury records and had many Billboard hits to their credit, including “Little Darlin’” that was the third best-selling single of 1957. From 1955 to 1961, Somerville’s lead voice defined the sound of The Diamonds on all their timeless hits. After charting 16 times in Billboard, The Diamonds were honored with Canada’s prestigious Hall of Fame Juno Award for their “contribution to international music.” In the process, Diamond Dave’s singing influenced the evolution of many legendary artists including Bob Dylan and Carole King. One of The Diamond’s biggest fans was Elvis.

Along the way, he explored television, commercial production and the musical stage. He collaborated on the title song for the hit television series, “The Fall Guy” and was the co-writer of the title song for Willie Nelson’s No. 1 country album, “the Troublemaker.” Trained at the University of Toronto’s Royal Conservatory of Music, Somerville also studied acting with Leonard Nimoy, TV’s “Mr. Spock” and guest starred on many TV shows, including the original “Star Trek” series. He has also been heard on voice-overs for hundreds of spots for radio, television and cable. He has played venues from Carnegie Hall to Trump’s Taj Mahal.

The Diamonds have been honored and inducted into the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, The Doo Wop Hall of Fame and The Rockabilly Hall of Fame.

Tickets for the April 12th Jazzin’ with the Stars concert are $30 per person ($10 for children under 12). A “Meet ‘n Greet” with the guest artists and band will follow the concert. For information and tickets, visit www.jazzinstars.com or
contact (860) 767-1663.

Monte Carlo Jazz Quintet at the Sherborn Inn, March 4, 2014

Posted on March 18, 2014 by admin

This was not our usual Monte Carlo Jazz Ensemble, founded in 1998, playing classic jazz and hot dance music from the 20’s and 30’s specially arranged by the leader and music director, pianist Robin Verdier.

Robin Verdier leader/arranger/piano, Craig Ball and Billy Novick reeds, Al Bernard tuba, Ed Reynolds drums

With John Clark off to a Mardi Gras Party and Bob MacInnis still in Florida, Craig Ball was left alone on the Front Line; enter Billy Novick. Robin provided arrangements for two reeds, and they complied. Most of the time.

Arrangements are important to the sound of a song. Every song changes when played in a different arrangement. Robin takes the original arrangements of the pop dance tunes of that time, and adapts them to create technically sophisticated melodies. That is the Monte Carlo Jazz Ensemble. But whenever there’s a sub in a band, there are subtle changes; but Billy Novick is definitely not subtle.

They kicked it off hot and heavy with ‘Deed I Do, a 1926 jazz standard composed by Fred Rose with lyrics by Walter Hirsch. Then they moved to a relatively modern 1940 composer, Django Reinhardt, the two virtuoso reed players intertwining clarinets with Nuages.

Craig Ball and Bill Novick

Pretty 90 yr. old lady in white coat jacket with black flower

Lynn Sickle

Robin paid tribute to the late Lynn Sickles; we lost our beautiful Rockette in December. At almost every performance at the Inn, you would find Lynn in her special chair next to the piano, with hubby Bob. All musicians at the Sherborn Inn played All of Me for Lynn. She is sorely missed!

Robin always has a prepared list of what the band will play, but tonight he threw in a “Lucky Strike Extra”, Ray Henderson’s Alabamy Bound; not the same as the 1920’s tune Alabama Bound Rag. Craig was fabulous on clarinet with Billy’s alto sax playing riffs, rhythm section providing quick underlying pulse.

Robin featured more great composers – Walter Donaldson’s Love Me Or Leave Me, with fluid sweet melody on piano. A 1926 tune by Anthony Lessof, How Can I Be Blue, with Craig on soprano sax and Billy on clarinet.

From a two-reed band on Chicago’s South Side, they played Vincent Youmans’ I Know That You Know. I Remember When from another important composer and reed player, Sidney Bechet in 1958 – that’s very late for Monte Carlo. Playing ragtime and stride from the heart, Robin finished the set with Lady Be Good.

Robin Verdier, with Al Bernard in background

Three years ago a tune kept running through Robin’s head and he couldn’t figure out where it came from. It was from the New Black Eagle Jazz Band repertoire, a tune written by Billy Novick in 1989 – Remembering You. He writes in this early style to preserve this kind of music, including the score for the Washington Ballet’s “The Great Gatsby”.

Irving Berlin’s 1950 – The Best Thing For You Would Be Me is Robin Verdier’s 2^nd most modern tune. Britain’s Ray Noble wrote both lyrics and music during the British dance band era known as the “Golden Age of British music”. Noble imported musicians from the U.S. and wrote Native American Tunes. In 1938, he wrote Cherokee (Indian Love Call).

By now the two reed players didn’t need any arrangements– Craig let loose with clarinet heading for high heaven, Novick right behind him. Robin’s marvelous piano raced to keep up. Bill Reynolds went wild on drums, slipping in his infamous piano roll.

Bill Reynolds

Robin eased them back to the Monte Carlo era. In 1928 Isham Jones wrote Down Where The Sun Goes Down. Reliable Albie on tuba was mellow, not pushing. Same era, Sammy Fain’s You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me. 1922 China Boy, Craig went wild on soprano sax. They tried to get many in 1930, I Got Rhythm, Billy Novick pushing Craig on with saxophone; Craig likes aiming for high register clarinet.

Craig and Billy go wild.

After some discussion, they continued with a sweet and lyrical 1917 Smiles. Craig played fiery clarinet on the1922 My Honey’s Loving Arms. The 1928 Victor Young ‘s Sweet Sue had Robin’s fine fingering on piano, drum tapping lightly, Albie softening chords on tuba.

1939 the world moved to Swing, that’s when Lu Watters started the Yerba Buena Jazz Band; what we call two-beat, West Coast Jazz. The Yerba Buena worked at Big Bear Lake, so Lu wrote a tune called Big Bear Stomp. The Monte Carlo Quintet were aiming for a big finale. They closed with Running Wild, tuba and drums pushing the soprano sax, clarinet and piano.

It was one very special evening of classic jazz and hot dance music! The Monte Carlo Jazz Ensemble will return May 13th, with or without substitutes. Hope to see you there!

not mentioned

Blues My Naughty Sweetie Gives To Me.
Al Jolson California Here I Come got in some stride.

Blue Horizon Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn, March 18, 2014

Posted on March 18, 2014 by admin

Stan McDonald’s Blue Horizon Jazz Band

Stan McDonald soprano sax/clarinet, Jeff Stout trumpet, Gerry Gagnon trombone, Ross Petot piano, Stu Gunn string bass, Steve Taddeo drum

This has been a bad winter for Stan McDonald’s Blue Horizon Jazz Band. Fierce winter storms have forced the cancellation of the Band’s dates in both January and February, so we all had our fingers crossed for March. It was cold, but no precipitation, so he was able to perform the New Orleans Rites and Riffs of Spring, with plenty of Sidney Bechet and many beautiful New Orleans tunes. His Knowledge of Traditional Jazz is remarkable.

Stan dedicated this evening to Lynn Sickles, a fan who passed away January 18^th. Our hearts go out to hubby Bob, who was here this evening; they were married 46 years. Family, friends and music help lighten the loss. Lynn’s favorite song was All of Me, and the band started with a glorious version of it, Jeff Stout taking the lead on trumpet with McDonald offering complicated counterpoint on soprano sax. Steve Taddeo holding choke cymbal on hi hat. Stu Gunn holding a steady beat on string bass, and we love the mellow sound of Gerry Gagnon’s tail-gate trombone.

Blue Horizon Jazz Band always has musicians with expertise who play in countless other bands in the area. They love what they’re doing, and play with passion and intensity, with no arrangements. When You and I Were Young Maggie, Earl Hines’ You Can Depend on Me, Strike up the Band, Marie Elena, my favorite Tijuana and more.

Gerry Gagnon, Steve Taddeo, Jeff Stout

Jeff Stout, Stu Gunn, Stan McDonald

Four or Five Times, originally done by the The Bechet-Spanier Big Four, was one of the more closely arranged tunes. They also did All By Muself. The Big Four consisted of soprano sax and trumpet with only guitar and bass – but the Blue Horizon also has invaluable trombone, piano and drum.

Stan plays Honky Tonk Town, Ross Petot on piano

Ross Petot was featured on What Is This Thing Called Love, playing his inimitable stride. Lovely!

Sidney Bechet (May 14, 1897 – May 14, 1959) was an American jazz saxophonist, clarinetist, and composer. He was one of the first important soloists in jazz, and was perhaps the first notable jazz saxophonist with forceful delivery, well-constructed improvisations, and a distinctive, wide vibrato. Stan McDonald has been one of his staunchest afficionados, so several of his tunes were included: Blues in the Air, Lastik, Lotus Blossom, Rose de Picardie, Marchand de Poisson.

They ran out of time before completing all the songs on McDonald’s list, so they closed with When I Leave The World Behind.

Spring has finally arrived – it’s been a long winter! Hopefully no more snow storms! The next performance of The Blue Horizon Jazz Band will be April 15th, and thereafter on the 3^rd Tuesday of every month at the Sherborn Inn, 33 N. Main Street, (intersection of Rts. 16 & 27) Sherborn, MA. $10 Please call for reservations at 508-655-9521 or info@sherborninn.com. See you there?

Marce

Wolverine Jazz Band at the Sherborn Inn March 11, 2014

Posted on March 11, 2014 by admin

Wolverine Jazz Band

Jeff Hughes trumpet, John Clark leader/clarinet/bari sax/vocal, Tom Boates trombone/vocal, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Ross Petot piano, Rick MacWilliams tuba, Dave Didriksen drums

The Wolverines are busy preparing for their trips to Festivals and their regular summer venues. They’ve been invited to the Hot Steamed in Essex, CT, America’s Dixieland Jazz Festival in Olympia, WA, Arizona Classic Jazz Fest. They rehearse with us at the Sherborn Inn – how fortunate is that??

They will be busy locally this summer: June 1, Melrose (noon-4); July 9 – Willows at Westboro; July 29 – Southgate at Shrewsbury; July 30 – Sherborn Center; August 20 – Norwood; August 21 – Natick Senior Center.

However, St. Patrick’s Day was approaching, so instead of their theme song, they kicked it off with an popular tune – Wearing of the Green, a song about the Irish rebellion of 1798.

We had special guests up from Connecticut – their first time here – Jean Hadley, Joan Boutelle , and friend/driver Angie. Thanks for coming folks!!

Inspired by one another, the Wolverines play incredible Dixieland, Satanic Blues, John Clark already on baritone sax, Tom Boates growling trombone. Smokin’!

They tried out new tunes, preparing for their next CD, creating arrangements as they played them. “Some mighty fine guesses going on here.” Chimes Blues will be on their new album, Ross Petot playing chimes on piano.

Jeff Hughes watches Ross Petot play fantastic piano

Jeff Hughes watches Ross Petot play amazing stride piano

We’re always ready for a Jimmy Mazzy vocal, and there were many: T’aint So. (Yes, ‘tis!) Come Rain or Come Shine. Lonny Johnson’s Tomorrow Night, a 1920’s tune that changed over the years from the 40’s to 50’s Rock & Roll; even Elvis recorded it. Jimmy’s special ballad, After You’ve Gone with Jeff soft trumpet behind him; Rick MacWilliams majestic tuba solo. Sound of the Wanderer, a 1920’s tune that featured Helen Hughes, incredible interplay between trumpet and trombone.

Sunset Cafe Stomp was a Charleston. It was named after the Sunset Cafe, also known as The Grand Terrace Cafe, a jazz club in Chicago in the 20’s to 40’s.
Recorded by Louis Armstrong:
“Gentlemen, ladies too
Push ’em round n round
They loose their head
They’ll drop dead …. doing the Sunset Stomp.”

Tom Boates and Jim Mazzy

Eubie Blakes Memories of You sweet Clark clarinet feature, Tom on muted trombone.

Tom Boates set sparks flying on Snake Rag!

Zero by Santo Pecora, New Orleans trombonist was HOT!

John Clark finds his voice

From their latest CD, a fun tune, Egyptian Ella, with John Clark vocal.

Jeff Hughes, trumpet

This band never disappoints! They showed what a good band can do. There were many more great tunes.

They closed with a big hit at all the festivals, Dinah, Jeff Hughes’ sharp trumpet intro with banjo riffs, gave Dave Didriksen a chance to let go on drums; it was so hot it triggered the famous Jimmy Mazzy shout!

Hot Band!

They’re more than ready for the upcoming festivals. We don’t mind sharing them. You can even Hire them. They’ll be back here again on April 29^th and June 14^th (for those of you keeping track.) Folks come from all over; Marilyn will probably be driving from down Maine.

Hope to see you here! Sherborn Inn, 33 N. Main Street, (inters. of Rts. 16 & 27) Sherborn, MA Reservations: (508) 655-9521 or info@sherborninn.com. Please make a reservation – the Wolverines tend to fill up the room.

Marce

Seacoast Stompers at the Acton Jazz Café, March 1, 2014

Posted on March 10, 2014 by admin

Seacoast Stompers on the new Acton Jazz Cafe stage

Dave Whitney trumpet, Craig Ball clarinet, Scott Philbrick banjo/guitar/cornet, Lee Prager trombone, Frank Stadler leader/piano, Al Bernard tuba, Bobby Reardon drums.

The decor of the café has totally changed, it feels more like a nightclub now, with a full raised stage at the back of the room. Definitely an improvement; same fine food and gracious personnel. Alternating spotlights from blue to red to white give it nice atmosphere, but raise cane with the videos.
On this First Saturday of the month, The Seacoast Stompers began as always with their Flagship tune, At The Jazz Band Ball, a 1917 jazz classic done by the ODJB, and one of the earliest and most recorded jazz compositions. Scott was strumming on banjo because Jimmy Mazzy was home looking after Carrie.

Earl Hines’ Monday Date, Scott was on acoustic guitar; Whitney trumpet, Craig soaring clarinet, Lee swinging trombone, Frank piano, Bob drums, Albie’s tuba pushing the whole ensemble. Fabulous!

Frank Stadler doesn’t like to repeat tunes. They haven’t done Moonglow for a while, nice slow dance tune. Charlie was up immediately – he dances with all the ladies. He found an open corner near the bar.
Back o’ Town Blues is a nice slow Blues, one of Whitney’s favorite vocals. The musicians followed him, playing passionate solos, with Lee growling on trombone.

After You’ve Gone, trumpet intro with tuba back up, was really great Dixieland; Whitney squeezed in a bit of Little Girl. Frank played beautiful melody on piano, backed by Albie’s chords and Bob’s time keeping.

Scott returned to his cornet, now we had two horns, no waiting; Take Your Tomorrows and Give Me Today. Bix did this with Frank Trumbauer in 1928. They started with fantastic brass, and finished it the same way; it sure was great to have Dave Whitney back. Love is Just Around the Corner, Whitney vocal, the band played full force, stopping on a dime!

There’s always a discussion on the next tune, who will do what? Here was a “good ol’ good one” done by the Original Dixieland Jazz Band also in 1917 – Fidgety Feet had the audiences’ feet tapping. You can’t sit still listening to this Jazz. Albie took a melodic solo on tuba, Scott back on cornet, Bobby wouldn’t let it quit, taking multiple drum endings, nailing the end with a final cymbal crash.

Bob Reardon supports the band with his fine drumming.

Nobody wanted to quit. Louis did Wild Man Blues with his Hot Seven – we had hot banjo, and tuba too.

Bob Crosby’ Bob Cats recorded Irving Fazola’s I’m Coming Virginia.

Fats Waller’s Baby Brown had Dave Whitney on trumpet and vocal, and Scotty on cornet. They have a friendly, compatible competition going.

Song of the Wanderer was a really HOT ONE with Scott on banjo, then he was back on guitar for Someday Sweetheart.

Dave Whitney and Scott Philbrick have a friendly go-round on Mandy, Make Up Your Mind

A request (inevitably) started with a very truncated Saints, and quickly moved to Who’s Sorry Now, finishing with Ain’t Gonna Give Nobody None of my Jelly Roll.

As usual there was a full house enjoying the fine Dixieland and Swing of the Seacoast Stompers. You can hear them at the Acton Jazz Café on the first Saturday of every month, in the afternoon – easier driving for most of us.

To get the best seat, please make a reservation; email gwenn@actonjazzcafe.com with the subject line reading either RESERVATION or CONTACT, or call them at (978) 263-6161 after 5 pm. http://www.actonjazzcafe.com/ Use 5 Nagog Park Mall on GPS to get directions.

* * * *
Seacoast Stompers tunes played on March 1, 2014

Set 1
1 At The Jazz Band Ball
2 My Monday Date
3 Moonglow
4 Back o’ Town Blues
5 After You’ve Gone
6 Take Your Tomorrow
7 Love Is Just Around The Corner
8 Louisiana Fairy Tale
9 Fidgety Feet

Set 2
1 Avalon
2 Wild Man Blues
3 Can’t We Be Friends
4 I’m Coming Virginia (W/Verse)
5 Baby Brown
6 Wabash Blues
7 Song of the Wanderer

Set 3
1 Preacher, The
2 Mandy Make Up Your Mind
3 Someday Sweetheart
4 Who’s Sorry Now
5 Jelly Roll (Ain’t Gonna Give You None)

Dan Gabel and the Abletones at SAC Park, by C.S. Imming

Posted on March 9, 2014 by admin

Dan Gabel and the Abletones at SAC Park, Shrewsbury MA

Listen and dance to New England’s favorite big band attraction!

by C. S. Imming

Elise Roth and Dan Gabel

Elise Roth

First Friday Swing at SAC in Shrewsbury, MA provided another great time for dancers and listeners alike. Dan Gabel and the Abletones, featuring Elise Roth, performed a variety of tunes in their extensive playlist such as “The Trolley Song”, “How About You”, “A Nightingale Sang in Berkley Square”, and “Mack the Knife”, as well as songs by Vaughn Monroe and other big bands. The enthusiastic crowd kept the dance floor moving the whole night, as the band’s rich, dynamic sound kept irresistible melodies in the air. Next First Friday Swing will be in April, so see you there and come prepared to move.

Video excerpts from the First Friday dance held March 7, 2014 at SAC Park in Shrewsbury, MA. Dan Gabel and the Abletones with vocalist Elise Roth.

More photos by C. S. Imming:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/swimcsi/sets/72157642106328154/

The Scandinavian Athletic Society SAC Park has a large wooden dance floor, full cash bar, table seating, handicap accessible.

More info on Dan Gabel and the Abletones at: www.theabletones.com
Or from Dan Gabel: 774-280-1502

The BAND!

Jeff’s Jazz Jesters at the Sherborn Inn, February 25, 2014

Posted on March 9, 2014 by admin

Jazz Jesters with Frank Bachelor, trombone

Jeff Hughes trumpet, John Clark clarinet/bari sax, Craig Ball clarinet/tenor sax, Ross Petot piano, Al Bernard tuba, Steve Taddeo drums.

The weather outside was 20°, but it was nice and cozy in the Sherborn Inn, with the Jazz Jesters and both fireplaces blazing. Jimmy Mazzy couldn’t make it, and he was missed. But it freed the band to play written arrangements, some of Archie Blyer, some of Dr. John Clark.

They began with their theme Lucky Day. We considered ourselves lucky that it hadn’t snowed – again. Bix is popular with this band. They featured his last recording, Deep Down South, with John on alto and Craig clarinet. These two produce all kinds of magnificent music with two clarinets, alto, tenor, and baritone sax, between them.

Violinist Stuff Smith contributed to the song It’s Wonderful (1938) often performed by Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald. New England Trumpeter Bobby Hackett liked to play it. Jeff obliged, Clark playing sweet alto sax, Steve Taddeo swishing brushes on the snare drum. It was wonderful!

Ross Petot

With the “Rhythm Boys”, Ross Petot, pianist, teacher, composer, arranger, famous for his stride piano, was featured on I Hate Myself for Being so Mean to You.

Sidney Bechet’s Blame It On The Blues, clarinet and alto sax were in perfect sync, then romping alto sax solo, clarinet hitting the stratosphere, incredible trumpet, Albie’s tuba always pushing, piano adding riffs; the whole polyphonic sound had everyone sitting on the edge of their seats. Fantastic!

Most of them are band leaders. Craig Ball has the White Heat Swing Orchestra, John Clark leads the Wolverine Jazz Band, Steve Taddeo with his The Swing Senders. They love playing this repertoire of the Jazz Decades.

Jeff Hughes is an astonishing leader, subtly signaling, mainly letting them do their own thing. He plays amazing trumpet, but tonight, on a relatively new 1983 Yamaha special bell trumpet, he stayed mostly with the Bix Beiderbecke repertoire. I Need Some Petting. A lovely tune Blue River, muted trumpet intro with piano, two clarinets.

Jeff wearing fedora hat, playing trumpet

Jeff Hughes

Jeff said John Clark ‘forced’ some arrangements on them. A Jimmy favorite, Mighty River, great with two clarinets, Jeff playing open bell trumpet with clarinet riffs.

Ball and Clark on clarinet, Hughes trumpet

Jazz Jesters front line

Sam the Accordion Man was dedicated to Jimmy and Carrie Mazzy, who couldn’t be here.

Jeff invited Frank Batchelor up on trombone for Russian Lullaby. Tricky – they were reading arrangements, Frank was winging it, thanks to Jeff’s signals. He added fine trombone to the Jazz Jesters. Then Jeff let Taddeo loose on drums.

Frank Taddeo (Steve’s Father) and companion Gladys Aubin were here to watch.

Steve Taddeo and Family

The band continued with a quintessential 1920’s tune, You Don’t Like It (Not Much)!. Closed with Fat’s Zonky, dueling clarinets, trumpet and trombone – WILD!.

That sent us back out into the cold with warm hearts! The Jesters are heading for the recording studio at the end of this month, and hope to have something in hand in time for the Essex jazz fest, end of June.

They will return to the Sherborn Inn, but we don’t have that date yet. Stay tuned to TUESDAY Jazz Schedule for Sherborn Inn future dates.

Jeff Barnhart and his Hot Rhythm for Essex Winter Series

Posted on March 2, 2014 by admin

Jeff Barnhart, Gordon Au, Dan Levinson, Vince Giordano

Jeff Barnhart and his Hot Rhythm

By: Jean Hadley
Photos by Ed Ohr
Videos by CineDevine

The music of THOMAS “FATS” WALLER
John Winthrop Middle School – Deep River, Connecticut, March 2, 2014

Jeff Barnhart and His Hot Rhythm celebrate the music of Fats Waller at the The Stu Ingersoll Jazz Concert hosted by the Essex Winter Series. Artistic director – Mihae Lee, Jazz artistic advisor – Jeff Barnhart.

Trumpet: Gordon Au (http://www.gordonaumusic.com/)
Reeds — Dan Levinson (http://www.danlevinson.com)
Piano: Jeff Barnhart (http://www.jeffbarnhart.com/)
Banjo: Bob Barta (http://sunnylandjazz.com/?page_id=6)
Bass — Vince Giordano (http://vincegiordano.com)
Drums: Kevin Dorn (http://www.kevindorn.com/)

Although the weather report was predicting threatening weather, people came out in droves to hear Jeff and his ensemble of fine musicians. From the beginning to the end, it was an afternoon of delightful entertainment.

Jeff Barnhart all photos by Ed Ohr

Jeff, a piano virtuoso, opened (solo) playing Waller’s most well known HONEYSUCKLE ROSE/1929. From then on, it was non-stop.

Following this solo, the band members assembled and set the pace for an unforgettable performance. Each musician, highly skilled in his music artistry, are men who have a plethora of credits and a dossier that has no end.

Some people think OKOM (our kind of music) is passé or some say outmoded….not so! Before us, on stage, one could see two very young musicians (30 years old) who have already made a huge name for themselves and an impact on the younger generation of musicians and fans.

Gordon Au and Kevin Dorn

To hear young Gordon Au (trumpet) you might think he has been playing for a very long time. He may be young but his music talent, repertoire and credentials are outstanding. Next, Kevin Dorn (drums) another young and talented musician on the scene, has been delighting audiences for several years here in Connecticut, New York City and Europe.

The band came to full circle with three greats, in the music industry, Vince Giordano, Dan Levinson and Bob Barta all well known in the USA and abroad. These three wonderful musicians need no introduction.

Dan Levinson

BoB Barta banjo, Vince Giordano string bass

Bob Barta and Vince Giordano

Now begins the music, for which the members of the audience were patiently waiting.

After Jeff finished his fantastic rendition of HONEYSUCKLE ROSE (and brought down the house) Jeff proceeded to spend time entertaining us with wonderful stories about Fats and his brilliance on the piano and his composing ability and, all this in his too short life of 39 years. However, what he left behind has and will last forever.

Jeff talks about Fats Waller – At Twilight

Jeff Barnhart – Handfull of Keys

You’re Feets Too Big

I am writing this, without giving you details of everything that occurred on stage, but rather to encourage you to make every effort to hear this band when they do a repeat of this concert. You will be surprised how many Fats Waller numbers you will recall, and hear some you never knew he wrote.

Here are several numbers that were played and introduced to many of us for the first time…..HOLD MY HAND, AT TWILIGHT, HANDFUL OF KEYS, THE MINOR DRAG, MOPPIN & BOPPIN AND RUMPSTEAK SERENADE and, some well- known to the audience, I’M CRAZY ‘BOUT MY BABY, THE JOINT is JUMPIN’, WHAT DID I DO TO BE SO BLACK AND BLUE, AIN’T MISBEHAVIN’.

Thank you Jeff, Vince, Dan, Bob, Gordon and Kevin.

Jan Hadley
Videos by CineDevine
Photos by Ed Ohr

More Videos:
I’m Crazy ‘Bout my Baby
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-iL6_rPspfM

Hold My Hand
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UgDcKBuuh3M

Handful of Keys
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iq9Lz7S1TRE

Keepin Out of Mischief Now
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA8nWAO9EZY

You Must Be Losing Your Mind
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=592mL8HEHTA

Minor Dag
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hOEVhOVN4h4

The 12th Street Rag:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBoG1Gsigjs

I’ve Got a Feeling I’m Falling:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0pnDOF3NhMQ

When The Saints Go Marching In
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZVdRAKjMTs

Keeping Out of Mischief Now
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RA8nWAO9EZY

Moppin’ and Boppin’
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cbN1bmceqKU#t=146

You Must Be Losing Your Mind
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=592mL8HEHTA#t=11

Rumpsteak Serenade
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pQ_g7jm0Y0g

Gerry Beaudoin’s Jazz Masters Concert Revue at Cultural Center of Cape Cod!

Posted on February 27, 2014 by admin

The Cape Cod Jazz Event of the Winter at the Cultural Center of Cape Cod…Not to be Missed!

Friday, February 28, 7:00pm

Gerry Beaudoin’s Jazz Masters Concert Revue with…

Howard Alden is considered by Jazz critics to be the best living Jazz Guitarist!

Sweet and Lowdown Medley

Gerry Beaudoin is an award winning guitarist &

Gerard Beaudoin III is continuing the family tradition as a young vibes player who has appeared throughout New England.

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Harry Allen is a great sax player and has traveled the world performing Jazz and we welcome him back to the Cape!

Cassandre McKinley is a Jazz vocalist from the Boston area and has performed with Jay Geils (J. Geils Band).

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Jesse Williams is a bass player from the Boston area and we are happy to have him make a rare Cape appearance.

Friday, February 28, 7:00pm
Tickets $25 & $20 members

Gerry Beaudoin’s Jazz Masters Concert Revue with
Howard Alden & Gerry Beaudoin (guitars), Harry Allen (sax), Cassandre McKinley (vocals), Gerard Beaudoin III (vibes), Jesse Williams (bass) & Bart Weisman (drums)

Cultural Center of Cape Cod
307 Old Main Street, South Yarmouth
508-394-7100
Cultural Center of Cape Cod

Call 508-394-7100 to Reserve Your Seat

Read all about it…Cape Codder Newspaper:
Big names in jazz are headed to the Cultural Center of Cape Cod on Feb. 28. It’s Gerry Beaudoin’s Jazz Masters Concert Revue and local musician Bart Weisman will be on drums.

Beaudoin is a celebrated jazz guitarist from the Boston area who tours extensively and is a three-time Grammy nominee. In our neck of the woods he’s previously appeared at the Provincetown Jazz Festival and JazzFest Falmouth.

Others in the band include Howard Alden, who Weisman notes is considered by the critics to be the “best living jazz guitarist.” Alden played guitar in the Woody Allen movie “Sweet & Lowdown.”

Also, there’s jazz great Harry Allen, on sax; Cassandre McKinley, a jazz vocalist; Gerard Beaudoin III, a vibes player, and Jesse Williams, on bass.

“We usually don’t have big jazz concerts during the winter, but decided to give this one a try,” Weisman confided.

New Black Eagle Jazz Band Luncheon at the Sherborn Inn

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Stan Vincent trombone, Bill Reynolds drums, Peter Bullis banjo, Jesse Williams string bass, Tony Pringle cornet, Bob Pilsbury piano, Billy Novick reeds

The New Black Eagle Jazz Band, with four of the originals, Tony, Peter, Bob and Stan, have been playing for over 42+ years. They are one of the few bands still playing authentic Trad Jazz, (“Don’t call it Traditional/Dixieland!) Their sound is still fresh and exciting.

Weathermen had predicted snow (that never developed). Stalwart fans of the New Black Eagle Jazz Band ignored them to attend the first of the Sherborn Inn’s afternoon luncheons this year, and were glad they did. It was warm inside the Sherborn Inn, with Hot New Orleans Traditional Jazz and two fireplaces blazing.

This luncheon consisted of a 3-course meal with salad, choice of beef brisket or stuffed salmon in Alfredo sauce, carrot cake desert, and coffee. Delicious!

Tony Pringle and Bob Pilsbury

Tony Pringle, still in British accent, announced the first New Orleans tune, Moose March. It was one of the tunes often recorded by the George Lewis Band from New Orleans.

The Eagles recently added a new tune to their repertoire of 1000+ tunes, an old Pop tune of the 30’s done by the Brox Sisters, Tie Me to Your Apron Strings Again. (They came before the Boswell and Andrew Sisters!)

The band picked up the pace with Once in a While – not the one you’re thinking of. This one was done by Louis A. in the 1920’s. It’s still thrilling, with Tony’s clipped cornet defining the New Black Eagle Sound.

Tony’s Getzen Eterna cornet had just been repaired at great expense. Apparently while Tony had been taking a break, someone checked out the cornet and dropped it on the floor. (Folks, please don’t touch the instruments!)

Bob Pilsbury answered a request for Jelly Roll Morton’s The Pearls, giving it a New Orleans Spanish tinge. There were many requests from this crowd; some have been following the band since 1971. Another request for a spiritual, He’ll Understand And Say “Well Done”. We love Stan Vincent’s deep, wide-toned, robust “tailgate” style, reminiscent of George Brunies.

Stan Vincent on tailgate trombone

Tony explained where the next song came from, Ken Colyer, 1928-1988, an English trumpet player who is still in the heart of many Trad Jazz players. He had joined the British Navy, and jumped ship here in the U.S. When he was arrested, fans bailed him out. That’s when he wrote Going Home. He returned to England to find The Chris Barber Band still waiting for him. Nice vocal by Tony. (It came from the heart.)

Another request, it was a Gospel Hit in the 1950’s, but was first recorded in the 1920’s, I Wasn’t Gonna Tell Nobody. Drum and bass completely synchronized, Billy with sticks on snare drum and choke cymbal.

Bill Reynolds drums, Jesse Williams string bass

Another request – West End Blues. Jesse on solo, gently caressing the bass, easing beautiful sounds out of it. The whole room was so silent you could have heard a pin drop!

Wingy Manone (1900-1982) originally did Old Fashion Swing. He lost an arm in a streetcar accident, in N.O. which resulted in his nickname of “Wingy”. This isn’t the dancing kind of swing – this is the one folks had on their porches in the “good old days”, before Ipods and Iphones.

Billy Novick on alto sax

Billy Novick was featured on alto sax with Body & Soul. Not Coleman Hawkins’ classic – Billy has his own magnificent, emotive command of the jazz language.

We were fast approaching overtime – 2pm is the luncheon cutoff. Peter Bullis gets his only banjo solo on Louisian-I-A.

Peter on banjo, with mouth open, wearing his traditional red sox

Peter still in his red sox, playing Louisian-I-A

They sent us home with one of their nostalgic closing songs, Rose of Cairo.
The band is scheduled for several more afternoon luncheons, popular with folks who don’t want to drive at night. They also have a regular appearance at the Sherborn Inn on the 2nd Thursday of the month 7-9:30pm.

To keep informed of their other performances, sign up for the New Black Eagle Jazz Band NEWS and Schedule by joining Tony’s e-newsletter tony@blackeagles.com.

New England Traditional Jazz Plus

Swing, Traditional Jazz, Dixieland Jazz, Big Bands

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