Galvanized Jazz Band back at The Millpond

Posted on June 19, 2022 by admin

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 12^th 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

Sarah Gardner Sass ‘n Bones

Posted on January 26, 2020 by admin

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 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.

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 27^th.

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

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

Posted on November 30, 2019 by admin

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 “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

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!

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

Posted on September 16, 2019 by admin

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

Posted on June 22, 2019 by admin

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!

Bob Winter

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

Instrumental – Royal Garden Blues

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 3^rd Thursday of the month with fabulous Jazz and Swing. Join us next month on July 18^th 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

Posted on June 2, 2019 by admin

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 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

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

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.

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.

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 12^th. 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

Posted on December 1, 2018 by admin

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.

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 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!!

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.

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.

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.

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

Posted on November 11, 2018 by admin

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.”

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 <span data-mce-type="bookmark" style="display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;" class="mce_SELRES_end"></span> 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.

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.”

Steve Taddeo Swing Senders with special guest Dan Levinson at Bemis, October 27, 2018

Posted on November 7, 2018 by admin

Despite the heavy rain Noreaster there was a sizable crowd anticipating Steve Taddeo’s Swing Senders with Special Guest Dan Levinson, this fine afternoon. Featured were Jeff Hughes and Pat Stout trumpet, Dan Levinson, John Clark and Craig Ball reeds, Dan Gabel trombone, Justin Meyer bass, Bill Doyle guitar, Ross Petot piano and Steve Taddeo drums and Leader. Guest vocalist Debbie Nordyke.
It was a top notch dream band and the greatest musicians in New England.

For those of us who couldn’t make it, Harold McAleer took videos. Thank you, Harold!!

Debby Nordyke sings Blue skies. John Clark on bari sax goes toe-toe with Dan Levinson on tenor sax,

Don’t Be That Way – Starting with Dan on clarinet, all get to improvise a solo

Just The Way You Look Tonight

Steve Taddeo featured – even tried Tap Dancing with Found a New Baby- 11.4 minutes:

Dan Levinson winds up the concert in Bemis Hall on Oct 27, 2018
with a hot tune – Stomping at the Savoy

The audience was not disappointed! Steve Taddeo brought together a top-notch group of musicians this afternoon at Bemis Hall. Thank you, Harold McAleer for sharing.

Dan Levinson enjoyed playing along with them, and said he’d like to return next year with his family!! Steve will keep us informed. Stay tuned!

Eli and The Hot Six and Winikers at Primavera Ristorante October 18

Posted on October 22, 2018 by admin

Eli’s Hot Six

by Marce

Bo Winiker leader/trumpet, flugelhorn, Phil Person trumpet, Ted Casher clarinet/tenor sax, Jimmy Mazzy banjo/vocals, Zac Casher drums, also Bill Winiker on drums and various vocalists

Bo Winiker was leader of Eli and The Hot Six this Thursday because Eli and Carolyn Newberger were vacationing in Vietnam and Cambodia. Bill Winiker was also here, and brought their Mom, Annette. The Winiker Band played at the legendary Parker House in Cambridge Square for 28 years. That’s where the ‘boys’ grew up; but they lived in Millis, MA, so the Primavera Music Room was full!

Velma Casher and Annette Winiker photo by Bill Winiker

It was such a pleasure to meet Annette Winiker, still spry at age 92!

Bill took a picture of her with Ted Casher’s wife, Velma.

Bo had the band playing toe-tapping Traditional Jazz for the whole first set before moving to vocalists and swing! It was a great night, with hot solos and delightful counterpoint.

Jimmy Mazzy

The first set started with an instrumental South, then Jimmy singing Basin St. Blues, and scatting in Strutting With Some Barbecue. .

Phil Person

Phil Person’s warm, sweet trumpet was featured with Do Nothing ‘Till you Hear From Me. Phil is a skillful interpreter of the melody, as well as muted trumpet commentary behind vocals.

Zac and Ted Casher

Sweet Sue from New Orleans, Jimmy Mazzy’s unique interpretation, with energetic interchange between The Dynamic Duo – Ted and Zac Casher.

Nat Coolidge photo by Bill Winiker

Nat Coolidge sang with Eli and The Hot Six at the Fundraiser for Windrush Farms recently. He’s been involved with it for 40 years; It serves special needs kids, helping them ride horseback – and they even have a horse riding Olympics. They really enjoy it! Tonight Nat sang Hoagie Carmichael’s Georgia on my mind, adding some Jimmy Durante lyrics – sounding like Vaudeville!

Bill Winiker

Bill and Bo Winiker made a Cd for their 50^th anniversary in Jazz. The title track was Getting Some Fun Out of Life. Bill Winiker took over the drums and they played it now, dedicated to their late Father, Ed, who had started the Winiker Band in 1962 where Annette played string bass.

Young vocalist with banjo and drum in background

Zoe Musmon

Set two had two young vocalists named Zoe. The first Zoe Musmon sang the beautiful waltz, Che Sera Sera.

She connected with the audience, singing to each of us, with Benny Goodman’s Stomping at the Savoy.

Bo called on Bob Winter to play a tune that describes him perfectly – The Piano Man. He loves to play the piano, and was with the Boston Pops for over 30 years.

Surprise! Elaine Wu walked in – she was at another program, but left early to be here! That’s dedication – We call her our “Dr. Jazz”. She took over, beginning with the verse on I’m Old Fashioned, backed by Ted Casher on tenor sax. She led the band – continuing with Blame It On My Youth, and Oscar & Hammerstein’s Nobody Else But Me, explaining that “That’s about an adolescent, who wants to be anybody else, until she falls in love”. The Band gave her a grand finale!

Elaine Wu leads the band

Nat was back with They Can’t Take That Away From Me, and Rodgers & Hart’s The Lady Is A Tramp.

Zoe Stewart

Next came the second Zoe – Zoe Stewart, from Milford MA who sang After You’ve Gone by Henry Creamer and Turner Layton. She already has her own special timing, took the band by surprise by modulating her voice. She will be going to college in the fall for Musical Theatre.

Jimmy Mazzy returned, singing Swing That Music and Stars Fell on Alabama.

Bo on smoky flugelhorn

Moving quickly along towards the finale,, Zoe Musman came back with Cole Porters’ Night and Day and Cheek to Cheek, Bo on smoky flugelhorn.

This evening flew by so fast! We could hardly believe it was already over!
Bo kept it moving pressing these amazing musicians, and just having fun being the leader.

He closed it with You’re a Lucky Guy. (please excuse my shaking – Marce)

Eli and The Hot Six are at Primavera Ristorante on the 3^rd Thursday of every month (except December.) We hope you’ll join us next month on November 15^thfor more fantastic Jazz!

New England Traditional Jazz Plus

Swing, Traditional Jazz, Dixieland Jazz, Big Bands

Category Archives: Performances