As always, it was a mixture of the familiar and the new. There were musicians and songs that have thrilled previous House Party audiences, as well as new performers and songs that have not visited the House Party before now.
Banu Gibso
Banu Gibson was the new headliner and brought an interesting mix of musical talent (she stuck with vocals for the House Party), charts and humorous stories. She is a consummate performer and was well received from her Friday night spotlight and throughout the whole weekend. She stuck primarily to working with “charts” – it is difficult to travel and develop a quick rapport with new musicians to back up your vocals – but it all came out very well.
She actually arrived in New York City a few days earlier and spent some time with the NYC crew.
Vince Giordano and Banu
Friday night she was backed by Vince Giordano (on his multitude of instruments), Dan Levinson (on reeds), Tom Palinko (on drums) and Jeff Barnhart (on keyboards). She also featured some vocal duties by Vince and Jeff. The charts gave the show more structure than we usually rely upon.
Jeepers Creepers
Banu Gibson – Vocal Mike Davis – Trumpet Dan Levinson – Reeds
Jim Fryer – Trombone Dalton Ridenhour – Piano
Vince Giordano – Bass
Kevin Dorn – Drums
Banu and Joel Schiavone
At the start of her career, Banu actually worked for Joel Schiavone, so it was a homecoming of sorts for her. Your Father’s Mustache was alive and well in Branford this past weekend!
Vince Giordano – My Blackbirds are Bluebirds Now
For the rest of the weekend most of the structure was Jeff’s freewheeling mix of musicians and styles. He always prepares a list of which musicians are featured for
each song with only a suggestion of style of music and a nominal tune caller. Then he tells the musicians that they are free to ad lib and add others as they go.
On some of these Banu used charts and on others she joined into the loose structure for which we are known.
New for this year was Jeff’s depiction of a NYC crew and suburban crew.
The suburban crew included Jeff, Tom Palinko, Joel, Frank Tate (on bass), Fred Vigorito (on trumpet and cornet), Tom Boates (on trombone) and the inimitable Noel Kaletsky (on reeds). China Boy
Big Noise From Winnetka featured Tom Palinko drums.
The NYC crew included Vince, Dan, Jim Fryer (on trombone and other brass instruments), Kevin Dorn (on drums), Dalton Ridenhour (on keyboards) and Mike Davis (on trumpet). Dalton and Mike were new to the House Party and performed well beyond their years. Note their names because you will be hearing more about them as time goes on. They were great new additions.
Shake It and Break It
Canal Street Blues
Jeff & Dalton play 4-handed piano – Everybody Loves My Baby
Swing Senders and Midiri Brothers full house at Bemiis Hall, Lincoln MA
by Myron Idelson
photos: Marce
videos by CineDevine
On November 7 2015 at 2pm there was no ambiguity in store musically for an overflow crowd. Steve Taddeo Swing Senders with special guest Midiri Brothers Paul and Joe, returned by unanimous demand, presented jazz lovers and enthusiasts with a fevered performance.
Against the drop back of historic Bemis Hall the Swing Senders thankfully populated by Joe Midiri clarinet, alto and soprano sax, Paul Midiri vibes, trombone and drums, Bill Cable cornet, Gerry Gagnon trombone, Robin Verdier piano, Bill Doyle guitar, Justin Meyer string bass, Craig Ball clarinet, Steve Taddeo drums, Caroline Griep vocals, unabashedly raised traditional jazz to new heights.
Steve Taddeo is a rare talent, a brilliant and dynamic drummer with native talents who fires up the Swing Senders and any band he plays for because of his consistently inspiring drums. His unique style displaying superb musicianship is bright, inventive, quite intense, soft with sticks or brushes and with no difficulty in communicating with the musicians and vocalist Caroline Griep on their lofty level. His playing has unanimity of purpose, of thought, musical and otherwise, inspiring the band to a sense of freedom and play; all combined with an air of maturity that is unique unusual superlative uncommon – in other words RARE.
Stomping at The Savoy
The program consisted of Stomping at the Savoy, Ida, Avalon, All of Me, Jeepers Creepers, Pennies From Heaven, Crazy Rhythm, I’ll Do Anything For You, and Dinah. Each one played with an exuberance and excitement producing a feeling of exultation which consistently caused volcanic eruptions of applause during and after every number.
Joe Midiri clarinet, Paul Midiri vibes
What a Dream
What a joy! This group, the Swing Senders, combined with Joe and Paul made it absolutely amazing. It must be remembered by all of us who were there as an evening that consistently and joyously incited and inspired not only the audience but the fellow musicians. Steve’s Swing Senders and The Midiris invariably project a wonderful uninhibited aura of spontaneity that brightens every place they perform. Ditto for November 7th.
Caroline Griep is appreciated by band and fans alike.
Caroline’s value to the Swing Senders is tremendous; the guys love her and she loves them. The whole spirit of the room, the band and audience perks up perceptibly when she sings. Caroline is dedicated to her music and modestly never fully recognizing her talent. She is devoted and anxious to please not only her listeners but her musical conscience as well.
In addition to Craig Ball’s scintillating wizardry on clarinet, Craig was the music director and was wonderfully imaginative and wisely selecting solos at the proper times, from himself, Bill Cable’s souring and sweet trumpet, Robin Verdier’s stride piano, Justin Meyer’s chordal bass, Gerry Gagnon sonorous trombone, Bill Doyle’s syncopated guitar. All of their solos were driving, probing soaring and sweet.
Joe’s soprano sax rendition of Si Tu Vois Ma Mere displayed a pure tone and beauty so remarkable and emotional, steeped in greatness and perhaps musical immortality. Many of us wept.
Pennies From Heaven sung by Joe produced a return to life of Louis himself.
Finally, the dueling drums with Steve and Paul were sheer drumming skill and beauty, gorgeous and heralded clean and clear strokes, for imagination and wit, for originality, consistency, extraordinary drumming skills, making obsolete single, double, and triple ratamacues and paradiddles.
No other audience has heard a drum duel to match Steve and Paul. The evening can be summarized thusly: a story of inspiration and imagination, a story of energy, a story of love and a lesson for all of us in giving. And we the listeners were the gracious receivers.
Myron Idelson
Many thanks to Harold and Shirley McAleer and Eve Welts for all their work at Bemis Hall, Vern Welch for moral support, and to SteveTaddeo for bringing us the Midiri Brothers. Marce
Under construction. We are waiting on approval of videos before this House Party is officially over for this year. Bookmark this page and check on our progress.
Meatime, check on Saturday and Sunday.. Marce
Bands on Sunday at Jeff and Joel’s House Party. Fabulous!
Jeff & Joel’s House Party #6 Columbus Day Weekend, 2015 By Sue Finn
Another fabulous weekend, they just keep getting better and better. This one had four sessions, starting with the Anderson twins on Friday evening. Peter and Will are so talented (and so young!) They played clarinet and alto and tenor sax and a wide range of pieces backed by Jeff, Jim and Brian. Joel joined them for one number in each set.
The two sessions on Saturday and one on Sunday followed the same format as last year. Generally, each combo of musicians stayed for three numbers with one chosen by each of the front line players.
Clarinet Marmalade
There were exceptions of course; Noel and Dan playing Clarinet Marmalade for example, piano solos by Jeff and Donn and, of course, ‘banjorama’ with 4 banjos on stage and everybody singing along with Joel. Each session ended with a grand finale with all the musicians on stage together. The food was great and the volunteers as fantastic as ever.
Strutting With Some Barbecue
Sunday’s session was my favorite. It started with ‘Struttin’ With Some Barbecue’ played like the Louis Armstrong/Gary Crosby version, starting slow, then fast with Jeff & Fred doing the vocals – really great!
Dan and Joel in Old Shanty Town
Dan & Joel sang ‘It’s only a Shanty in Old Shanty Town’.
Tom Boates sang Beale Street Blues and Jim joined him for an awesome version of Ory’s Creole Trombone complete with crossed slides – amazing.
Jim Fryer and Tom Boates play Ory’s Creole Trombone
There was some Sunday Gospel – Molly sang ‘Sermonette’ and ‘Get Rhythm in your Feet’. She also sang ‘Far Away Places’ with just Gen accompanying her – beautiful.
Other highlights – ‘Big Bear Stomp’ with Brian on tuba and, of course, Joel’s ‘banjorama’ . This time, Joel did some old radio commercials.
Joel Schiavone and New York’s Kevin Dorn
There was also a vote of thanks to Joel and presentation of a signed photo of all the musicians.
The session and the weekend ended with a rousing version of ‘Joe Avery’s Piece’ and then the grand finale with all the musicians playing – drum roll please – ‘High Society’ with Noel & Dan doing the famous Alphonse Picou clarinet solo. This was followed with a reprise of ‘We’ll Meet Again’which Jeff and Dan sang earlier – very nostalgic and, as always, nobody wanted it to be over……………..
Sue Finn 10/15/2015
None of this would have been possible without the aid of devoted and dedicated volunteers, some of whom worked all year to help Jeff and Joel.
John Hedden, Maureen, Marty Fay, in back Mairi Bryan and Andee Carolla
Judy Postemsky, Andee Carolla, Mairi Bryan, Glenn Ott, Carol Ott, Eric Devine, Bruce Scranton, standing behind Lecia Scranton
Misty (VFW), Glenn Ott, Bruce Scranton, Judy Postemsky, in front of Bruce is Lecia and in front of Lecia, Carol
Next Year: 2016 House Party Dates: October 7, 8, 9. Friday Night Taste of the Weekend! – October 7th- music 7:30-9:30pm, $40.00 per person featuring the one and only Paris Washboard with Jeff Barnhart! Tickets are already half sold (purchased by the people at this House Party!)
This will sell out, so get your tickets soon.
Held at The Sheraton Sand Key Resort and Marriott Suites on Sand Key, in beautiful Clearwater Florida. Special Events: Your Father’s Mustache 2nd Final Reunion, Clarinet Clambake, Trobone Wing Ding, Joy of Sax, Heavyweight Salute to Trumpet Heavyweights, Festival Divas and Jam Sessions Afterglow Mixer.
by Jean Hadley
photos by Sharon and Ed Ohr Videos by Eric Devine (CineDevine)
Here we go again! The start of Suncoast’s 24th year. Early Friday morning, gathered poolside, were fans with parasols, vintage ensembles, washboards and anything festive to kick off the beginning of a delightful and entertaining weekend.
Seated, at my poolside table, were Marty Kaletsky, to support her very talented husband Noel, Sharon and Ed Ohr photographers for this article and, Barbara Harvey (CT) a loyal supporter of OKOM.
Parasol Parade Photos by Sharon and Ed Ohr
The band was a wonderful mix of weekend musicians led by Dave Tatrow & Friends. Playing songs we well remembered, the fans joined in with voice and applause; nothing like audience participation to get the crowd in a festival mood.
Rather than write about each and every musician and selection played, I prefer to write about the fans, the type of music offered and the enthusiasm of both patrons and musicians.
The biographies, in the program, were right on target. The mix of music was a nice change and I commend those who made band selections. There was something for everyone.
As we all know, Dixieland music is still alive and well, however, our fan base is slowly dwindling. This is not because patrons lack interest in the music but rather age and poor health. We have many youngsters joining the ranks but, it will be several years before they develop the same confidence, enthusiasm and relaxation, on stage, as our seasoned musicians. To make this happen, we must continue to support these new kids on the block and spread the word.
On Friday morning, I stopped to hear the Tarpon Springs HS Jazz Ensemble . Wow! What a band! After hearing these youngsters, I knew I should hear the other HS bands. Each HS band (and their vocals) could not have been more professional. My hat goes off to the directors.
My next stop was to hear Jubilee Jazz Band. Jane Campadelli’s ingenious idea to put a band together and introduce it to the Suncoast Festival three years ago. With the likes of Noel Kaletsky, Bob Price, Scotty Philbrick, Gene Blood, Herb Roselle, Dan Howard, how could she miss. Jubilee played straight New Orleans style music. Jane’s vocal ability never changes and, she always manages to bring the audience to their feet. Thank you, Jane, for keeping OKOM alive and well!.
Janie and Jubilee packed them in
Barbary Coast, from Minnesota, known for their Dixieland worship services, gave their audience a very entertaining performance. Age diversified, they never skipped a beat. Their leader, Dick Petersen, played tribute to Louis Armstrong and brought the crowd to its feet by playing many Armstrong selections a lot of energy. By the way, Dick Petersen is a left handed banjo player.
The Barbara Coast Jazz Band
For a change of venue and some libation, I moved on to Condon’s Corner Bar to hear some “Cool Jazz” and meet friends. Condon’s Corner offers tasty cuisine and a fine selection of beverages. In addition, there is a variety of music all the time; a place to always find old and new friends.
Bob Leary
Besides a good deal of chatter, we enjoyed hearing Bob Leary and ensemble followed by the Orion Trio. Orion was very cool, smooth and captivating. They gave a delivery of “Route 66” that brought the house down.
Moving on to another venue, I wanted to hear what all the excitement was about the St. Louis Stompers. This is a very high energy band bent on playing for the entertainment of their audience. Stompers, so professional and smooth, their sound was almost classical. A very strong band. Stompers played a diversified number of selections from Blues and Dixieland. I give them a gold star!
The St. Louis Stompers with Howard Miyata
Mike and Steve Lilley of the St, Louis Stompers
It is still Friday with a plethora of bands to hear. I have now moved on to hear an outstanding band (Dave Bennett &The Memphis Speed Kings) Dave being the leader (piano/vocals.) Wow! This kind of entertainment reminded me of Igor & Cowboys that so often played our Great CT Jazz Festival.
How great it was to hear authentic 1950’s Rockabilly and Rock & Roll. Dave not only pumped his piano but sat on it “rump” side down and up. His vocals deserve an A-plus. We all enjoyed another high energy band to keep us awake and our feet tapping.
By 10:00pm Friday, I knew the hour was late and this would be my last for the day (if I wanted to see Saturday’s dawn.) I chose to hear Red Garter Jazz Band. I was delighted I made this choice. Along with this super band, the vocals were strong and clear. Red Garter reminds one how much fun Trad Jazz can be/is. Red Garter is from nearby Clearwater, The Villages, FL. Don’t miss this band if you have the opportunity to hear them. Lots of fun!!!
Saturday morning arrived and, with it, many new people and many familiar faces. The excitement was just as electrifying as Friday morning when we were all getting into the weekend mood. My first stop was to hear another youth band (J.W Mitchell HS Jazz Band/Trinity, Fl.) Excellent! So professional, I thought I was hearing an old time big band. Their brass section was outstanding! Kudos to the director!
For anyone who follows The Midiri Brothers, it goes without saying. I love their swing style and their sense of humor. But, most of all, I adore their old standards from the days of Shaw, Goodman and Dorsey. The nostalgia, of their repertoire, reminded me of an era long gone but not forgotten. Tempus fugit!
The next show-stopper was Tom Rigney and Flambeau. I cannot tell you what “Flambeau” means. However, I can say this….what a show this guy delivers. He is more than flamboyant! He is electrifying! The stage was ablaze with his groove. Cajun, Zydeco, blues, boogie, waltzes and some almost classical pieces he authored. He is a virtuoso on the violin. His command of the instrument is mind boggling. This band is a must see.
Paul Scavarda of Wally’s Warehouse Waifs
The rest of the day, was spent listening to Wally’s Warehouse Waifs, Cornet Chop Suey and High Sierra. Anyone who has heard these bands knows they are show bands with high energy and aim to please their public each and every performance.
High Sierra plays mainly a West Coast style of traditional jazz.
High Sierra Jazz Band
Cornet Chop Suey and Wally’s Warehouse Waifs play styles from traditional jazz, swing and blues. These bands are winners in every way. They deliver a quality of music that is hard to duplicate.
Cornet Chop Suey
I finally called it a day and made my last appearance at Condon’s Corner to hear Theo Valentin, another great vocalist. Theo captured the audience with her blues and ballads. She is a very exciting personality and one I would like to hear again and again.
When Sunday’s sun rose to greet me, I knew it was time to pack, take my breakfast and listen to a few of my favorite bands that were still on the schedule. At four o’clock, those who were still on board enjoyed the finale.
I could not and did not take in every band. The festival was sprinkled with so much music it was impossible to hear each one.
What I will tell you, though, Suncoast should be proud of what they did this year…..
a smashing success!!! The best ever!
The festival could not have come to fruition had it not been for Joan Dragon (Director,) volunteers, sponsors, a wonderful hotel staff and the many behind the scenes people. Extra kudos to all the volunteers and hotel staff for their politeness and help; going the extra mile, with a smile, made one want to come back again and again.
HAPPY 25th — 2015
Jean Hadley
Other bands: Bill Allred Classic Jazz, Bob Draga and Friends, Hamilton Harris Project with Marilyn Freemon, Lori Hafer Trio and Mike Hafer with John Lamb, Nate Najar, Pepper, Valerie Gillespie Quintet
Hopkins and Miller’s Sunset Stomp:
