Usually I write about recent performances by our well known local bands and their guests.  Today, I would like to give my readers an insight as to what our young high school students and their directors are doing to teach, promote, play our true Americana music and encourage them to enjoy what they are doing.  It is always the hope that many young musicians will further their education and on as music teachers and professional musicians.   For those who embark on different careers, they will forever carry the art and love of music. 

Our country is facing a financial crisis which is manifesting itself in the cut-back of financial aid for the arts.  We must continue to support and encourage our young musicians in every way possible. 
This said, I will tell you about an evening at the Coginchaug Regional High School.

Durham, CT is situated in a beautiful New England town not far from Wallingford and Northford.  A delightful setting where time seems to have stood still.

The program opened to a full house of family and friends.  First on the agenda was the C.R.H.S. Jazz Ensemble consisting of 21 young musicians under the direction of Dean Coutsouridis, their music director.
After several introductory numbers, a female saxophone musician and male guitar player took center stage to sing a duet.  They rocked!!!  Following their performance, we heard another singer who sang PAPER MOON.  Not an easy selection for a young voice but she belted it out very well.  I was about her age when I learned the words to Paper Moon (and many moons ago.)  The Ensemble concluded with a great number "WORK SONG" and received a thunderous ovation.

Next to grace the stage was the Dixie Combo which consisted of seven musicians and three were female....piano, clarinet and drummer.  For you Dixieland lovers, we heard "ROYAL GARDEN BLUES' and "THAT'S A PLENTY."  It was a delight to hear these young musicians play OKOM.  Our kind of music (true Americana music) goes back to 1895.  Dixieland, Ragtime, Blues, Swing and all that followed.

Once the stage was cleared, next came the Galvanized Jazz Band.  Freddy Vigorito (their leader/cornet) opened with a 1902 blues number, followed by the 1917 "Original Dixieland One Step."

By this time, the students were in awe and not moving a muscle as they sat enraptured with the artistry and professionalism of the GJB.  I believe Freddy was aware of this and so took the time to explain that the GJB will be celebrating 50 years in 2013.  Also, the band had its beginnings at Yale and Art Hovey (tuba & bass) is one of the remaining musicians from the inception.

Freddy gave a history (author, date etc) prior to playing each number.  After playing several numbers, the Dixie Combo joined the band on stage. When the band played "Washington and Lee Swing" and Freddy sang the words, the place went wild.  During this time, on stage with the GJB, the students did not have charts and when the traditional GJB finale number "When The Saints Go Marching In' started, Freddy encouraged the students to join in to play and improvise with the band.  It was most impressive to see and hear these young musicians take to this moment like ducks to water.  Good job!!

And, a tribute to Dean Coutsouridis. 

The evening started with a New Orleans traditional parasol parade and ended the same way.  A wonderful time was had by all.

Jean Hadley & Parasol

CRHC Dixieland Jazz Player plays 4-hand piano with GJB's Bill Sinclair.