ARGENTINA: Gabriela Diaz -A Case of Joni (2018)

This is a collection and a fine songbook of the most beautiful songs from Joni Mitchell´s repertoire. At least, the most beautiful songs in the opinion of Gabriela Diaz, exquisite Argentinean jazz singer. This new release features a variety of songs from different periods of Joni`s discography, from Hejira to Blue, from Mingus to Court and Spark, from For the roses to Clouds, and more. This is an unforgettable opportunity to listen to these great songs of one of the most important artists of the last century, the Canadian songwriter and painter, Joni Mitchell. Very rarely performed, these songs can be heard in these new versions as an original point of view of Joni`s works but also a respectful homage to her from Gabriela`s heart.

USA: 1st Thursdays Jazz Returns to Orama in Edgewater, NJ, June 7th with Curtis Lundy and Friends

1st Thursdays Jazz returns to Orama in Edgewater, NJ, June 7, featuring live music by Grammy-nominated bassist Curtis Lundy and Friends Celebrate the start of summer with stellar 1st Thursdays Jazz presented by the Bergen County Jazz Society Music lovers can get a jump-start on weekend fun with an evening of great jazz from acclaimed bassist and bandleader Curtis Lundy on Thursday, June 7. The event marks the return of the yearly 1st Thursdays music series at Orama Restaurant in Edgewater, NJ. Signaling the unofficial start of summer, the popular annual concert is presented by the Bergen County Jazz Society. For the past several summers, 1st Thursdays has been a destination for a lively and enthusiastic crowd looking to soak up the sounds and the scene. Bandleader Curtis Lundy can be counted on to assemble a brilliant ensemble of friends from the musical world to set the mood. Whatever your top picks are for a perfect summer evening, you’ll find them at Orama. In addition to the exciting music, it’s hard to beat the atmosphere: Sited on the Hudson River, Orama’s floor-to-ceiling windows frame amazing scenes of lower Manhattan. Relax, take in the spectacular views, peruse the eclectic menu ranging from sushi to small plates to full meals, along with a creative cocktail program and extensive wine list. Or kick back at an outdoor table, enjoy a cigar and watch the boats go by, with the Manhattan skyline gleaming just across the river. Providing a live soundtrack for it all is the multi-talented Curtis Lundy. He has long been recognized among the premiere figures in straight-ahead jazz as a bassist, bandleader, composer, and arranger. Lundy gained attention early, accompanying the renowned vocalist Betty Carter, who was famous for seeking out the best young players. Lundy later carried on that tradition with Horizon, a band he co-led with saxophonist Bobby Watson. Favorably compared with Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, one of the most celebrated and beloved jazz ensembles ever, Horizon built a reputation as a proving ground for many of the most promising up-and-comers on the jazz scene. Besides leading his own bands, Curtis Lundy is an in-demand sideman, appearing and recording with giants like Pharoah Sanders, Art Blakey, Wynton Marsalis, Branford Marsalis, Stanley Turrentine, Freddie Hubbard, Don Pullen, Clark Terry, Elvin Jones and Jon Faddis. He is also known for collaborations with his sister, acclaimed singer Carmen Lundy. A Grammy-nominee himself, Lundy’s vocal choir arrangement of “Walk with Me” was sampled by Kanye West on his Grammy-winning “Jesus Walks.” For his previous 1st Thursdays gigs, Lundy has drawn from a who’s who of the current jazz scene for his band at Orama. No matter who’s on the schedule, when Curtis Lundy is on the bandstand there’s always a chance of surprise musical guests dropping by to join in the fun Founded in 2016 by Ronald E. McKnight and Curtis Lundy, the Bergen County Jazz Society aims to help people of all ages have a greater appreciation of jazz. Besides working in the school system and mentoring programs, the BCJS assists musicians in need of food, housing, work and medical care. You won’t want to miss the fun on June 7, when 1st Thursdays   returns to Orama! 1st Thursdays Jazz Featuring Curtis Lundy and Friends Thursday June 7 7 to 10 P.M. Orama Restaurant 595 River Road Edgewater, NJ For reservations, call Ronald E. McKnight 877-869-7121, or register online at https://1stthursdaysjune7.eventbrite.com

USA: World Class Drummer Warren Benbow’s New Book ‘A Drummers Story’ Is Here!

Jazz is one of the major forms of musical expression. In the 1970s, jazz was moving away from strict acoustic instruments and was adding electric instruments— turning its style toward rock music. Warren Benbow, who has been playing drums since he was young, details the changes jazz music underwent in his artistic memoir, "A Drummers Story" @ https://store.bookbaby.com/book/A-Drummers-Story1   After attending the High School of Performing Arts in New York City, Warren Benbow started exploring the world of jazz. In his book, he looks back on the influences that emerged since the ’70s. He also recalls his performances and encounters with noteworthy musicians like Whitney Houston, Nina Simone, Betty Carter, Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder, Ornette Coleman, and James “Blood” Ulmer. Aside from music, his memoir also mentions the shifts in racial integration and political dynamics in 1960s and 1970s America.  I’ve been fortunate to have performed or recorded with artists such as Whitney Houston, Nina Simone, LL Cool J, Betty Carter, Michael Urbaniak with Ursula Dudziak, Nancy Wilson, Mavis Staples, Teruo Nakamura and Super Friends, Mary J. Blige, Brian McKnight, James “Blood” Ulmer’s Odyssey Band and many others. I went to the High School of Performing Arts (FAME) and the Mannes College of Music here in NYC. At the same time I also attended the Jazzmobile, here in NY as well, where many of the music instructors were members of Dizzy Gillespie’s big band. Meeting these people is how I began to get jazz gigs and work in New York. While in high school I had a band with my classmates and we were playing the music of the Rascals and Vanilla Fudge. We were loud. At the same time I was playing jazz with singer Betty Carter that was much softer music, with light sticks and brushes. At first it was not easy to make the transition between playing loud with my band or soft with the jazz vocalist, but eventually I found a way.   I started out as a kid drummer, and although I’m not that kid drummer anymore, every time I get behind the kit I still feel like I am. I enjoy performing and I plan to keep on performing. Once a drummer, always a drummer! I work in recording studios here in town, but I enjoy performing live around the world even more, though at times it can be quite hectic. In fact, I just got back from doing a couple of club dates in Europe with James “Blood” Ulmer. One show was in Vienna, and one in Munich. I flew to Vienna, arrived at the hotel in the morning, had an evening sound check and performance, and then did the same deal the day after in Munich. Performances were great, but not much time to sleep. The life of a musician…Ha! I recently wrote a book about my drumming life in the changing music scene in the ’70s and ’80s. It's called,"A Drummers Story". For more info on "A Drummer’s Story, and the best place to order the paperback or Ebook please visit: https://store.bookbaby.com/book/A-Drummers-Story1 You can watch and hear a short video/interview of me here:   And my drum solo in Warsaw, Poland at the Jazz Jamboree:  Book Endorsements: Rob Wallis- Hudson Music - Pres. Drum Guru App - Founder  “A Drummer's Story is a walk through Bed Stuy., and Brooklyn in the 60's and 70's, and on to the High School of Performing Arts in NYC. Through his gigs with Whitney Houston, Nina Simone, Betty Carter, James ‘Blood’ Ulmer and many more, Warren covers the NYC music scene from The Apollo, The Fillmore East and Hendrix's Electric Ladyland Studios with Stevie Wonderand everything in between. Warren has touched on a huge variety of the music from the 70's, 80's and 90's - from the civil rights movement, the assassinations of JFK, Robert Kennedy and Martin Luther King into John Lennon, the summer of love and Jimi Hendrixplaying the Star Spangled banner at Woodstock. A lover of music from James Brownand Aretha to Sly Stoneand Miles Davis, The Beatlesand Ringo to drummers Tony Williams and John Bonham. Warren covers his life thru the streets and thru the music....” Lenny White- An American jazz fusion drummer icon, best known for being the drummer of Chick Corea and Return Forever. ‪ White has been described as "one of the founding fathers of jazz fusion"... " Warren Benbow's words give you a literary landscape of the most influential musical periods of the style of Jazz in the last century. He's lived in it and continues to live an eventful life". Warren Smith- Jazz, and classical percussionist, and educator. “I was privileged to read Warren Benbow's book. I have known Warren, it seems, for most of his professional career. His narrative is quite interesting, especially to another musician, as well as a fellow percussionist. Seeing similar or shared experiences thru the eyes of another musician is always an interesting adventure. Warren's story is reminiscent of my own early years in New York City. This book chronicles the constant evolution of the music world thru the last few decades. Warren tells of the influence of technology upon the music, as well as the ever-changing styles and developments of the innovators, musicians and composers who most influenced the direction of African-American Music during the 20th and early 21st centuries. His breadth of experiences, and the way he uses them to navigate a successful career, is a must read for young musicians. I am sure that anyone who starts this book will find it hard to put down, from cover to cover. Great job Warren. We need more active musicians to tell this story from the inside...” You can also check out Warren Benbow’s music CD's at: https://warrenbenbow.bandcamp.com/album/warren-benbows-harmolodic-adventure-2 and: https://www.reverbnation.com/warrenbenbowtimecodeproject. For inquiries and booking, send an email to wlbenbow@gmail.com.

USA: Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz Presents A Salute to Russell Malone Thursday, June 21st 8pm TRIBECA Performing Arts Center

Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz New York’s Longest Running Jazz Concert Series Don’t miss out on the final concert of the 2018 Highlights In Jazz season! The 46thseason of Highlights In Jazz wraps up Thursday, June 21, 2018, 8 P.M., with A Salute to Russell Malone Guest of Honor: Guitarist Russell Malone Featuring: Saxophonists Jimmy Heath & Houston Person Drummers Lewis Nash & Willie Jones III Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt Guitarist Gene Bertoncini Vibraphonist Steve Nelson Bassist Luke Sellick Plus A Special Surprise Guest!Russell Malone Only at BMCC TRIBECA Performing Arts Center Borough of Manhattan Community College 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 Tickets & Info

Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz closes its 46thseason with a tribute to lauded jazz guitarist Russell Malone. A mainstay on the Manhattan music scene since the 1980s, as well as a regular at international festivals and concert halls, Russell has attracted critical and fan recognition for his work as an accomplished leader and in-demand sideman. The versatile guitarist has been praised for his tender touch on ballads, as well as for revealing a smokin’ side that made him right at home in organ bands fronted by icons like Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff. “Russell is so versatile, and we have such great people joining him, this is going to be quite a concert. We salute a living jazz artist every year. I believe in doing it while they’re alive and it means something, that’s part of our tradition,” producer Jack Kleinsinger declares. The unique Highlights In Jazz series thrives on bringing together musicians with a mix of styles from across the generations, and welcoming the sometimes unexpected results of their collaborations. Kleinsinger loves the freshness and spontaneity guaranteed by this approach: “There are always two concerts: The one I envision and the one that actually takes place,” Jack reveals with a laugh. “Different kinds of players sound wonderful together,” he continues, pointing to the concert’s two saxophonists as examples: “Jimmy Heath is a bopper and Houston Person swings and has that big tone. They’ll find common ground and it will be great.” The guest of honor, guitarist Russell Malone, has released more than a dozen albums as a leader, including 2017’s well-received Time for the Dancers. Critics have called him “the gifted torch-bearer” of jazz guitar, and cited him for as an exemplary player of “irrepressible charisma” and “underrated artistry.” Russell has enjoyed long associations with musicians as varied as Jimmy Smith, Harry Connick Jr., and Diana Krall, appearing on three of her Grammy nominated albums. He has frequently collaborated with pianist Benny Green, and shared stages and/or studios with Roy Hargrove, Kenny Barron, Mulgrew Miller, Jack McDuff, Ron Carter, Sonny Rollins, and more than one Marsalis brother. Saxophonist Jimmy Heath titled his autobiography I Walked with Giants, and that says it all. In the late-1940s, the Philadelphia-born 2003 NEA Jazz Master’s first big band included John Coltrane, Benny Golson, Cal Massey, Johnny Coles, and Ray Bryant; Charlie Parker and Max Roach sat in with them. The three-time Grammy nominee also played with the likes of Dinah Washington, Chet Baker, Clifford Brown, J.J. Johnson, Freddie Hubbard, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Milt Jackson, Pat Metheny, and, of course, his illustrious brothers, Percy and Albert “Tootie” Heath. At 91, Jimmy Heath shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to play, teach, and influence the jazz community. Saxophonist Houston Person is among the most in-demand tenor players on the New York jazz scene. He has a special affinity with singers, honed during his two decades-long association with vocalist Etta Jones. Houston has released dozens of albums as a leader, alongside greats such as Ron Carter, Steve Nelson, Cedar Walton, Bill Charlap, Joey DeFrancesco, Bernard Purdie, Les McCann, Benny Green, Grady Tate, Curtis Fuller, and other notables. Drummer Lewis Nash called his first album as a leader Rhythm is My Business, and he certainly got that right! The Phoenix-born drummer started the New York phase of his career in the band of the redoubtable Betty Carter, followed by stints with Ron Carter, Branford Marsalis, and J.J. Johnson. Lewis stepped into the fabled George Adams/Don Pullen quartet (following the late Dannie Richmond), and also played with Stan Getz, Art Farmer, Clark Terry, and Milt Jackson. Besides releasing dozens of recordings as a leader, Lewis is featured on more than 300 albums as a sideman with Joe Lovano, Nancy Wilson, Bette Midler, and Kenny Rankin, among scores of others. Drummer Willie Jones III was barely into his teens when he began gigging professionally. He received a scholarship to Cal Arts, where he studied with Albert “Tootie” Heath; in another early milestone, Willie was a semi-finalist in the respected Thelonious Monk Jazz Drum Competition. He also won the John Coltrane Young Artist Competition with his band Black Note. Willie has played with Milt Jackson, Horace Silver, Arturo Sandoval, and Roy Hargrove, as well as Kurt Elling, Michael Brecker, Hank Jones, Herbie Hancock and others. He continues to record as a leader, compose, produce, and be an invaluable member of the current jazz scene. Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt is among the most prominent players on the scene today, having appeared with the Mingus Big Band, Vincent Herring, Ravi Coltrane, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Frank Wess, John Hicks, Bobby Short, Lonnie Plaxico and more. A perennial on “best trumpeter” lists from numerous publications and associations, Jeremy has released close to 20 albums as a leader, including 2017’s critically acclaimed Make Noise! Guitarist Gene Bertoncini is sometimes referred to as “the Segovia of jazz,” the New Yorkermagazine has sung his praises, and Gene’s concerts and recordings are regularly spotted on the top 10 lists of publications from the Washington Postto Jazzizmagazine. Versatile enough to play with the Tonight Show band and the Metropolitan Opera orchestra, Gene’s jazz credentials comprise collaborations with greats including Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, Wayne Shorter, Hubert Laws, Paul Desmond, Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, and Nancy Wilson. Vibraphonist Steve Nelson has been singled out by jazz journalist John Murph as “one of today’s most revered jazz vibraphonists.” He’s built his sterling reputation on his contributions to bands fronted by Kenny Barron, David “Fathead” Newman, Dave Holland, Renee Rosnes, Grant Green, Johnny Griffin, Jackie McLean and Mulgrew Miller. Steve has been described as a “reluctant bandleader,” explaining that he learns so much as a sideman that he’s not always eager to step out in front. But when Steve does put a band together, he goes for the best: On his well-reviewed 2017 CD, Brothers Under the Sun, Steve leads an all-star quartet featuring pianist Danny Grissett, bassist Peter Washington, and drummer Lewis Nash Bassist Luke Sellick is still in his mid-20s, but has already become the bassist of choice for Russell Malone, Johnny O’Neal, Jimmy Greene, and others. The Juilliard alumnus was mentored by the great Ron Carter and has played with Orrin Evans, Carl Allen, and Renee Rosnes. Luke’s 2017 debut album,Alchemist, features nine original compositions, performed with some of New York’s best players. As is the tradition, a special surprise guest will be on hand, the player’s identity a closely held secret till show time. In past years, scheduled guests have occasionally showed up with guests of their own in tow, to universal delight. “Sometimes we get lucky,” Jack Kleinsinger muses. “Buddy Rich was our scheduled guest at one of the concerts, and he asked if he could bring a friend. Lo and behold, it was Stan Getz.” The veteran producer still sounds a little bit amazed by that occurrence, all these years later. Keep your fingers crossed for surprises--who knows what could happen to top off the smashing 46thseason of Highlights In Jazz! All lineups are subject to change without notice. Russell Malone Photo Credit by Chris Drucker Thursday, June 21, 2018- 8 P.M. Salute to Russell Malone Guest of Honor: guitarist Russell Malone, plus saxophonists Jimmy Heath and Houston Person, drummers Lewis Nash and Willie Jones III, trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, guitarist Gene Bertoncini, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, bassist Luke Sellick, and a surprise special guest! All Shows At BMCC TRIBECA Performing Arts Center Borough of Manhattan Community College 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 http://tribecapac.org Directions By car take FDR Drive south to end, through underpass onto West Street, north to Chambers. By Subway take 1, 2, 3, 9, A, C, E, J or M train to Chambers or N, R to City Hall stop. Walk west on Chambers. Box Office 212-220-1460 Ticket Prices $50.00 $45.00 (student rate with valid ID) or by mail order. $180.00 per subscription Tickets can be purchased in advance at the box office. You are now able to use your credit card at the Tribeca PAC Box Office located on 199 Chambers Street, or by calling (212) 220-1460 and now online at Tickets.Tribecapac.org Please send a check made payable to: Highlights In Jazz Please mail orders to: Highlights In Jazz 7 Peter Cooper Road, Apt. 11E, New York, NY 10010 (Please enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope) http://www.highlightsinjazz.org Highlights in Jazz Media Contact Jim Eigo Jazz Promo Services 272 State Route 94 South #1 Warwick, NY 10990-3363 Ph: 845-986-1677 Cell / text: 917-755-8960 Skype: jazzpromo jim@jazzpromoservices.com www.jazzpromoservices.com

USA: Steven Richman's HARMONIE ENSEMBLE NEW YORK Big Bands Do The Classics Weds., June 13th 1:00 p.m. Midday Jazz Midtown St. Peter’s Church

All are welcome, $10 donation to the church happily accepted. 

www.saintpeters.org/jazz/midtownjazz.htm

harmonieensembleny.com

"Big Bands Do the Classics" with the Grammy Award-nominated Harmonie Ensemble/New York, Steven  Richman, conductor.  Presenting a one-hour concert of Swing Era big band arrangements based on classical themes. The program will include "Bach Goes to Town", "Caprice XXIV Paganini", "Let's Dance", and "Bolero", originally played by the Benny Goodman Orchestra, as well as Tommy Dorsey's "Song of India", Glenn Miller's "Anvil Chorus", Les Brown's "Bizet Has His Day", Claude Thornhill's "Hungarian Dance", and other selections.

 

Special Guest Dan Levinson, clarinet
Mark Gross, alto
Lawrence Feldman, alto
Lew Tabackin, tenor
Bobby Lavell, tenor
Jon-Erik Kellso, tpt
Bob Millikan, tpt
Art Baron, tbn
Harvey Tibbs, tbn
Jim Fryer, tbn
Wayne Goodman, tan
Victor Lewis, drums
Francois Moutin, bass
James Chirillo, guitar
Lincoln Mayorga, piano

This concert is made possible by support from the New York State Council on the Arts (a state agency), the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer, The Ann & Gordon Getty Foundation, Con Edison, and individual contributions.

USA: Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz Presents A Salute to Russell Malone

Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz New York’s Longest Running Jazz Concert Series Don’t miss out on the final concert of the 2018 Highlights In Jazz season! The 46thseason of Highlights In Jazz wraps up Thursday, June 21, 2018, 8 P.M., with A Salute to Russell Malone Guest of Honor: Guitarist Russell Malone Featuring: Saxophonists Jimmy Heath & Houston Person Drummers Lewis Nash & Willie Jones III Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt Guitarist Gene Bertoncini Vibraphonist Steve Nelson Bassist Luke Sellick Plus A Special Surprise Guest!Photo Chris Drucker Only at BMCC TRIBECA Performing Arts Center Borough of Manhattan Community College 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 Tickets & Info

Jack Kleinsinger’s Highlights In Jazz closes its 46thseason with a tribute to lauded jazz guitarist Russell Malone. A mainstay on the Manhattan music scene since the 1980s, as well as a regular at international festivals and concert halls, Russell has attracted critical and fan recognition for his work as an accomplished leader and in-demand sideman. The versatile guitarist has been praised for his tender touch on ballads, as well as for revealing a smokin’ side that made him right at home in organ bands fronted by icons like Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff. “Russell is so versatile, and we have such great people joining him, this is going to be quite a concert. We salute a living jazz artist every year. I believe in doing it while they’re alive and it means something, that’s part of our tradition,” producer Jack Kleinsinger declares. The unique Highlights In Jazz series thrives on bringing together musicians with a mix of styles from across the generations, and welcoming the sometimes unexpected results of their collaborations. Kleinsinger loves the freshness and spontaneity guaranteed by this approach: “There are always two concerts: The one I envision and the one that actually takes place,” Jack reveals with a laugh. “Different kinds of players sound wonderful together,” he continues, pointing to the concert’s two saxophonists as examples: “Jimmy Heath is a bopper and Houston Person swings and has that big tone. They’ll find common ground and it will be great.” The guest of honor, guitarist Russell Malone, has released more than a dozen albums as a leader, including 2017’s well-received Time for the Dancers. Critics have called him “the gifted torch-bearer” of jazz guitar, and cited him for as an exemplary player of “irrepressible charisma” and “underrated artistry.” Russell has enjoyed long associations with musicians as varied as Jimmy Smith, Harry Connick Jr., and Diana Krall, appearing on three of her Grammy nominated albums. He has frequently collaborated with pianist Benny Green, and shared stages and/or studios with Roy Hargrove, Kenny Barron, Mulgrew Miller, Jack McDuff, Ron Carter, Sonny Rollins, and more than one Marsalis brother. Saxophonist Jimmy Heath titled his autobiography I Walked with Giants, and that says it all. In the late-1940s, the Philadelphia-born 2003 NEA Jazz Master’s first big band included John Coltrane, Benny Golson, Cal Massey, Johnny Coles, and Ray Bryant; Charlie Parker and Max Roach sat in with them. The three-time Grammy nominee also played with the likes of Dinah Washington, Chet Baker, Clifford Brown, J.J. Johnson, Freddie Hubbard, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Milt Jackson, Pat Metheny, and, of course, his illustrious brothers, Percy and Albert “Tootie” Heath. At 91, Jimmy Heath shows no signs of slowing down, continuing to play, teach, and influence the jazz community. Saxophonist Houston Person is among the most in-demand tenor players on the New York jazz scene. He has a special affinity with singers, honed during his two decades-long association with vocalist Etta Jones. Houston has released dozens of albums as a leader, alongside greats such as Ron Carter, Steve Nelson, Cedar Walton, Bill Charlap, Joey DeFrancesco, Bernard Purdie, Les McCann, Benny Green, Grady Tate, Curtis Fuller, and other notables. Drummer Lewis Nash called his first album as a leader Rhythm is My Business, and he certainly got that right! The Phoenix-born drummer started the New York phase of his career in the band of the redoubtable Betty Carter, followed by stints with Ron Carter, Branford Marsalis, and J.J. Johnson. Lewis stepped into the fabled George Adams/Don Pullen quartet (following the late Dannie Richmond), and also played with Stan Getz, Art Farmer, Clark Terry, and Milt Jackson. Besides releasing dozens of recordings as a leader, Lewis is featured on more than 300 albums as a sideman with Joe Lovano, Nancy Wilson, Bette Midler, and Kenny Rankin, among scores of others. Drummer Willie Jones III was barely into his teens when he began gigging professionally. He received a scholarship to Cal Arts, where he studied with Albert “Tootie” Heath; in another early milestone, Willie was a semi-finalist in the respected Thelonious Monk Jazz Drum Competition. He also won the John Coltrane Young Artist Competition with his band Black Note. Willie has played with Milt Jackson, Horace Silver, Arturo Sandoval, and Roy Hargrove, as well as Kurt Elling, Michael Brecker, Hank Jones, Herbie Hancock and others. He continues to record as a leader, compose, produce, and be an invaluable member of the current jazz scene. Trumpeter Jeremy Pelt is among the most prominent players on the scene today, having appeared with the Mingus Big Band, Vincent Herring, Ravi Coltrane, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, Frank Wess, John Hicks, Bobby Short, Lonnie Plaxico and more. A perennial on “best trumpeter” lists from numerous publications and associations, Jeremy has released close to 20 albums as a leader, including 2017’s critically acclaimed Make Noise! Guitarist Gene Bertoncini is sometimes referred to as “the Segovia of jazz,” the New Yorkermagazine has sung his praises, and Gene’s concerts and recordings are regularly spotted on the top 10 lists of publications from the Washington Postto Jazzizmagazine. Versatile enough to play with the Tonight Show band and the Metropolitan Opera orchestra, Gene’s jazz credentials comprise collaborations with greats including Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich, Wayne Shorter, Hubert Laws, Paul Desmond, Tony Bennett, Lena Horne, and Nancy Wilson. Vibraphonist Steve Nelson has been singled out by jazz journalist John Murph as “one of today’s most revered jazz vibraphonists.” He’s built his sterling reputation on his contributions to bands fronted by Kenny Barron, David “Fathead” Newman, Dave Holland, Renee Rosnes, Grant Green, Johnny Griffin, Jackie McLean and Mulgrew Miller. Steve has been described as a “reluctant bandleader,” explaining that he learns so much as a sideman that he’s not always eager to step out in front. But when Steve does put a band together, he goes for the best: On his well-reviewed 2017 CD, Brothers Under the Sun, Steve leads an all-star quartet featuring pianist Danny Grissett, bassist Peter Washington, and drummer Lewis Nash Bassist Luke Sellick is still in his mid-20s, but has already become the bassist of choice for Russell Malone, Johnny O’Neal, Jimmy Greene, and others. The Juilliard alumnus was mentored by the great Ron Carter and has played with Orrin Evans, Carl Allen, and Renee Rosnes. Luke’s 2017 debut album,Alchemist, features nine original compositions, performed with some of New York’s best players. As is the tradition, a special surprise guest will be on hand, the player’s identity a closely held secret till show time. In past years, scheduled guests have occasionally showed up with guests of their own in tow, to universal delight. “Sometimes we get lucky,” Jack Kleinsinger muses. “Buddy Rich was our scheduled guest at one of the concerts, and he asked if he could bring a friend. Lo and behold, it was Stan Getz.” The veteran producer still sounds a little bit amazed by that occurrence, all these years later. Keep your fingers crossed for surprises--who knows what could happen to top off the smashing 46thseason of Highlights In Jazz! All lineups are subject to change without notice. You won’t want to miss a single concert of the 2018 season of Highlights In Jazz! Don’t miss any of the stellar Season 46 Highlights In Jazz events! Thursday, May 10, 2018- 8 P.M. Dick Hyman and Friends Pianist Dick Hyman, trombonist, Wycliffe Gordon, bassist Jay Leonhart, saxophonist Ken Peplowski, drummer/vibraphonist Chuck Redd, and a surprise special guest! Thursday, June 21, 2018- 8 P.M. Salute to Russell Malone Guest of Honor: guitarist Russell Malone, plus saxophonists Jimmy Heath and Houston Person, drummers Lewis Nash and Willie Jones III, trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, guitarist Gene Bertoncini, vibraphonist Steve Nelson, bassist Luke Sellick, and a surprise special guest! All Shows At BMCC TRIBECA Performing Arts Center Borough of Manhattan Community College 199 Chambers Street, New York, NY 10007 http://tribecapac.org Directions By car take FDR Drive south to end, through underpass onto West Street, north to Chambers. By Subway take 1, 2, 3, 9, A, C, E, J or M train to Chambers or N, R to City Hall stop. Walk west on Chambers. Box Office 212-220-1460 Ticket Prices $50.00 $45.00 (student rate with valid ID) or by mail order. $180.00 per subscription Tickets can be purchased in advance at the box office. You are now able to use your credit card at the Tribeca PAC Box Office located on 199 Chambers Street, or by calling (212) 220-1460 and now online at Tickets.Tribecapac.org Please send a check made payable to: Highlights In Jazz Please mail orders to: Highlights In Jazz 7 Peter Cooper Road, Apt. 11E, New York, NY 10010 (Please enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope) http://www.highlightsinjazz.org Highlights in Jazz Media Contact Jim Eigo Jazz Promo Services 272 State Route 94 South #1 Warwick, NY 10990-3363 Ph: 845-986-1677 Cell / text: 917-755-8960 Skype: jazzpromo jim@jazzpromoservices.com www.jazzpromoservices.com

USA: "Heroes, Saints and Clowns," 2nd CD by Drummer Alan Hall's Ratatet, Due June 22 from Ridgeway Records

Alan Hall's Ratatet
Addresses Current Turmoil in
American Society with
"Heroes, Saints and Clowns,"
Set for Release June 22 on Ridgeway Records 

Follow-Up to "Arctic,"
Critically Acclaimed 2016 Debut by
San Francisco Bay Area Drummer/Composer & His Sextet

CD Release Show with Ratatet Octet
At Hillside Club, Berkeley, Saturday, July 7,
To Feature Exhibit of Paintings & Photography by Hall


       

May 16, 2018

San Francisco Bay Area drummer, composer, and bandleader Alan Hallturned to music when he found himself in the midst of what he describes as "some of the greatest turmoil our country has ever experienced." In order to cope, he penned the sonic vignettes heard on his new CD Heroes, Saints and Clowns,set for June 22 release on Ridgeway Records. Performed by his genre-bending sextet Ratatet, which was formed in 2014 and made its recording debut in 2016 with the critically acclaimed album Arctic, the seven musical portraits reflect people who inspired, empowered, or infuriated him during today's unsettling times.

"It's just impossible to escape what's going on these days," says Hall, a native of San Jose and one of the West Coast's premier drummers and music educators. "This music is informed by what I see in the news, the violence, the police, the politics. At the same time, we have to keep our chins up. I'm also looking at personal heroes, people who help me stay positive."

Heroes, Saints and Clowns brings together an impressive set of improvisers, including Paul Hanson on tenor sax and bassoon (acoustic and with effects); Jeff Denson on double bass and five-string fretless electric bass; trombonist John Gove; Dillon Vado on vibraphone and percussion; and Greg Sankovich on piano, organ, and keyboards. They're joined on several tracks by Oregon's Paul McCandless on English horn and oboe, and cellist Joseph Hebert.

L. to r.: Dillon Vado, Jeff Denson, Paul Hanson, Alan Hall, John Gove, Greg Sankovich. 

Together they use an electro-acoustic sonic palette to interpret a program of improvised and through-composed music ranging from the satirical to the sublime, from the serene to the disruptive. Hall, who blurs boundaries between composition and improvisation, uses his ensemble as a brush to paint musical portraits ranging from chamber jazz and tone poems to pieces with the moodiness of Mingus, the zaniness of Zappa, and the serialism of Stravinsky.

That Hall's compositions lend themselves to being described in terms usually applied to the visual arts is not surprising given that he is a master of both the drum brush and the paint brush. Initially inspired by an exhibition of Alexander Calder sculptures he saw at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, Hall has become an accomplished visual artist who creates work under the name A. Miguel Hall. He uses individual and mixed media as well as digital abstract photography (the cover to Heroes, Saints and Clowns is one of his works). Hall honors the American abstract painter Agnes Martin with the through-composed piece named for her that closes the new album.

"It seems that, at any given time, one art form or the other -- visual or musical -- will demand expression, and the other must wait," says Hall. "I can't seem to be fully engaged with both simultaneously, which suggests they're both drawing on the same source, whatever that may be. This is very interesting to me, but my goal is to have both fully activated at the same time."

Born (1958) and raised in San Jose, California, Alan Hall stood out early on as a precociously talented drummer. His band director at John Muir Middle School, Tony Nigro, started hiring Hall for gigs before he started high school.

Part of a brilliant wave at Berklee College of Music in the late 1970s, Hall ended up teaching at the school from 1986 to 1993. A significant influence on Hall's development as a musician was his two-year course of study (1983-1985) with drummer Alan Dawson, himself a longtime member of the Berklee faculty. While Dawson had left Berklee before Hall matriculated there, the younger drummer received tremendous guidance from Dawson not only in the area of jazz drumming but in the school of life as well.

"One thing about Alan was his devotion to the seriousness of the craft," Hall shared in a 2016 interview with former student and fellow Bay Area drummer Niels Myrner. "His project was refining his craft to the highest level. That standard of excellence had a very strong impression on me."

Moving back to California, he settled in the East Bay and started playing with Dave Eshelman's Jazz Garden Big Band, which quickly established him as a first-call accompanist. Collaborating with veteran touring masters like Art Lande, Paul McCandless, and Rebecca Paris and younger stars such as Geoffrey Keezer and Ed Simon, Hall has provided the rhythmic foundation for more than a dozen leading ensembles over the past 25 years. A dedicated educator, he continues to teach at Cal State University East Bay, the Monterey Jazz Festival's Summer Jazz Camp, the California Jazz Conservatory, and Jazz Camp West, as well as seeing private students.

Hall is thinking bigger and smaller with Ratatet, breaking out smaller lineups for particular pieces and adding new instrumentalists for others. He recently submitted a piece to NPR's Tiny Desk contest which featured an octet with an acoustic guitarist and cellist added to the lineup. "There is so much more to explore with this group!" he says.

The Ratatet Octet -- the same band featured on Hall's Tiny Desk video -- will be performing a CD release show at the Hillside Club, 2286 Cedar Street, Berkeley, on Saturday 7/7, 8:00 pm. A selection of paintings and photography by Hall will be exhibited and for sale during the concert. The Ratatet Sextet (with Sheldon Brown subbing for John Gove) is scheduled to play the San Jose Jazz Festival, Sunday 8/12 at 4pm, on the Gordon Biersch Stage.

Photography: Lincoln Adler (band), David Belove (Alan Hall) 

"Demographic Shift,"  from "Heroes, Saints and Clowns"

                                                   

Web Sites: jazzdrumming.com / ratatet.com 
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Bandcamp: alanhallandratatet.bandcamp.com/releases

Media Contact:

Terri Hinte
510-234-8781
hudba@sbcglobal.net
terrihinte.com