Philly Jazz Blog

Trudy Pitts Carney Passes

2011-01-04T20:10:00.007-05:00

The World lost another Jazz Innovator, Premier Organist and Classical Pianist. On Sunday, December 19, 2010 Trudy Pitts Carney lost her battle with cancer. Her family was by her side. She was mourned in a private ceremony. Arrangements for a public memorial service are pending. Please keep her family in your prayers. God Bless Them All!

I was blessed to know her and will always hear her voice sing "Bright Moments" as she greeted me. Her village, the universe and African classical music have no replacement for her spirit.

This image I created was one of her favorites and mine!

Donations and Downloads

George Barron Quartet @ The Ethical Society

2010-04-16T19:44:00.012-04:00

I am resurrecting the PJB mission to provide a focused resource to those who visit and to offer them the opportunity to share their opinions & insight plus learn from the collective knowledge base. Join in the discussion!

The Producer's Guild presents The George Barron Quartet with vocalist Janet Barron at The Ethical Society on Friday, April 23rd at 7:00PM on Rittenhouse Square at 19th. A Special Guest performance by Robert Kenyatta and Poet / Spoken Word Artist, Victoria Peurifoy & Vocalist Romance Watson. This is a benefit concert for Montessori Genesis II, "The Miracle In West Philadelphia".

The price of admission is $20.00!

Tickets & Info
Leo 215-668-6479

Nate 267-456-9582

Keep the music alive!

"Bright Moment" for Trudy Pitts

2009-06-30T21:52:00.009-04:00

The Philadelphia Heritage Jazz Project
and The University of the Arts
Presents
"Jazz Fair 2009"
Produced by Don Glanden; Sponsored by "All About Jazz"
and The University of the Arts

Including an Award to Philly's own Trudy Pitts
Pianist, Organist, Vocalist, Composer, Educator
Trudy has been spreading Jazz News around Philly and The World for Fifty years and counting. This will be a Momentous Celebration, so come on out and experience some "Bright Moments" ! ! !

"Terra Hall" Caplan Performance Center on the Campus of
The University of the Arts
211 S. Broad Street
Phila., Pa., 19102
(Trudy's Alma Mater and current Status as Associate Professor)

Sunday, July 12, 2009
Events begin @ 1:00 - 5:30 P.M.

Philadelphia Bassist Jymie Merritt will also be an Honoree
Those of you whose time will be limited, we'll see you @ 3:00 P.M.
Complete Scheduling & Information: http://www.phillyjazzheritageproject.com/

Love, Peace, and Music
T R U D Y

"Jazz at Cliveden" Celebrates 10th

2009-06-02T22:22:00.005-04:00

"Jazz at Cliveden" will celebrate 10 years at Cliveden of the National Trust, 6401 Germantown Avenue, Phila., PA at it’s Annual Outdoor Jazz Festival on Sunday, July 19 from 3-7 p.m.　 Master percussionist, Doc Gibbs and his band will headline this festival on the the Cliveden estate. Also performing will be tenor saxophonist, Jerry Weldon and his organ group as well as the Little Jazz Giants of Camden, under the direction of Jamal Dickerson and Hassan Sabree. A donation of $7.00 is requested and entrances are located on Germantown Avenue and Cliveden Street. Gates open at 2 p.m. This event is rain or shine. Please bring chairs, blankets, food; invite family & friends to share a day of music, vendors and good times on the lawn, under the shade trees.

For more information: call the Cliveden at (215) 848-1777; check the Web site at http://www.blogger.com/www.cliveden.org, or contact Kim Tucker at (215) 438-8206 or ktucker57@yahoo.com.

Kevin Valentine - Rising Jazz Vox

2009-04-18T12:03:00.007-04:00

Kevin Valentine has emerged from the ranks of professional employment pursuits to satisfy that smoldering artistic yearning to bring his "Velvet Swing" stylings to the ears of Philly's culturally inclined. Over the next few months he will be exposed at several popular venues including Ortlieb's Jazzhaus (April 30th) and the Philadelphia Museum of Art (June 12th). In a recent PJB interview, Kevin provides insight into his approach to the music. He has been adopted by Philly and is carving out his niche in the local music scene. He talks about upcoming performances and his plans to grow and contribute to the renaissance of the male vocalist. Check out his Philly Jazz Pod video interview recorded at Ortlieb's on April 16th.

SUPPORT THE MUSIC!

You can check out http://www.kevalmusic.com/ and www.myspace.com/thekevinvalentine to hear his stylings. For bookings call 215-765-4995.

Jazz Vespers for Charlie Rice Defense

2009-03-30T08:39:00.002-04:00

Appearing at jazz vespers at St. John Baptist Church, 30th and Mitchell Streets, Camden NJ, on April 19th will be noted jazz musicians: saxophonist Tony Williams, pianist Don Wilson, bassist Mike Boone, and drummer Craig McIver, who will playing to raise money for legendary drummer Charlie Rice. Vespers are from 5-6PM. Admission is free, but donations will be gladly accepted for the Charlie Rice Legal Defense Fund. For info: 609-963-0962 or www.jazzbridge.org

Reasons for the Charlie Rice Legal Defense Fund:

Eighty-eight-year-old, legendary jazz drummer Charlie Rice, who has recorded and worked with Chet Baker, Louis Jordan, and Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, among many others, was swept up in a wide net cast by a New Jersey state grand jury investigation into gas theft last summer. Rice, who worked for the Camden Board of Education for twenty-six years and has never been in trouble with the law, was indicted along with thirteen others. Charlie Rice believes he has been unjustly indicted, and Jazz Bridge, a nonprofit that assists local Philadelphia-area jazz musicians in crisis, has retained noted defense attorney Michael Pinsky to help Mr. Rice fight these outrageous charges. Since the initial indictment, all the other accused have taken pre-trial intervention, but Charlie Rice has decided to stand a fight to clear his good name. The trial of the State of New Jersey vs. Charlie Rice will start in June. The Charlie Rice Legal Defense Fund was started by the nonprofit Jazz Bridge to help cover the legal costs. Charlie is facing up to 5 years in prison for using a few gallons of gas to fuel his personal car, which he was required to use for work. Charlie and Mr. Pinsky assert that he was implicitly and explicitly authorized to replace the gas he was required to use for official purposes. Jazz Bridge feels Charlie Rice is the victim of a shameful miscarriage of justice in this case, and our organization has dedicated itself to helping him.

GoodSearch for Jazz Bridge!

Raise money for Jazz Bridge just by searching the Internet or shopping online with GoodSearch - www.goodsearch.com - powered by Yahoo!

Suzanne Cloud
Vice-President
Jazz Bridge Project
3008 Limekiln Pike
Glenside, PA 19038
215-517-8337
856-858-8914
cloud@jazzbridge.org
www.jazzbridge.org

Mich`al Beckham - "Queen of Scat"

2009-03-10T13:59:00.005-04:00

Recently crowned at the Valray Production's annual "Songstresses" event, Ms. Mich`al Beckham will be displaying her vocal royalty at Relish (formerly Sadiki's) over the weekend of March 19th thru 22nd. Performances begin at 8pm on Thursday, Friday and Saturday, while Sunday is scheduled for 11am. The well respected "new management" staff is very familiar with her work from Zanzibar Blue days. Don't miss the opportunity to spend an evening with the "Queen" and enjoy her dynamic vocal stylings. You can be sure that some of Philly's premier vocalists will be in the crowd. They have to keep a watchful eye on her, in order to keep pace. Make your reservations at 215-276-0170!

Harrison Ridley, Jr.'s Obituary

2009-02-24T07:55:00.003-05:00

Harrison Ridley, Jr., Jazz Educator, Historian, and Broadcaster, Dies at 70

Harrison Alexander Ridley, Jr., a lifelong devotee to what he called "The Positive Music," was an icon in the jazz world. His exuberance was shared with legions of radio listeners who, for over 32 years, tuned to WRTI-FM on Sunday nights when he hosted The Historical Approach to the Positive Music. Mr. Ridley died on February 19th after a brief illness. He was 70 years old and lived in West Philadelphia.

Fans from all over the world discovered Mr. Ridley on the dial, and recently found his show online at wrti.org. They enjoyed his encyclopedic knowledge presented in a friendly and relaxed style characterized by his signature phrase, "Yes Indeedy!" A tireless advocate for jazz history and education, his enthusiasm and knowledge were welcomed in the classroom, the community, and everywhere else he travelled. Mr. Ridley served as a consultant for the Library of Congress, and was recently presented with an honorary doctorate of music by Villanova University where he taught an Honors Course in African-American Music. During his career he was the recipient of over 80 awards and citations.

"On behalf of the WRTI community, both listeners and staff, it is with great sadness that we reflect on the significant loss of Harrison Ridley, Jr. to the jazz community," says WRTI's General Manager David. S. Conant. "The honors and the respect Harrison garnered in his lifetime were many and well deserved. But what I will remember most, along with his trademark 'Yes Indeedy!' is the broad and authentic smile with which he would greet me, along with the occasional bear hug. Knowledgeable, and sincere in his love of jazz, he was above all a gentleman and a truly gentle man.

"Mr. Ridley grew up in West Philadelphia, the oldest of 10 children. His father, Harrison Ridley, Sr., loved music and brought home records for his children to enjoy; Jazz, R&B, and Gospel. Though his six sisters and three brothers were content to listen to the music, Ridley remembers that it wasn't enough for him. He had a passion for history, and he wanted to know the story behind each musician and his music. That curiosity took him to the library, where he began amassing notebooks of information.

He also had a passion for collecting. Originally he collected sports cards, but soon he began collecting music books and record albums. (His mother Katherine graciously put up with the clutter, as would his wife Janet years later.) Mr. Ridley also played the vibes in a neighborhood band and was a hoopster in the Philadelphia Basketball League, where he played for 22 years.

His early schooling was at Blankenburg Elementary School, and Shoemaker Junior High. After graduation from West Philly High School, Mr. Ridley was drafted into the Army and received training as a teletypist for the Signal Corps. And there he began sharing his love of jazz and his knowledge of its history with his Army buddies. "Being in the service was a wonderful two-year experience," he recalled. "I got technical training, played in the camp's basketball league, and taught jazz appreciation classes.

"Back in civilian life, he took a job on the custodial staff of the Philadelphia Board of Education, working there for 37 years (30 of them without a single absence). And he continued collecting records and books and doing his research, which incorporated African-American history as well. It was the late '60s when he began lecturing on the history of black music at Philadelphia high schools and community centers. An auxiliary course developed as a result. "You can't understand the history of jazz without understanding African and African-American history and culture," he explained.

With his reputation as an anchor growing, he made several guest appearances on local radio and TV shows such as Malcolm Poindexter's Black Editions. It was in the early '70s that he became a familiar face at WRTI. He volunteered to help the student hosts put their shows together. Then in 1976, the station manager offered him his own show, the Sunday evening slot between 8 and midnight. Mr. Ridley recalled, "I didn't accept immediately. I had to think about it. It was a big commitment." It was, indeed, an enormous responsibility to do a quality four-hour show each week.

But as with everything he did, he took this commitment seriously, only missing three broadcasts during his 32-year tenure as host. This astounding accomplishment was done in the face of maintaining a full-time job, enjoying family life with a wife and daughter, and teaching workshops and classes at the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, the Clef Club, Temple University Center City, the Villanova University Honors Program, and the African-American Studies Department at Temple University.

In all, Mr. Ridley lectured at more than 30 colleges and universities along the East Coast, and was a member of the Duke Ellington Society and the John Coltrane Society. He won over 80 awards including the honorary doctorate from Villanova, an Award of Appreciation from the West Philadelphia Cultural Alliance, an Outstanding Services Award honoring 35 years of service to the community presented by PASCEP Temple University, and other honors from the University of Pennsylvania, Peco Energy Company, and the Parkway Program of the Philadelphia School District.

Fellow WRTI Jazz Host Bob Perkins says, "Harrison was the quintessential source of knowledge about jazz. If anyone had a question about a jazz subject, he was the final arbiter – the Supreme Court Judge of Jazz." Yes Indeedy!

Preceding Harrison in death are his mother Katherine Holloway Ridley, father Harrison A. Ridley Sr., and siblings Carl and Carolyn Ridley.

He is survived by a large family including his wife Janet Collins Ridley; daughter Jade Wideman-Ridley; step-son Laurence E. White, Jr.; siblings Eleanor Anderson, Shirley Braxton, Estella Banks, Delores Brown, William James Ridley, Harold Sherman Ridley Rita Ann Ridley; aunts and uncles Sherman and Janet Holloway, Earline Humphrey, Annabelle Ridley, and Kathleen "Kitty" Holloway; and extended family Flora Ralls, Sherrice and Jack Ferguson, Karen and Will Meredith, Rudolph and Gail Braxton, Marc Braxton, Franklin Brown, Curtis Brown, Terry Banks, Kendall and Valerie Banks, Jack Ferguson Jr., Javar Ferguson, Jack Fuller, Sherrie Anderson, Michelle Anderson, Gabrielle Braxton, Rudy Braxton III, Tiffany Phillips Banks; and a host of friends and relatives.

© Copyright 2009, WRTI
© Photo by LoHo, 2003

"Queen of Scat" at 8th Annual "Songstresses"

2009-02-05T08:01:00.017-05:00

Photos by LoHo

Valray Productions Presents
8th Annual
“Songstresses Celebrating Sisterhood”
Featuring Divas of Jazz, Blues and R&B
“Sisters In Song”
Donna Alexander, Michal Beckham,
Nina Bundy, Carol Harris,
Denise King, Shirley Lites,
Brenda Smith and Ms. Valray

Aaron Graves-Music Director and Pianist

HONORING: Ms. Carol Harris - Our Reigning Bebop Queen
Aqueelah Jamal aka Sister Solo - WURD
Verna Edwards - (MACC) Mt Airy Cultural Center

Hosted by Turae of BET Comicview and The Laugh House
Also
The Long Awaited Face Off!!!
Who will be crowned the “Queen of Scat”
Michal Beckham vs Carol Harris

Saturday, March 7, 2009
Doors open 6:30p.m. for a 1hr Chat & Chew Buffet
All for Only - $45.00
Showtime – 7:30p.m.
Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz
736 S. Broad Street, (Broad & Fitzwater) Phila., Pa.
LIMITED SEATING
Reserved Advance Seating Only
FREE OFF STREET PARKING
Ticket Information and Locations – 215-893-9912 or 267-979-3940

Tyrone Brown Quartet in Collingswood

2008-11-19T21:05:00.009-05:00

Appearing on December 4th at the Jazz in the Wood, Collingswood First Thursday jazz concert series, will be the Tyrone Brown Quartet with bassist Tyrone Brown, saxophonist Bobby Zankel, Randy Sutin on vibraphone, and Craig McIver on drums at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Avenue, Collingswood, NJ.
Admission: $10/$5 for students. One show. 7:30-9PM Free sodas. BYOB. For info: 856-858-8914

Tyrone Brown will be celebrating the release of his last two critcally acclaimed CDs "The Magic Within" and "Moon of the Falling Leaves"

John Coltrane's 82nd Birthday Tribute

2008-09-06T22:09:00.009-04:00

John Coltrane's Outdoor Birthday Tribute on Saturday, September 20, 2008. 3:00pm-5:00pm, FREE Church of the Advocate @ Father Paul Washington Way (Diamond Street between 18th & 19th Streets) Join us for an afternoon block party to celebrate John Coltrane's 82nd birthday - - and the late Fr. Paul Washington, who brought him to the Advocate!

Featured Musical Guests:

Odean Pope and his amazing Saxophone Choir
Guitarist and vocalist Monnette Sudler-Honesty with her band MosuJazz
Pianist Alfie Pollitt
Saxophonist Bobby Zankel
Rapper Abyss
The North Stars After-School Teen Arts Students

Plus: Street vendors, film & more. For more information: 215.232.4485 or http://www.artsanctuary.org/. Partners: Church of the Advocate and the Father Paul Washington Committee

Jazz in the Wood Opens 6th Season

2008-09-06T21:16:00.010-04:00

Opening the sixth season of Jazz in the Wood, Collingswood First Thursday jazz concert series, will be vocalist Demetria Joyce Bailey and her trio on October 2nd, at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Avenue, Collingswood, NJ. Admission: $10/$5 for students. One show. 7:30-9PM Free sodas.BYOB.

For info: 856-858-8914.

Support JazzBridge!

Tony Williams Scholarship Jazz Festival - 2008

2008-08-17T20:46:00.009-04:00

Labor Day Weekend 2008

"The 18th Annual Tony Williams Scholarship Jazz Festival" has returned to Pennsylvania at the Ft. Washington Holiday Inn, (formerly the Convention Center) on Labor Day Weekend (Friday, August 29 - Monday, September 1).
The Jazz Festival will play host to such luminaries in the jazz world as James Lloyd & Curtis Harmon of Pieces of a Dream;
vocalists, Nina Bundy & Barbara Morrison;
saxophonists, Larry McKenna, Bruce Williams and Tim Warfield (Tim will feature his tribute band, One For Shirley... a tribute to Shirley Scott with organist, Pat Bianchi and drummer Byron Landham to name a few.)
Trumpet sensation, Leon Jordan, Jr.;
Violinists, Jorg Widmoser & John Blake will be featured in a Violin Summit.
This years honorees include renowned jazz radio personality, Bob Perkins and founder of the Mt. Airy Cultural Center, Tony Williams.
Special festival guests include Philadelphia’s own Bill Cosby and Grammy Award Winner, Cissy Houston.
There will be a Youth Jam Session, a pool side jam and a Sunday night dance and a MOnday Morning Jazz Breakfast — all to benefit the college bound graduates of the Mount Airy Cultural Center, Inc.
Join us at the Holiday Day, Inn, Fort Washington, 432 Pennsylvania Avenue, Fort Washington, PA; Friday, August 29 to Monday, September 1, 2008.
Festival Weekend Packages, Day Passes and Individual Event Tickets are available.

Contact: Verna Edwards Phone: (215) 248-4415
Contact: Thelma Anderson Phone: (215) 753-0232
Contact: Tony Williams Phone: (215) 848-3677

For more information, please call anyone of the numbers listed above or visit the Website at www.maccjazz.org.

JazzBridge BBQ on the River

2008-06-28T15:10:00.005-04:00

On Saturday July 19th from 3-7PM, saxophonist Denis DiBlasio and his band will be performing at our second annual Jazz Bridge BBQ on the River benefit at the Cooper River Yacht Club on South Park Dr. in Collingswood, NJ. There will be all kinds of great stuff to eat as you listen and relax by the river on a summer afternoon. Flying Fish Brewing Company is generously donating lots of their fine beer, so bring you own chairs and come party with us!
A $10 donation is requested. Info: 856-858-8914

2008-05-13T08:45:00.006-04:00

LEONELLA PRODUCTIONS SAYS ...

Bring DAD To The Return of The

FATHER'S DAY BIG BAND JAM

Featuring in Full Concert - The Hard-Swinging

16 Cats Swinging and Ms. ELLA GAHNT Singing
Under The Direction of LEON MITCHELL

Sunday, June 15, 2008

Doors Open at 4:00pm - Showtime 5:00pm

The Phila. Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts
Broad & Fitzwater Streets (On The Avenue of The Arts) in Philly
Adv. Adult Ticket $25 - - At the Door $30.00 - - Kids 12 and Under $15
Includes SNACKS and A Chance To Win Jazzy Door Prizes
For More Info Call 215-763-2819
Or Visit http://www.phillylegendsofjazz.com/

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE AT: WEBB’S DEPT. STORE, 2152 Ridge Ave., 267.266.4571; SOUND OF MARKET RECORDS, 15 S. 11th St., 215-925-3150 (Ask For Darrell); MONK’S AUDIO, 5141 Baltimore Ave., 215-748-2513; SOUTH STREET HATS, 810 South St., 215-829-1600; THE CLEF CLUB OF JAZZ, Broad and Fitzwater Sts., 215-893-9912; and From All Performers

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Pearl Williams Tribute at Club LaRose

2008-04-30T17:10:00.014-04:00

Dear Friends & Fans,
Please join us as we celebrate & salute a rare and precious gem...

Pearl Williams

Sunday, May 18, 2008 from 3 - 7 p.m.
LaRose Jazz Club
5531 Germantown Avenue
Phila., PA 19144

"Pearlie Mae" has been a sparkle
in the jazz community for five decades....
Philly's sassy, classy, jazzy gem & a dedicated Diva!

Please help us salute her uniqueness with the....
Tri-state's finest musicians... Dinner.....good time!

Donations: $25.00 per person

For advance tickets please RSVP to:
Thelma Anderson - 215-753-0230
Rose Boyer -215-510-0268
Madeline Cowdrey - 215-763-1754
Verna Edwards - 215-248 4415
Tony Williams -215-848-3677

Watch her revealing video Pearl Williams - A Vocal Stylist on Google!

2nd Annual Jazz Bridge All-Star Jam

2008-04-03T10:01:00.007-04:00

On Sunday, April 27, 2008, Jazz Bridge will be hosting its second annual ALL-STAR JAZZ JAM at the Philadelphia Clef Club, Broad and Fitzwater Sts, from 5-9PM. Among the artists who will be appearing will be jazz legends Larry McKenna and Bootsie Barnes, guitarist Steve Giordano, singers Tom Adams and Nina Bundy, saxophonist Mike Pedicin, and many, many others. Tickets: $30 (includes a buffet). Free Parking. Buy tickets online at http://www.jazzbridge.org/ , email info@jazzbridge.org or call: 215-517-8337.

Jazz Bridge is a young 501C3 organization that helps Lower Delaware Valley jazz musicians in crisis. Over the last four years, we have aided musicians with legal and medical needs, including free eye exams; property tax relief to save a home; instrument replacement due to a fire; rides to gigs; prescription cards; hospice; and a host of other services that are as unique as our local jazz musicians.

Photographer Ben Johnson

Suzanne Cloud

Vice-President

Jazz Bridge Project

3008 Limekiln Pike

Glenside, PA 19038

215-517-8337 / 856-858-8914

cloud@jazzbridge.org

http://www.jazzbridge.org/

"Giant Steps" - A Visual Interpretation

2008-03-20T23:01:00.010-04:00

By Dan Cohen

I think this is incredibly creative!

Dr. Trudy Pitts & Mr. C at Jazz Vespers

2008-03-13T12:28:00.006-04:00

CELEBRATE PALM SUNDAY

Jazz Vespers at Holy Communion
Palm Sunday

March 16, 2008 at 5:00 p.m.

Dr. Trudy Pitts and Mr. “C”

“Fabulous Together”

The Lutheran Church of the Holy Communion
2110 Chestnut Street

Philadelphia, PA 19103
Inquiries: (215) 567-3668

http://www.lutheranchurchphiladelphia.com/

Everyone is Welcome!!

Free Admission
Jazz Vesper services are conducted at 5:00 p.m. on the third Sunday of every month. Reception follows.
Doors open at4:30 p.m. Free will offering accepted.
Discounted parking ($5). Call church office for details.

Joshua Richmond at "Jazz in the Wood"

2008-02-21T13:20:00.002-05:00

Pianist Joshua Richmond and his band will be performing at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave, on March 6th as part of the "Jazz in the Wood" First Thursday concert series. One show. Showtime: 7:30PM Free sodas. BYOB. Tickets at the door: $10/$5 students. For info: 856-858-8914 or www.collingswood.com

Thanks for supporting the music!

Bio:
Twenty-one year old Joshua Richman is an up and coming young jazz and classical pianist. Still a senior at William Paterson University, Richomond has been amazing audiences along the Northeast corridor for a few years now. For the last 16 years, Richmond has been studying with such luminaries as Mulgrew Miller, James Weidman, Harold Mabern, Armen Donelian, Vincent Herring, Don Braden, Marcus McLaurine David Demsey, Rich Derosa, and Gary Kirkpatrick. Joshua Richomond has accumulated many awards and honors, including the ASCAP Foundation Young Jazz Composer Award two years in a row. Joshua performs in Philadelphia, New Jersey, and New York City with various artists, in addition to composing and arranging with his own group, the Joshua Richman Trio. This performance will celebrate his first CD as a leader!

Playing with Richmond will be bassist Christopher Tordini, who is quickly becoming an in-demand bassist on the NYC creative music scene. He has recently joined Andy Milne's "Dapp Theory," and will be featured on their upcoming album. As a former student at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, Christopher has played with Rory Stuart, Ari Hoenig, George Garzone, and Andy Milne, all of whom he continues to collaborate with. Drummer Garrett Brown, another graduate of William Paterson University, has developed a unique approach to improvisation, maintaining a very interactive, linear and sensitive playing style placing him in high regard among fellow musicians. Currently, Garrett is involved with several projects, most notably with percussionist/composer Kevin Norton and with cellist Rubin Kodheli.

Suzanne Cloud
Vice-President
Jazz Bridge Project
3008 Limekiln Pike
Glenside, PA 19038
215-517-8337 or 856-858-8914
cloud@jazzbridge.org www.jazzbridge.org

First Thursday Jazz In Collingswood!

2008-01-10T20:52:00.000-05:00

Appearing at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave, in Collingswood, NJ on Thursday February 7th will be guitarist Monnette Sudler and her band, and she will be celebrating her new CD! One show at 7:30PM Admission: $10/$5 for students. BYOB Free sodas! For info call: 856-858-8914

Appearing with Ms. Sudler will be Aaron Graves on Piano, Steve Green on bass, and Leeza dawn Roinson on drums.

MONNETTE SUDLER'S earlier recordings on the Danish based jazz record company, Steeplechase Records, showcases Monnette as a dynamite guitarist, writer, composer, and arranger accompanied by bassist Tyrone Brown and vibraphonist Kahn Jamal on "Brighter Days for You". Monnette Sudler also recorded an album "Other Side of the Gemini" with an eclectic blend of jazz funk and blues, joined by Grover Washington, Jr. Reggie Workman and Steve Turre.

This Philadelphia born artist has played with many all-time jazz greats, such as Hugh Masekela, Philly Joe Jones, Grover Washington, Jr., Byard Lancaster, Sounds of Liberation and Kenny Baron, as well as hot new artists like bassist Gerald Veasely. Her performances are worldwide. Europe, Japan, South Africa, Jamaica and the United States have welcomed jazz guitarist Monnette Sudler with her original music and unique arrangements.

Suzanne Cloud
Vice-PresidentJazz Bridge Project
3008 Limekiln Pike
Glenside, PA 19038
215-517-8337
856-858-8914
cloud@jazzbridge.org http://www.jazzbridge.org/

Denis DiBlasio Quartet CD Release

2007-12-29T19:47:00.000-05:00

On Thursday January 3rd, 2008, the Denis DiBlasio Quartet with Brian Betz on guitar, Steve Varner on bass, and Jim Miller on drums will be appearing at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ for the CD release of the "Denis DiBlasio and Brian Betz Project".

Show starts at 7:30PM.

$10/$5 for students.

BYOB. Free soda!

For info: 856-858-8914

LaRose's Christmas Eve "Blue Monday"

2007-12-09T20:53:00.000-05:00

LaRose Catering & Social Club
5531 Germantown Avenue

(near corner of Schoolhouse Lane)
Philadelphia, PA 19144
215 844-5818 or 215 248-4415

Free Parking at the rear of Club

December 24, 2007
The First Annual
Christmas Eve
“Blue Monday”

“Tony Williams Jazz Quartet”

Cash Bar / Excellent Food /Special Treats
6:00 PM - until (Special Guest)
Dancing, Great Conversation UNTIL!!
($8.00 cover)

"Bootsie" At Collingswood's 1st Thursday

2007-11-20T16:16:00.000-05:00

Appearing at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ on Thursday December 6th will be saxophonist Bootsie Barnes, trumpeter Duane Eubanks, pianist George Burton, bassist Leon Boykin, and drummer Chris Beck for the First Thursday Jazz Concert Series.

One show at 7:30PM.

Free sodas. BYOB.

$10/$5 students.

For info call: 856-858-8914

Photo by Bryan Moore

2007-11-05T07:47:00.000-05:00

JIMMY MCGRIFF TRIBUTE CONCERT

WITH JOEY DEFRANCESCO AND FRIENDS

Thursday, November 8, 2007
Time - 7:00 pm

Harold O. Davis Memorial Baptist Church
10th & Roosevelt Boulevard, Philadelphia

We are honored to announce a special tribute concert for one of the world's greatest jazz organists, Jimmy McGriff. Philadelphia has long been known to produce most of the great jazz organists, and Jimmy McGriff is no exception. Join us in celebrating and honoring one of Philadelphia's musical geniuses, Mr. Jimmy McGriff. Joey DeFrancesco, international recording artist and jazz organist, will be joined by two other great Philadelphia jazz organists, Trudy Pitts and "Papa" John DeFrancesco. Other musicians in attendance will be Don and Cici Williams (Don was Mr. McGriff's drummer for more than 30 years.), Byron Landham, Mr. C, Colleen McNabb, and many others. Master of Ceremonies for the evening will be Bob Perkins, Jazz Radio Host, WRTI, Philadelphia.
The featured jazz organists will each play a set and then there will be a jam session at the end with three organs being played at the same time.
Don't miss this special tribute concert for one of the Legends of the Jazz Organ - Jimmy McGriff! This promises to be one of the great jazz organ concerts of the year.

For advance tickets or information, call 1-800-376-7995.
$20 Adults
$15 Seniors/Students
Under 12 - Free

Advance Tickets available by credit card.
Cash only at the door.

Tickets may also be purchased in advance by visiting DrawbarCity.com

If you would like to support the concert but cannot attend, we will send you your purchased ticket(s) as a souvenir.
The tickets will be suitable for framing.

Papa John DeFrancesco Back In Philly

2007-10-03T21:28:00.000-04:00

Cliveden of the National Trust invites you to an afternoon of jazz organ with the legendary Papa John DeFrancesco on Sunday, November 4, from 3-6 p.m., in the Carriage House at Cliveden (6401 Germantown Avenue). The entrance is on Cliveden Street. A donation of $15.00 is requested and light refreshments will be provided.
Contact: Anne Roller Phone: (215) 848-1777
E-mail: aroller@cliveden.org Website: http://www.cliveden.org/

PHERALYN "LADY" DOVE STARS

2007-08-29T22:35:00.000-04:00

*PRESS RELEASE*

PHERALYN “LADY” DOVE STARS AS
“LITTLE GIRL BLUE” IN 2007 FRINGE FESTIVAL
Wednesday, September 5, 2007 @ Ethical Society on Rittenhouse Square

EVENT:
“Little Girl Blue,” A One-Woman Show
WHO:
Written , Performed, Produced & Directed by “Lady Dove” aka Pheralyn Dove
Live Musical Soundtrack Composed & Performed by Bassist Warren Oree
WHEN:
Wednesday, September 5, 2007, 7:30 p.m.
WHERE:
Philly Fringe Festival 2007
Venue: Ethical Society, 1906 Rittenhouse Square, (near 19th & Walnut Sts.)
Philadelphia, PA 19103
TICKETS:
$15, general admission, purchase online @:: http://www.livearts-fringe.org/index.html
Fringe Box Office: (215) 413-1318
CONTACTS:
Pheralyn Dove (215) 877-5165; email: Pheralyn@aol.com
Fringe Festival: (215) 413-9006; web: http://www.livearts-fringe.org/index.html

DETAILS:
Don’t miss “Lady Dove” (aka Pheralyn Dove) as “Little Girl Blue.” Monologues and poetry bring 17 alter egos to life in this searing tale of a Black woman’s odyssey. “Little Girl Blue” reveals decades of pain, pathos and desperation endured until she reconciles her past and emerges victorious and magnificently transformed.
The protagonist divulges her innermost secrets by taking the audience on a voyage, exposing her life at various intervals. Wise Woman is coming from a mature, spiritual, reflective place, putting her life into perspective as she reminisces. Little Girl Blue is a seven year old whose innocence is violated by a sexual predator. Wounded Woman finds the courage to escape domestic abuse in order to raise her daughters with some semblance of dignity and self-respect. Lonely Woman falls prey to Lover Man’s wiles and gets turned on, turned out and turned down (in short order). Sapphire is a bi-sexual nymphomaniac struggling to find meaning in her life. Transforming Woman inadvertently winds up being an HIV/AIDS caretaker/advocate and meets the Righteous Brother of her dreams. Triumphant Woman sings a praise song as a survivor, a true conqueror. “Little Girl Blue” is recommended for mature audiences.

PERFORMER’S BIO:
“Lady Dove” aka Pheralyn Dove, is a poet, performer, wordsmith, infotainist and culturalist whose work has been showcased nationwide and internationally as a spoken-word artist, actor, author, essayist, playwright, creative writer and technical writer. She has appeared on stages in her native Philadelphia, New York City, Paris, France and Rome, Italy. Dove has been a press agent, an entertainment editor for the Philadelphia Tribune and feature writer for the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Many of the poems in “Little Girl Blue” are excerpted from her book, Color in Motion (Axis Press), which has a foreword by drumming legend Max Roach. A graduate of Hampton University, Dove studied poetry and creative writing under Professor Sonia Sanchez at Temple University’s Pan African Studies Community Education Program (PASCEP). Currently Dove teaches “Practical Writing” in the very same PASCEP program. Dove was named an Honored Author two consecutive years at the Free Library of Philadelphia’s Annual Borrowers’ Ball, performed at the Jazz a la Villette Festival in Paris, France with the Sounds of Liberation Orchestra and was a featured poet at New York City’s renowned “Vision Festival.”

DJ Turner performs for Senator Clinton

2007-07-29T14:08:00.000-04:00

To all,

DJ had the privilege to perform for Senator Clinton and other dignitaries at a Washington, D.C. fund-raiser on Tuesday. The event was held to raise funds to build a public library to honor Marian Wright Edelman, president and founder of the Washington, D.C. based Child Advocacy organization called the Children’s Defense Fund (CDF). Don't Forget August 12th !!! (Jazz Brunch 11:00 AM to 2:00PM) We hope to see everyone at the Sunday Jazz Brunch at the Beat Street Station for the inaugural fund-raiser for the Vewiser Turner Sr. Youth Jazz Education Foundation. We have tickets and we need your support. Call 302-322-7045 for tickets. See link for directions to the Beat Street Station

Thanks in Advance for Your Support,
Demetrius Sr.

Jazz at Cliveden Outdoor Festival

2007-07-05T21:42:00.000-04:00

**For Immediate Release**

Contact: Anne Roller Phone: (215) 848-1777
E-mail: aroller@cliveden.org Fax: (215) 438-2892

Website: http://www.cliveden.org/

Date: July 22, 2007

“Jazz at Cliveden” Outdoor Festival

Legendary Organist, Trudy Pitts; Vocalist, Joanna Pascale

& the Clef Club Youth Ensemble

Cliveden of the National Trust invites you to attend their annual, “Jazz at Cliveden Jazz Festival as part of their ongoing preservation of America’s oldest art form. On Sunday, July 22, 2007, on the Cliveden estate, bring a chair or blanket, some food and some friends to enjoy an afternoon of great jazz. This year’s menu features legendary jazz organist, Ms. Trudy Pitts, vocalist, Joanna Pascale and the next generation of talented musicians, the Clef Club Youth Ensemble under the direction of Lovett Hines.

Entrances are on Cliveden Street and Germantown Avenue.
A donation of $5.00 is required to gain admission and vendors will be on hand to share their wares.

This event is rain or shine. http://www.cliveden.org/ or call (215) 848-1777 for info.

The Laws of Jazz

2007-06-12T23:25:00.000-04:00

presents

An intimate evening with

THE LEGENDARY LAWS FAMILY

FOR TWO NIGHTS ONLY

Wednesday, June 27th 2007

AT THE BLUETT THEATER

Inside Post Hall @ 54th & Overbrook

Doors open at 7pm Show starts at 8pm

Thursday, June 28th 2007

LASALLE UNIVERSITY RODDEN THEATER

1900 W. Olney Avenue - Student Union Building

Doors open at 7pm Show starts at 8pm

TICKETS: $40.00 w/advanced RSVP by June 26th

$45.00 at the door w/o advanced RSVP

RSVP to: candidjazz2@yahoo.com

or call Vic Medina at 267-257-5651

Last 1st Thursday at Collingswood

2007-04-28T19:26:00.000-04:00

Photo of Larry McKenna by Bryan Moore

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Finishing up the fourth season of the First Thursday Jazz Concert Series at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ, on May 3rd will be saxophonist Larry McKenna, pianist Tom Adams, bassist Steve Varner, and drummer Jim Miller One show. Begins: 7:30PM. $10/$5 for students. BYOB. Free sodas and a buffet. For info: 856-858-8914

Larry McKenna is one of the leading jazz saxophonists in America, and has performed as soloist with jazz stars such as Woody Herman, Clark Terry, Jon Faddis, Buddy DeFranco, Rosemary Clooney, Tony Bennett, Bootsie Barnes , Frank Sinatra and many more. Pianist Tom Adams has appeared with such artists as: Bette Midler, Anita O'Day, Coolio, Jewel, Keely Smith, Linda Hopkins, Petula Clark, and Mel Torme. Bassist Steve Varner was born and raised in Tennessee, where he began playing electric bass, With ten years, he was playing the upright bass and touring with top jazz musicians. Now Steve regularly performs in New York and Europe with such jazz greats as Pat Martino, Phil Woods, Dave Leibman, James Moody, Ernie Watts, Billy Hart, and Patty Austin. Drummer Jim Miller was co-founder of the popular 80s jazz fusion group “Reverie,” and has performed at festivals, clubs, and colleges from New England to Florida and internationally from Portugal to Paris. As a sideman, drummer Jim Miller has recorded and performed with such notables as Ira Sullivan, Johnny Coles, Larry Coryell, Cecil Bridgewater, Victor Bailey, Anita O'Day, Bootsie Barnes, "Doc" Gibbs, Reggie Workman, Uri Caine, Mark Murphy, Randy Brecker, Buddy DeFranco. Clark Terry, James Moody and Dave Liebman, just to name a few. In 1986, Miller founded the record label Dreambox Media which won the Best of Philly Award in 1999 for Philadelphia’s Best Jazz Record Label.

Mich'al Beckham Celebrates JAM

2007-04-12T16:30:00.000-04:00

During Jazz Appreciation Month, one of the most talented jazz voices on the East Coast will be performing at Philly's Zanzibar Blue on April 15th and again on April 29th from 7 pm to 11 pm on both occasions. Ms. Mich'al Beckham, vocalist extraordinaire, is a product of Philadelphia's Settlement Music School and Berklee College of Music in Boston. She has performed with legends Clark Terry, the late Grover Washington, Jr. and Chuck Mangione. In a career that started in the early eighties, she has worked with a laundry list of local musicians including Pieces of a Dream, Joe Sudler, Byard Lancaster and Webb T's Fleet.

Our jazz diva will also perform on April 28th from 4 pm to 8 pm at The Train Stop (not Trane Stop) located at 61st and Haverford Avenue.

Harold Smith at Blue Sky Cafe

2007-04-08T09:34:00.000-04:00

Hello one and all,

Please welcome in the Spring with me.

April is my birthday month, and this year I'm celebrating it by playing some wonderful music every Thursday and Friday at the Blue Sky Cafe. I'll be playing the didjeridoo, shells, drums, and other things in trio with world-renowned saxophonist Odean Pope and bassist Charles Beasley. Location: Blue Sky Cafe, Caribbean world cuisine 144 West Germantown Pike at Hillcrest Plaza, East Norriton, PA 194O1 Phone: 61O-275-34O7 (please call) Time: 9 p.m. Date: Every Thursday and Friday in April (12th, 13th, 19th, 2Oth, 26th, 27th)

Doors open early for dinner, so come enjoy the cuisine. ExecutiveChef / Owner Thomas Groff and staff will make you feel right at home.

www.didjdude.com

"Songstresses" features Ms. Gloria Lynne

2007-02-02T17:56:00.000-05:00

Valray Productions

Presents their 7th Annual

"Songstresses Celebrating Sisterhood"

featuring

Gloria Lynne In concert

“I Wish You Love"
“I'm Glad There Is You"
“I Thought About You”

Guest Tribute by Nina Bundy, Kathy Roberts & Denise King

Limited Seating – Reserve Tickets Now

Advance Tickets Only
No Tickets Sold @ Door

In honor of March, Women’s History Month and April, Jazz Appreciation Month, a Proclamation will be presented to Gloria Lynne by

Pennsylvania State Senator,
LeAnna Washington

Date: Saturday April 7, 2007
Place: Pennsylvania Convention Center

12th & Arch St., Phila., Pa.
Curtain: 7:30 PM Ticket Price: $45/$60 VIP Reception
For More Info call: 215-535-6617

First Thursday Jazz Concert Series

2007-01-30T10:08:00.000-05:00

Hello Traditional Jazz Fan:
We thought you might want to know that...

Philly Class Act - Vocalist ELLA GAHNT and Her Trio
are appearing this coming Thursday, February 1, 2007, 7:30pm
at The Collingswood Commuinty Center
30 Collings Avenue (at Haddon Avenue)
in Collingswood, NJ
With Ella are Joshua Richman, piano; Lee Smith, bass and Dan Monaghan, drums

Admission is only $10.00 - $5.00 for students
FREE Soft Drinks - B.Y.O.B.

For Information Call 856-858-8914 - See Directions Below

From Philadelphia:Cross Ben Franklin Bridge into Jersey. Keep to the Right for Rt. 676. Take 1st exit B5 for Market Street. Take Market Street about a block (get in Left lane right away) to Haddon Avenue. Turn Left. Follow Haddon Avenue into Collingswood to Collings Avenue. Turn Right about 1 block. Community Center is at the corner on your Left (next to the Firehouse). Parking is under the train tracks overhead.From Southern New JerseyTake Rt. 30 (White Horse Pike) or Rt. 168 (Black Horse Pike) North to Collings Avenue. Turn Right. Go past Knights park on your Left to just before (Haddon Avenue). Turn Right and park beneath the train tracks. Community Center is at the corner (next to the Firehouse).From Northern New JerseyTake New Jersey Turnpike South to Exit 4 for Cherry Hill (Rt. 73N). Take Rt. 295S to Haddon Avenue (Rt. 561N) to Collingswood. At Collings Avenue, turn Left for about a block. Community Center is at the corner (next to the Firehouse). Parking is under the train tracks overhead.

SEE YOU THERE,YOU DON'T WANT TO MISS THIS ONE!

Jazz At Cliveden 2007

2007-01-04T20:59:00.000-05:00

"Jazz at Cliveden" Concert Series returns with premier vocalist, "Ms. Justine & Friends". Cliveden of the National Trust invites you to attend a concert series as part of their ongoing preservation of America's oldest art form, jazz. On Sunday, January 28, 2007, in the carriage house on the Cliveden estate (Germantown Avenue & Cliveden St.), premier vocalist and her group, "Ms. Justine & Friends" will return for another afternoon of great music and she will tantalize you with her vocal styling's from 3-6 p.m. Refreshments will be served and a donation of $15.00 is appreciated. Seating is limited so reservations in advance are encouraged. Entrance is on Cliveden Street. According to All About Jazz.com, "Jazz vocalist Miss Justine (Justine Keyes) is a Philadelphia phenomenon... her unique mastery of the jazz idiom, is so completely faithful to the music that it seems to run through her rather than be "performed" in any artificial sense of that term. Thus, Justine is a "natural" in several respects. And this is reflected in her singing. The result is a unique jazz experience that has universal meaning and appeal." Miss Justine has worked with Shirley Scott, Ray Charles, Keter Betts, Al Grey, Butch Ballard, Bootsie Barnes, Don Patterson, Billy Eckstine, Kenny Barron, McCoy Tyner, Lionel Hampton, Johnny Hartman and her musical mentor for over fifteen years, the late pianist Gerald Price. Here discography includes: "Tasty" and the more recent, "The Many Moods of Miss Justine" both on Dreambox Media. (http://www.dreamboxmedia.com/). Cliveden of the National Trust, scene of the Battle of Germantown in 1777, takes up a full city block along Germantown Avenue in Philadelphia's Historic Northwest. For more information, call the office at (215) 848-1777, or check the Web site at http://www.cliveden.org/.

In Memory Of Charlie Parker

2006-12-16T08:18:00.000-05:00

This CD by The Birdhouse Project is dedicated to the memory of Charlie Parker. The group's mission is to keep the name and the works of this giant and genius of jazz alive. Tyrone, Randy and Jim collaborated on these innovative interpretations of selective compositions by the most widely imitated alto saxophonist in modern jazz history. The music is available at Dreambox Media!

Butch Ballard Birthday Bash

2006-11-12T00:01:00.000-05:00

Photo by Ben Johnson

A celebration of the life and art of legendary drummer Butch Ballard will be on hand when he and his band perform at the Collingswood First Thursdays Jazz Concert Series on December 7th, at the Collingswood Community Center (30 Collings Ave, Collingswood, NJ) Show starts at 7:30PM. Admission is $10/$5 for students. BYOB. Free sodas. For info: 856-858-8914

This will be a BIRTHDAY PARTY for Butch (he's turning a glorious 88 years old)...so there will be FREE cake!

Biography

Eugene Chadbourne from the All Music Guide wrote:

One of the great early jazz drummers, Butch Ballard could make a snare drum sound as it if was being hit by a ball bearing. Before his 25th birthday he was the choice of some of the most musically demanding bandleaders from the poignantly humorous pianist and singer Fats Waller to the humorously poignant trumpeter Cootie Williams. When Ballard went into education in the mid '80s, he was allowing students access to a treasure trove of experiences, from his affiliation with Louis Armstrong after the second World War to his running involvement with both the Duke Ellington and Count Basie bands (one of the very, very few musicians who toured and recorded with BOTH bands). The latter aspect of his career provided rich fertilizer for his garden of professional associations, which in the '50s included tours and recording with both big band giants as well as a variety of stimulating projects with bandstand friends such as Shorty Bak er, Clark Terry, Ernie Royal or Arnett Cobb. From the '60s the drummer began focusing on leading his own band from a Philadelphia base, eventually shifting the tempo to include a schedule of private lessons. In 1989 he played on his 56th recording date and Butch is still going strong!
--

Arnold Boyd's Passing & Services

2006-11-07T07:49:00.000-05:00

To the shock and surprise of everyone in the jazz community, we received word that "Mr. Tranestop", our beloved Arnold Boyd, received his eternal call on Friday, November 3, 2006. We met in the early 70's ,when he was planning to start the Tranestop Resource Institute, and have continued be friends since that time. I am still dazed by the news of his untimely departure. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Arnold's Philadelphia funeral will be held on next Monday, November 13th. Viewing at 1:00 PM, Services begin at 2 PM at Baker Funeral Home, 2008 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, PA. Flowers should be sent directly to Baker's. Arnold's daughter Naima and his sister Patricia will both be in attendance. Also, on this Friday, November 10, 2006, Aqueelah Jamal of Radio W.U.R.D. (900AM) is dedicating her 10 PM to midnight radio program to Arnold and she invites folks to call in to share their thoughts and feelings at 215-634-8065. The TraneStop is currently working with Arnold's daughter Naima to present a memorial and tribute to her father . We invite musicians and others who are interested in offering their services to contact TraneStop at 215-438-3178 or Thetranestop@comcast.net.

POST YOUR LOVE!

Minas at Collingswood's First Thursday

2006-10-30T08:19:00.000-05:00

The Brazilian jazz band

Minas

will be appearing at

Collingswood's First Thursday Jazz Series

on Thursday November 2nd at the

Collingswood Community Center

30 Collings Ave.

Collingswood, NJ.

One show. Start time: 7:30PM

Admission: $10/$5 for students

BYOB. Free sodas

For info: 856-858-8914.

Rae's features Byard Lancaster

2006-10-30T07:35:00.000-05:00

Raquel Presents
Rae’s Revue
featuring
Byard Lancaster
with

The Philadelphia Blues Messengers
and
Harold E. Smith

Plus Guests:

Jerry Allen

& Bluzin’ with Bev Conklin (vocalist)

Friday, November 24, 2006
8 p.m

Crowne Plaza Hotel
9th & Hamilton Streets
Allentown, PA 18101

Tickets: $25 per person in advance

$35 per person at the door

For tickets or information contact:
Raquel Phelps
484.951.6461
rphelps@warmspirit.org

SINGING.....DANCING....NETWORKING...VENDOR SHOPPING HOLIDAY
Warm Spirit * Tastefully Simple * Silpada Jewelry * Music CDs*And More. . . . .

Settlement Music School Alumni Series

2006-10-23T21:16:00.000-04:00

2006-2007
Distinguished Alumni Recital Series

with

Eric Lewis

Jazz Pianist

Sunday, October 29, 2006

3:00 p.m.

including original works and jazz standards

Mary Louise Curtis Branch

PNC*Presser Recital Hall • 416 Queen Street

(Between Christian & Cathrine Streets - Free onsite parking is available)

A reception with the artist will follow the performance.

Tickets $15

To order, call 215.320.2686 or visit www.smsmusic.org

Funded in part by the Estate of Jean J. Stearne and the Samuel S. Fels Fund. Promotion is supported by a grant from Rohm and Haas.

Media's 4th Annual "Jazz By Night"

2006-10-18T09:46:00.000-04:00

Jazz by Night will be held in downtown Media on Saturday, October 21, 2006, 8pm to 1am. Our 2005 Jazz Fest was enormously successful to the delight of more than 1200 people attending. This year's event will again celebrate the diverse sound styles in the world of Jazz music. Several nationally renowned Jazz acts will be featured on 16 indoor stages. Like the enormously successful Blues Stroll and the Americana / Roots Ramble, Jazz by Night offers another enjoyable and fun evening in "Everybody's Hometown".

*Mickey Roker Quintet @ Iron Hill Brewery (9:30)
*Bootsie Barnes Quartet @ Brodeur's on State Street (9:30)
*Ellas y Amigos @ Joclyn's Deck Bar (9) - Latin Dance class w/ Flaco's Dance Factory @ (10:30)
*Monnette Sudler Quintet @ Sligo (9:15)
*Beau Django @ Picasso (9:30)
*Eric Mintel Quartet @ Stephen's on State (9:15)
*Byard Lancaster & Philadelphia Blues Messengers @ "Quotation's" Bar and Restaurant (8:30)
*Alfie Moss/Dexter Koonce Project @ Plumstead Inn (8:15)
*JazGuardian: Akimbo Research Project @ John's Grille (8)
*Judith Kay @ Margaret Kuo's Media (7:30) Dinner Seating - All-Ages
*Stephanie Klein w/Joe & Ron Nocella @ Coffee Beanery (8) All-Ages
*David Joel Trio @ Towne House Stag Bar (8)
*Fontaine Cooley (8:30) & Billy Freeze (7) @ Seven Stones Café / Plum Street Mall All-Ages
*Pat Panther @ Kreutz Creek Winery (5-9),
*Sweetbriar @ Coffee Club (8) All-Ages
*Mike Kennedy @ B. Gross Men's Wear (7) All-Ages

Acts will play 3 sets at their venue. Guests can see their choice of artists and leisurely walk throughout Media's downtown.No alcohol consumption will be permitted outdoors. Adult Admission to Jazz by Night is $15. Reduced price of $10 through October 20. Under 21 Free @ All-ages stages. Full Festival Ticket gains admission to all participating nitespots. Restaurants will charge patrons for food and drinks. Philadelphia's premier Jazz radio station WRTI 90.1 FM is Co-Sponsor of2006 Jazz by Night Celebration in Media, PA.INFO/order advance tickets, callMedia Business Authority 610-566-5039

EAT OUT & SUPPORT THE MUSIC!

Jimmy Heath's 80th Birthday Concert

2006-10-15T09:25:00.000-04:00

Legendary saxophonist, composer, arranger and educator, Philadelphia’s own Jimmy Heath will return to his hometown to perform with the Temple University Jazz Band at a concert celebrating his 80th birthday on Tuesday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 p.m., in the Perelman Theater at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Broad and Spruce streets. Tickets are $10-$30 and may be purchased at the Kimmel Center Box Office, 215-893-1999, or online at www.kimmelcenter.org

Earlier in the day, at 2:30 p.m., Heath will give a master class in Klein Recital Hall, Presser Hall, 12th and Norris streets, on Temple’s Main Campus. At the concert, Heath will be presented with the Temple University Jazz Masters Hall of Fame Award.

Odean is "Locked and Loaded" at NXNW

2006-10-13T11:33:00.000-04:00

IF YOU HAVEN’T YET HEARD ODEAN POPE SAXOPHONE CHOIR LIVE
NOW’S YOUR CHANCE!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2006 @ North By Northwest

THE ODEAN POPE SAXOPHONE CHOIR
NINE SAXOPHONES, PIANO, BASS AND DRUMS

Tenors: Odean Pope; Elliot Levin; Terry Lawson; Terrence Brown; Seth Meicht Altos: Julian Pressley; Louis Taylor; Robert Landham

Baritone: Joe Sudler

Piano: George Burton

Bass: Tyrone Brown

Drums: Craig McIver

CD CELEBRATION: LOCKED AND LOADED, LIVE AT THE BLUE NOTE, featuring Michael Brecker, James Carter and Joe Lovano

After seeing a LIVE performance of The Saxophone Choir, ORNETTE COLEMAN WRITES IN THE CD LINER NOTES:"Odean Pope’s latest CD is the sound map for the use of unresolvable ideas which are based on the installation of new territories. …Each player has their own particular style of improvising in relationship to the arrangement".

NORTH BY NORTHWEST

7165 Germantown Avenue, Mt. Airy

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2006

2 SHOWS

8 pm and 10pm

$20 in advance / $25 door

Call NXNW at 215-248-1000

The Passing of Jimmy Vass

2006-09-25T13:20:00.000-04:00

September 25, 2006

JIMMY VASS Funeral
Thursday, September 28th
G. Choice Funeral Chapel
2530 N. Broad St, Phila., PA
(215) 227-0100
Time: 10:00 am (Viewing at 9:00 am)

The MEMORIAL for JIMMY VASS
Saturday, September 30th
4PM Until
University of the Streets
130 East 7th Street
(at Avenue A)Take the #6 to Astor Place or the F to 2nd Avenue

September 23, 2006

Dear Friends,
Jimmy peacefully left this life sometime on the night between September 20th and 21st 2006. The arrangements are in the works, and we definitely will have a celebration of Jimmy's life and music - details to follow! I can't really write much more right now. To say he will be missed, just sounds like a complete understatement. Jimmy was a tremendous musician, and a wonderful artist, but more than that, he was the most beautiful human being I've ever met. As Jimmy used to say: "You ARE your music."

With Peace & Love,
Lea (Jimmy's "other half")

"The best witness to God's Truth are those who show its Light in their Lives."

The Trane Stopped at Awbury!

2006-09-24T13:58:00.000-04:00

Willie Williams with the Philadelphia Homecoming Brigade Quintet

The Tranestop Resource Institute is to be enthusiastically commended for producing Philly's inaugural John Coltrane Jazz Festival, a tribute to the "Giant" of jazz and a celebration of his 80th birthday. It was a very successful community event with stellar performances and well attended, in spite of continuing atmospheric challenges. I'm certain that "all aboard" were glad to be there when this Trane arrived. They are keeping the culture alive and well!

THANK YOU TRANESTOP!

(and your many $pon$or$)

SUPPORT THE MUSIC!

POST YOUR COMMENTS ABOUT THIS EVENT.

"Giant Steps Over Philly" Rescheduled

2006-09-15T12:39:00.000-04:00

Philadelphia’s oldest non-profit jazz education and advocacy organization, The TraneStop Resource Institute, Inc., invites the public to come out to the Awbury Arboretum in Germantown on September 23, 2006 from 1 to 8:30 PM and celebrate the 80th birthday of Philadelphia’s most noted jazz musician, arranger, composer and cultural humanitarian - John William Coltrane. This free outdoor concert is part of the John Coltrane Jazz Festival – “Giant Steps Over Philly”, and is hosted by State Representative John Myers and State Senator LeAnna Washington.

This concert was rescheduled from September 2nd due to in-climate weather which provided the TraneStop the opportunity to merge this festival with its annual celebration of Coltrane’s birthday. The event will still have two stages with international recording artist Billy Paul headlining the John Myers Blues Stage and internationally recognized jazz legend Archie Shepp headlining the John Coltrane Jazz Stage.

Both headliners are Philadelphia natives and both have connections to the late John Coltrane, who has influenced generations of musicians across racial lines, musical genre and geographical boundaries. Both headliners have embraced the opportunity to pay tribute to this jazz legend. Billy Paul recalls that as a young performer (he began performing at 11 years old) he graced the same stage with Coltrane and Charlie Parker along with other great jazz legends who influenced his style.

For Archie Shepp this is a particularly exciting homecoming for a number of reasons. First, he has the opportunity to pay tribute to a musician he loved, admired and who influenced his radical political style of ”black art music” (nee African American classical music). Secondly he gets to see his family and performed in the Germantown community in which he was bred. (Archie often laments the fact that this music is no longer readily available within the community as it was in its developmental stages.) He also is delighted to be able to return the favor to Representative John Myers, because Archie credits John Myers’ father (a former leader in his community) w ith putting him on the path of becoming a professional musician.

Joining legends Billy Paul and Archie Shepp in this homecoming celebration of John Coltrane are; 1) on the John Myers Blues Stage at Haines and Ardleigh from 1-7PM - Fiidla’s Philly Blues Funk Experiment featuring Owen ‘Fiidla’ Brown, the Phyllies Intruders and The Lou Taylor Urban Collective and 2) on the John Coltrane Jazz Stage, off 800 East Washington Lane near Chew Avenue from 2-8:30PM - the Pioneers Quintet with Archie Shepp, James Spaulding, Stanley Cowell, Jymie Merritt and Allen Nelson; the Philadelphia Homecoming Brigade Quintet with Willie Williams, Papo Vazquez, Sumi Tonooka, Don Moore and Vincent Ector; the Search for the New Land Quintet with Duane Eubanks, Stanley Wilson, Ronnie Burrage, Jymie Merritt and Sid Simmons and the Tenor Love Quintet with Charles Bowen and William Thorpe on Tenor Sax, Tyrone Brown, Sid Simmons, Byron Landham and featuring Ella Gahnt on vocals.

For information:

215-438-3178 or 215-380-4747

"First Thursdays" Collingswood Jazz Series

2006-09-14T11:48:00.000-04:00

The third season of First Thursdays kicks off on October 5th and runs through May 3rd at the Collingswood Community Center, 30 Collings Ave (next to the Firehouse)in Collingswood, NJ. One show starting at 7:30PM. $10 admission $5 for students. BYOB. Free soft drinks.

For info: call 856-858-8914

For the first concert on October 5th, pianist Dave Posmontier will be appearing with bassist Chico Huff, drummer Erik Johnson and saxophonist Bob Howell.

Camden's Legends & Legacies of Jazz

2006-09-13T18:00:00.000-04:00

PBCIP's Sixth Annual JAZZ BRUNCH

Legends

Legacies

Featuring
Camden’s Award-Winning Creative Arts
High School Jazz Band
& Camden jazz legends Sam Dockery,
Charlie Rice & Daille Winston Kettrell

Don’t miss a moment in Camden Jazz History
you won’t soon forget!

Saturday, October 14
11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Woodbine Inn
Route 73, Pennsauken, NJ

Tickets: $40

Sponsorships are available. Call (856) 964-0440 for details.

"Impressions" by John Coltrane Quartet

2006-09-06T23:54:00.000-04:00

The John Coltrane Quartet with McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison, Elvin Jones and featuring Eric Dolphy - PRICELESS!

"Afro Blue" Video by John Coltrane

2006-09-04T23:40:00.000-04:00

This is one of my favorite compositions by the John Coltrane Quartet. What about you? Which are your favorite Coltrane pieces? This is his birthday month (September 23rd), so give up the comments about this musical and spiritual giant that is STILL influencing the people that hear his music. He's been gone for 40 years, but the music he left is ETERNAL!

John Coltrane's "Alabama" Video

2006-09-02T21:31:00.000-04:00

In the early morning of Sunday, September 15, 1963, a gaggle of malcontents planted 12 sticks of dynamite in a window well outside the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama. The dynamite exploded eight hours later killing Denise McNair, 11, and Cynthia Wesley, Carole Robertson and Addie Mae Collins, all 14, in the process galvanizing the Civil Rights Movement. Two months later, on November 18, 1963, John Coltrane stepped up to the microphone in fabled Englewood, NJ studio of one Rudy Van Gelder and over a McCoy Tyner Tremolo, blew his searing and definitive statement on the subject of the bombing - "Alabama."

"A Sacred Jazz Suite"

2006-09-02T15:19:00.000-04:00

WORLD PREMIERE

"For the Healing of the Nations"

"A Sacred Jazz Suite"

For the Victims and Survivors of 9/11

Composed by Geri Allen - Ms. Allen at the Piano

With large orchestra including

Oliver Lake; Craig Harris; Antoine Roney; John Blake; Akua Dixon; Kenny Davis; Mark Johnson; Jay Hoggard; Dwight Andrews; Patrice Williams, and

Creative Arts High School Students of Camden.

Poetry by Sandra-Turner Barnes

with

Andy Bey; Nnenna Freelon; Mary Stallings and

The Afro Blue Vocal Ensemble of Howard University

Sunday - September 10, 2006 - 3:00PM

Rutgers Camden Center for the Arts

The Gordon Theatre

350 N. Third StreetCamden, N.J. 08102

$25.00 Box Office: 856-225-2700

“He showed me a river of water of life, clear as crystal.. on this side of the river and on that was the tree of life.. the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.”

On Sept 11, 2001 a series of coordinated terrorist attacks upon the United States brought fear into our hearts and the phrase “9/11” into our national lexicon. Five years on, a nation still struggles with the impact and repercussions of that day.

As a tribute to the lives lost on that day and since, and mindful of the role music can play in personal and collective healing, the Walt Whitman Arts Center has commissioned pianist Geri Allen to compose “For the Healing of the Nations”, a sacred jazz suite in two movements. The title song of Allen's critically acclaimed new Telarc release "Timeless Portraits and Dreams" was the genesis for the suite "For The Healing of The Nations".

"Jazz pianist Geri Allen has taken the freedom of Jazz and combined it with the cultural freedom movements that have paralleled the evolution of jazz itself." - Tavis Smiley

"GIANT STEPS" Over Philly!

2006-08-30T14:19:00.000-04:00

OUTDOOR EVENTS

RESCHEDULED TO SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23, 2006

A Tribute to John Coltrane

You can not afford

to miss this Trane!

Full schedule and details

John Coltrane Jazz Festival

Labor Day weekend

Umar Raheem & "NY Connection"

2006-08-28T10:52:00.000-04:00

Composer & saxophonist Umar A. Raheem and 'New York Connection' featuring Alan 'The Emporer' Nelson on drums; Billy 'Sir William' Thorpe on reeds; and Alex 'The Frenchman' Hiele on bass appear at the Woodland Avenue Reunion...Saturday, Sept. 9, from 12:15 until 12:45 at Clarke's Park, 43rd and Kingsessing Avenue in Southwest Philly.

Also Saturday, Sept. 16 at The Diamond Club, Temple University from 6 until 10 pm with special guest Alfie Pollitt at the piano.

"Blind Man's Band" Auction on Ebay

2006-08-26T19:36:00.000-04:00

CLICK BELOW TO BID!
"Blind Man's Band" on Ebay

This work is a framed original oil painting on canvas and was completed in 1995, by the late Lucien Crump, Jr. The inspirations for this work were his roots in the music and festive atmosphere of the "Big Easy". The piece was purchased by the current and ONLY owner. The unframed dimensions of the canvas are 28" high x 35.5" wide. Add 2" to dimensions with the frame. The work is in mint condition (including the framing).

Artist's Bio

A naturally talented artist, who began painting at the age of 7, Lucien Crump’s own art “... can be found in the collections of Bill Cosby and Harry Belafonte, and other private collections”. Crump was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, and attended Morehouse College and Southern University. He received a Master of Art degree in 1982 from New York University, and taught art in four different states for a total of 27 years. In 1979, Crump founded his art gallery of the same name, which he proudly declares, “Is the ﬁrst privately owned black art gallery in Philadelphia”. And in 1983, a business relationship with October Gallery turned into a dealer’s collaboration. Crump’s gallery showcases various forms of art from the African diaspora. Although he retired from teaching in 1991, he passed on artistic traditions by creating and selling various forms of artistic expression to those that had sought these mediums and found them difficult to ﬁnd. Crump’s artistic creations have appeared in several galleries and museums.

Mr. Crump's estate is planning a tribute and auction where, presumably, this original work would return a significantly higher premium! Check it out for yourself! (215-843-8788)

The "Dobson" Gets Jazzed by "Organ Lady"

2006-08-26T08:27:00.000-04:00

"The Kimmel Center"

Presents In Concert

Sept.15, 2006

The Incredible Ms. Nancy Wilson

Caressing you with her ageless Vocal Stylings

Ms. Trudy Pitts
Jazz on the "Dobson" PIPE ORGAN

This will be a "FIRST".... Come See & Hear!
Time: 8:00 P.M.
Location: Broad & Spruce Streets

Check out "Organ Lady" in my

"Philadelphia Jazz Fabric" exhibit at Daffy's

17th & Chestnut Streets

August 16th thru September 13th

Thelonius Monk International Jazz Piano Competition

2006-08-24T13:57:00.000-04:00

2006 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Competition

and 20th Anniversary Gala Concert

Hosted by Quincy Jones, Phylicia Rashad, and Billy Dee Williams

As part of its 20th Anniversary Celebration weekend, the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz will present the 2006 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Competition and 20th Anniversary Gala Concert in Washington, DC on September 16-17, 2006. The Competition will showcase the talents of 10 of the world’s most gifted, young jazz pianists.

The Semifinals will be held on Saturday, September 16th at 1:00 p.m. at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, Baird Auditorium (10th Street & Constitution Avenue NW).

The Finals will be held on Sunday, September 17th at 7:00 p.m. in the Kennedy Center’s Eisenhower Theater. This year's young aspiring jazz pianists will perform for an illustrious panel of judges, including renowned jazz pianists Kenny Barron, Institute Chairman Herbie Hancock, Andrew Hill, Hank Jones, Danilo Perez, Renee Rosnes, and Billy Taylor. Bassist Ben Wolfe and drummer Carl Allen will accompany the finalists.

Following the three finalists, the audience will be treated to a special performance of the winning composition of the 2006 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Composers Competition, sponsored by BMI.

The second half of the Competition finals will feature performances by some of the greatest jazz artists on the scene today, including Patti Austin, Terence Blanchard, Ron Carter, Jimmy Heath, T.S. Monk, John Patitucci, Danilo Perez, Arturo Sandoval, and Wayne Shorter, as well as past Competition winners saxophonist Joshua Redman and vocalist Jane Monheit. Keyboardist and producer George Duke will serve as the Musical Director.

Tickets for the September 16th Semifinals are free of charge and will be distributed at Baird Auditorium by the Smithsonian Associates (202.357.3030) on a first-come, first-served basis beginning 90 minutes prior to the 1:00 p.m. starting time. Tickets for the September 17th Finals at the Kennedy Center Eisenhower Theater may be purchased at the Kennedy Center box office, by calling Instant Charge at 202.467.4600 or online at www.kennedy-center.org. For information about Gala tickets, which include a VIP post-performance dinner and cast party, please call the Institute at 202.364.7272.

"Sounds Of Liberation" Headlines In Paris

2006-08-21T22:05:00.000-04:00

For Immediate Release

August 14, 2006

INNOVATIVE PR CONCEPTS
Post Office Box 38726
Philadelphia, PA 19104
(215) 681-3867

“SOUNDS OF LIBERATION” HEADLINES IN PARIS
FEATURING KHAN JAMAL, BYARD LANCASTER, MONNETTE SUDLER

CONTACT: Shenneth Dove-Morse
(215) 681-3867
innovativeprconcepts@yahoo.com

(Philadelphia, PA - USA) . . . A cadre of virtuoso Philadelphia musicians will perform a reunion concert at the internationally renowned Jazz a la Villette Festival in Paris, France on September 7, 2006. Featured are: vibraphonist Khan Jamal; alto saxophonist/flutist Byard Lancaster; guitarist/vocalist Monnette Sudler; bassist Charles Beasley; percussionist Omar Hill; drummer Dwight James and special guest, poet/spoken word artist Pheralyn Dove.

Abbey Lincoln, Jack DeJohnette, Ornette Coleman, Charlie Haden, the World Saxophone Quartet, Archie Shepp and Carla Bley are also among the artists appearing at Jazz a la Villette, touted as Paris’s most prestigious annual jazz festival, scheduled to run from August 30 – September 10, 2006.

“I’m looking forward to going to France and representing Philadelphia jazz,” said Jamal, who was at the helm of establishing and advancing the “Sounds of Liberation.”

Founded in 1971, the individual members of “Sounds of Liberation” are all leaders in their own right. From the very start, the group built their reputation as innovative artists, playing gigs everywhere throughout Philadelphia, especially in Germantown’s Vernon Park. They recorded their first album in 1972, the self-titled “Sounds of Liberation,” on the Dog Town label. As their touring schedule expanded, “Sounds of Liberation” appeared at the Miss Black America Pageant, the New York City Arts Festival, Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall and numerous colleges and universities throughout the United States. The original members included Jamal, Lancaster, Sudler, Hill and James, in addition to the late percussionist Rashid Salime and bassist Billy Mills who has since changed his instrument to the piano.

Through the decades, all of the members have continued to consistently front their own bands and recordings, compose and publish their original music, and conduct workshops, seminars, master classes and lecture demonstrations for students ranging from pre-kindergarten through the undergraduate and graduate levels at universities. Individually and collectively their artistry has become known worldwide, particularly in Europe, Japan and the Philippines. Since their inception the “Sounds of Liberation” have defied classification, choosing instead to create a menagerie of original music that is fresh, free, lyrical, percussive, highly cultivated and spiritually elevated.

This Parisian sojourn is not the band’s first reunion: they recorded a live DVD during a 2004 concert at Philadelphia’s Sedgwick Cultural Arts Center, that is currently in the process of being released. While Dove has performed with Jamal and Lancaster on numerous recordings and concert dates, this will be her first appearance with the “Sounds of Liberation.”

“It is indeed a tremendous honor to be given the privilege to work alongside this stellar line-up of highly esteemed musicians,” said Dove.

In 2005, Jamal, Lancaster, Sudler and the late jazz bagpipist Rufus Harley recorded a series of CD’s produced by Antoine Rajon called “Philly Jazz,” for the Paris-based Isma’a label. Poets Dove and the internationally acclaimed Sonia Sanchez made guest appearances on Jamal and Sudler’s recordings, respectively. The Jazz a la Villette engagement has been booked under the auspices of Pierre Biancarelli, at Zao, also a Paris-based organization. For additional information and to schedule interviews, please contact publicist Shenneth Dove-Morse at: (215) 681-3867; innovativeprconcepts@yahoo.com. Photos, press kits, CD’s and DVD’s are available upon request. The following websites are also recommended: monnettesudlermusic.com; http://www.zao.fr/; http://www.parisjazzcorner.com/; http://www.jazzalavillette.com/.

Ella Gahnt - Jazz Diva on the Rise

2006-08-16T18:36:00.000-04:00

An interview conducted at The Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts by Philly Jazz Blog Moderator, Lorenzo Hough.

NEWS FLASH

Thursday, August 24 and Every Thursday in July & August at 7:00pm Sharp
The Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, Inc.
proudly presents its
7th Annual "Jazz On The Beach" Concert Series
This week features
Vocalist ELLA GAHNT & Her Quartet
plus opening artist BRIAN BETZ
@ Kennedy Plaza On The Beach Across from Boardwalk Hall
between Mississippi & Georgia Avenues at The Boardwalk in Atlantic City, NJ
Admission is FREE - - Arrive early to get a good seat!
For more information call 609-441-9064 or 609-841-6897

"Philadelphia Jazz Fabric" at Daffy's

2006-08-15T11:34:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to inform you that some of the pieces from my digital art collection, "Philadelphia Jazz Fabric" will be exhibited in the window of Daffy's Philly store located at 17th & Chestnut Streets. The duration of this showing is August 16th thru September 13th, 2006. The collection is still evolving and includes many of the contemporary jazz artists and advocates that are, in my humble opinion, "fibers" in this city's jazz fabric. This presentation features my first work in this format, Eddie Green, who used this piece on his final CD "Shades Of Green" label. The centerpiece of "Organ Lady", Trudy Pitts, is accompanied by vocalists Pearl Williams, Ella Gahnt, Jeannie Brooks and Denise King. This grouping is anchored by Warren Oree and Mr. "Yes, InDee-Dee", Harrison Ridley, Jr.

The collection is exclusively framed by Mosaic Design Group.

"Fibers" not presented in this viewing include "Cousin" Mary, Leon Mitchell, McCoy Tyner, "Bootsie" Barnes, Byard Lancaster, Thelma Anderson, Dottie Smith, Valray, Denise Montana, Ken Shepherd and "Miss BeBop", Carol Harris (above).

There are many other "fibers" in Philly's jazz fabric.
I hope to get to them, too!

STOP BY AND TAKE A LOOK!

Email Questions

Health & Happiness!

NYT's Obituary for Rufus Harley

2006-08-13T15:28:00.000-04:00

August 13, 2006

Rufus Harley, 70, Dies; Adapted Bagpipes to Jazz
By DENNIS HEVESI

Rufus Harley, who was billed as “the world’s first jazz bagpiper” and emitted his haunting sounds alongside some of the greats of jazz, died on Aug. 1 in Philadelphia, his hometown. He was 70.

The cause was prostate cancer, his son Messiah Patton Harley said.

Although Mr. Harley fully acknowledged that “everybody thought I was crazy” when he turned to bagpipes in the early 1960’s, he became a frequent sideman on records and in concerts with saxophonists like Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Dexter Gordon and Sonny Stitt, with the trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and with the flutist Herbie Mann.

He adapted the bagpipes to jazz, blues, funk and other typically African-American styles, while also acknowledging the instrument’s Scottish roots,” said David Badagnani, an instructor at the Center for the Study of World Musics at Kent State University.

Mr. Harley, who was 6-foot-2, was of African-American and Cherokee descent; he sometimes performed in Scottish kilts, sometimes in a dashiki and a Nigerian kufi, or skull cap.

In 1967 a New York Times review of a concert given by Mr. Mann, with Mr. Harley by his side, said that the bagpipe’s tones “sounded far more Middle Eastern than Scottish,” and that when combined with the flute, “the two wind instruments blended into an eerily swinging ensemble.

”Rufus Harley Jr. was born on May 20, 1936, outside of Raleigh, N.C. His family moved to a poor neighborhood in North Philadelphia when he was 2. He is survived by 16 children and 15 grandchildren. He and his wife, Barbara Jean Jones, separated many years ago.

As a teenager, Mr. Harley sold newspapers to buy a saxophone so he could play in his high school band. At 16 he dropped out of school and worked at odd jobs to help support his family. But he never lost interest in music. For 10 years he took lessons on the saxophone, oboe, trumpet and flute and played in local jazz clubs.

The turning point came in November 1963, as Mr. Harley watched the funeral procession for President John F. Kennedy on television and was taken by the wailing sound of the Black Watch bagpipe band. He tried, unsuccessfully, to reproduce the sound on his saxophone.

“My dad was playing a lot of tenor sax then,” his son Messiah said, “but because Coltrane and Rollins were smoking the sax, that’s why he turned to the bagpipes.”

A friend who knew of Mr. Harley’s interest spotted a used bagpipe in a pawnshop and, after a quick phone call, covered its $120 price. After months of practice, Mr. Harley was working in local clubs, and his unusual talent gained wider attention.

From 1965 to 1970, Mr. Harley was the lead artist on four albums on the Atlantic label. He began making appearances on television shows, including “To Tell the Truth,” “What’s My Line?” “I’ve Got a Secret, ” Johnny Carson’s “Tonight Show” and Bill Cosby’s “Cosby Show.” He accompanied the singer Laurie Anderson on her 1982 album “Big Science.” And in 1995 he worked with the hip-hop band the Roots on its album “Do You Want More?!!!??!”

All the while, Mr. Harley insisted that the bagpipe had African roots and that his chosen instrument had helped him “discover my identity by making me aware of my cultural heritage.

”In fact, Mr. Badagnani at Kent State noted, “there are double-pipe instruments in the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo that resemble a bagpipe.”

Copyright 2006 The New York Times Company

Jazz Workshop at Cliveden

2006-08-12T22:40:00.000-04:00

Dear Friends of Jazz,

Please join us on Wednesday, August 23, 2006 at Cliveden of theNational Trust, (in the carriage house) 6401 Germantown Avenue, Philadelphia, PA (entrance is on Cliveden) as we welcome guest speaker, Dennis Fortune. This is the third part of a memorial tribute celebrating our beloved, Susan B. Ford, a Philadelphia Jazz Legend. Dennis will speak on the "Business of Music," which encompasses the many facets of the business. This is your time to learn how to get your foot in the door, how to have alternative careers in the business, and more. This informative workshop will run from 7:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. with time for questions and answers. The cost is a mere $5.00. Doors will open at 7:15 p.m. Seating is limited so please reserve your space at (215)848-1777. DENNIS FORTUNE began playing piano at the age of six, was greatly influenced by his mother who was the local piano teacher. In fourth grade he became one of the original members of the All Philadelphia Boys Choir. He earned a Bachelor's of Arts degree in both Music andSociology from Dickenson College, in Carlisle, PA. Dennis has pursued careers in banking and mental health, but it is his love of the music that has been his main career. His first employment with a major recording artist was with The Delfonics. From that point on he performed with such recording acts as Esther Satterfield, Jean Carne, George Howard, Johnny Coles, Rachelle Farrell , Charles Fambrough and Billy Paul. For 5 years he was Billy Paul's musical director, and toured extensively throughout Europe and South America.

He has created several musical educational programs that involve the jazz experience; co-authored "Roots of Music" (a history of jazz); "Afro-American Ladies of Song" (a look into the lives of Bessie Smith, Billy Holiday, Marion Anderson, Nina Simone, and Aretha Franklin); "TheKey"( the importance of education) and the music for "That's Me" a musical of African ancient history. He has recorded four CDs: "FollowYour Heart," "Fortune, Vinson, Cruse," "Fortune Vinson Cruse Live featuring Brenda Smith", and "Sunny Nights." Dennis can be found performing regularly at Philadelphia's #1 jazz club, Zanzibar Blue and two nights a week at Hotel Dupont in Wilmington DE. An educator Dennis teaches piano at the Christina Cultural Arts Center in WilmingtonDelaware.

He has also composed and produced the music for "Four Presidents, TheGreat American Clean-up" for WHYY-TV, Philadelphia... co-wrote and produced the CD titled "Let's Celebrate Kwanzaa" an original musical presentation of the seven principals. He was awarded an Individual Artist Fellowship for jazz composition from the Delaware Division of the Arts in 1997 and composed and produced the original music for theDelaware production of the play, "The Four Poster" staring Keith David and Jasmine Guy.

With Music Always,

Kim Tucker (Sue Ford's Daughter)

Jimi Odell - 55 Years of Guitar

2006-08-09T05:42:00.000-04:00


One of Philly's "best kept secrets" shares his musical history and some insights into the politics and current state of jazz in Philadelphia.

Holiday Jazz Gumbo!

2006-08-01T15:13:00.000-04:00

As the summer season nears an end, Philadelphia continues to be a hotbed of events that recognize and celebrate the current and former artists that perform the classical improvisations of music commonly referred to as jazz. This Labor Day weekend will be a fantastic time to get out and support this music! Philly will be ablaze with the sounds & rhythms of jazz. In addition to a constant menu of local venue offerings, two significant events will occur over the weekend of September 1st thru 4th. The Mount Airy Cultural Center, with the endorsement of The Council of Jazz Advocates, Inc., presents The 16th Annual Tony Williams Scholarship Jazz Festival, while over the same period, The Tranestop Resource Institute presents the initial Coltrane Jazz Festival "Giant Steps Over Philly", a multi-day and multi-venue, community-based celebration of the life and music of John Coltrane. Check out the line-ups at Leon Mitchell's site!

"Rhythm Swingin' In The Yard"

2006-07-27T20:20:00.000-04:00

Nina Bundy At Ortlieb's Jazzhaus

2006-07-27T13:58:00.000-04:00

"The Queen Bee", vocalist Ms. Nina Bundy will be performing with Mickey Roker & His Quartet at Ortlieb's Jazzhaus on Saturday, July 29th from 9:00 until 1:30am. Nina was one of the many artist who performed at the John Coltrane Cultural Society's "Tribute to Cousin Mary" at the Clef Club.

Check out Nina's Jazz Pod Video Interview !

Tribute to "Cousin Mary"

2006-06-19T20:23:00.000-04:00

John W. Coltrane Cultural Society

presents

A Tribute and Birthday Celebration

For

Philly's Mother of Jazz

"Cousin Mary"

Sunday, July 23, 2006

3 - 7 PM

Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz & Performing Arts

Broad & Fitzwater Streets

Live Performances

Special Guests

A Great Time For All

Don't miss this historic event as we come together to show our love and support for "Cousin Mary" whose diligent efforts and commitment has been a major factor in the preservation, promotion, and "Keeping Jazz Alive"!

Reception with Hot and Cold H'orduerves

Donation $20.00

For more information contact:

Barbara Cooper 609-504-0423

Philadelphia Clef Club of Jazz 215-893-9912

Lawrence Jones At Malcolm X Park

2006-06-16T18:15:00.000-04:00

Our homegrown Tenor Sax Flutist, Lawrence Jones, blew like a cool breeze last night during the second week of the West Philadelphia Jazz Heritage Series. The group featured George Johnson on drums and Dan Kostelnik on organ. They were joined on a few numbers by Philly favorite, Mich`al Beckham. The series is sponsored by Americhoice, Citizens Bank & Children's Hospital Of Philadelphia and hosted by Councilwoman Jannie L. Blackwell & Friends of Malcolm X Park at 52nd & Pine Streets. Mr. Jones will be at Ortlieb's tonight (Friday the 16th) at 8:45 and will be performing at a Father's Day Dinner Show (Sunday the 18th) featuring the electric stylings of Ms. Mich`al Beckham.
For info about this event call Al at 215-964-5464.

It's good to have you back home Mr. Jones!

"DJ" Turner recognized by TeenJazz.com

2006-06-12T06:39:00.000-04:00

Philly's youth jazz movement is reaching higher grounds and getting some national recognition led by the likes of Demetrius "DJ" Turner.

He will be performing at the following venues in the immediate future:
06/22/06-Metropolitan Wilmington Urban League (Wilmington)
06/24/06 -Annual Hines Scholarship Luncheon (Philadelphia)
06/24/06-West Oak Lane Jazz and Arts Festival w/ Clef Club Ensemble (Philadelphia)
07/04/06-Virginia Beach Concert w/Young Jazz Razzcals Project (Virginia Beach, VA.)
07/05/06-Virginia Beach Concert w/ Young Jazz Razzcals Projects (Virginia Beach, VA.)
07/13/06-Atlantic City Boardwalk w/ Clef Club Ensemble (Atlantic City, NJ.)
07/15/06-Community Concert (Kennett Square, PA)

Call Demetrius Turner Sr. (610-563-9396) to get DJ at your event!

The future of this music requires your support!

Elliott Levin's Interplay Ensemble + The Tiptons

2006-06-02T14:49:00.000-04:00

Interplay: Elliott Levin (reeds, poetry), Rick Iannacone (guitars), Ed Watkins (drums)

The Tiptons: Amy Denio (alto sax/voice), Jessica Lurie (alto & tenor sax, voice), Tina Richerson (tenor sax,voice), Tobi Stone (baritone sax, voice), Faith Stankevich (drums)

Tritone

1508 South Street

Philadelphia, PA

June 5 (Mon) — 10 pm

"JAZZ AT CLIVEDEN"

2006-06-02T12:59:00.000-04:00

Jazz at Cliveden
(In memory of Susan B. Ford)

Philly Jazz Industry with Byard Lancaster
Wednesday, June 21 - 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.
The Business of Music with Dennis Fortune
Wednesday, August 23 at 7:30 - 9:00 p.m.

“Tenor Madness”
Sunday, July 16 from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m.
featuring
The Michal Beckham Group
Robert “Bootsie” Barnes
Tim Warfield, Jr.
Vendors and more
Bring a chair and some food

Donation: $5.00 (per event)

6401 Germantown Avenue
Philadelphia, PA
(Entrances on Germantown Avenue & Cliveden Streets)

Call (215) 848-1777 to register for Wednesday workshops.
Cliveden of the National Trust

"Two Points Of View"

2006-06-01T16:17:00.000-04:00

Video Tribute to "Cousin" Mary Alexander

2006-05-19T07:09:00.000-04:00

The John W. Coltrane Cultural Society has enlisted me to videotape birthday greetings and well wishes to “Cousin” Mary Alexander, cousin to legendary saxophonist John Coltrane. We are looking for musicians, family, friends, club owners, jazz advocates, serious fans, and others from the Philadelphia and New York area who know what Cousin Mary means to the jazz community and the impact she has had on the lives of many. The video will be shown on her birthday, July 23, 2006, at a Tribute and birthday celebration being planned in Philadelphia.

We are also attempting to reach out to musicians who played with or knew John, and those who played at or attended the Backyard Concerts on 33rd St. Obviously, this is a very limited opportunity to participate in a historic happening, so your response must reflect that urgency. If you’re interested or know someone who should be contacted, PLEASE CONTACT ME ASAP!

I am available at phillyjazzblog@verizon.net .

For information on the Tribute

email Barbara Cooper

or call 609-504-0423

PLEASE POST YOUR WELL WISHES TO MARY!

Jazz On The Boardwalk!

2006-05-18T19:19:00.000-04:00

Atlantic City's Henrietta Shelton is continuing to produce the Chicken Bone Beach Jazz Series which is scheduled to begin July 6th and run through August 24th at Kennedy Plaza on the boardwalk. On May 10th at A.C.'s annual Host Awards gala, Shelton was presented with the Spirit of Hospitality award, sponsored by the Atlantic City Convention and Visitor's Authority (ACCVA) for her tireless work preserving the local African-American history through her foundation. Check out the 2006 summer schedule at their site
Chicken Bone Beach Historical Foundation, Inc..

Post your love for this jazz heroine!

Blues With Byard!

2006-05-15T07:39:00.000-04:00

Friday, May 19 starting at 9:00pm

"Philly Blues Harmony"

THE PHILLY BLUES MESSENGERS

featuring

BYARD LANCASTER & HAROLD E. SMITH

and special guest GINETTA on trumpet

Upstairs at The Loft

7136 Germantown Avenue in Philly

Cover $7.00

Support the music!

Trudy Pitts' Hot Summer Schedule

2006-05-06T11:15:00.000-04:00

Bright Moments!!!

"The Kennedy Center"
May 12, 2006

"The Annual Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival Competition"
Founded by Dr. Billy Taylor

The Five Finalists will perform in Competition
Judges: Trudy Pitts, Gerri Allen, Rene Rosnes

" The Kennedy Center"

May 13, 2006
The Mary Lou Williams Jazz Festival"
"Trudy & Friends"
Piano Trio: Tyrone Brown, Contra Bass & Stick Bass: "Mr. C", Drums
Organ Trio: Trudy Pitts, Organ: Bob Devos, Guitar: "Mr. C", Drums

"The Salon"
Andrea Clearfield's
400 S. Sydenham Street
Phila., Pa.

May 28, 2006 - 7:30 PM

Door opens at 7:00 PM

Original Sacred/Jazz, Contemporary Compositions, with the texts..

"THREE PSALMS" ...taken from.... "THE HOLY BIBLE"

The three incredible Divas who will be Trudy's guests are:
Anysha T. Carney, Laura Hall and Annie Sciolli

Come prepared to be comfortable, as the house is!

ALL SHOES MUST BE REMOVED!!

Andrea's web site
"She's quite an eclectic Artist"! - Trudy Pitts

Check out TRUDY'S BRAND NEW WEB SITE, a work in Progress!

"Harrisburg Friends of Jazz"
June 9, 10, 11, 2006
Organ Trio:
Trudy, Hammond B-3 Organ: Concert - June 9th
Personnel: "TBA"
Piano Seminar & Lecture:Trudy Conducting - June 10th
Piano - Organ Jazz Vesper - June 11th
Personnel - TBA

"West Oak Lane Jazz Festival"

June 23, 2006

Trudy Pitts Organ Trio
Personnel: "TBA"

"The Kimmel Center"
Sept.15, 2006
Trudy Initiates "Jazz" On The
"The New Pipe Organ"
Our Old Dear Friend...Ms. Nancy Wilson will
Serenade you in all of her Usual Splendor!!!

This partial list was submitted by the The Organlady!

Collingswood's First Thursday Finale

2006-05-04T23:02:00.000-04:00

Tyrone Brown's (r) String Septet featuring Micheal Ireland (c), Melissa Ortega Locati and Kate Suk on violins, Beth Dzwil on viola, Ron Lipscomb on cello and Bill Jones (l) on drums performed in concert at the Collingswood Community Center as the finale to the First Thursday Jazz Series. The ensemble played compositions which were written by Tyrone to a spellbound audience. They were, in a word, AWESOME!!! This series is produced under the guidance of Suzanne Cloud and promises to be bigger and better next year. Stay tuned for news about this event later in the year. Don't let the bridge be a barrier! Support the music!

Purchase Tyrone Brown's CDs here!

Cape May 2006 Photo Album

2006-04-30T17:36:00.000-04:00

Check out veteran jazz photographer Ben Johnson's Cape May 2006 photo album. Mr. Johnson suggested that, "if you know an artist that appeared at the festival, or someone who attended the festival,please pass this link along to them if you feel they may have an interest in viewing the images." While at his site, checkout the other albums in the library of contemporary jazz musicians he has photographed. He is truely helping to preserve the music on his terms. Thanks Ben!

It's good to be seen!

P.S. - from Ben Johnson

The following link is about the Jazz Journalists Association’s ‘Photo of the Year’.

I was honored that my image of Cassandra Wilson was one of the 10 nominees.

The competing images can be seen at http://www.jazzhouse.org/vote/photo06/ however, only JJA members can vote.

Ben Johnson – Photographer JJA
- Cape May Jazz Festival Program Committee Member
- Contributing Photographer for AllAboutJazz.com

CTM Photography
“Capture The Moment”

Preserving the Art of Live Jazz Through Photography

Email: ctmphotography@comcast.net

TYRONE BROWN'S STRING SEPTET

2006-04-30T11:53:00.000-04:00

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

On Thursday May 4th, the Tyrone Brown String Septet will be
appearing at the Collingswood Community Center
(30 Collings Avenue, Collingswood, NJ) to close out the third season
of the Collingswood First Thursday Jazz Series. There will be one show
starting at 7:30PM. Tickets are $10/$5 for students. BYOB / Sodas free.

For info call: 856-858-8914

Bio info:

Bassist Tyrone Brown has recorded over 125 CDs to date including six with legendary drummer Max Roach, six with saxophonist Odean Pope, five with Grover Washington, Jr. (two went gold "Live At The Bijou" and "Reed Seed"), four with guitarist Pat Martino, three with Bobby Zankel, and one each with vocalist Rachelle Ferrell and pianist Dave Burrell. An alumnus of the famed Berklee School Of Music, Brown received a fellowship grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, and won a grant from the Pennsylvania Council On The Arts for Artistic Excellence in Jazz Composition 2001. Tyrone Brown has also garnered the "Best Acoustic Bass" honors in the Jazz Philadelphia Magazine Readers Choice Poll 1993 and 1994. Traveling all over the world, Brown has conducted Master Classes in Barcelona, Spain and Jerusalem, Israel and conducted Improvisation Symposiums at Brigham Young University, Illinois State University, and Temple University. In 1996, his Solo Bass Concert at the 25th Anniversary of the Moers Germany Jazz Festival drew five thousand people. Tyrone Brown has also worked with Lou Rawls, Billy Paul, Trudy Pitts & Mr. C, Freddie Hubbard, Phil Woods, Mulgrew Miller, Clark Terry, Johnny Hartman, Sonny Fortune, Etta Jones, Benny Golson, Dizzy Gillespie, Steve Marcus, Kenny Barron, J.J.Johnson, Dave Burrell, Donald Byrd, Nat Adderly, Cecil Bridgewater, Sam Rivers, Stanley Turrentine, Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis, Sir Roland Hanna, and many others. Brown has toured and recorded with The Max Roach Quartet since 1984, and the Odean Pope Trio and Saxophone Choir since 1991. Dizzy Gillespie wrote, “Tyrone Brown's playing reminds me of those colorful bouncing balls you see at a carnival." Drummer Max Roach said, "Tyrone Brown is one of the most creative musicians I have ever worked with. He is a fine composer and arranger and a virtuoso instrumentalist." Bob Blumenthal of the Boston Globe notes that "Tyrone plays with the passion and flair of a flamenco guitarist.” - Suzanne Cloud

AAMP Honoring BILLIE HOLIDAY!

2006-04-27T14:47:00.000-04:00

Saturday, April 29 from 6:00pm to 12:00am The African American Museum in Philadelphia proudly presents The Next In Its TRIBUTE TO WOMEN IN JAZZ Honoring BILLIE HOLIDAY and featuring Vocalist Michal Beckham with Marc Johnson, piano; Charles Beasley, bass; Eddie Jones, drums; and special guest saxophonist Byard Lancaster The schedule for the evening 6:00pm - Screening of "Lady Sings The Blues" : 9:00pm - Open Jam Session : 10:00pm - Byard Lancaster : 10:30pm - Miss Michal Beckham

Admission $10.00

701 Arch Street in Philly

For More Information Call 215-574-0380

SUPPORT THE MUSIC!

Natalie's Jams on Saturday!

2006-04-24T11:15:00.000-04:00

Local pianist, Dan Paul, was ticklin' the ivory at Natalie's famed Saturday Jam Session hosted by Lucky Thompson. This place has hosted jazz activities for over 50 years at the same location. Natalie's should be on the historical ledger of jazz joints! Ms. Carol "Bebop" Harris was also in the house and stirred the crowd with some of her animated stylings. Bassist Kenny Davis, Donald Washington, Saxophonist and Napolean Black, Percussionist, were in the house, too! A student from Penn named Jason Edwards sat in for Lucky and really showed some talent. Check out Natalie's at 40th & Market Streets and see the past, present and future of the music in Philly!

Jazz Vespers with BJazz

2006-04-19T12:19:00.000-04:00

Please join us
April 30th at 5:00 pm
for a very special
Jazz Vespers
featuring
The Barbara Montgomery Quartet

Barbara Montgomery, vocals
Dennis Fortune, keyboard
Lee Smith, acoustic bass
Lee-sa Robinson, drums

To celebrate the joy and new life of the Easter season
To uplift the spirit
To benefit the mission and ministry of

St. Gabriel’s Episcopal Church
101 East Roosevelt Boulevard
Philadelphia, PA 19120

Wenonah Brooks with Houston Person

2006-04-19T10:34:00.000-04:00

Wenonah Brooks and Her Quartet
with special guest Tenor Saxophonist, Houston Person
performing

"Ease On Over The Rainbow"

(Songs from the movie "The Wizard of Oz" and the show "The Wiz")

Sunday April 23, 7:15pm

Off-Broadstreet Theatre (Dessert Theater)
5 South Greenwood Avenue Hopewell, NJ 08525

Tickets $25.00
(Includes dessert and coffee or tea. Bring your own beer or wine)

"Simply Natural" of Nina Bundy

2006-04-17T20:09:00.000-04:00

Nina Bundy is a local treasure who made her entry onto the musical scene at the tender age of seventeen. Her initial engagement was with Tina Bradshaw's Big band at Town Hall in Philadelphia. Although raw and untested, it was evident that she would soon master all the intricacies involved in becoming an outstanding jazz vocalist. Nina's primary source of inspiration was her mother, Earselle Bundy, a blues singer(note:as tribute to Mrs.Bostic). Nina included two of her mother's favorite songs on this cd, Every Time We Say Goodbye and How Deep Is The Ocean. As Nina matured as a vocalist, her recognition and popularity escalated to the point where she was appearing in various jazz venues throughout the country and Japan as well. As a matter of fact,her captivation of Japanese audiences was so great that she had to return to Japan for a second series of concerts and night club performances. Check out her Jazz Pod for more details.

She has returned to performing after some time and has been mesmerizing local audiences with her robust vocal dynamics. At the recent "Jazz On Cecil B." event a man stated, "In some ways, she reminds me of Billie Holiday". Maybe the ghosts of some of the legends of Philly jazz really were walking the Avenue that night! :)

Check out her latest CD Simply Natural!

A Wonderful Celebration It Was!

2006-04-16T13:37:00.000-04:00

The PJB event celebrating Jazz Appreciation Month was a blast! The music was inspired, the facility was first class, the Patterson's Palace food lived up to the legends and the jazz community of Philly was well represented. The pictured musicians include (l-r) Alfie Pollitt on keyboards, Leon Boykins on bass, Terrence Brown on sax, Butch Ballard on drums and a true high priestess of song, Ms. Mich`al Beckham. Mistress of Ceremonies, Ms. Aqueelah, kept the evening flowing and choreographed the diva summit which occured in the second set when "Songstresses" Valray, Ella Gahnt, Nina Bundy, Carol Harris, Pearl Williams, Mharlyn Merritt and Denise King joined Ms. Beckham onstage for a spontaneous outburst of vocal dexterity (sangin')! We were graced with the versitile playing of "Philly's oldest jazz musician" (his words), Mr. Butch Ballard. Terrence Brown is the "one to listen out for", according to several highly respected jazz community members. Young Lion, Leon Boykins held his own and promises a solid future in the music arena. I am excited about the possiblities for the continued growth and exposure to the music of Philadelphia's jazz family.

The recognition portion of the program was led by a prayer for "Cousin" Mary Alexander, then comments by Thelma Anderson of COJA Philadelphia, Valray Productions and Aqueelah representing WURD 900 AM. A plaque recognizing the Honoree as the "Queen Mother" of the Philly jazz community was presented by Philly Jazz Blog to Carla Washington, who accepted for Mary Alexander.

A videotape of personal messages to the Honoree was recorded by student interns Ashley and Nydrea Gause from the New Media Technology Charter School, to be presented, after editing, with the plaque to our "Queen Mother".

It was the right place and the right time!

POST YOUR LOVE!

Daily News Notes Jazz Appreciation Event

2006-04-14T10:04:00.000-04:00

The Philadelphia Daily News featured our Jazz Appreciation Month event, "Jazz On Cecil B." in the TAKE FIVE section on music in today's issue (Friday, April 14th).

Join the celebration on the street where jazz grew up!

Mich`al Heads to "Jazz On Cecil B."

2006-04-09T14:44:00.000-04:00

After a blazing four-alarm performance at the Clef Club during the "Songstresses" event, Philly's electrifying Ms. Mich`al Beckham will be joining the Alfie Pollitt AllStar Quartet featuring Terrence Brown, Leon Boykins, and the legendary Mr. Butch Ballard at "Jazz On Cecil B." to help us celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month. We will be hosted by the very capable and well respected Jazz Personality and co-host of Jazz and Conversations on WURD 900 AM (Friday 10 PM - Midnight), Ms. Aqueelah. The Honoree of this joyous occasion is our beloved "Cousin" Mary Alexander. Philly Jazz Blog's event will be hosted at the new and luxurious Patterson's Palace (1621-27 Cecil B. Moore Avenue) in the Wilarie Room. The widely revered Patterson's will soon be adding to their culinary legends with a new facility in the shadow of Temple's new WRTI studios. The Patterson Family has added non-red options to their historic selections of healthy and professionally prepared and served foods. Our lite fare will be from their menu. You can choose to have your personal message to "Cousin" Mary videotaped and delivered by PJB. The street where jazz grew up will be alive again!

JOIN THE CELEBRATION!

267-970-8259

Post Your Thoughts!

"Songstresses" Rock The Clef Club!

2006-04-09T10:33:00.000-04:00

Just as Mistresses of Ceremonies, Erma Holmes, predicted we would, those in attendance at the Valray Production's "Songstresses" event experienced an eargasim of immense proportions! They were serenaded by most of Philly's favorite Divas including (l-r) Lady Precious, Denise King, Mich`al Beckham, Honoree Ms. Trudy Pitts, Nina Bundy (behind Trudy), Producer, Ms. Valray, Barbara Walker, Pearl Williams, Sherry Butler and "First Lady" of Guitar, Monnette Sudler.

Post your Appreciation for "Songstresses"!

Alfred Pollitt - A Musical Legacy

2006-03-27T20:50:00.000-05:00

Pianist, Composer, Entertainer

Alfred Pollitt, known to many in the music world as "Alfie", has been studying and playing music since receiving his first piano lessons at the tender age of three. A native of Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, Alfie was surrounded and inspired by all types of music and was given classical piano instruction from his mother and father, both respected and influential members of the Philadelphia art and music communities. Since his first piece of musical composition in 1958 entitled "15th Street", Alfie has written well over one hundred songs.

Some of his major jazz influences include John Coltrane, McCoy Tyner, Horace Silver, and Jimmy Smith. These and other musical greats helped to shape and formulate Alfie's diverse playing style. Throughout Alfie's aspiring musical career he has had the fortunate opportunity to perform with a broad spectrum of prominent Jazz and R&B performers, including: Donald Byrd, Archie Shepp, Art Blakey, Norman Connors, Sister Sledge, Billy Paul, Stephanie Mills, George Howard, and the Four Tops, along with Alfie's own bands and ensembles. Alfie toured extensively with legendary R&B superstar Teddy Pendergrass, which earned him (Alfie) two platinum recording credits to his impressive list of achievements. Mr. Pollitt has also represented Philadelphia at the Ocho Rios Jazz Festival in Jamaica (1995) and at the Festin Third International Music Festival in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil (1993). Besides being a musician, Alfie is known as a teacher and mentor to many musicians and other people in his surrounding communities.

Additionally, Alfie has extensive experience of having composed and co-written musical works, including: theme songs and jingles for events, organizations, etc. A few examples of are: theme/jingles for The Mataah Network's, "The Black Music Association" and "The Africamericas Festival". He has also collaborated as writer of "Our Family Reunion", (a piece that promotes family reunions) and "Malcolm X" (an epic work which depicts events in Malcolm's life in song). For your next grand event or special occasion, call 215-748-7494, or email Alfie Pollitt.

Celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month at Jazz on Cecil B. with Alfie Pollitt!

Check out Alfie's Philly Jazz Pod !

The Event Place

2006-03-26T08:58:00.000-05:00

The Event Place is a new and unique, multi-purpose rental venue. The space offers a wonderful setting for various types of special events, including, but not limited to many forms of intimate social, business or festive gatherings.

Check out The Event Place

Jimi O'Dell Quartet Plays on the Avenue

2006-03-25T09:23:00.000-05:00

One of Philly's most respected guitarist and scatmen led a very talented group at LaRose Jazz Club last night. The group was composed of bassist Jeff Pedrass, pianist Gary Moran and drummer Milt McLaurin. Their renditions of some standards were totally interesting and Jimi even did a few requests! This is a great room for jazz and now Mr. Lee Griffen is in the mix. Keep your ear out for news and music from Germantown Avenue.

Treat yourself and Support the Music!

Young Trumpeter Comin' Strong!

2006-03-21T20:35:00.000-05:00

When Tony Williams says you're one to look out for, people listen! According to the Master Teacher, Charles Smith is at the head of his class. The young man is honing his licks and headin' in the right direction musically and personally. Keep an ear out for him, as young lions grow up fast!

Boone is Bassing Off!

2006-03-19T13:07:00.000-05:00

Mike Boone is celebrating his new CD "Yeah, I Said It" at Suzanne Cloud's First Thursday Jazz Series in Collingswood, NJ, 30 Collings Avenue at the Community Center onApril 6th at 7:30PM.

For info call: 856-858-8914

Tyrone Brown's String Sextet will be closing out this (their 3rd) season on the First Thursday in May (4th).

Tim Warfield was AWESOME at LaRose!

2006-03-18T08:17:00.000-05:00

An extremely talented saxophonist with roots in West Philly captivated the audience with some of the sweetest sounds ever heard in Germantown! I was introduced to Mr. Warfield by our recently lost friend, Sue Ford. She really loved his playing. If you are only hearing about this performance through PJB, you blew. GET OUT AND SUPPORT THE MUSIC! Check out Tim's website in the "Philly Artists Links" in this blog. Tony Williams had a guest bassist from New Orleans, Ed Wise. He survived Katrina and was warmly welcomed by all.

A visiting patron informed me that the ambience of LaRose Jazz Club reminded her of several NY clubs she frequented in her day. She said, "This place has a great look and feel to it and has nice acoustics, too"! Why aren't there more folks out here? I pondered the same thing! There are numerous great venues to hear the "GM" that Bob Perkins refers to, but how long can they last if we don't support the businesses?

For schedule or information call:

215 248-4415 or 215 844-5818

Post your thoughts on this perplexing issue!

Celebrate "Jazz On Cecil B." on April 15th

2006-03-12T20:56:00.000-05:00

Philly Jazz Blog
celebrates Jazz Appreciation Month with

“Jazz On Cecil B.”
The street where jazz grew up!

Featuring
The Alfie Pollitt All Star Quartet
Terrence Brown – Sax, Leon Boykins – Bass & Butch Ballard – Drums

Ms. Aqueelah – MC
Host of Jazz & Conversations WURD 900 AM

Honoree: “Cousin” Mary Alexander

You can be in our live video of personal messages from the jazz community!
Get to tell her how you really feel!

Saturday, April 15, 2006 from 8:00pm until 1:00am
Sets at 8:30 PM & 10:30 PM
Doors open at 8:00 PM

@ The Wilarie Room in Patterson’s Palace
1621 – 27 West Cecil B. Moore Avenue
(down the street from Temple U’s WRTI)

Limited Reserved Tickets - $20.
(Includes seating and light fare)

Menu by Patterson’s Palace

Cash Beverages

10:00 PM admission $10.
(No Food)

Reservations: 267-970-8259
Email: phillyjazzblog@verizon.net

Susan B. Ford's Musical Memorial

2006-03-11T18:28:00.000-05:00

In case you could not get there, I've provided this photo. There are no words to express the wonderful feelings that were exchanged between the family, friends, fellow artists and advocates! If your antenna was working, you could probably feel it too! The ceremony and the music were very inspirational. It was just like Susan B. Ford would have it!

Of all the heart-felt comments made, I think Mr. BP said it best when he stated that " Sue is sittin' in for Eternity"!

P.S. - She still has on her RTI hat!!!

Expressions of Gratitude

Perhaps you sent a lovely card, or sat quietly in a chair;

Perhaps you sent a floral piece, if so, we saw it there.

Perhaps you spoke the kindest words as any friend could say.

Perhaps you were not there at all, just thought of us that day.

Whatever you did, whatever the part,

We prayerfully thank you for consoling our hearts.

Kim & Kathy

Post Your LOVE!

Odean Pope is "Locked and Loaded"

2006-03-10T07:30:00.000-05:00

The current CD of Odean Pope's Saxophone Choir, "LOCKED AND LOADED", was recorded live at the legendary Blue Note Club in New York City in 2005 and is being released there April 4th thru 9th, 2006. Mr. James Carter will be one of the guest soloists during this week-long release party. Also appearing is the David Murray Ensemble.

THIS EVENT IS BEING DEDICATED TO MAX ROACH!

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Cali Bound!

Odean's next recording session is on the west coast on March 26 - 29th in San Francisco featuring Donald Bailey - Drums, Freddie Hubbard - Trumpet, Tyrone Brown - Up Right Bass and George Burton - Piano.

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Artist In Residence

As part of the Philadelphia Arts in Education Partnership, Odean Pope is leading a program at the Grover Cleveland School at 19th & Butler Sts. This artistic residency for Odean runs from March 2nd thru the 16th. This is an ongoing activity for Mr. Pope and clearly provides a connection to the music and arts for the youth.

Teach the children well!

Get with the program! Post Your LOVE!

Searching for "The Settlement 100"

2006-03-08T12:06:00.000-05:00

Philadelphia, PA – The largest community school of the arts in the country which has served hundreds of thousands of people in close to 100 years announced yesterday that it is looking for nominees for “The Settlement 100,” a roster of 100 interesting, diverse and unexpected individuals who have a story about how their experiences at Settlement Music School shaped their lives.

A Selection Panel, made up of community, political and arts leaders, will review nominations received from the public, and they will announce their choices for the Settlement 100 in groups of twenty or so during the next several years, culminating in Settlement's centennial year, 2008.

The Settlement 100 is not limited to those who have achieved professional fame in music. It was designed as an effort to show how Settlement has affected many different lives in many different ways. Anyone with a story of how Settlement Music School has touched their lives are encouraged to visit their web site at www.settlement100.com and tell where Settlement Music School has taken them.

Post your thoughts about this or, better yet, register at their site!