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A Place for Jazz isn't really a place; it's an organization whose programs include a fall concert series, public workshops, school-based clinics, and general support of jazz and its musicians. Since 1987, A Place for Jazz has been hosting a fall concert series at the Whisperdome, a beautiful listening-space in the First Unitarian Society at 1221 Wendell Ave. in Schenectady. A Place for Jazz builds on the legacy of Butch Conn, who founded the organization in 1987 to bring world-class jazz artists to the area for the concert series. A Place for Jazz is affiliated with the International Association of Jazz, with grants from Schenectady County Improvement Program, Schenectady Foundation, and membership contributions. For more information, contact Tim Coakley at 518-393-4011, coakjazz@aol.com, visit www.aplaceforjazz.org, or write to PO Box 1059, Schenectady 12301. 2008 Concert Series: Friday 9/12 - Bill Charlap Trio First up, on September 12, will be the great Bill Charlap Trio, with Peter Washington on bass and Kenny Washington on drums. Bill Charlap is one of the most highly regarded interpreters of classic jazz instrumentals and Great American Standards. This trio has made numerous acclaimed recordings, and their well-honed interplay will make for a wonderful opening concert. Get your tickets early! Friday 9/26 - Lee Russo Quartet On September 26, local tenor saxophonist Lee Russo will lead a quartet in our second concert. He is one of the most in-demand young musicians in the Capital Region, with an exciting post-bop style. Compositions from his and drummer Joe Barna's recent well-received CD "The Abenaki" will surely be among those played. Lee Russo and group will hold a workshop at Nat Phipps' jazz improvisation class at Schenectady County Community College at 1:45 p.m. in the band room. They will also be at the Hamilton Hill Arts Center at 4 p.m. for a half-hour after-school presentation. Friday 10/10 - Ben Allison & Man Size Safe Bassist Ben Allison has been called an adventurous improviser and a visionary composer by Jazz Times. His 2004 CD "Buzz" was number one on national radio charts for 6 weeks. On October 10, his quintet, which he calls Man Size Safe, will give us a chance to sample his unique approach. As for what the name of the group means, you'll have to attend the concert to find out! Ben Allison will hold a workshop at Nat Phipps' jazz improvisation class at Schenectady County Community College at 1:45 p.m. in the band room. He will also be at Hamilton Hill Arts Center at 4 p.m. for a half-hour after-school presentation. Friday 10/24 - Joe Locke Vibraphonist Joe Locke and his quartet will perform on October 24. His dazzling technique and inventiveness have enthralled audiences for more than two decades, and he consistently places high in readers' and critics' polls. He has more than 25 CDs as a leader to his credit, and his group will bring a unique sound to concert series. Joe Locke will hold a workshop at Nat Phipps' jazz improvisation class at Schenectady County Community College at 1:45 p.m. in the band room. He will also be at Hamilton Hill Arts Center at 4 p.m. for a half-hour after-school presentation Friday 11/7 - Karrin Allyson Finally, on November 7, Concord recording artist Karrin Allyson will conclude our season with an evening of superb singing. Two of her CDs, "Ballads" and "Footprints," have been Grammy nominees. Her wide-ranging repertoire includes standards, bebop, and Brazilian and French classics. Her recent CD "Imagina: Songs of Brasil" has received critical acclaim. |
