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Features
DETAILED SCHEDULE AND PERFORMERS
MAP of performance locations
The Mile High Jazz Band Association formed in 2001 as a nonprofit corporation to support the MHJB and its subgroup, the Millennium Bugs (jazz combo), promote live jazz performance in northern Nevada, educate the public about jazz, and enrich the cultural life of the community. Member benefits include mailings, discounts on admissions, and invitations to special events, plus the satisfaction of helping big-band jazz to thrive! To book the Mile High Jazz Band (big band) or Millennium Bugs (jazz combo), call 775-883-4154. |
Performers, locations, links. Lead-in Performances - August 11-20, 2009
Friday, August 21, 2009
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Sunday, August 23, 2009Jazz Picnic in the Park - Legislative Plaza/Capitol Amphitheater (between the State Capitol and the Legislature Building), bring a picnic and blanket for seating
Mile High Jazz Band - Tues 8/11/09 - 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. - Comma Coffee
The Mile High Jazz Band, an 18 member "big band" with vocalist Sheryl Adams, began performing in 1997. The group features music in the Basie- Ellington- Herman tradition, as well as more contemporary styles. They play ballads, high-powered jazz tunes, and dance music selected from an ever-growing repertoire of over 100 tunes. MHJB performs for community events, fundraisers, dances, receptions, private parties, and in concert, and collaborates with poets in quarterly "Jazz & Poetry" performances. Sheryl Adams studied theater and Musical comedy at San Francisco State University, was a member of Group Repertory Theater, appeared in shows, films, and television, and directed a theater program for the Downtown Women's Center in Los Angeles. She studied singing with Joe Newman and Oscar Robinson, and jazz stylings with Carol Ettman in Reno, and sings with several big bands, combos, and duos. Instrumentalists: Saxes: Richard Davis (8/11)/Dan Lancaster (8/22), Ross Price (8/11)/ Speedy Garfin(8/22), Jojo Shelley, Casey Finnerty, Gerry Wright. Trumpets: Gil Linsley, Rick Dawson, Scott Le Val, Rich Sheldrew, Joi Cerveri. Trombone: Dean Carter, Mike Allen, C.J. Birch, Matt McDowall. Piano: David Bugli. Bass: George Worth. Guitar: Jacki Montgomery. Drums: Lee Warner (8/11)/Mark Ashworth (8/22). Click here for MHJB site. Click here for Comma Coffee site. Mile High Jazz Band also performs on Aug. 22 at 7:00 p.m. on Third Street.
GC Quartet - Wed 8/12/09 - 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. - Doppelgangers
GC Quartet formed 2-1/2 years ago by Gary Claude and "like-minded musicians looking to play the music they love." You can hear them play Wednesday nights at Doppelgangers Brewery. GC Musicians are Tony Cataldo, trumpet; Tristan Selzler, keyboard; Zack Teran, bass; and Gary Claude, drums; and occasional guests. They are members of the Reno Jazz Syndicate. Click here for Doppelgangers.
First Take Featuring Rick Metz - Wed 8/12/09 - 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. - Firkin and Fox
Rick Metz says the name “First Take” represents his approach to jazz. He says, “Being the spontaneous art form that jazz is, and the fact that most freelance musicians work with different bandleaders as a matter of course, I find my gigs become a constantly changing mix of the area’s finest players…which means that no matter who’s playing, they have to get the tune correct on the 'first take.'” First Take musicians are Rick Metz, sax; Peter Supersano, keyboard & keyboard bass; Marsh Brodeur, vocals; Dennis Steele, drums. For the open jam, jazz musicians are welcome to sit in! Click here for Rick's website. Click here for Firkin & Fox. First Take Featuring Rick Metz also performs on Aug. 19.
Blues Assault - Fri 8/14/09 - 5:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Doppelgangers
Tristan Selzler, voice & guitar; Zack Teran, bass; and Gary Claude (8/14)/Chuck Hughes (8/21), drums; play the blues Friday nights on the patio at Doppelgangers Brewery. Blues Assault also performs frequently in Reno and Sparks. These guys are good! Click here for Doppelgangers. Blues Assault also performs on Aug. 19.
Vanessa Littrell - Fri 8/14/09 - 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. - B'Sghetti's plan: b microlounge -
One of the more creative and engaging singer/songwriters of our era, Vanessa Littrell generates
sparkle everywhere she performs.
This dynamic vocalist is a swirl of energy on the stage. Starting with a haunting A Capella ballad, she finishes, turns to the piano and bangs out "Satisfaction." Weaving tales with her guitar and piano she is a tour de force that threatens to touch your soul at its very core. Vanessa Littrell specializes in life and the human condition. A true grass roots musician, she is self-taught on both guitar and piano. Influenced by the early folk musicians, Vanessa operates on the belief that music is as essential as breath. Click here for Vanessa Littrell. Click here for B'Sghetti's plan b.
Peanut Butter Jazz Jam - Sat. 8/15/09 - 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. - Play Your Own Music
in Carson Mall, 1213 S. Carson St.
Play Your Own Music hosts a jam session for student musicians who wish to increase their mad soloing skills. Fun is the top priority. Bring your instrument, check it out, and join in—this activity is for participants, not spectators. Click here for Play Your Own Music.
Dennis Steele's Jazz Steps "Champagne Saturdays"- Sat 8/15/09 -
7:00 to 10:00 p.m. - B'Sghetti's plan: b microlounge, 318 N. Carson St.
Dennis Steele presents the Jazz Steps quartet Saturdays at plan: b, where the area’s finest musicians come together in an intimate performance venue and display their artistic talents. Dennis, the drummer, is known for his uplifting personality and the talent to solidly lay down the beat. With him are Rocky Tatarelli, sax; Dave Kubin, keyboard; and Latisha Lewis, vocals. Click here for plan: b. Dennis Steele's Jazz Steps also performs on Aug. 22.
Millennium Bugs - Sun. 8/16/09 - 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Foreman-Roberts House,
1207 N. Carson St. -
Carson City Historical Society's Ice Cream Social, with Gil Linsley (trumpet), Dan Lancaster
(saxes), David Bugli (keyboard), George Worth (bass), and Lee Warner (drums).
The Millennium Bugs, through their performances, celebrate the convergence of two quintessentially American "streams," jazz and the popular standards of the 30s, 40s, and 50s. Their improvisations bring to light the inherent beauty and enduring craft of old standards by composers such as George Gershwin, Duke Ellington, and Harold Arlen. This free event includes admission, house tour, games, music, and birdhouse-building by Woodworking Specialties. Ice cream, cake, cookies, and pie $3. Click here for Millennium Bugs (at the MHJB website). Click here for Carson City Historical Society.
Kandinsky Effect - Tue 8/18/09 - noon to 1:00 p.m. - Laxalt Plaza, 401 N. Carson St.,
Sponsored by the Carson Nugget
The Kandinsky Effect is a modern jazz ensemble, constantly searching for new ways to improvise, lurking at the borders of jazz, rock, electronica, hip-hop, and experimental sounds. Tenor saxophone, double bass and drums play subtly with sounds, colors, rhythms and forms to create a rich and original musical world, which mixes personal compositions and covers from their individual influences.The group is based in Paris, France, and tours internationally. Warren Walker, rising star in the European jazz scene, plays saxophone & electronics. Gaël Petrina, originally from Equador, performs with several European groups and is composer for Sirroco Films Paris. He is featured on double bass & electronics. Drummer Caleb Dolister completes the trio. He resides mainly in Nashville, tours frequently, and has performed on more than 30 recording projects and albums. Click here for the group's site. Click here for Warren Walkers' MySpace site.
St. Christopher Project - Tue 8/18/09 - 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. - Carson City Library,
900 N. Roop St.
The St. Christopher Project performs jazz-based, Tom Waits tunes. The band comprises Tristan Selzler, voice, keyboard, guitar, and more; Tony Cataldo, trumpet & guitar; Joey Berger, guitar & mandolin; Zach Teran, bass; and Gary Claude on drums. All are members of the Reno Jazz Syndicate and perform in several other bands in northern Nevada. Click here for the Reno Jazz Syndicate.
GC Quartet - Wed 8/19/09 - 5:00 to 7:30 p.m. - Doppelgangers
(See Aug. 12 description, above.)
First Take Featuring Rick Metz - Wed 8/19/09 - 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. - Firkin & Fox
Weekly Open Jam session - (See Aug. 12 description, above.)
Fantods - Thur 8/20/09 - 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. - Brewery Arts Center (outdoors),
449 West King Street
A "Third Thursday" event co-sponsored by KTHX (The "X") NOTE: Time of this event has been updated as of 8/17. The Fantods are a trio from Reno. They play old, somewhat damaged instruments in a style that might be described as Hillbilly-funk fusion. Or not. Their repertoire of mostly original music runs the gamut from tightly arranged countryesque songs in the vein of Ryan Adams and Tom Waits to extended high-energy improvisations featuring the violin, mandolin, and guitar of Ben Wilborn, the upright and downright funky bass of Joe McKenna, and the assorted percussion of David Newman. The Fantods shows feature great Americana vibe, the excitement of musical spontaneity, and excellent musicianship and groove. The Brewery Arts Center, and KTHX 100.1 have teamed up for these monthly membership events going on all year round! Join KTHX at the historic Brewery Arts Center on August 20 for "Third Thursday." Admission is free for BAC members! Tour the Brewery Arts Center Galleries, listen to live music from The Fantods on the outdoor stage. Enjoy food and drink! The Brewery Arts Center, 449 West King Street in Carson City. Admission $5 for Non-Members Free for BAC Members. Click here for the Fantod's website. Click here for the BAC website. Click here for The X's website.
Kenn Pettiford - Thur 8/20/09 - 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Artisans' Cafe at Brewery Arts Center,
449 W. King St.
Free event Kenn Pettiford has been playing the piano and singing since early childhood. While in his teens, Kenn began performing "professionally" all over the country and around the world in jazz venues, theatrical productions, concert settings, and in religious services and ceremonies. Pettiford's rich baritone voice is expressive and flexible in its many styles; it lets you know you’re listening to a seasoned professional. When you listen, you feel the music as his perfect phrasing, articulation, and intonation tells the story of each song. He has an uncanny ability to make you laugh, set you at ease, and include you in his performances. Kenn has traveled to perform in Japan, Sweden, Holland, France, Italy, Germany, Hawaii, and the Fijian islands. In recent years Kenn has had the pleasure of collaborating with various performers such as Akio Sasajima, a world class guitarist. Together, they created the exciting duo "2 Kool," and performed in numerous European venues. Kenn has collaborated on projects with Mavis Vegas Davis, who is an exciting vocalist and also the assistant director of "That Seventies Show." Mavis and Kenn, with Bob Este, developed an act opening for Whoopi Goldberg and also performing The Spirit Awards, honoring comedy writer Bruce Vilanche in Hollywood. He is also a frequently collaborator with Ce Ce Gable, exceptional jazz performer, and they recently collaborated in creating a collection of songs, original and known. "For You" is a pensive CD of love found, love lost, and love found again. Pettiford and Gable have performed together in many concerts, jazz festivals, nightclubs, and recently completed a tour of Germany. Click here for Kenn's website. Click here for the BAC website.
Harps & Vibes - Fri 8/21/09 - 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. - Governor's Mansion, 606 Mountain St.
Event sponsored by the Downtown Business Association. Harp & Vibes is the partnership of two outstanding professional musicians, Beverly Colgan, harp, and Joe Venuto, vibes. Together and solo, they love to play everything from Bach to Brubeck. The classical/jazz duo performs everywhere in Northern Nevada and California, from Reno to Lake Tahoe to Sacramento. They specialize in parties, receptions, birthdays, weddings, and anniversaries -- you can enjoy the music and still hear yourself talk! "Afternoon Tea" is a ticketed event. For information, call 774-443-6001. Click here for Harp & Vibes. Click here for Link to Carson City Chamber of Commerce.
Blues Assault - Fri 8/21/09 - 5:00 to 7:70 p.m. - Doppelgangers
(See Aug. 14 description, above.)
Sol'Jibe - Fri 8/21/09 - 7:00 to 11:30 p.m. - "Fridays at Third Street,"
Third St. between Carson & Curry Streets Sponsored by Carson City Downtown Business Consortium. Sol'Jibe, World Rock for the Gypsy Soul, called the number one band from the Reno-Tahoe area, is becoming part of the international touring circuit. Blending American roots, world beat, and Latin rhythms in an inspired sound dubbed "World Pop,” Sol'Jibe creates a high-energy performance that gives its audiences an irresistible desire to dance. The musicians’ eclectic sound draws from their travels to Spain, Cuba, and Central America, where they studied folk rhythms and culture. Band members are violinist, lead vocalist/songwriter, and guitar player, Tim Snider; saxophonist James Hoover; keyboardist J. Cowell; bassist Fernando Flores; and drummer Justin Kruger. Click here for Sol'Jobe's website.
The Tony Cataldo Experiment - Fri 8/21/09 - 8:00 to 10:00 p.m. - B'Sghetti's plan: b, "Fridays
After Dark," 318 N. Carson St.
Tony Cataldo is a multi-talented musician who performs on vocals, trumpet, guitar, bass, keyboards, and occasionally drums, and also excels in composition, arrangement, programming, production, and engineering. He says he is gradually getting away from the prepackaged, genre-intensive labeling system we all know. Sharing the experiment are Tony Cataldo, trumpet and electric bass; Tristan Selzler, keyboard, guitar, and vocals; and Jason Thomas, drums. Click here for The Tony Cataldo Experiment. Click here for plan: b website.
The Hot Two Plus One - Sat 8/22/09 - 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. to noon -
Third Street Farmers Market, Sponsored by the Farmers Market
The Hot Two Plus One fires a fusillade of raggy plunk. The trio stars "Plunkin" C.W. Bayer, who comes from a long line of saloon singers. Chris has plunked all over Northern Nevada for decades. He generally plays the banjo-guitar, but prefers the regular guitar in nursing homes and wine-bars! "Professor" Gary Lyon is a cowbellologist who grew up under a barstool in Virginia City. For many years he beat hot time with bands in California. He keeps adding more cowbells! "Uncle" Jack McFarland is master of the washboard. (Sorry, he doesn’t do shirts.) He scratched out traditional jazz in the Bay Area before fleeing to Nevada.
You can hear The Hot Two Plus One most every Monday, noon-2:00 p.m., at Comma Coffee. Click here for The Hot Two Plus One. Click here for for another link.
Colin Ross - Sat 8/22/09 - 9:00 to 10:00 a.m. - Comma Courtyard, 312 S. Carson St.
Get a great start to your jazz morning! Hear Colin Ross in the Courtyard, and while you're at it, pick up a breakfast a Comma Coffee. Coffee & Colin - a fantastic combination in the morning. Composer and multi-instrumentalist Colin Ross plays a large and ever-shifting repertoire of original music, jazz standards and blues classics. Beginning with classical piano at age five, Colin has continued to study and grow throughout his career, playing a variety of instruments and styles. While maintaining a full time performance schedule, Colin has recorded and released five CDs on his own label, Oharaross Productions. Solo or with his band, Colin has been a favorite in Carson City jazz festivals. This year, sponsored by the Mile High Jazz Band Association, he also presented educational assemblies and workshops in Carson City schools, and performed an "Evolution of the Blues" concert at the Brewery Arts Center. Click here for Colin Ross' website. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Vocal Art Works - Sat 8/22/09 - 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. - Third Street between Carson &
Curry Streets
Vocal Art Works—no ordinary music experience! Satisfy your appetite for lush, heartfelt harmony and sophisticated, finger snapping rhythms. The voices: Leslie A. Fudge, Mark Emerson, Stephen D. William, Bill Hecht, Troy Fernandez and Jean-Paul "JP" DeChambeau sing Leslie's original arrangements, in a powerful celebration of real time music, both a cappella, and with the piano genius of Bill Hecht. Click here for Vocal Art Works.
Chuck Wayne - Sat 8/22/09 - 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. - Greenhouse Garden Center
Contemporary jazz keyboardist Chuck Wayne, owner of Wayne’s Family Music in Gardnerville, performs at Greenhouse Garden Center’s annual art show. Chuck will be providing soothing jazz sounds on his keyboard while elsewhere, at the Garden Center, Brenda Lockie-Knight will be providing beautiful music on her harp. Stroll under the trees and amongst the shrubs and flowers, enjoy the many running fountains and visit Greenhouse Garden Center's waterfall and pond all the while enjoying the presence of over twenty-five regional artists and musicians at Greenhouse Garden Center's 5th Annual Art At The Greenhouse. Artists will be exhibiting a wide variety of art in oils, pastels, watercolors, stained and fused glass, gourd art, jewelry, and folk art. They will also be giving demonstrations and selling their work. Click here for Greenhouse Garden Center.
Brenda Lockie-Knight (folk harp) - Sat 8/22/09 - 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. - Greenhouse
Garden Center
Brenda Lockie-Knight, who played for the opening of the State Museum Concourse on May 14, will be providing beautiful music on her harp at Greenhouse Garden Center’s annual art show. Elsewhere in the Garden Center, Chuck Wayne (see previous listing) will be providing soothing jazz sounds on his keyboard. Stroll under the trees and amongst the shrubs and flowers, enjoy the many running fountains and visit Greenhouse Garden Center's waterfall and pond all the while enjoying the presence of over twenty-five regional artists and musicians at Greenhouse Garden Center's 5th Annual Art At The Greenhouse. Artists will be exhibiting a wide variety of art in oils, pastels, watercolors, stained and fused glass, gourd art, jewelry, and folk art. They will also be giving demonstrations and selling their work. Click here for Greenhouse Garden Center.
Ken Davidson Trio - Sat 8/22/09 - 11:00 a.m. to noon - Comma Coffee (indoors),
312 S. Carson St.
The Ken Davidson Trio plays a wide variety of jazz styles, from the swingy bounce of Gerry Mulligan's "Bernie's Tune," to the darkly ethereal "Footprints" by Wayne Shorter. Add to that some Brazilian samba, a pinch of hot Latin salsa and a dash of unique originals, and you have a mix that is sure to please. Keyboardist Ken Davidson has been playing piano for decades in venues from San Francisco to New York. Behind Davidson, drummer/percussionist Herbie Weihskopf delivers a solid, driving, eccentric beat, and Zack Teran, the bassist, punches down the bottom end. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Carson City Symphony's Summer Strings Jazz Ensemble - Sat 8/22/09 - 11:00 a.m. to noon -
Family Pop-Up Park at the Brewery Arts Center
Carson City Symphony’s Strings in the Summer students, directed by Sue Kitts, violin, with Jacki Montgomery, guitar, and Steve Scott, bass, play jazz tunes for a summer day. Introduced to jazz at a Jazz Workshop for Strings with the Mile High Jazz Band in 2008, the students formed a new ensemble this summer. Violins: Ethan Lopes, Madyson Stokes, Lydia Ogles, Samantha Lowe, Valerie Pober, Ryan Vettel, and Rachel McCarty. Viola: Ashley Gerber. Click here for Carson City Symphony's "Strings in the Schools" program. Click here for Brewery Arts Center.
Speedy Garfin & the Garfin Gathering with vocalist Jakki Ford - 8/22/09 -
noon to 2:00 p.m. - Third St. between Carson & Curry Streets
Howard “Speedy” Garfin is creator and leader of the legendary Garfin Gathering. He was inspired to play clarinet when, at age nine, he fell in love with the sound of Benny Goodman. He played professionally in New York nightclubs while a high-school student, and with the award-winning Cold Cuts Quintet in the U.S. Army. He toured the world with the Army’s Rolling Along show. The original Garfin Gathering formed in 1971, playing in Nevada most of the year and in the Catskills in the summer. They present an unforgettable, feel-good mix of jazz and comedy. Garfin Gathering musicians are "Speedy" Garfin - alto sax, soprano sax, clarinet, flute, conga drums, & vocals; Kerry Shacklett - keyboard; Mark Ashworth - drums; and Jakki Ford - vocals & choreography. Click here for info on Jakki Ford.
George Hanepen Trio - Sat 8/22/09 - noon to 1:00 p.m. - Nevada State Museum
(Coin Show), 600 N. Carson St.
Come hear some fine jazz, see the new Dema Quinn Concourse, and enjoy the coin show at this historic location, home of the Carson City Mint, where much of the Comstock silver was pressed into coins. Jazz guitarist George Hanepen is a northern Nevada favorite who has played in the area for many years. His musical career began in the Netherlands, continued in Paris, and then in the United States. Hanepen says he never forgets his attraction for the improvisational side of music. He has played with numerous well-known musicians in Europe and the U.S., including Dizzy Gillespie, Jerome Richardson, Mary Stallings, and Fran Foston. He played the Monterey Jazz Festival in 1987 and 1989, played with big bands in showrooms, and backed the Crewcuts, the Chordettes, the Platters, and Frank Gorshin. Hanepen's interest lies in the artistic value of the guitar sound, and he usually plays solo. For the jazz festival, he is joined by Dallas Smith, saxophone, and Andy Heglund, drums. Dallas Smith was born in Columbus, Georgia, Dallas. His musical talent was evident at a young age, and he studied clarinet with George Cardino through high school. A scholarship student at Florida State University, Dallas studied with Harry Schmidt until he took a year abroad to study languages in Germany. Once there, he remained abroad, spending one year in Germany and subsequent years in Sweden and Afghanistan. During these years, three critical musical milestones occurred for Dallas: he began playing the flute, moved over to the jazz world, and began his love affair with East Indian Classical music. Upon returning to the U.S. after over three years abroad, he moved to San Rafael, California, to study with Indian Music masters Ali Akbar Khan and G.S. Sachdev, and jazz saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis. As diverse as his musical interests were, that is how wide he ventured into the world of jazz, world music, and fusion. He moves easily between the inspired and fluid world of meditation, the complex and exciting rhythms of Indian fusion, the complex world of jazz, and his own compositions, which blend all of them. Together since 1984, harpist Susan Mazer and Dallas Smith have merged their individual expertise to create a new sound and musical experience for contemporary instrumental music -- blending the electro acoustic concert grand harp and woodwinds. Andrew Heglund is Assistant Professor at the University of Nevada, Reno where he teaches percussion, directs the UNR Percussion Ensemble and Jazz Big Band 1. Heglund holds a Doctor of Arts Degree in Music from the University of Northern Colorado and a Master's of Music Degree in Jazz Studies from the University of North Texas. Since moving to the Reno-Tahoe area in 1996, Heglund has performed with jazz artists Lee Konitz, Cedar Walton, Bobby Hutcherson, Bud Shank, Ravi Coltrane, Robin Eubanks, and Fred Hersch. He also performs with the UNR faculty quintet The Collective, The Reno Jazz Orchestra, and the Ed Corey Trio. Heglund has played on three CD's with the Collective (North, Boats, Balance) and one CD with the Ed Corey Trio (Modal Citizen). He also performs with the Reno Philharmonic Orchestra and the Discover Music Percussion Ensemble. Click here for George Hanepen's biography. Click here for Dallas Smith's biography. Click here for information on Andy Heglund.
The Mysterious Five or Six - Sat 8/22/09 - 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. - Nevada State Railroad
Museum, 2180 S. Carson St.
The Mysterious Five or Six are students who perform together in the Carson High Jazz Band. They also enjoy the challenges and joys of playing in a small band with more opportunities for improvised solos. These talented teens are Shaolin Gates, flute; Jessica Calderon, trumpet; Elizabeth White, vibes; Daylan Rhea, guitar; Stephanie Dodge, bass; and Anthony Torkeo, drums. They will perform in front of the depot at the museum. The music is free. Ride the motor rail car 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. (tickets $4; seniors $3; age 6-11 $2.00; age 5 and under free). Click here for Nevada State Railroad Museum.
Reno Philharmonic's Discover Music - Strings Program - 8/22/09 - 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. -
Comma Coffee (indoors), 312 S. Carson St.
Violinist Emily Cox and other musicians from the Reno Philharmonic present an interactive 45-minute program, with close-up performances and audience participation. The program is designed for children of all ages. The Discover Music Program is comprised of musical ensembles of two to five musicians, who travel to selected Washoe County and regional elementary schools to perform child-friendly music programs. These are designed to give elementary school children a close-up look at symphonic musicians, music and instruments through performances, demos and participatory activities. Discover Music brings knowledge and expertise to local schools, through entertainment and education. By exposing them to fun and quality music, children may develop an appreciation of music, and become motivated to play instruments. Click here for Reno Philharmonic's Discover Music Program. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Gerry & Friends, featuring Vocalist Laticia Lewis - Sat 8/22/09 - 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. -
Comma Courtyard, 312 S. Carson St.
Gerry Wright came to Carson City in late 2000 from Oxnard, Calif., where he played lead tenor in a big band for almost 20 years and fronted two combos. He played with some "heavy people" in Los Angeles, and learned a lot, despite no formal training. He remarks, "I just love to play. I have often said that when I go, I want it to be with a horn in my hands." Gerry will play soprano and bari sax. His friends are Tom Stryker, harmonica; Peter Supersano, keyboard; Gary Allen, bass; Lee Warner, drums; and Latisha Lewis, vocals. Click here for Comma Coffee.
The Jazz Guys - Sat 8/22/09 - 3:00 p.m. - Third Street between Carson & Curry Streets
The Jazz Guys quartet plays everything from Dixie and be-bop to bossas and big-band swing. Gil Linsley from Lake Tahoe is featured on trumpet; Dan Lancaster from Minden on sax, clarinet, and flute; George Worth from Gardnerville on bass and trombone; and Mark Ashworth from Washoe Valley on drums. In summer, for several years, they played sunset cruises on Lake Tahoe on the Woodwind II catamaran sailboat. Click here for Gil Linsley's website.
Louis Laurain quartet - Sat 8/22/09 - 3:00 to 4:00 p.m. - Comma Coffee
(indoors), 312 S. Carson St.
Louis Laurain, from the Conservatoire National de Paris, the most respected jazz school in Europe, is an extraordinary trumpet player, and a rising star on the international jazz scene. He performs extensively in jazz groups in France, and is currently on tour in the U.S. His quartet today includes Paul Roth, sax, Hans Halt, bass, and Andy Heglund, drums. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Niall McGuinness and the New World Jazz Project - Sat 8/22/09 - 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. - Comma Courtyard
312 S. Carson St.
A big city sound is emanating from the mountain cafés of Northern California through the horn of Niall McGuinness and his New World Jazz Project. Soul, Latin, and Afro-jazz music, played straight ahead and right down the middle, is creating a fresh voice on the scene. Musicians are Niall McGuinness, sax, flute, percussion; George Tavoularis, keyboard; Kyle Rothchild, bass; Eric Finkelstein, drums; and Eric Middleton, congas, bongos, shekere. Click here for New World Jazz Project.
Me & Bobby McGee - Sat 8/22/09 - 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. - Third Street between
Carson & Curry Streets
Me and Bobby McGee is what June Joplin and Bob Reid call themselves when they're moonlighting from their duties as vocalist and keyboard player in the high-energy jazz-rock-country band Moonlight Express. As Me and Bobby, June and Bob kick back, slow down, and open the Great American Songbook to the sublime standards--"Come Rain or Come Shine" by Harold Arlen, "Our Love is Here to Stay" by George Gershwin, "Since I Fell For You" by Buddy Johnson, "I've Got You Under My Skin" by Cole Porter. June, who's equally at home in a mink coat or blue jeans and high-heeled pumps, has the voice and the heart for these timeless classics, a smooth, smoky, passionate style that's part diva, part rapture, part pure sizzle. Bob backs her up with tasteful, soulful accompaniments he's honed over years of listening to and playing the great songs of our time. Together they strive to imbue their performances with the qualities of the songs they love--timelessness, elegance, class. They are joined today by Jojo Shelley, sax, and Herbie Weihskopf, drums. Click here for the group's website.
Reno Philharmonic's Discover Music - Brass Program - 8/22/09 - 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. -
Comma Coffee (inside)
Musicians from the Reno Philharmonic present an interactive 45-minute program, with close-up performances and audience participation. The program is designed for children of all ages. Musicians are Larry Engstrom & Dwayne Hollenbach, trumpets, Emily Hollenbach, horn; Jason Altieri, trombone; and Russ Dickman, tuba. (See more details above in 1:00 p.m. listing.)
Tom Delaney Trio (substituting for the Johnny Hamlin Trio) - Sat 8/22/09 - 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Comma Courtyard,
312 S. Carson St.
Johnny Hamlin, a veteran of the August jazz festivals in Carson City, is indisposed and will not be available this year. Tom Delaney, veteran reed man and arranger, who had been scheduled to play with Johnny, has graciously stepped in at the last minute to lead the trio. He will be joined by Bob Greenwood, on keyboard, and Neil Strocchio, on drums. (The Johnny Hamlin Trio presents jazz and swing music of the '30s, '40s, and '50s associated with the Big-Band era. This group fulfills the three elements of live musical performance: melodic lead or solo voice, harmonic or chord structure, and a rhythmic concept, in an easy listening style, with emphasis on the standards.) Click here for Tom Delaney's webpage. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Dave Fritz & Lake Effect - Sat 8/22/09 - 6:00 - 7:00 p.m. - Bella Fiore
Wines, corner Third & Curry Streets
Acoustic guitarist and regular performer in the Reno/Sparks to Minden/Gardnerville area, Dave Fritz draws on the influences of several musical experiences, from involvement with big band jazz in the Mile High Jazz Band and the Tahoe Dance Band, to classical music in the Tahoe Community Orchestra and the Carson Valley Pops, to playing in countless rock and roll bands. “Much like the piano, I find the acoustic fingerstyle guitar presentation the perfect vehicle to synthesize and express all these different influences and maintain consistent sound,” he says. This year, Dave is joined by long-time Carson City resident Gary Lyon on percussion and New York veteran David Lewis on clarinet to form "Dave Fritz & Lake Effect." Click here for Dave Fritz's website.
Mile High Jazz Band - Sat 8/22/09 - 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Third Street
(See earlier description for MHJB on Aug. 11, above.) Click here for Mile High Jazz Band.
Jazz Steps - Sat 8/22 - Sat 8/22/09 - 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. - B'Sghetti's
plan: b microlounge
(See entry for previous Saturday)
Jam Session - Sat 8/22/09 - 9 p.m. to midnight(?) - Comma Courtyard
Musicians are encouraged to join in on a jam session in the Comma Courtyard soon after the Mile High Jazz Band performance. A rhythm section will be provided. This is open to all levels of players. Click here for Comma Coffee.
Two Plus - Sun 8/23/09 - 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. - Legislative Plaza/Capitol Amphitheater(between the State Capitol and the Legislature Building) Bring a picnic and blanket for seating. The Two: Dan Lancaster and Tom Stryker formed 2–Plus after playing together for many years at the Christmas Tree restaurant. Originally from, Wisconsin, Dan had his own band at age 17. He played in bands in Texas, in the American Wind Ensemble in Pittsburgh, Pa., in the 4th Army Band, and in several orchestras. Tom Stryker began playing harmonica at age 15, and studied with Ray Tankersley, a former Borrah Minnevitch Rascal. He got his first big start as lead player for the Johnny Puleo Harmonica Gang and for the Harmonica Express. Tom performs all over the world, and is President of SPAH, The Society for the Advancement and Preservation of the Harmonica. The plus: joining Dan and Tom today are David Bugli on keyboard, George Worth on bass, and Mark Ashworth on drums. Click here for performance by Tom Styrker on MySpace.
Reno Jazz Orchestra with Cami Thompson - Sun 8/23/09 - 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. - Capitol
Amphitheater
Reno Jazz Orchestra presents big-band jazz at its finest. Formed in 1997, RJO is a diversified big band whose members have performed with Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr., Elvis Presley, Natalie Cole, and Luciano Pavarotti. Members traveled with Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, Ray Charles, Buddy Rich, and Buddy Morrow. RJO has recorded several CDs. The band is joined by vocalist Cami Thompson, world-renowned for her beautiful voice and zany wit. Her style has been called "a delightful mix of Ella Fitzgerald and Bette Midler." Saxes: Jim Garaventa, Roger Hogan, Frank Benvenuto, Doug Coomler, Dallas Smith. Trumpets: Mark Curry, John Beckman, Terry Burns, Dent Hand. Trombones: Joe Cadena, Dean Carter, Rich Lewis, Chuck Reider. Piano: Bill Hecht. Guitar: Frank Falcioni. Bass: Hans Halt. Drums: Andrew Heglund. Click here for RJO. Click here for Cami Thompson. |
Last updated 9/13/2009