Fall 2014

ALL SHOWS BEGIN AT 8pm DOORS OPEN AT 7pm P.J. Perry/Tommy Banks Quartet Gene Bertoncini and Jim Head Guitar Double Bill The Yardbird Suite All Stars Under the Direction of Craig Brenan Play the Music of the Thelonious Monk Big Band Ralph Bowen Quintet/ MacEwan University Jazz Faculty Band with special guest Ralph Bowen Lew Tabackin Trio Jacky Terrasson Trio Barry Altschul Trio KØGGING Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group Ralph Alessi Baida Quartet Jack De Keyzer - Yardbird Suite Blues Frode Gjerstad Trio with special guest Steve Swell Fernanda Cunha Jeff Hendrick & the Love Jones Band Elizabeth Shepherd A/B Trio with Mike Murley Rubim de Toledo/Jim Brenan CD Release Double Bill

Celebrating 30 Years at Photo: Dave Liebman 11 Tommy Banks Way Edmonton Jazz Society’s Our Volunteer House Managers Board of Directors • Sue Cameron • Jan Doll • Bill Hume • Judy Hume 2013•2014 • Pam Josey • Gail Kelly • Tracy Kolenchuk • Trevor Moyer • Lori Mullen • Collette Slevinsky Adrian Albert • President • Rhonda Smith • Karen Voller Francis Remedios • Vice President Stuart Crosley • Treasurer Yardbird Suite Newsletter Wendy Magill • Secretary The Yardbird Newsletter is published four times per year by the Edmonton Jazz Society. Board Members eDitoR • Adrian Albert • Jasiek Poznanski Dave Babcock • Monique Bielech • Dwayne Hrynkiw gRAPHic DESIGN • Kim Deley, Critical Path Marketing David MacFarlane • Pam Josey • Jasiek Poznanski Communications Dominique Roy • Reg Wilkes DiStRibution • Monique Bielech, Bill Harper Yardbird Suite PRINTING • ION Print Solutions Inc. Programming • Adrian Albert, Julie King, Jasiek Poznanski Tickets Production • Lisi Sommer Tickets for Yardbird Suite shows are available TUESDAY NIGHT Sessions • Dan Davis at Tix on the Square and at the door on the night Littlebirds Director • Joel Gray of the performance. Jazz For Kids Director: Audrey Ochoa Finance • Suzanne Morter Press Releases • Trevor Moyer Transportation • Alan Spence House Manager & Volunteer Coordinator • Pam Josey

www.yardbirdsuite.com Yardbird Suite Jazz is a registered trademark of the Edmonton Jazz Society (1973).

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: EDMONTON JAZZ SOCIETY 11 TOMMY BANKS WAY EDMONTON AB T6E 2M2 780.432.0428

CANADIAN PUBLICATION MAIL PRODUCT SALES AGREEMENT #40047729 the best of alberta jazz series P.J. Perry/Tommy Banks Quartet

The fall of 2014 marks thirty years since the Yardbird Suite opened at our current location of 11 Tommy Banks Way. What better way to start our fall celebration of this anniversary than presenting Edmonton’s two jazz icons, P.J. Perry and Tommy Banks! Both P.J. and Tommy have long and illustrious careers with many accolades including Juno Awards, performances together and separately with various symphony orchestras, and honourary doctorates from the University of Alberta amongst them. Their individual careers have taken them around the world to almost every continent where they have worked with an extensive list of outstanding musicians too numerous to mention. Following a very successful performance during the 2013 Edmonton International Jazz Festival, they released a duo recording entitled “Old Friends” documenting their long association as two of Canada’s greatest exponents of bebop and mainstream jazz. Other recent recordings include “Tommy Banks Christmas” on Royalty Records and P.J.’s quintet recording “Ubiquitous” on Cellar Live. Both of these two groups have been presented at the Yardbird Suite in the past couple of years. Joining P.J. and Tommy for this special weekend of music will be John Taylor on bass and Sandro Dominelli on drums.

Fromwhen... Edmonton FRI & SAT • SEPTEMBER 19 & 20 MEMBERS $22 GUESTS $26 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Tommy Banks - piano P.J. Perry - alto saxophone John Taylor - bass Sandro Dominelli – drums pjperry.com tommybanks.info www. yardbirdsuite.com 3 the best of alberta jazz series Gene Bertoncini and Jim Head Guitar Double Bill

The very first event presented by the Edmonton Hugh Fraser, Doug Riley, and Steve Slagle. He has Jazz Society at 11 Tommy Banks (the original street performed in concerts, clubs, and festivals across address was changed from 10203 – 86 Avenue to Canada, as well as the U.S., China, and Mexico. honour Tommy Banks) in September, 1984, was In addition to his jazz work, he has performed guitarist Herb Ellis. As a way of commemorating with several pop, folk, and, roots artists including that auspicious occasion, we are proud to present Serena Ryder, Jann Arden, Darrel Scott, and Amy two great guitarists, both local favourites, one from Sky. As a music educator, Jim has been the guitar New York in Gene Bertoncini and the other from department head at Grant MacEwan University Edmonton in Jim Head. since 2007.

Bertoncini has performed in Edmonton on many occasions over the years, perhaps more than almost any other American musician. A master of the nylon string and also the hollow body guitar, Gene has been referred to as the “Segovia of jazz.” One of the more elegant, tasteful, and sensitive guitarists, he has perfected the art of playing soft, sentimental music and presenting it in a light, fluid fashion, yet retaining a degree of feeling and spontaneity.

Some of his performance credits include Buddy Rich, Clark Terry, Paul Winter, Nancy Wilson, the television orchestra of Merv Griffin, Tony Bennett, Wayne Shorter, Charles McPherson, and a long- standing duo with bassist Michael Moore.

Jim Head has worked with a number of acclaimed Canadian and American jazz artists, including Sheila Jordan, Tim Hagans, Jane Bunnett, P.J. Perry, Kirk MacDonald, Lew Tabackin, David Braid,

Fromwhen... New York/Edmonton FRI & SAT • SEPTEMBER 26 & 27 MEMBERS $20 GUESTS $24 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Gene Bertoncini - guitar Jim Head - guitar Josh McHan - bass Dan Skakun – drums genebertoncini.com myspace.com/jimheadmusic 4 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way the best of alberta jazz series The Yardbird Suite All Stars Under the Direction of Craig Brenan Play the Music of the Thelonious Monk Big Band

One of the special projects initiated by the Among the famous Monk tunes included on the Edmonton Jazz Society in recent years has been original vinyl release were “Little Rootie Tootie”, the Yardbird Suite All Stars. To date, this group has “Brilliant Corners”, “Trinkle, Tinkle” and “Straight, No presented large and small group productions of Chaser”. “Blue Monk” and “Round Midnight” were the music of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Miles added to the CD reissue in 1994. The Yardbird Davis/Gil Evans and Joe Henderson. Suite All Stars will also be performing Monk tunes by other arrangers as well. For this season’s Yardbird Suite All Stars weekend, trombonist Craig Brenan has secured the arrangements from a 1968 West Coast Columbia Records recording of the Thelonious Monk Big Fromwhen... Edmonton/Calgary Band entitled “Monk’s Blues”. FRI & SAT • OCTOBER 3 & 4 A big band recording by Thelonious Monk was MEMBERS $22 an unusual and infrequent occurrence. He had GUESTS $26 previously recorded tentets at Town Hall in New DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM York in 1959 and 1963. For “Monk’s Blues”, he Allan Gilliland - trumpet travelled to Los Angeles where producer Teo Dave Morgan - trumpet Sergio Rodriguez - trumpet Macero (famous for his work with Miles Davis) Doug Berner - trumpet assembled a big band featuring stalwarts such Ken Read - trombone Craig Brenan – trombone as Bob Brookmeyer, Conte Candoli, Charlie Rouse Marty Majorowicz - trombone and Ernie Watts. Oliver Nelson was engaged to Raymond Baril - alto saxophone Jeremiah McDade - tenor saxophone write the arrangements. “Monk’s Blues” turned Jim Brenan - tenor saxophone out to be the last studio sessions recorded by the Dave Babcock - baritone saxophone Dan Davis - alto saxophone legendary pianist. Chris Andrew - piano Jeff Johnson – bass Jon McCaslin - drums

Notice of Annual General Meeting Notice is hereby given that the annual general meeting of members of the Edmonton Jazz Society (1973) will be held at the Yardbird Suite, 11 Tommy Banks Way, Edmonton, Alberta, on Thursday, October 30, 2014 at 7:00 PM for the purpose of: 1. Receiving the report of the president; 2. Receiving and considering the report of the treasurer of the Society for the fiscal year ended July 31, 2014 including the appointment of the auditors for the coming year; 3. Election of the board of directors and officers of the Society; 4. The transition of such further business as may properly come before the meeting or any adjournment thereof. Further information regarding the business to be discussed at the annual general meeting can be obtained by contacting the Yardbird Suite at telephone 780-432-0428. Dated at the city of Edmonton, in the Province of Alberta, this first day of September, 2014.

www. yardbirdsuite.com 5 cross border jazz series Ralph Bowen Quintet/ MacEwan University Jazz Faculty Band with special guest Ralph Bowen

For more than thirty years, MacEwan University has offered a two year Music Diploma program. A four year Bachelor of Music in Jazz and Contemporary Popular Music has been introduced in the past few years. It is now possible to complete the initial degree here and then pursue masters or doctoral programs elsewhere. As a result, the faculty and student body has increased significantly in size.

Many MacEwan faculty members have performed at the Yardbird Suite. MacEwan students are enthusiastic participants in our Tuesday Night Sessions.

This weekend is a way of reinforcing this long- Fromwhen... New York/Edmonton standing collaboration between the Yardbird FRI & SAT • october 10 & 11 Suite and MacEwan University while also MEMBERS $22 featuring the brilliant ex-pat saxophonist and GUESTS $26 jazz educator Ralph Bowen as a special guest. The DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Friday night will feature Ralph fronting a quintet FRIDAY: with MacEwan faculty members as sidemen. The Ralph Bowen - saxophone Jim Head - guitar Saturday night will augment the quintet with Chris Andrew - piano reeds, trumpets and trombone faculty members. John Taylor - bass Dan Skakun – drums A long-time member of the faculty of Rutgers University in New Jersey, Ontario native Ralph SATURDAY: Ralph Bowen - saxophone Bowen began playing professionally at age 13. He Joel Grey - trumpet met and studied with Pat LaBarbera, eventually Allan Gilliland - trumpet Craig Brenan - trombone leaving Toronto for the United States where Jerrold Dubyk - saxophone he has resided for about twenty-five years. He Ray Baril - saxophone Kent Sangster - saxophone has released many recordings as a leader, most Jim Head - guitar recently “Standard Deviation”, his fifth on Posi- Chris Andrew - piano John Taylor - bass Tone which features a program of standards Dan Skakun - drums highlighting Ralph’s bold and melodic mastery on the tenor sax. It received a very positive review in Jazz Times magazine. Reviewer Owen Cordle says, “And Bowen proves he is a tenorman to be reckoned with.”

6 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Lew Tabackin Trio

Another brilliant jazz musician who has graced the stage of the Yardbird Suite on many occasions, tenor saxophonist and flutist Lew Tabackin returns with Fromwhen... New York his New York trio featuring Boris Kozlov on bass and Mark Taylor on drums. FRI & SAT • OCTOBER 17 & 18 MEMBERS $24 Lew Tabackin is one of the few jazz musicians who GUESTS $28 has been able to develop completely different DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM musical personalities on two instruments. As a Lew Tabackin - tenor sax and flute tenor saxophonist, he is a hard-driving, tough-toned Boris Kozlov - bass Mark Taylor – drums player reminiscent of Sonny Rollins, Don Byas, and lewtabackin.com sometimes, tone-wise, Ben Webster. But as a flutist, he sounds like a highly expressive master of Asian classical music.

Besides being the main soloist in the large orchestra of his wife Toshiko Akiyoshi, Lew has worked with other major big bands including Maynard Ferguson, the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Orchestra, the Tonight Show Band, and the Danish Radio Orchestra.

He has also performed with legends such as Elvin Jones and Joe Henderson. Tabackin is a masterful improviser who is often heard to best effect in the small group setting. With long-standing trio mates Kozlov and Taylor, this will be an opportunity to see a musician still at the height of his musical power

www. yardbirdsuite.com 7 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Jacky Terrasson Trio

French-American pianist Jacky Terrasson’s relationship to the piano has been compared to “LeBron James’ relationship to a 10 foot Fromwhen... New York high basket...they could dunk in their sleep (JazzTimes).” After winning the prestigious SUNDAY, • october 19 1993 Thelonious Monk Competition, he went MEMBERS $22 through the venerable jazz university of Betty GUESTS $26 Carter and collaborated with vocalists such DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM as Jimmy Scott, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Dianne Jacky Terrasson – piano Reeves and Cassandra Wilson. He is equally at David Robaire - bass home in the trio setting, where he continues Justin Faulkner - drums Betty Carter’s tradition of discerning and jackyterrasson.com employing only the finest young talent on the scene. Terrasson’s music draws on the vast influences of himself and his band members, ranging from the swing music of the early ‘30s to the hard driving funk of the ‘70s. This concert is made possible, in part, by funding from the National Endowment for the Arts through a grant from the Western Jazz Presenters Network.

8 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Barry Altschul Trio

In the early ‘70s, Barry Altschul was the drummer Besides the group Circle, Altschul’s other for Circle, a band with a membership that collaborators have included pianists Andrew Hill, also included Chick Corea, Dave Holland, and Paul Bley and Kenny Drew, and violinist Billy Bang. Anthony Braxton, that might possibly have been His most recent recording is “The 3Dom Factor” the most technically adept free jazz ensemble on the Finnish TUM label which features bassist ever. Altschul’s drumming with that band Joe Fonda and Thelonious Monk Saxophone was stylistically all-encompassing - in his own Competition winner Jon Irabagon. For his Yardbird words, “from ragtime to no time” - thanks to his Suite engagement, Irabagon is replaced by background in traditional jazz styles which gave Altschul’s long-time musical compatriot Hayes him a solid grounding on which to build his free Greenfield, a veteran of the New York jazz scene. playing. . In 1972, under Holland’s leadership, Altschul recorded the classic album “Conference of the Birds” with Braxton and saxophonist Sam Rivers. Fromwhen... New York From his days with Circle to his more recent work as a leader of his own ensembles and collaborator FRIDAY • OCTOBER 24 with other notable artists on the avant jazz scene, MEMBERS $22 Altschul has demonstrated a notable consistency GUESTS $26 especially in the way he inevitably manages to DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM generate an enormous momentum without Barry Altschul - drums overpowering the ensemble. Much of his power Hayes Greenfield - saxophone as a rhythm player stems from the subtlety of his Joe Fonda – bass touch. His sound is very tight and exceedingly well-defined. A strict attention to rhythmic and tonal detail has always characterized his playing.

www. yardbirdsuite.com 9 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES KØGGING

Dutch vocalist, Norbert Kögging, embarks on another tour in Canada. KØGGING recorded their debut album, “Daydreaming”, at the Banff Centre for the Arts in 2011. The tour marks Norbert’s fourth visit to Canada, a nation that holds a dear place in his heart. “This is where it all started,” he says.

The music, described as singer-songwriter jazz, is intimate, distinct, and sincere. Norbert is a convincing story-teller who shares his experiences honestly and from the heart. The album, which harnesses the inspiration that Norbert found there, is about fresh ideas, open space and the opportunities to come. Inspired by artists like Brad Mehldau, John Mayer and David Linx, it is intimate but energetic, forceful but subtle, distinct but dreamy. Some of Norbert’s vocals bring to mind the great Kurt Elling.

A second album will be released to coincide with this Canadian tour.

Fromwhen... Amsterdam SATURDAY • OCTOBER 25 MEMBERS $20 GUESTS $24 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Norbert KØgging - vocals Folkert Oosterbeek - piano, Fender Rhodes Tobias Nijboer - bass Felix Schlarmann – drums kogging.com

10 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way JAMMIN’ TUESDAY NIGHT SESSIONS – FALL 2014

Every Tuesday night during our season, Edmonton’s best jazz players and up-and-coming musicians arrive to play together on our stage. The evening begins with a one hour set from the featured band, followed by a jam session with selected musicians from the audience sitting in or taking the place of a member of the feature band. Our Tuesday Sessions are a weekly event for local jazz musicians to play together and network, and provide an opportunity to mentor the younger musicians wanting to gain experience as they grow their own careers. Join us for our Tuesday Sessions - a terrific opportunity to hear some live jazz in a relaxed concert environment.

September 23 November 11 details... Tom van Seters Thom Golub Quartet TICKETS AT THE DOOR September 30 November 18 Dino Dominelli Quartet Sketches Of Eternity MEMBERS & Guests $5 Quartet October 7 DOORS 7:30 PM Brad Shigeta Swingtet November 25 SHOW 8 PM Andrew Glover October 14 Thom Bennett Quartet December 2 Brett Miles Quartet October 21 Kent Sangster Quartet December 9 Jerrold Dubyk Quartet October 28 The Fusionauts

November 4 Don Berner Quartet

www. yardbirdsuite.com 11 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group

In the 1970s, Liebman became an integral part In 1977, he toured internationally with pianist of the fertile New York “loft” jazz scene. He soon Chick Corea followed by forming the David found a spot as saxophonist/flutist in drummer Liebman Quintet, featuring guitarist John Scofield. Elvin Jones’ group, and then was hired by Miles In 1981, he founded Quest, a group that remained Davis. He played on Miles’ last two recordings active with varying members until 1991 and before the trumpeter’s temporary retirement in has reunited in recent years. He has consistently the late 1970s, “Get Up with It” and “On the Corner”. placed among the top finalists in the Down Beat Critic’s and Reader’s Polls since 1973 in the At the same time, Liebman was also exploring his Soprano Saxophone category and on occasion, own music, beginning a long relationship with flute. pianist Richie Beirach in the group Lookout Farm.

Fromwhen... New York FRI & SAT • OCTOBER 31 & NOVEMBER 1 MEMBERS $24 GUESTS $28 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Dave Liebman - soprano saxophone and wooden flute Matt Vashlishan - reeds Bobby Avey - piano Tony Marino - bass Alex Ritz – drums daveliebman.com

12 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way After 23 years leading the Dave Liebman Group Developing a Personal Saxophone Sound.” His featuring guitarist Vic Juris, Dave Liebman has teaching activities at universities and in clinic recently formed “Expansions” reaching out to settings have taken him literally around the world. the younger generation featuring bassist Tony Currently, Liebman is the Artist in Residence Marino, 2011 Thelonious Monk Competition for at the Manhattan School of Music and will be Composition winner pianist Bobby Avey, Matt visiting Artist at the University of Toronto for Vashlishan on reeds and Alex Ritz on drums. A year 2014-15. He and musicologist Lewis Porter new CD should be out in time for Dave’s Yardbird teamed up to develop “What It Is: The Life of a Jazz Suite appearance. Artist”, Liebman’s biography, which was released in 2012. In addition, he was named an NEA Jazz He is also a renowned jazz educator and author Master in 2011, the highest honour possible for an having written several milestone books – “Self American jazz musician. Portrait of a Jazz Artist”, “Jazz Connections: Miles Davis and David Liebman”, and “A Chromatic Approach to Jazz Harmony and Melody

www. yardbirdsuite.com 13 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Ralph Alessi Baida Quartet

Jazz Times magazine says Alessi has “drop-dead In 2013, he released “Baida”, a quartet CD on trumpet chops” and calls his music “as clean ECM Records which was a top critics’ pick for and airy and sophisticated and disciplined as that year in Jazz Times and “Only Many”, a duo post-modern progressive jazz gets.” Ralph Alessi recording with pianist Fred Hersch on CAMJazz. was born in San Francisco, the son of classical Joining Alessi for his Yardbird Suite engagement trumpeter Joe Alessi and opera singer Maria will be three of the finest exponents of modern Leone. He studied under the late Charlie Haden jazz – pianist Gary Versace, bassist Mark Helias at CalArts and then moved to New York where and drummer Nasheet Waits. he swiftly became a ubiquitous presence on the downtown scene.

He’s been a frequent collaborator with such notable musicians as Steve Coleman, Jason Moran, Don Byron, Ravi Coltrane, Fred Hersch, Fromwhen... New York Uri Caine and Dafnis Prieto. Alessi has recorded several albums of original compositions SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 2 which draw on everything from post-bop to MEMBERS $24 neo classical music. Jazz Times named This GUESTS $28 Against That’s debut outing one of the ten DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM best recordings of 2002. His album “Cognitive Ralph Alessi - trumpet Gary Versace - piano Dissonance” received a 4 star review from Mark Helias - bass Downbeat magazine and was included in The Nasheet Waits – drums New Republic’s top ten list of records of 2011. ralphalessi.com

14 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way Yardbird Suite Blues From the Arctic Circle to Puerto Escondido, Mexico; from Athens, Greece to Hornby Island, BC, virtuoso Jack De Keyzer guitarist Jack de Keyzer plays the blues world-wide. One of Canada’s most in-demand live performers and session guitarists, Jack has released eight CDs and a DVD. He has also played on hundreds of recordings and live sessions with artists ranging from Etta James to Ronnie Hawkins and Bo Diddley to Blue Rodeo. An incendiary live performer, de Keyzer has brought audiences to their feet at many major Jazz and Blues festivals including the Montreal Jazz Fest, Blues Sur Seine in France, the Ottawa Blues Festival and Puerto Blues in Mexico. A much-celebrated musician, Jack received Juno Awards for Blues Album of the Year in 2003 for “6 String Lover” and in 2010 for “The Corktown Sessions”. He also won first prize in the Nashville’s International Songwriting Competition for his song “That’s the Only Time”, and he has won seven Maple Blues Awards. Jack de Keyzer is a masterful blues guitarist, soulful vocalist and eclectic song writer who will have you rocking to his hot blues, soulful r&b and cool soul jazz.

Fromwhen... New York FRI & SAT • NOVEMBER 21 & 22 MEMBERS $20 GUESTS $24 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Jack de Keyzer - guitar, vocals Dave Babcock - tenor saxophone Doug Organ - organ Bill Hobson – drums jackdekeyzer.com

www. yardbirdsuite.com 15 INTERNATIONAL JAZZ SERIES Frode Gjerstad Trio with special guest Steve Swell

The original Frode Gjerstad Trio started in For this event, New York-based trombonist 1998 with the current version debuting in Steve Swell is added as a special guest. Swell 2010. Since then they have toured Norway has 40 recordings as a leader or co-leader and recorded three CDs. In addition to this and is a featured artist on more than 100 trio, Gjerstad and Paal Nilssen-Love have other releases. He is well- known for his many collaborated since 1990 when Frode formed collaborations with Cecil Taylor, Bill Dixon, and Circulasione Totale Orchestra. Since then, they William Parker, as well as his projects including have also worked together in various settings “Slammin’ The Infinite” with Sabir Mateen, The as duo, trio and quartets, sometimes featuring Ullmann/Swell 4tet featuring Barry Altschul, guests like Jeb Bishop, Bobby Bradford and “Fire Into Music with Hamid Drake and his Peter Brötzmann. large ensemble, Nation Of We. He has been nominated for many awards and is a regular The trio’s music has its roots in the free-jazz selection in the trombone category of the tradition, the way it was defined by Coleman, annual Downbeat Critics Poll. Mingus, Dolphy and Coltrane, although the trio also takes inspiration from the European free scene.

Frode Gjerstad has for many years declared his enthusiasm towards small line-ups, especially because the trio format gives space for the musicians. With close to 100 recordings as a leader/co-leader, he has established himself as a major saxophonist on the international scene. His trios have included Johnny Dyani, Kent Carter, John Stevens, William Parker and Hamid Drake.

Jon Rune Strøm has emerged on the Norwegian scene as a bassist with extremely high energy and stamina. Taking inspiration from William Parker, Johnny Dyani and Harry Miller, he represents a new generation of Norwegian bass players.

Paal Nilssen-Love is Norway’s most active drummer and has established himself as a powerful and a most dynamic musician through regular groups with Mats Gustafsson, Ken Vandermark, Peter Brötzmann and Terrie Ex amongst others.

16 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way Fromwhen... Norway/New York SUNDAY • NOVEMBER 23 MEMBERS $22 GUESTS $26 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Frode Gjerstad - saxophone Steve Swell - trombone Jon Rune Strom - bass Paal Nilssen-Love – drums frodegjerstad.com

www. yardbirdsuite.com 17 CROSS-BORDER JAZZ SERIES Fernanda Cunha

Fernanda Cunha comes from a musical family. intimate concert performing samba, bossa nova Her mother is a singer and her aunt, Sueli Costa, and music written by songwriters such as Jobim, is a well-known composer in Brazil. She began Ivan Lins, Antonio Adolfo, Daniel Gonzaga and performing in 1997 at various clubs around Rio Johnny Alf. de Janeiro. She then spent a couple of years living in the United States, mainly in Cleveland, Ohio. As part of Grupo Brasil, she recorded her first album “O tempo e o lugar” in 2002. Fromwhen... Brazil/Toronto Returning to Brazil, she continued her musical FRIDAY • NOVEMBER 28 career. In 2004, she realized a long-time dream MEMBERS $18 when she recorded her second disc “Dois GUESTS $22 coracoes” (Two Hearts) featuring compositions by DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM two of the most important Brazilian composers, Fernanda Cunha - vocals Reg Schwager - guitar Johnny Alf and her aunt Sueli Costa. Subsequent albums included “Zingaro” in 2007 with guitar fernandacunha.com player Ze Carlos and “Brasil-Canada” in 2009.

For her Yardbird Suite return, Fernanda will be accompanied by Toronto jazz guitarist Reg Schwager. They will perform songs from Fernanda´s new CD “Coraçao do Brasil” as well as songs from her previous CDs. This will be an

18 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way THE BEST OF ALBERTA JAZZ SERIES Jeff Hendrick & the Love Jones Band

Canadian-born R&B and soul artist Jeff Hendrick is no stranger to success. Since first hitting the stage at the age of seven, the accomplished singer/songwriter has emerged as one of Canada’s brightest young music prospects. Deeply rooted in the R&B and soul influences of artists like Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Prince, and Michael Jackson, Hendrick’s smooth vocal offerings often conjure up images of Philly soul rather than the Canadian prairies. His mature and dynamic stage presence has captured fans both domestically and internationally, and his other talents as a saxophonist and keyboard player have truly made him a unique musical entity.

Hendrick’s three studio recordings have sold over 20,000 independent copies in the US, UK, Europe, and Japan, and the singles ‘Celebrate’ and ‘Old School Party’ have entered the Billboard and Mediabase Urban Adult Charts regularly over the past four years. Jeff also performs regularly in Los Angeles, Atlanta, and Philadelphia and has shared the stage with acclaimed artists like Dwele, Eric Roberson, Chrisette Michelle, Boyz II Men, and Glenn Lewis.

Fromwhen... Edmonton SATURDAY • NOVEMBER 29 MEMBERS $16 GUESTS $20 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Jeff Hendrick - saxophone and vocals Chris Andrew - keyboards Moni Mathew - bass Peter Belec – guitar Shaquille Headley – drums jeffhendrick.com

www. yardbirdsuite.com 19 CANADIAN JAZZ SERIES Elizabeth Shepherd

Known for her enchanting voice, groove-driven melodies, lyricism and virtuosic piano playing, Elizabeth Shepherd is above all a playful spirit, looking to share her take on the world. A move to Toronto in 2004 provided her with the opportunity to begin pursuing her dream - to write and perform her own music.

Her multiple accolades since her debut release in 2006 include 2 Juno nominations for “Start to Move” (2007) and “Parkdale” (2009), BBC Top 3 jazz albums of the year nomination, a CMW award, a National Jazz nomination for best vocalist, and a long-list Polaris Prize nomination for her ground-breaking album, “Heavy Falls the Night” (2010). She has toured Europe, Japan, the U.S. and Canada. Fans and critics have drawn comparisons to the likes of Joni Mitchell, Stevie Wonder, and Rickie Lee Jones. What these names all share is their accessibility and distinctness which transcend genre and age.

Shepherd draws upon her roots, weaving together singer-songwriter lyricism, sassy pop, infectious grooves, and the sophistication of jazz. Her tunes are always a departure from convention, yet when performing live, one never has the sense of leaving the home she weaves on stage and invites her audience to be part of.

Fromwhen... Toronto FRIDAY • DECEMBER 5 MEMBERS $18 GUESTS $22 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Elizabeth Shepherd - piano, voice Kevin Turcotte - trumpet Thom Gill - guitar, voice Scott Kemp - bass Colin Kingsmore - drums elizabethshepherd.com

20 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way CANADIAN JAZZ SERIES A/B Trio with Mike Murley

Chronograph recording artists A/B trio bring together three of Alberta’s most in-demand performing and recording musicians - Thom Fromwhen... Edmonton/Toronto Bennett (drums), Dan Davis (saxophone), and Josh McHan (double bass). This group SATURDAY • DECEMBER 6 is inspired by the open-sounding, chordless MEMBERS $18 GUESTS $22 groups of Sonny Rollins and Joshua Redman, DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM as well as the work of Chris Potter and Ari Mike Murley - saxophones Hoenig. Their material ranges from inventive Dan Davis - saxophones re-interpretations of standards to modern, Josh McHan - bass Thom Bennett - drums original repertoire and high-energy groove- based music. The trio’s format is fresh, and their abtrio.com mikemurley.com music is accessible and compelling.

The trio’s new CD “Out West” features special guest saxophonist Mike Murley and should be released by the date of this gig.

An engaging, lyrical saxophonist, Mike Murley is one of Canada’s finest jazz talents and one of the most versatile players on the scene today. He has played on eleven Juno Award-winning recordings since 1991, the latest in 2013 for his trio recording “Test of Time” on Cornerstone Records.

www. yardbirdsuite.com 21 THE BEST OF ALBERTA JAZZ SERIES Rubim de Toledo/Jim Brenan CD Release Double Bill

Bassist and composer, Rubim de Toledo, combines the influences of his Brazilian heritage and his dedication to the jazz tradition to create an approach to music that is refreshing and uplifting. Boasting a diverse rhythmic palette, a lure towards improvisation and a forward- looking traditionalism, Rubim nurtures a commanding sound and style as a bandleader, soloist and sideman.

With his fourth and newest release “The Bridge”, Rubim distinguishes himself as a composer with a unique ability to cross genres while maintaining a sound that is modern yet inviting. Featuring internationally renowned trumpeter Sean Jones and an all-star Albertan lineup, the disc ten of Canadian college and public radio charts extensively. boasts lush arrangements embellished by compelling Edmonton native Jim Brenan established himself as a top-notch solo improvisations. performer and educator in the North American jazz community before accepting the position of Coordinator of Jazz Studies at The School of His previous release” The Creative and Performing Arts at the University of Auckland where he River” garnered great wrote and administered New Zealand’s first undergraduate degree in critical and popular acclaim, Jazz Studies. Upon his return to Canada several years ago, he became the including a Western Chair of the Department of Theatre, Speech and Music Performance at Canadian Music Award Mount Royal University. nomination for “Best Jazz Album” of 2009. Its opening This show will be the release event in Edmonton for Brenan’s third album track was selected as CBC as band leader entitled “January”. Featuring Chris Andrew on piano, radio’s Tonic theme song and Rubim DeToledo on bass and from Dana Hall on drums, the album was the album placed in the top recorded in one day on November 11, 2011.

22 FALL 2014 • Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way Fromwhen... Calgary/Edmonton fri & sat • december 12 & 13 MEMBERS $18 GUESTS $22 DOORS 7 PM - SHOW 8 PM Rubim de Toledo - bass Jim Brenan - sax Craig Brenan - trumpet Doug Berner - trumpet Chris Andrew - piano Jon McCaslin – drums rubim.com

www. yardbirdsuite.com 23 At a Glance... All shows begin at 8pm (doors open at 7pm) Visit www. yardbirdsuite.com

October 19 November 23 Jacky Terrasson Trio Frode Gjerstad Trio with special September... MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 guest Steve Swell September 19 & 20 MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 P.J. Perry/Tommy Banks Quartet October 24 MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 Barry Altschul Trio November 28 MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 Fernanda Cunha September 26 & 27 MEMBERS $18, GUESTS $22 Gene Bertoncini and Jim Head October 25 Guitar Double Bill KØGGING November 29 MEMBERS $20, GUESTS $24 MEMBERS $20, GUESTS $24 Jeff Hendrick & the Love Jones Band October 31-November 1 MEMBERS $16, GUESTS $20 Expansions: October... The Dave Liebman Group October 3 & 4 MEMBERS $24, GUESTS $28 The Yardbird Suite All Stars Under the Direction of Craig December... December 5 Brenan Play the Music of the Elizabeth Shepherd Thelonious Monk Big Band MEMBERS $18, GUESTS $22 MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 November... November 2 Ralph Alessi Baida Quartet December 6 October 10 & 11 MEMBERS $24, GUESTS $28 A/B Trio with Mike Murley Ralph Bowen Quintet/ MEMBERS $18, GUESTS $22 MacEwan University Jazz November 6 to 15 Faculty Band with special Yardbird Festival of Canadian December 12 & 13 guest Ralph Bowen Jazz (Performers to be Rubim de Toledo/Jim Brenan MEMBERS $22, GUESTS $26 announced in early October) CD Release Double Bill MEMBERS $18, GUESTS $22 October 17 & 18 November 21 & 22 Lew Tabackin Trio YARDBIRD SUITE BLUES MEMBERS $24 GUESTS $28 Jack De Keyzer MEMBERS $20, GUESTS $24

Celebrating 30 Years at 11 Tommy Banks Way

EDMONTON JAZZ SOCIETY 11 TOMMY BANKS WAY (Corner of 102 St & 86 Ave) EDMONTON AB T6E 2M2

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