AmJazzIn TM The American Jazz Institute Newsletter
Winter/Spring 2010 • Volume 20
AJI introduces “Find Your Own VoiceSM” mentoring clinics in Southern California desert communities On Saturday March 13, Cathedral City High School will host The American Jazz Institute’s first “Find Your Own Voice SM” mentoring clinic in the desert communities of THE GOALS OF AJI Southern California. Cathedral City High School Director of Bands Greg Whitmore and • To advance and promote jazz music AJI President Mark Masters will oversee the day’s activities. With the help of its sponsors throughout the world. from the Vicky’s Jazz Supper Club Series in Indian Wells, AJI has raised funds to put • To maintain a repertory jazz orchestra on this all-day clinic as well as give ten scholarships to deserving music students throughout to perform new and archival jazz music. Coachella Valley. • To educate and expose the public to The American Jazz Institute and The Roger Rickson Foundation have created jazz by live performances and panel a jazz education/community outreach mentoring program that sends professional discussions. musicians into public schools. Nothing can engage high school and junior high • To physically house, archive and school music students like the thrill of a professional jazz ensemble performing preserve jazz music: compositions, scores, arrangements, recordings, especially for them. The excitement generated in such an intimate setting brings artwork, photographs, films and other students into the moment and stays with them long after the exposure. jazz works. The AJI and The Roger Rickson Foundation will provide a jazz ensemble, • To seek and attract donations of jazz made up of working professionals, to a targeted school. The day-long event will works with an emphasis on original also include other invited schools that represent the different socio-economic areas compositions, scores, arrangements of Southern California. and recordings. Each professional musician involved in the program has had performing • To make jazz works available for and recording experience with bands such as Count Basie, Woody Herman, Stan research, study and education. Kenton and Maynard Ferguson, and also impart knowledge gained in small group • To support charitable endeavors that settings with artists such as Bill Evans, Lee Konitz, Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett promote and advance jazz music. and Thelonious Monk. These musician mentors are most capable of translating those experiences into valuable teaching skills honed for student musicians. Board of Directors The “Find Your Own Voice” mentoring program is comprised of seven Mark A. Masters, President elements: Audree Coke Kenton Gary Foster 1. School bands perform and are evaluated by the professionals Ronald Teeples (1935-2008) 2. AJI Big Band performs a brief introductory concert 3. Master classes for individual instruments Advisory Board 4. Improvisation clinic Ray Drummond Lee Konitz 5. Educators workshop Scott Evans Gene Lees 6. Open rehearsal with the AJI Big Band Reed Gratz Stephanie O’Keefe 7. Evening concert for the schools and community Billy Harper Alan P. Schultz To begin the day, all the student bands will perform just as though they Nat Hentoff were at a jazz festival. Each band will be judged by a professional musician who John LaPorta (1920-2004) Bobbi Goodman, will then work with that band as a mentor. Later in the morning, the AJI Big Band Director of Community Outreach will play a brief concert program for the students before they break into groups for master classes and clinics. In the master classes, emphasis will be on the responsibilities The American Jazz Institute is a tax-exempt of individual musicians to their section as well as to the ensemble, the unique role non-profit organization pursuant to I.R.C. that piano, bass and drums play within the ensemble, and for the saxophonists an Section 501(c)(3). Contributions to The AJI introduction to woodwind doubling. are tax deductible. The improvisation clinic will introduce students to the blues form as well Please see inside for member benefits or as keys to recognizing song forms. Exposure to specific materials as well as the concept contact us: of finding your own voice through improvisation will be discussed. The most PO Box 5716, Pasadena, CA 91117 Phone: 626-795-6413 important aspect of the clinic is the students becoming aware of the possibilities of E-mail: [email protected] self-expression and personal freedom through improvisation. Website: www.amjazzin.com Continued on page 7 AJI presents season #2 of The Jazz Supper Club Series of concerts at Vicky’s, the desert’s premier jazz club A new season of memorable dinner concerts is underway and “England’s voice is tinged with a hint of earthy rasp and growl we hope you will join us. This is a unique opportunity to see that is a reminder of his years in rock. The crowd loved his and hear today’s and tomorrow’s great jazz vocalists from Los energetic and synergetic performance.” Angeles, San Francisco and New York, up close and personal Denise Perrier headlined the February 17 concert. in the intimate setting of the desert’s premier jazz club, Vicky’s “She is a highly sought-after vocalist on the international of Santa Fe Restaurant and Lounge in Indian Wells. A big cabaret scene but she made it clear she showed up to sing jazz, bonus, you’ll be supporting AJI’s important new jazz education a genre that she handles with elegance and expertise.” and community outreach program: net proceeds go toward On March 16, Julie Kelly, a soprano with a bell-like our “Find Your Own Voice SM” mentoring clinics in Coachella voice and a gift for storytelling, presented an eclectic and Valley junior high and high schools. (See page 1 for details.) audience-pleasing repertoire that included interpretations of Judging by the response to our inaugural season, you Blossom Dearie’s “Peel Me A Grape,” Chet Baker’s “Do It The are in for a real treat. Hard Way” and June Christy’s “Something Cool.” The opening concert January 27, 2009, with rock and Janis Mann received standing ovations on April 6. jazz singer Keith England, prompted one reviewer to comment: “An exciting and engaging performer, her rich timbre, flexibility and range often invite comparisons to Sarah Vaughn, Carmen McRae and Shirley Horn.” Debby Boone Closing out the series on April 27 was John Proulx January 11 and more standing ovations. “...this singer/pianist whose voice Three-time Grammy Award winner. and style is sometimes compared to Chet Baker is not at all like Her recent CD, “Reflections of any other performer as he possesses a strong and compelling Rosemary,” pays tribute to her late musical presence of his own.” mother-in-law Rosemary Clooney. Providing stellar accompaniment to these marvelous artists, last year and this year, is The Trio: Bob Corwin on Gina Eckstine piano, Jeff Stover on bass and Allen Goodman on drums. February 1 Born to be an acclaimed jazz vocalist. Her latest CD is a tribute to her dad, the late crooner and bandleader Billy Eckstine: “Everything I Have Is Yours.”
Amanda King February 22 Elegance and attitude in a masterful stylist. The San Francisco Examiner calls her “the right voice for the very best in American songwriting.”
Sally Kellerman Debby Boone with AJI’s Alan Schultz and Mark Masters at her January 11 concert. Married to Gabriel Ferrer, son of March 15 Jose Ferrer and Rosemary Clooney, she sang “It Might As A unique interpreter and unmistakable Well Be Spring” from the movie “State Fair” which starred her voice. Her newest CD, “Sally,” is a dad, Pat Boone, and was directed by future father-in-law Jose Ferrer. Says Debby,“Little did they know then that 24 delightful mix of blues and standards years later they would share four grandchildren.” with a touch of soulful rock.
Carol Welsman Vicky’s is located at 45-100 Club Drive in Indian Wells. April 5 Jazz Supper Club Series concerts start at 5:30 in the Lounge with no-host cocktails followed by a 3-course prix fixe dinner. “... she is that rarity, an authentic vocal $65 per person, including tax, tip and entertainment. artist who brings an irresistible blend of musicality and lyrical insight to Seating is limited. Advance reservations only. Please everything she touches.”-- Dan Heckman call (760) 345-9770 for reservations and information. Hosted by The American Jazz Institute: John Proulx Mark Masters, President; Alan Schultz, Advisory Board; April 6 Bobbi Goodman, Director of Community Outreach Recording artist, pianist, vocalist and Sponsored by: Grammy-winning composer returns to Desert Lexus, Pete Carlson’s Golf & Tennis, Integrated Vicky’s. His latest album: “Baker’s Wealth Management, Palm Springs Life, The Public Record and Vicky’s of Santa Fe Restaurant & Lounge Dozen - Remembering Chet Baker.” -- 2 -- The AJI Record Store ORDER BY MAIL OR ONLINE AT www.amjazzin.com. BETTER YET ... take your choice of our current CDs or Lee Tanner’s “The Jazz Image” book when you become an AJI Member!
NEW! Farewell Walter Dewey Redman The Mark Masters Ensemble The music of the late saxophone giant, arranged by Mark Masters and meant to be recorded by Redman himself, is performed as a loving memorial by an all-star ensemble featuring Oliver Lake, Tim Hagans, Peter Erskine and Dave Carpenter. Also Gary Foster, Don Shelton, John Mitchell, Bob Carr, Scott Englebright, Les Lovitt, Les Benedict, Dave Woodley, Charlie Morillas, Stephanie O’Keefe, Milcho Leviev and Cecilia Coleman.
NEW! EXCLUSIVELY FOR AJI MEMBERS! Perfect Circularity: The Gary Foster/Putter Smith Duo Woodwind and bass masters Gary Foster and Putter Smith showcase their long and amazing musical association. This is the inaugural disc in a limited-release series for AJI members documenting important jazz collaborations.
NEW! “Real Music Comes from Musicians SM” T-shirt In response to the increasing use of electronically generated music, this great new T-shirt proudly says it all. High quality, all cotton, black with light gray lettering front only. $20 each, $10 tax deductible. With your order, please enclose a separate sheet specifying short or long sleeves and sizes S to 3XL. Wish Me Well: Reflections on Gary McFarland The Mark Masters Ensemble Gary McFarland, the too-long-neglected composer and arranger of the ‘60s, receives deserved recognition of his brilliant and unique style in these arrangements by Mark Masters for an all-star ensemble featuring Steve Kuhn, Tim Hagans, Gary Smulyan, Gary Foster, Darek Oles, Dave Woodley and Joe LaBarbera. Exploration Grachan Moncur III Octet The preeminent post-bop/free-bop jazz trombonist of the early ‘60s returns in a brilliant performance of his own compositions arranged by Mark Masters for a stellar octet of Tim Hagans, Gary Bartz, Billy Harper, Andrew Cyrille, Ray Drummond, Dave Woodley, Gary Smulyan and John Clark. Porgy & Bess...Redefined! The Mark Masters Ensemble The most famous of all folk operas receives a newly definitive presentation in these adventurous arrangements by Mark Masters, performed by an ensemble of superb musicians featuring Billy Harper, Tim Hagans, Gary Smulyan, Dave Woodley, Ray Drummond, Joe LaBarbera and Cecilia Coleman. One Day with Lee Lee Konitz with The Mark Masters Ensemble The elder statesman of the alto in a memorable performance of his own compositions arranged by Mark Masters. Featuring Bill Perkins in a final recording, Gary Foster, Jack Montrose, Dave Woodley, Bob Enevoldsen, Steve Huffsteter, Ron Stout, Cecilia Coleman, Putter Smith and Kendall Kay. The Clifford Brown Project The Mark Masters Ensemble featuring Tim Hagans A critically-acclaimed tribute to the legendary trumpet player, with Brown’s solos played by a stellar trumpet quartet supporting the improvisations of Tim Hagans. Arranged by Mark Masters and Jack Montrose. Featuring Montrose, Gary Smulyan, Dave Woodley, Cecilia Coleman, Putter Smith and Joe La Barbera. The Jimmy Knepper Songbook Jimmy Knepper with The Mark Masters Jazz Orchestra The classic recording of a singular voice on the trombone, performing his own compositions arranged for the big band by Mark Masters. Featuring Gary Foster, Johnny Coles and Ralph Penland. Priestess Billy Harper with The Mark Masters Jazz Orchestra featuring Jimmy Knepper An adventurous big band interpretation of the compositions of John Coltrane, Chick Corea, Billy Strayhorn and Billy Harper. Arranged by Mark Masters. The Jazz Image: Masters of Jazz Photography by Lee Tanner From renowned photographer Tanner, an unprecedented collection of over 150 stunning duotone photos by famed jazz photographers of legendary artists from Louis to Miles, on stage and behind the scenes. Introduction by Nat Hentoff. Hardcover, 176 pages, 10” x 12.” PLEASE PRINT Farewell Walter Dewey Redman ___ x $14.00 ______Perfect Circularity (members only) ___ x $14.00 ______Wish Me Well ___ x $14.00 ______Total of all items ______Exploration ___ x $14.00 ______Porgy & Bess...Redefined! ___ x $14.00 ______Sales Tax: Add 9.75% for CA addresses ______One Day with Lee ___ x $14.00 ______The Clifford Brown Project ___ x $14.00 ______Shipping: Add $1.50 for each CD & T-shirt ______The Jimmy Knepper Songbook ___ x $14.00 ______Add $4.10 for Tanner book Priestess ___ x $14.00 ______The Jazz Image (book) ___ x $40.00 ______TOTAL ORDER ...... $ ______Real Music T-shirt (see above) ___ x $20.00 ______Name ______Address ______
City/State/Zip ______Phone ______E-Mail ______Please make your personal check payable to “The American Jazz Institute.” Mail to The American Jazz Institute, PO Box 5716, Pasadena, CA 91117 -- 3 -- The reviewers have their say about AJI’s current CDs
NEW! Farewell Walter Wish Me Well: Exploration Dewey Redman Reflections on Gary McFarland
The Mark Masters Ensemble The Mark Masters Ensemble Grachan Moncur III Octet featuring Oliver Lake Capri 74078-2 Capri 74068-2 Capri 74089-2
This album was supposed to be a collaboration ... In creating “Wish Me Well,” Masters took Trombonist and composer Grachan Moncur between Dewey Redman and Mark Masters. on the task of overhauling McFarland’s III made a memorable impact forty years ago But it became a tribute album when Redman compositions and arrangements for his own with his challenging compositions and austere died on September 2, 2006, four weeks before brass-heavy band. This is no mean feat, as improvising style. He then maintained a very this recording was made. The project went McFarland typically used small groupings of low profile for decades, teaching, recording forward, with Oliver Lake on alto saxophone strings and flutes and tended towards only rarely ... Now he’s made a welcome return filling Redman’s vacant chair. The other featured gossamer-light textures. Bringing Steve Kuhn to recording with the absolutely stunning CD soloist is trumpeter Tim Hagans. and Gary Smulyan in as featured soloists was “Exploration.” ... Masters’ achievement is to capture a stroke of genius. Kuhn’s solo on “Tree Tops,” ... These performances, arranged in Redman’s impulsive creative spirit in arrangements the opening track, is simply breathtaking -- brilliant, even startling fashion by Mark for big band. Tight, fierce Redman anthems for my money one of the year’s musical Masters, don’t look back. The voicings, riffs like “I-Pimp,” “Thren” and “Dewey’s Tune” highlights. Kuhn’s playing elsewhere is similarly and interludes devised by Masters, along with are projected onto a larger screen and given elegant and inspired -- as on the opening to the absence of a chordal instrument, give new weight and scale ... “Gary’s Waltz.” Smulyan, who appeared in “Exploration” a sound that looks forward, as Oliver Lake’s alto saxophone cuts an earlier Masters-led McFarland tribute Moncur always does. through the surrounding ensemble fabric like concert, contributes blazing solos on almost The arrangements are played with a serrated knife. His volatility, edginess and every track. crackling intensity by this sterling octet, eccentric lyricism are his own, and are brilliantly ... “Wish Me Well” is one of those and the improvisations follow suit. Suffice appropriate to honor the Redman aesthetic ... rare tribute CDs that successfully captures the it to say that every solo is impressive ... Hearty It is safe to assume that Dewey essence of its subject and functions as a congratulations are due all around, to Moncur, Redman would have loved this record definitive artistic statement by the musicians to the sidemen, to Masters, to everyone --Thomas Conrad, Jazz Times who created it. This is a “must-have” disc, involved with the project. “Exploration” is a and a superb work of art from one of America’s great record. ... Peppery and moody, invigorating and finest jazz ensembles. -- Marc Meyers, allaboutjazz.com thoughtful -- that was Dewey Redman, and -- Dave Wayne, JazzReview that’s this album. ... It’s an impressive line-up that features -- Kirk Silsbee, DownBeat Mark Masters presented a concert of tenorist Billy Harper, Gary Bartz on alto and McFarland’s music featuring baritone trumpeter Tim Hagans among the horns, It’s hard to believe that Dewey Redman isn’t saxophonist Gary Smulyan in 2002 and plus the excellent rhythm section of Ray still around when listening to the Mark arranged 11 of his works for this release, Drummond and Andrew Cyrille. Masters’ Masters Ensemble set, “Farewell Walter featuring Smulyan, pianist Steve Kuhn (who empathy with Moncur’s breezy, bluesy writing Dewey Redman.” Masters and the group -- worked with McFarland ), multi-reed player is obvious, and the use of French Horn (John especially alto saxophonist Oliver Lake -- capture Gary Foster and trumpeter Tim Hagans, Clark, naturally) and baritone (Gary the soul and sound of the unsung tenor titan among others. Three of the pieces were written Smulyan) allows for vibrant, broad strokes of on this marvelously inspired recording. for Gerry Mulligan and the Concert Jazz color. Occasional Monk-ish twists or boppish Masters’ arrangements allow the Band: the breezy, lighthearted “Weep” and the ensemble lines alternate with pushy riffing or freedom for solos that are creative in the upbeat “Kitch” (featuring Foster on alto sax), graceful parallel harmonies... extreme, from Lake especially, and also from along with the Duke Ellington-influenced But what of the leader? The glories trumpeter Tim Hagans, trombonist Dave “Chuggin’” which showcases Smulyan. of Moncur’s ‘60s output saw him venerated ... Woodley and multiple reedman Gary Foster ... Perhaps the most striking work is “Gary’s as the most vital trombonist in the emergent “Farewell to Walter Dewey Waltz,” a melancholy work recorded on avant garde. Even then, Moncur was princi- Redman,” with its beautiful sixteen-piece numerous occasions by Bill Evans during the pally a melodic player inspired by J.J. Johnson ensemble harmonies -- Ellington comes to last few years of his life. But after Kuhn’s and steeped in bop language, and that influence mind at times -- and inspired and adventurous opening piano solo, Masters transforms this still shines through. Economical, funky and soloing, is jazz at its finest. piece into a rich tapestry for the ensemble, lyrical all at once, Moncur doesn’t waste a note -- Dan McClenaghan, allaboutjazz.com gradually increasing its tempo and discarding throughout. its somber mood, spotlighting Hagans’ All in all, this is a fine record. “Farewell Walter Dewey Redman” is not so outstanding trumpet solo. The perfect balance Bristling with intelligence, good humor and much a recording that says “good bye, Dewey” of Masters’ charts and the intimate sound swing, Moncur’s music stands the test of time but a musical experience made memorable by captured by engineer Talley Sherwood combine ... Nice to see him back. Masters’ group and the special guests like to make this an essential CD. Perhaps Mark -- Peter Marsh, BBC Hagans, Peter Erskine, the recently departed Masters’ thoughtful exploration of Gary Dave Carpenter and of course, Redman’s clone McFarland’s compositions will stir additional ... Grachan Moncur III has been out for this project, the incomparable Oliver Lake, interest in the late vibraphonist’s work, which of the limelight for decades ... “Exploration” is that make this album a must for jazz audiences has been unjustly neglected. a fine and fitting welcome back. and aficionados alike. -- Ken Dryden, All Music Guide -- Dan McClenaghan, allaboutjazz.com -- Edward Blanco, eJazzNews
-- 4 -- See The AJI Record Store for descriptions of all of our critically-acclaimed CDs. Order by mail or online at www.amjazzin.com. Better yet, join AJI and choose up to 3 current releases at no cost.
Porgy & Bess One Day with Lee The Clifford ...Redefined! Brown Project
The Mark Masters Ensemble Lee Konitz with The Mark Masters Ensemble Capri 74069-2 The Mark Masters Ensemble featuring Tim Hagans Capri 74064-2 Capri 74059-2
... Masters honors the composer and those who ... composer/arranger Mark Masters has provided This warm and energetic tribute to the late have worked wonders with the opera throughout a treasure trove of old and new Konitz called trumpet virtuoso Clifford Brown (who died the Twentieth Century by setting the stage for “One Day with Lee” featuring a prominent tragically in 1956 at the age of 26, having his soloists and turning them loose. Tim supporting cast that includes Gary Foster, Bill single-handedly changed the way jazz trumpet Hagans and Billy Harper in particular step Perkins and Jack Montrose in the sax section was heard and understood in the United up to the bar and release their personal feelings of an all-star Mark Masters Ensemble. States) is ... a celebration of musical genius and on the music without distraction. The orchestra Masters’ CD is a fascinating concept: creativity that looks backward while taking supports them confidently and adds cohesive Konitz contributes new solos over orchestrated the music forward. Bandleader Mark Masters interplay. The music has been arranged to versions of his old solos going back to the early achieves the latter by taking such classic and suit George Gershwin's original plans. ‘50s. Konitz’s unaccompanied alto solo on beloved Brown compositions as “Joy Spring,” ... History parades before your eyes “All the Things You Are” leads to the 14-piece “Sandu” and “Bones for Jones” and arranging and ears as Masters’ powerful ensemble recalls band playing the altoist’s old “Thingin’” ... For them for a large ensemble that includes no timeless themes such as “It Ain’t Necessarily “317 East 32nd Street,” Masters orchestrates a fewer than five trumpets, four of which perform So,” “A Woman is a Sometime Thing,” and 1953 line, and after the altoman solos -- newly harmonized arrangements of Brown’s “Summertime” with originality and allegiance. before and after Masters’ additions -- Foster own solos from his early-’50s recordings. The ... Highly recommended, Mark and Konitz exchange fours. And so the effect is both lushly beautiful and, on tracks like Masters’ latest project honors this timeless jazz inspired concept goes throughout the album, the upbeat “Sweet Clifford” and “Joy Spring,” opera and its composer through musical excellence along with solo bon-bons from trombonist Bob electrifyingly intense. Highly recommended. and a strikingly creative spirit. Enevoldsen, bassist Putter Smith, pianist -- Rick Anderson, All Music Guide -- Jim Santella, allaboutjazz.com Cecilia Coleman, trombonist Les Benedict and trumpeter Ron Stout. The main event: Masters’ arrangements of Well, they said it couldn’t be done, but he did -- Harvey Siders, Jazz Times Brown’s solos for a trumpet choir consisting of it. Arranger Mark Masters has breathed new Marc Lewis, Ron Stout, Kye Palmer and Ron and refreshing life into Gershwin’s Porgy & ... these are vibrant charts that literally jump off King. Lewis transcribed the solos, and Masters Bess. Just when you thought Miles may have the page. Masters has clearly done his homework tucks them into burning arrangements for an had the last word back in ‘61, Masters adds a ... Everyone solos with confidence and a clear 11-piece band. In a sense, Clifford Brown is touch of Mingus, a sprig of Kenton, and songs understanding of the material, but the star of a soloist along with trumpeter Tim Hagans, that you’ve heard a thousand times sound new the show is, of course, Konitz himself. With a baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan and and enticing. tone that is warmer and at times grittier than trombonist Dave Woodley. An added attraction: As with any stage production, it sure in his youth, he just seems to get better and Jack Montrose, whose arrangements of “Joy helps to have the right cast, and Masters has a better ... With exceptional arrangements of Spring,” “Daahoud” and “Bones for Jones” dandy. Supported by trombones and French classic material, a big band to die for, and a originally appeared on “The Clifford Brown horn, Billy Harper tears his tenor through captivating guest soloist, what more can one ask? Ensemble Featuring Zoot Sims” and are “reissued” ”Summertime.” Trombonist Dave Woodley --John Kelman, allaboutjazz.com here. Montrose is also in excellent form on tenor evokes images of Jimmie Knepper with sax on “Sweet Clifford,” “LaRue,” “Sandu” Mingus during the torrential rhythmic shifts. Having heard “The Clifford Brown Project” and “Bones for Jones.” ... The band swings Gary Smulyan coaxes visceral emotions out of and now “One Day with Lee” ... I can hardly furiously in its own right, but what lingers is his baritone as he pleads through “I Loves You, wait to hear what the Mark Masters Jazz the inimitable, songlike quality of these classic Porgy,” always backed up by flute and muted Ensemble and its sponsor, the American Jazz trumpet solos, breaking out of unison into trumpets. Tim Hagans soars over delicate Institute, plan to do next. If these aren’t two opulent four-part harmony at just the right chordings on “A Woman Is a Sometime Thing.” of the finest big-band albums of the past year, moments. But the real tour-de-force is an unforgettable they surely belong on anyone’s Top Ten list. -- David Adler, Jazz Times “It Ain’t Necessarily So,” with Hagans swaggering While Konitz plays marvelously in any over the propulsive rhythm provided by Joe framework, he seems especially invigorated ... Mark Masters has created a fond tribute to La Barbera. and at ease when surrounded, as he is here, by a wonderful musician. He has been aided in ... Big band fans and Gershwin fans a large group of blue-chip musicians who no small way by fellow arranger Jack alike should definitely dig around for this one. breathe new life into five of his elaborate Montrose, who was responsible for three of the -- George Harris, allaboutjazz.com compositions, another by mentor Lennie arrangements revived here which also Tristano and one of Lee’s signature themes, the appeared on one of Brown’s original recordings ... How often can one go to the well before it standard “Lover Man” ... The highlights are in 1954. Together with members of the comes up dry? In the case of Mark Masters’ new almost too many to mention but must include ensemble, they keep the spirit of that music take, the answer is: at least once more. ... rather the wonderful charts by Masters, exemplary alive. Trumpeter Tim Hagans is the featured than revisiting existing arrangements, Masters work by the ensemble ... almost everyone in artist among a wealth of excellent soloists... returned to the source: the original vocal scores. the band is given one or more chances to shine, -- Paul Donnelly, ejazznews.com The result is a fresh look at an almost iconic work. and no one comes up less than sparkling. -- John Kelman, allaboutjazz.com -- Jack Bowers, allaboutjazz.com
-- 5 -- AJI invites your membership Supporting, preserving and creating jazz is what The American Jazz Institute is all about. In the past several concert seasons at Claremont McKenna College, we have presented such varied programs as Porgy and Bess...Redefined!, The Music of Ornette Coleman, An Evening with Dewey Redman, The Music of Jelly Roll Morton and Sketches of Spain. Essential to our mission, we have recorded over fifty individual oral histories of major jazz artists as well as an extensive collection of group histories, including The Ellington Legacy and The Singers Unlimited. Since 2002, we have recorded six critically acclaimed CDs: The Clifford Brown Project, One Day with Lee, Porgy and Bess...Redefined!, Exploration, Wish Me Well and Farewell Walter Dewey Redman. To continue pursuing our mission, we need the support of those who share our commitment to this music. Your tax deductible membership or contribution in any amount will be deeply appreciated by The American Jazz Institute and the jazz artists that perform for you. Patron Artistry Circle Platinum Circle $50 Annual Membership $75 Annual Membership $100 Annual Membership
• Choice of 1 AJI CD • Choice of 2 AJI CDs • Choice of 3 AJI CDs or “The Jazz Image” book • AmJazzIn newsletter: AJI news • AmJazzIn newsletter: AJI news and schedules of upcoming and schedules of upcoming • AmJazzIn newsletter: AJI news concerts and special events concerts and special events and schedules of upcoming concerts and special events • Special “meet the musicians” • Special “meet the musicians” after-concert receptions after-concert receptions • Special “meet the musicians” after-concert receptions
Member Join AJI and take your choice of these gems $25 Annual Membership Descriptions on The AJI Record Store page
“One Day with Lee” NEW “Perfect • Souvenir AJI coffee mug Lee Konitz and Circularity: • AmJazzIn newsletter: AJI news The Mark Masters Ensemble The Gary Foster/ and schedules of upcoming Putter Smith Duo” concerts and special events “Wish Me Well: • Special “meet the musicians” Reflections on Gary McFarland” after-concert receptions The Mark Masters Ensemble “The Clifford Brown Project” “The Jazz Image: Masters of The Mark Masters Ensemble Jazz Photography” by Lee Tanner “Porgy & Bess... Redefined” NEW “Farewell Walter Dewey The Mark Masters Ensemble The American Jazz Institute is a non-profit organization Redman” The Mark Masters dedicated solely to the enrichment and enhancement of Ensemble the appreciation of jazz music. AJI seeks to preserve this national treasure as well as expand upon it by spotlighting America’s great jazz composers, arrangers and musicians -- both firmly established and newly discovered, and “Exploration” from traditional to avant garde. Grachan Moncur III Octet
PLEASE PRINT
Name ______Address ______Phone ______
City ______State ____ Zip ______E-Mail ______Fax ______
❑ New ❑ Renewal Annual membership: ❑ Platinum Circle ($100) ❑ Artistry Circle ($75) ❑ Patron ($50) ❑ Member ($25) Platinum Circle, choose 3 CDs or Lee Tanner book; Artistry Circle, choose 2 CDs; Patron, choose 1 CD: ❑ The Clifford Brown Project ❑ One Day with Lee ❑ Exploration ❑ Porgy & Bess...Redefined! ❑ Wish Me Well ❑ Perfect Circularity ❑ Farewell Walter Dewey Redman ❑ The Jazz Image (book) Please make your personal check payable to “The American Jazz Institute.” Mail to The American Jazz Institute, PO Box 5716, Pasadena, CA 91117 For further information, phone the AJI office at 626-795-6413 -- 6 -- Continued from page 1 Band directors will have an opportunity to discuss rehearsal techniques, music selection and expectations for performance with regard to their groups’ level of ability. Students will attend an open rehearsal with the AJI Big Band and have the chance to sit in or stand next to their mentor and observe the inner workings of a professional ensemble. The AJI Big Band will perform an evening concert for the schools and community where students will see and hear everything come together that they have been exposed to during the day. And the most outstanding student musicians will have an opportunity to play with the AJI Big Band. One of the most important facets of the mentoring AJI’s Mark Masters and Marcia Laine at the dedication of program is the unique component of follow-up visits by the Frankie Laine’s star on the Palm Springs Walk of Fame. Masters arranged Laine’s classic recordings for last year’s mentors. Periodically, the professionals will return to the acclaimed CD,“High Noon: The Jazz Soul of Frankie Laine,” schools and work with the student bands. This follow-up will by baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan. Available on instill a sense of responsibility and accountability in the students. Reservoir Music. Students will see the commitment that the professionals are making -- and, in turn, the mentors will establish an important Frankie Laine was one of America’s great popular singers from on-going relationship with the schools. the 1940s through the late 1960s. In the 1960s, when Rock The American Jazz Institute and The Roger Rickson & Roll began to eclipse what had previously been known as Foundation “Find Your Own Voice” Jazz Mentoring Program “pop music,” Frankie Laine continued to do what he did best. will have a profound impact on the lives of many hundreds of To the people who understood what the previous generation’s students, both in music during their school years and later in music meant, Laine and his contemporaries forged ahead whatever career they pursue. with the music that they had embraced decades before. In acknowledgment of Frankie Laine’s multi-faceted career, his wife Marcia Laine made sure that he was honored in the city where he had lived, worked and contributed to numerous Jazz goes to The Langham: charities. On Saturday, January 16, a star honoring Frankie Looking back on AJI’s 2009 Laine was placed on the Palm Springs Walk of Stars on Palm Canyon Boulevard in the heart of Palm Springs. inaugural season of concerts at a Pasadena landmark Announcing an important new The Langham Huntington Hotel -- a Pasadena legend since book from Michael Sparke: 1907, and impeccably renewed -- in partnership with The American Jazz Institute, presented a series of concerts featuring “Stan Kenton: renowned jazz musician friends in a delightfully intimate setting. The hotel’s distinguished Lobby Lounge was the location for This is an a series of four concerts offering views of the hotel’s spectacular Orchestra!” gardens and accommodating only seventy guests to ensure a unique, personal jazz experience for the fortunate few. Grammy-nominated composer, arranger and pianist Bill Cunliffe was joined by bassist Darek Oles and drummer Joe La Barbera for the series opener on May 23. The Gary Foster/Putter Smith Quartet, with pianist Tom Rainer and drummer Tim Pleasant, performed on July 4. Among the compositions featured by the quartet were Jimmy Rowles’ classic The Peacocks, ‘Teef, and For Us composed by The University of North Texas Press has confirmed publication bassist Putter Smith. of a new book on Stan Kenton, with an anticipated publishing On September 5, award-winning singer Janis Mann date of Spring 2010. showcased her extraordinary talents. A native New Yorker, This exciting project takes a fresh in-depth look at Ms. Mann recently resettled to Southern California. She has Kenton’s life and music. Author Michael Sparke will be recorded with numerous jazz luminaries over the years and known to many Kenton devotees for his discographical work has four recordings to her credit. and liner notes for Capitol, Mosaic and other labels. Sparke To close out the series on November 28, The Pete writes from a point of view that reflects his extensive research Christlieb Quintet presented a wonderfully loose and swinging and penetrating interviews with dozens of band alumni over concert. Joined by Christlieb’s wife Linda Small on trombone, the years. Lending to his significant insights, Sparke had a the quintet presented an evening of jazz and blues classics and close personal relationship with Kenton that is enlightening. American songbook standards. “Stan Kenton: This Is An Orchestra!” will provoke AJI looks forward to presenting another concert controversy, criticism and praise. It is a book that no Kenton series at The Langham Huntington during the coming year. enthusiast can afford to miss. Watch for it. -- 7 -- In this issue: Introducing AJI’s “Find Your Own Voice SM” mentoring clinics (see page 1) ... PLUS season #2 of AJI’s vocalist concerts and reviews of AJI’s 6 current CDs
What the critics are saying about AJI’s AJI presents newest CD, Farewell Walter Dewey Redman, The Jazz Supper Club Series and reviews of all 6 current releases The reviews are in on AJI’s latest NEXT: Amanda King, February 22 project: the music of the late sax giant Dewey Redman, arranged Today’s and tomorrow’s great jazz vocalists from Los Angeles, San Francisco by Mark Masters and performed and New York appear up close and personal in a series of 6 memorable by an all-star ensemble featuring dinner concerts at the desert’s premier jazz club, Vickey’s in Indian Wells, Oliver Lake, Tim Hagans, Peter January thru April. Erskine and Dave Carpenter. See page 2 See pages 4 & 5
As an incentive to join AJI or renew your annual membership, we have a very appealing AJI needs you bonus: your choice of AJI’s critically acclaimed CDs and Lee Tanner’s spectacular new See page 6 book,“The Jazz Image.” Your support is important, appreciated and tax deductible.
© 2010 The American Jazz Institute
AmJazzInTM The American Jazz Institute PO Box 5716 Pasadena, CA 91117
DATED MATERIAL ADDRESS CORRECTION REQUESTED