Vol. 26, Issue 5 - September/October 2017 N O T E S The official publication of the Society and Las Vegas Jazz Scene lvjs.org

Sunday Jazz at the Bootlegger Bistro featuring Grammy Nominated Sacha Boutros September 10, 2017

40th Anniversary LVJS Community Jazz Picnic October 1, 2017

News/Updates Events Calendar Meet the Artists j a z z h a p p e n s h e r e . . . c o m e f i n d i t a t l v j s . o r g

Hi everyone: hard to believe that we’re celebrating the Fall season already! FIRST AND FOREMOST, I’d like to announce the completion of our “jazzy” new website, designed by Susan McKinney. Many thanks to her 2 Notes from the President for her creativity, time and energy! The new web address is lvjs.org LVJS Upcoming Events Go to this site to purchase your event tickets, memberships, and find out “what’s happening” in our world of JAZZ. 3-5 September/October Calendar We have a busy Fall schedule but there are several items in this issue of Where the Jazz Is… the JAZZNOTES I’d like to bring to your attention: 6-7 Meet the Artists • Our Sunday Jazz at the Bootlegger Bistro series will resume on September 10. We are honored to present Grammy nominated vocalist Sacha Boutros for your 8 Cabaret Jazz Listings listening pleasure. For a sneak preview, check sacha-boutros.com on line. 9-10 Reviews/Comments • The 40th anniversary of our Annual Community Jazz Picnic will be celebrated Community Opinion on October 1st from 2-6 pm at the Winchester Park. Check the terrific line-up below. 11 Spotlight: Next Generation • LVJS is joining with the Las Vegas Clark County Library District and the Clark County School District in a 4-part series of community based concerts -Angelo Stokes entitled Journey Through Jazz. Inspired by and hosted by saxophonist 12 Community Announcements Adam Schroeder, Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies at UNLV and a Las Vegas Jazz Society Board member, the series will premiere at the Clark 13-14 Call for Nominations County Flamingo Library on October 3rd in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Nomination Form Month. 15 Meet Our Sponsors: they support us, • December 3rd will be the annual Membership Meeting and election for the LVJS Board of Directors. A nomination form is included in this issue. If you are interested let’s support them!! in serving or know someone who would be a good candidate we urge you to submit Back Cover: 2017 Membership Application the name(s) for consideration. Nominations must be received by November 12, 2017. Please note: I will be stepping down from the Board after this election. I’ll still be active but feel that it’s imperative for the health of the Organization to experience new leadership and ideas!

LVJS is looking for Board candidates who: • are willing, able and have the ability to “follow through” on their commitments • can adapt their schedules to time commitments for attendance at Society events and meetings • have a knowledge and understanding of the Organization’s mission • are willing to make decisions based on what’s best for the Organization as a whole • have demonstrated their commitment to the Society through their past participation in events and/or as a volunteer • are a member in good standing of LVJS - Judy T

JAZZNOTES

EDITOR: Judy Tarte

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR: Michael Spicer Spotlight: Next Generation

CONTRIBUTORS: Bart diBartolo A COMMUNITY TRADITION SINCE 1977… Judy Jetter-Girard Chuck Carter THE LAS VEGAS JAZZ SOCIETY will celebrate the 40th Anniversary of their ANNUAL JAZZ PICNIC PHOTOGRAPHY: Susan McKinney Web files Sunday, October 1, 2017 from 2-6 pm Winchester Cultural Center Performance STAFF: Maggie Mancuso Cheryl Waites Schedule Mimi Williams 2:00 pm Tom Hall and the “Simply Bop Septet” 3:00 pm Curt Miller with The Boneheads DESIGN DIRECTOR: Shawn Whitmer 4:00 pm Julian Tanaka Octet

ART DIRECTOR: Shawn Whitmer 5:00 pm Neil Maxa and the Groove Bros. B-3 Quintet

Bring your families, picnic lunches, lawn chairs, etc. for an afternoon SUBSCRIPTION is offered through membership. Go to lvjs.org for details. If you have any questions about this newsletter or would of the finest jazz in the area…FREE

like to place an ad in the future, please email us: [email protected]. Deadline for publication is the 1st of the month prior to issue date. Send USPS mail to: JAZZNOTES, Editor, P.O. Box 60396, Las Food available for purchase.

Vegas, NV 89160. LVJS MESSAGE LINE: (702) 313-6778. LVJS WEBSITE: lvjs.org. JAZZNOTES Is published bi-monthly by the in cooperation with the Winchester Cultural Center Las Vegas Jazz Society, a 501(c)3 nonprofit corporation.

2 2017 SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER CALENDARS

Please note: Events and Venues are listed by day of week/date/time and are subject to change; Venue contact information is on page 5. Other admission prices/information are indicated with the event listing.  E STRING Bar & Pizzeria: Tom Hall** with the Simply Bop Septet on the first Saturday; Merv Harding** on the second Saturday; Tony Wells** with The Las Vegas Richie Cole Alto Madness Orchestra on the third Saturday; different programs on the fourth Saturday of the month 1-4 pm 2031 W. Sunset Rd. Henderson 89104 call 702-437-8764 $10 at the door (unless otherwise listed) and happy hour prices on food and beverage  UNLV ticket pricing and information is available through UNLV PAC Box Office at 702-895-ARTS  Winchester Cultural Center tickets can be purchased at the venue or online at www.clarkcountynv.gov; call 702-455-7340 for information *indicates LVJS member ** indicates LVJS Artist Member Thank you for supporting LIVE JAZZ

2017 SEPTEMBER

MONDAYS FRIDAYS September 11 September 8 Bill King** and the Knights of Jazz – E-String Bar & Grill, Kaki King Concert (artist info at www.kakiking.com) – 4-6:45 pm, $10 cover, call 702-437-8764 Historic Fifth Street School, 7:30 pm, $25 tickets, visit Every Monday artslasvegas.org or call 702-229-2787 Vegas Jazz Radio Show with host Rick Vittallo** from 1-3 September 15 pm; streaming link is rickvittallo2.com Downtown Cultural Series-Las Vegas Percussion TUESDAYS Collective: Wooden Music, Lloyd D. George U S September 5, 12, 19, 26 Courthouse (inside the Jury Assembly Room), 12-1 pm, “Class Act” Vintage Vegas – German American Social free, visit artslasvegas.org or call 702-229-2787 Club, 6-9 pm, $2 GACON members/$7 for non-club Smith Center Cabaret Room members, for reservations: 702-453-8451 September 8 – Grace Kelly, 7pm September 5, 12 September 22 – Fourplay, 7 pm Rita Lim** with Dave Seigel-piano, John Plows-drums, September 29 – Betty Lavette, 7 pm Michael Westlake-bass – Osaka Japanese Bistro in Call 800-440-8539 for ticket information Henderson, 6:30-9:30 pm Every Friday September 12 Uli Geissendoerfer** Trio with guest vocalists (TBA) - The TNL (Tuesday Night Live) at the Summit – Rheda K’s Dispensary, 10 pm-2 am Jazz Krew, doors open at 6:30, music 7:30-9 pm, Tickets Every Friday $10, 702-240-1310 Gus Mancuso** “Smooze and Booze” Happy Hour - WEDNESDAYS Bootlegger Bistro, 3-5 pm The Dispensary – 9-midnight Every Friday September 6 – Jazz Jam with the Uli Geissendoerfer** Rita Lim** with Joey Ugarte and Jazz Vibrations - El Trio featuring Charles McNeal Cortez Hotel, 7-10 pm September 13 – TBA SATURDAYS September 20 – Adam Schroeder** Quartet September 16 September 27 – Vintage Vegas with Joe Darro** Trio – Jonathan Karrant** “Live, Love, Latin!” - Windmill Library Michael Delano & Friends Performing Arts Theatre, 7060 W. Windmill Lane 89113, September 13 3 pm, free UNLV Honors Combo – Flamingo Library Theater, 7:30 Every Saturday pm, Free Uli Geissendoerfer** Trio with guest vocalists (TBA) - The September 27 Dispensary, 10 pm-2 am Steppin’ Out with Jonathan Karrant** – Rocks Lounge at E-String Bar & Pizzeria, 1-4 pm Red Rock Hotel & Casino, 7-8:30 pm September 2 – Tom Hall** Simply Bop Septet Every Wednesday September 9 – Merv Harding** Rita Lim** with Dave Seigel-piano - The Bootlegger Bistro, September 16 – “Hot Cole” the Las Vegas Alto Madness 6:30-10:30 pm Orchestra under the direction of Tony Wells** THURSDAYS September 23 – Dick Kastel Big Band September 7, 28 September 30 – Dick Kastel Quintet featuring Tom Hall**: Rita Lim** – Italian American Club, 6-10 pm a tribute to Jack Montrose with music from the Jack September 28 Montrose/Bob Morgan albums Bruce Harper** Big Band with Elisa Fiorillo Smith Center Cabaret Room “Singin’..Swingin’..September” – Smith Center Cabaret September 9 – Grace Kelly, 7 pm Room, 7 pm, 800-440-8539 September 23 – Fourplay, 6 & 8:30 pm Every Thursday September 30 – Betty Lavette, 7 pm Rick Vittallo** and Friends – Cork & Thorn at Trivoli Call 800-440-8539 for ticket information Village, 7-9 pm, no cover, 702-823-2678 3

SUNDAYS SUNDAYS September 10 September 24 Bootlegger Bistro Fall Series with Grammy nominated Forgotten Song Music presents: Lucky 7 7 7 6 7 vocalist Sacha Boutros, 2-4 pm, $15 LVJS members/$18 Celebration, 3-5 pm at Summit in Summerlin, music, art, general, tickets on line at www.lvjs.org appetizers, cash bar, free, MUST RSVP by Sept.20 to September 17 [email protected] Jimmy Wilkins** New Life Orchestra - German American September 24 Social Club of , 1-4 pm, $15 at the door/$12 UNLV Jazz Ensemble I and Latin Jazz Ensemble - CD GASCON members, call for reservations: 702-453-8451 Release Concert, UNLV Ham Hall, 2 pm, tickets: $10 September 24 general/$8 seniors/military with ID, tickets available through Jonathan Karrant** “Live, Love, Latin!” - Whitney Library UNLV PAC at 895-ARTS Performing Arts Theatre 5175 E. Tropicana Ave. 89134, 2 pm, free

2017 OCTOBER

MONDAYS THURSDAYS Every Monday Every Thursday Vegas Jazz Radio Show with host Rick Vittallo** from 1-3 Rick Vittallo** and Friends – Cork & Thorn at Trivoli pm; streaming link is rickvittallo2.com Village, 330 S. Rampart Blvd. Suite 180, 7-9 pm, no TUESDAYS cover, call 702-823-2678 October 3 Every Thursday “Journey Through Jazz” in celebration of Hispanic Rita Lim** – Italian American Club, 6-10 pm Heritage month featuring Francisco Torres and Pepe FRIDAYS Jimenez with the Foothill High School Jazz Ensemble, October 20 Clark County Library Theater (Flamingo Rd), 7 pm, free Jonathan Karrant** “100 Years “Ella” - Chrome and open to the public Showroom 11011 W. Charleston Blvd. 89135, Doors October 10, 17, 24 open 6:30 pm/Show 7 pm “Class Act” Vintage Vegas - German American Social October 20 Club, 6-9 pm, $2 GASCON members/$7 for non-club Downtown Cultural Series-Nathan & Jessie, Lloyd D. members, for reservations: 702-453-8451 George U S Courthouse (inside the Jury Assembly October 10, 17 Room), 12-1pm, free, visit artslasvegas.org or call Rita Lim** - Osaka Japanese Bistro in Henderson, 702-229-2787 6:30-9:30 pm Every Friday October 10 Uli Geissendoerfer** Trio with guest vocalists TNL (Tuesday Night Live) at the Summit, Rick Arroyo & (TBA) - The Dispensary, 10 pm-2 am band, doors open at 6:30, music 7:30-9 pm, Tickets $10, Every Friday 702-240-1310 Gus Mancuso** “Smooze and Booze” Happy Hour - October 17 Bootlegger Bistro, 3-5 pm UNLV Jazz Ensemble I fundraising concert, UNLV Judy Every Friday Bayley Theater, 7:30 pm, tickets UNLV PAC at Rita Lim** with Joey Ugarte and Jazz Vibrations – 702-895-ARTS El Cortez Hotel, 7-10 pm WEDNESDAYS SATURDAYS Every Wednesday October 7 Rita Lim** with Dave Seigel-piano - The Bootlegger Bistro, OKTOBERFEST - Historic Fifth Street School, 6:30-10:30 pm 3-9 pm, free, visit artslasvegas.org or The Dispensary: 9 pm – midnight call 702-229-2787 for information October 4 – Jazz Jam w/ Uli Geissendoerfer** Quartet October 7 featuring Charles McNeal Autumn Afternoon Affair presented by Forgotten October 11 – TBA Song Foundation, Jason Corpuz-piano, Jonathan October 18 – TBA Karrant** and Ann Parenti**-vocals, 3-6 pm, $50 per October 25 – Vintage Vegas with the Joe Darro** Trio, person, contact forgottensongfoundation.org to Michael Delano & Friends, 8:30 pm reserve your VIP exclusive ticket October 18 E-String Bar & Pizzeria, 1-4 pm UNLV Latin Ensemble I and Jazz Ensemble II - Flamingo October 7 – Simply Bop Septet Library Theater, 7 pm, free October 14 – Merv Harding** October 25 October 21 – “The suMMit Big Band & Friends” Jonathan Karrant** - Rocks Lounge at Red Rock Hotel & plays for George West’s* Birthday Casino, 11011 W. Charleston Blvd 89135, 7-8:30pm October 28 – Hot Cole, the Las Vegas Alto Madness Orchestra under the direction of Tony Wells**

4

SATURDAYS SUNDAYS Every Saturday October 1 Uli Geissendoerfer** Trio with guest vocalists (TBA) - Jonathan Karrant** “Live, Love, Latin!” - Whitney Library The Dispensary, 10 pm-2 am Performing Arts Theatre 5175 E. Tropicana Ave. 89134, SUNDAYS 2 pm, free October 1 October 15 LVJS HOSTS the 40th anniversary COMMUNITY JAZZ Jimmy Wilkins** New Life Orchestra - German PICNIC - Winchester Cultural Center Park, 2-6 pm, free American Social Club of Nevada, 1-4 pm, $15 at the 2:00 Tom Hall** Bebop Septet door/$12 GASCON members, call for reservations: 3:00 Curt Miller** - The Las Vegas Boneheads 702-453-8451 4:00 Julian Tanaka Octet 5:00 Neil Maxa** - Groove Brothers B-3 Quintet

WHERE THE JAZZ IS…

Baobab Stage in Town Square Historic Fifth Street School 6587 S. Las Vegas Blvd LV, NV 89119  baobabstage.com 401 S. Fourth St.  artslasvegas.org  (702) 229-ARTS Brio's Patio — Tivoli Village Italian American Club Lounge 420 S. Rampart LV, NV 89145  (702) 433-1233 2333 E Sahara Ave  (702) 457-3866 The Bootlegger Bistro Lounge at the Plaza 7700 Las Vegas Blvd. S.  BootleggerLasVegas.com  1 S. Main St. LV, NV 89101  (702) 386-2110 (702) 736-4939 Luna Lounge - Jazz and Blues Thursdays Cafe Berlin 3057 Las Vegas Blvd S. LV, NV  (702) 462-9991  4850 W Sunset Rd Suite100-105 LV, NV 89118  lunalasvegas.com (702) 875-4605  [email protected] OMD (Official Music District) Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf 953 East Sahara Ste. B-30 LV, NV 89109  3645 S Town Center Dr. #101 W. LV, NV 89135  (702) 742-4171 (702) 785-0419 Osaka Restaurant/Bar Container Park (Downtown) 10920 S. Eastern Ave. Henderson, NV 707 Fremont Street LV, NV 89101  Piazza Lounge in the Tuscany Hotel downtowncontainerpark.com  (702) 637-4244 255 E Flamingo Rd. Las Vegas, NV 89169  The Cromwell Bound Bar (702) 893-8933 3595 Las Vegas Blvd. S. LV, NV 89109  (702) 777-3777 Red Rock Casino - Rocks Lounge CSN - Cheyenne Campus 11011 W. Charleston Blvd. LV, NV 89135  3200 East Cheyenne Ave. NLV, NV 89030  Performing Arts (702) 797-7130 Center ticket Office: (702) 651-LIVE (5483) Siena Golf Club Bistro Ron DeCar's Event Center 10575 Siena Monte Ave. Las Vegas, NV 89135  1201 Las Vegas Blvd. South LV, NV 89104  (702) 562-2653 for information vivalasvegaseventcenter.com  (702) 453-8451 The Smith Center - Cabaret Room The Dispensary Lounge 361 Symphony Park Ave. LV, NV 89106  2451 E. Tropicana Ave. LV, NV 89121  thesmithcenter.com  (702) 749-2000 thedispensarylounge.com  (702) 458-6343 The Space E-String Bar and Pizzeria 3460 Cavaretta Court LV, NV 89103  thespacelv.com  2013 W. Sunset Rd. Henderson, NV 89014  (702) 903-1070 (702) 437-8764 Starbright Theatre El Cortez Hotel & Casino 2215 Thomas Ryan Blvd. LV, NV 89134.  600 W. Fremont Street, 89101  (702) 385-5200 information at scscai.com, click "News & Events” Forte European Tapas Bar and Bistro The Summit (adjacent to the Starbright Theatre) 4180 S. Rainbow Boulevard, Suite 806, 89103  2215 Thomas Ryan Blvd. LV, NV 89134 (702) 220-3876  barforte.com Texas Station Flamingo Library Theater 2101 Texas Star Ln. NLV, NV 89032  texasstation.com  401 E. Flamingo Rd. LV, NV 89119  (702) 507-3400 (702) 631-1000 German American Social Club of Nevada UNLV: Judy Bayley/Black Box/Ham Hall Theaters 1110 E. Lake Mead Blvd. North Las Vegas, NV 89030  4505 S. Maryland Pkwy. LV, NV 89154  UNLV ticket pricing germanamericanclubnv.com and information is available through UNLV PAC Box Office at Gallery of Music & Art (702) 895ARTS The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace, 3rd level West Las Vegas Arts Center Harrah's piano bar - Harrah's Las Vegas 947 W Lake Mead Blvd LV, NV  (702) 229-4800 Located at the casino exit, next to Carnival Court. 3475 Las The Winchester Cultural Center Vegas Boulevard South LV, NV 89109  (800) 214-9110 3130 McLeod LV, NV 89121  (702) 455-7340

At press time the venues listed above were reported to have live jazz on a regular basis. For scheduled performances, artists and times, please use the contact information listed. Also, check evandavisjazz.com for more updated listings.

5 MEET THE ARTISTS

SACHA BOUTROS Appearing as guest artist at the LVJS Sunday Jazz at the Bootlegger Bistro Series on Sunday, September 10, 2017 from 2-4 pm

Grammy-nominated SACHA BOUTROS, recognized by music critics, peers and celebrities as one of the top jazz artists today, recently received a Jazz Musician of the Year award from the SoCal Jazz Society.

She was introduced by entertainer as his “ingénue,” and was a protege of the legendary Red Holloway.

Her 2008 breakthrough album, Simply Sacha - a mix of standards and originals touching on jazz, Latin jazz, bossa nova, swing, and pop, and sung in five languages (English, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and French) showcased the singer’s incredible musical and linguistic range, as well as compositional skills. Ms Boutros is quoted as saying, in regard to her ability to sing convincingly in 13 languages, “music is my language, words are the means to communicate but you do not need to speak a particular language to connect, the language of music is universal, you can feel its meanings and intentions in your heart.”

Simply Sacha became the vocalist’s calling card to the world. It was the most downloaded Latin jazz release on emusic.com, was nominated for two Los Angeles Music Awards and earned a Grammy nod as best new jazz album.

Her appearance on Red Holloway’s album, Something Old Something New: Introducing Sacha Boutros, resulted in a 2009 tour of Japan. In 2011 Sacha released her first live album, Sacha, Live In Hawaii, in 2013 she released Sacha: NY After Dark. In 2014 she founded Sachas Supper Club with the concept being to build bridges of community through art and music.

A San Diego native, Sacha, has gone from gigging at a few San Diego clubs and U.S. festivals to touring in California, Hawaii, New York, London, Paris, and all points in between. When she’s not writing, performing, or recording, she splits her time between San Diego and New York City.

TOM HALL and the Simply Bop Septet will perform at the Annual Community Jazz Picnic in Winchester Park on October 1, 2017. Performance time is scheduled for 2:00 pm.

Tom has lived in Las Vegas since 1965. He worked in various hotel house bands for more than forty years, including a twenty-five-year stint as section leader and lead alto sax play at the Riviera. The list of artists he has played with goes on and on and includes such notables as Billy Eckstein, Barbra Streisand, Joe Williams, , Marlena Shaw and Sam Most. The bands he has performed in include those of , Ray Charles, Ted Weems and . While working with Buddy Rich and Sammy Davis Jr, he participated in the recording of their album The Sounds of ’66, recorded at the Sands Hotel. He also worked as a studio recording musician, crafting jingles and soundtracks for movies and industrial and animated film sound tracks. Additionally, he had his own vocal and instrumental traveling group for several years. Recently celebrating his 82nd birthday, he is happy to be alive, kicking and still performing with his Simply Bop Jazz Septet.

Curt Miller and “The Boneheads” will perform at the Annual Community Jazz Picnic in Winchester Park on October 1, 2017. Performance time is scheduled for 3:00 pm.

Curt Miller attended UNLV as a music major under the tutelage of Bill Booth, where he was part of the internationally recognized UNLV Jazz Ensemble.

In 1977, Curt was hired onto the Elvis Presley band for what ended up being Elvis’ final tour. He then joined the prestigious Lewis Elias Relief Orchestra as lead trombonist. By relieving Las Vegas’s house orchestras, a typical work week would have Curt playing at the Riviera, MGM Star Room (now Bally’s), MGM production show, New Frontier, Sands Copa Room and Desert Inn. With daily different shows and showrooms, Curt was able to play with literally every star that set foot on a Las Vegas Stage including Sinatra, Sammy, Dean, Natalie Cole, Mel Torme, Doc Severinson and hundreds of others.

He subsequently traveled with Ann Margret, and many others. In more recent years, he’s been devoting time to his jazz trombone group, “The Las Vegas Boneheads”, who’ve recently released their first CD: Attack of The Wind Driven Pitch Approximators. Add playing with big bands & jazz groups, studying composition and arranging to the mix, we see why he’s one of the top trombonists in Vegas.

The Boneheads, originally founded by Abe Nole in the early 1960’s, had six trombones and three rhythm players (piano, bass, and drums). The founding members were professional trombone players in the Las Vegas showrooms and consisted of Abe Nole, Charlie Loper, Archie LeCoque, Tommy Hodges, Pat Thompson and Bill Smiley. They rehearsed on the second floor of the old

6 Silver Slipper and occasionally at Abe’s home. By the early 1970s the group typically rehearsed backstage at the Frontier Hotel or the Village Pub and had changed personnel. Tenor trombones were Bill Booth, Jim Huntzinger, Ed Morgan and Carl Fontana. The bass trombones were Bill Rogers and Ralph Pressler. The musicians would work two shows per night, six or seven nights a week, then get together after hours for their own enjoyment. Collectively they would perform with every star on the strip, from Sinatra’s to Elvis and numerous production shows.

During the late 70s and early 80s members of the group included Curt Miller, Dick McGee, Bob Scann, Ron Sprouse, Jimmy Trimble, Marty Harrell, Dick “Stretch” McQuary, Dwight Davis and “Hoot” Peterson. “Stretch” arranged several Bob Brookmeyer compositions in the early 1970s that eventually became the foundation of the “new” Boneheads’ book.

The group and the book disappeared sometime in the mid-1980s and was not heard from again until 2011 when Curt Miller decided to reconstruct the nearly fifty-year-old ensemble. Such notable composers/arrangers as Gary Anderson, Jim Belk, Steve Flora, Nate Kimball, Curt Miller, and Barry Ross have contributed new charts to the book and updated the concept of the group.

The group has become known as the “ultimate trombone band.” Curt Miller is the leader and coordinator of the group, and the players that routinely play with today’s group are Matt Johnson, Nate Kimball, Nathan Tanouye, Sonny Hernandez, Ralph Pressler, and Andrew Boostrom. The rhythm section is comprised of Uli Geissendoerfer on piano, Steve Flora on bass and Larry Aberman on drums.

Julian Tanaka and the Julian Tanaka Octet will perform at the Annual Community Jazz Picnic in Winchester Park on October 1, 2017. Performance time is scheduled for 4:00 pm.

Julian Tanaka is an alumnus of the Las Vegas Academy of Performing and Visual Arts and UNLV. He completed his Bachelor of Music in Jazz Arranging in 2013. At UNLV, Julian studied clarinet with Marina Sturm and jazz arranging with Joe Lano. In 2016, under the tutelage of Bill Dobbins, he received his Master’s in Music in Jazz Writing from the Eastman School of Music. While there, he studied saxophone with Charles Pillow.

Julian is equally at home playing jazz, reggae, hip hop, R&B and rock. His musical endeavors have included an international tour of Broadway’s Come Fly Away and a residency with Boyz II Men at the Mirage. Additionally, he’s written several commissions of varying instrumentation for Las Vegas Academy and Penfield High School (New York).

Julian currently teaches jazz composition and jazz piano lessons and runs the Contemporary Jazz Ensemble at UNLV as an adjunct professor. He has recently joined the Nevada School of The Arts Jazz Studies Program faculty, teaching composition and mentoring young jazz musicians of pre-college level.

NEIL MAXA and the GROOVE BROS B-3 Quintet will be performing at the Annual Community Jazz Picnic in Winchester Park on October 1, 2017. Performance time is scheduled for 5:00 pm.

Neil Maxa moved to Las Vegas in 1988 to pursue post-graduate work in Jazz Studies at UNLV, as well as to gain performance experience. Since that time, he has been a fixture on the Las Vegas Jazz scene as well the .

A short list of those he has performed with include Carl Fontana, Snooky Young, , Cab Calloway, Tower of Power and Motown Greats: and . He currently performs on a regular basis with the Lon Bronson All Stars, Boys II Men and David Perrico's Pop Evolution. His new CD, VOILA will be released at the October 1st Jazz Picnic…check it out!

The Groove Brothers are an ensemble of local veteran jazz musicians. Originally formed in 2001 for a summer concert engagement at the Clark County Government Center Jazz series, the group featured a "three horn" sound which included sax great Joe Romano. After Joe’s passing, the group decided that his unique saxophone sound was irreplaceable and decided to just use two horns and further augment with other instrumentation.

2017 MEMBERSHIP

Barbara & Douglas Bell Melvin Sparks, Jr Muldoon Jam, Inc. (Jimmy Mulidore) Wendy Cushing James Spencer Antonio Pereira Derrick & Anita Darden Douglas Swayzene Marc & Patty Solis Ron & Judy Jetter-Girard Anthony (Tony) Taravella Diana Maloney ARTIST Carmelita Means Stephen Fansler DONATIONS Arthur Reinhardt Rita Lim Marc & Patty Solis

Please note: the membership lists included in each issue of JazzNotes! are memberships that have been processed since the printing of the last issue, not the entire Membership. If you feel your name has been omitted, please contact the Ed tor and the matter will be investigated. Thank you SO MUCH for supporting LIVE JAZZ! 7 GRACE KELLY FOURPLAY BRUCE HARPER BIG BAND WITH ELISA FIORILLO Trying to Figure it Out Tour SEPT 22-23 SEPT 8-9 Singin’...Swingin’...September! SEPT 28

BETTYE LAVETTE OMAR SOSA JIMMY HOPPER SEPT 29-30 OCT 13-14 Sings Broadway, Big Band and Opera NOV 1

ON SALE NOW | VISIT THESMITHCENTER.COM TO SEE THE FULL LINEUP 702.749.2000 | TTY: 800.326.6868 or dial 711 | Group Inquiries: 702.749.2348 | 361 Symphony Park Avenue, Las Vegas, NV 89106 REVIEWS/COMMENTS

BILL KING HONORS CHET BAKER July 16, 2017 – The Bootlegger Bistro contributed by Judy Jetter-Girard

You missed an amazing afternoon if you skipped Bill King's tribute to Chet Baker at the Bootlegger Bistro on July 16th. King's trumpet and flugelhorn, combined with his laid-back vocals, embodied Baker's musical soul.

Fully understanding the depth of King's performance requires a bit of understanding of Baker's career. Baker helped define the unique, West Coast, "cool school of jazz” of the 50s. He has been described by jazz historian, Dave Gelly, as a mix of James Dean, Frank Sinatra and Bix (Beiderbecke). His ballads, featuring soft, whispery and pretty sexy sounding vocals contrasted with hard driving bebop instrumentals. In 1954 both Down Beat and Metronome reader polls named Baker winner in two categories, beating out, among others, Miles Davis on trumpet and on vocals. Picture by Susan McKinney

King, born in Fort Hood, TX in 1958, majored in music, focusing on Jazz Education. Influences, other than Baker, include Clifford Brown's and 's brass styling, and Mel Torme's melodic vocals. Prizing technique, originality and emotional content in the work of other musicians, King, on this occasion, chose as sidemen Peruvian born Cocho Arbe for his lovely and often surprising keyboard styling, and bassist, Chris Gordan, master of distilling the essence of the tune-foregoing extraneous notes. Of course, Ryan Rose laid down his usual strong and always tasteful drum accompaniment. It was clear from the first tune that the ensemble was well versed in the subtleties of Baker's "less is more" philosophical school of jazz performance.

The afternoon began with the title tune to Baker's biographical film, Let’s Get Lost, and morphed into such favorites as “Born to be Blue,” “All the Things You Are,” “Line for Picture by Susan McKinney Lyons” and “Bernie's Tune,” to name just a few. The juxtaposition of “The Thrill is Gone” and “My Funny Valentine” was an unexpected treat. To enjoy a taste of what you may have missed at King's LVJS Bootlegger Bistro venue, you can still catch him occasionally on Monday afternoons from 4-6:45 pm at the E-String Bar and Pizzeria. Check online at lvjs.org or the JazzNotes Calendar.

CARL SAUNDERS’ 75TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION August 6, 2017 – The Bootlegger Bistro contributed by Judy Jetter-Girard

Carl Saunders, celebrating a slightly belated 75th birthday at the LVJS Sunday Jazz at the Bootlegger Bistro concert on August 6th, more than lived up to the high standards set by past performances. His artistry on trumpet, flugelhorn and occasional vocals was augmented by Terry Ryan's considerable skills on the piano, Ken Seiffert's bass expertise and the always popular and talented drummer, Santo Savino.

Saunders' uncompromising musical standards of performance stand in sharp contrast to his easy going, between tunes repartee, together with quirky personal stories and observations. His edgy sense of humor, added another dimension to his performance, while allowing him a brief respite from his signature, impossibly long and complex instrumental phrases. When asked about this style of playing Saunders explained that he has excellent breath control, so long phrases present no problem. "People ask me if I use circular breathing techniques. I tell them I breath like a Republican and play like a Democrat. Meaning I conserve my air and play a liberal amount of notes. I've never liked the Miles Davis minimalist style. I believe jazz Picture by Susan McKinney musicians should show off their chops.”

Raised in a musical environment, Saunders spent the first five years of his life on the road with his mother, Gail, Bobby Sherwood’s sister, who sang with the Sherwood Orchestra.

When the group broke up, the two moved to LA to live with Gail's sister, Caroline, and her husband, tenor saxophonist who, with his Dave Pell Octet, was instrumental in developing the "West Coast” sound. As a child, Saunders was exposed to Ravel and Rachmaninoff as well as jazz and the popular standards of the day. "I was always around and listening to good music played by good musicians."

9 Part of his schooling was at Las Vegas' Fifth Street School, then Rancho High School. While in junior high school he was assigned to band and given a trumpet. Thus, began a trend that has persisted to this day. "I never had a normal day gig in my life.”

While in high school Carl was drawn to the music of . “Stan came to the Riviera Hotel lounge and we would go down there every night and listen to the band. We would puff on cigarettes to try to make the security guards think we were older.” He was 18 when he joined Kenton’s band. His mother had been the first singer with the band when Stan started it in Balboa, California. Since she knew Stan, she talked him into giving Carl an audition, Stan offered him either the 1st opening in the trumpet section or he could leave the next week with the band playing mellophonium. “What’s a kid to do?” So, a young Carl left that next week, his 1st professional musical experience as a mellophonium player with the renowned Stan Kenton’ Orchestra. The mellophonium, described by Carl as "a poor man's French horn,” were added to the band because Stan wanted the richness of the French horn sound in his dynamic brass section but couldn’t find any French horn players that could swing, so he found four trumpet players that couldn't swing to play the mellophonium.

Possessing natural talent, Saunders was mainly self-taught. A little-known fact is that a youthful Saunders once played piano in a busy Las Vegas casino showroom for the dinner music before the show and gigged one year as a drummer with his uncle, Bobby Sherwood's lounge group. He honed his trumpet chops during his year on the road with Sherwood. He says that was the only time that he really practiced a lot of trumpet. Playing two shows a night six nights a week in Vegas didn’t allow any time to practice. “We needed to rest our chops during the day, so a lot of us played golf.”

Much of Saunders' spare time is still spent on the golf course. "I like a challenge and golf appeals to me because of the diversity of the challenges. Baseball diamonds, football fields and basketball courts all look the same no matter where in the world they are. But golf courses are all different. It’s a Picture by Susan McKinney challenge to take a small ball, drive it 200 or so yards and hit a target that is 3 inches around."

His career has allowed him to work with many famous artists including Buddy Rich, Frank Sinatra, , Mel Torme, Tony Bennett, , Maynard Ferguson, , Charlie Barnet, , , Bob Florence, Johnny Mandel, John Williams and Horace Silver as well as many others.

His skill as a composer of more than 300 original tunes is finally being shown to the public through a series of CDs on Summit Records titled New Jazz Standards. Volume 1 features the phenomenal Sam Most. Volume 2 features Scott Whitfield, whom Saunders believes to be the greatest jazz trombonist of all time. Pianist Roger Kellaway is featured on Volume 3 and guitarist, Larry Koonse, is featured on Volume 4.

Saunders spiritual side can be summed up in two thoughts articulated at the end of our interview. “I was talking with an astrologer and I told him that for astrology to have any validity, every time you reincarnate you have to be the same sign. The astrologer said, ‘no, you can reincarnate into another sign, we’re here on the earth to learn and evolve.’ I said, wait a minute, I’m already a Leo where am I going to evolve to?”

His comments on the purpose of life: "I've thought a lot about it. I used to believe that life's purpose was to experience joy, but I eventually figured out that we're here to cause joy." Saunders fulfills that purpose every time he performs.

COMMUNITY OPINION A few years ago I gave a class and someone asked the question: CAN JAZZ BE SAVED?

TODAY my answer would be YES. Jazz is once again preserved and appreciated here in Las Vegas thanks in part to the cooperative efforts of the world- renowned award winning Jazz Studies program at UNLV, the Las Vegas Jazz Society and the world class jazz performances brought to our city through appearances at the Smith Center Cabaret Jazz Room.

Let me cite just two examples of the many performances/performers that the CABARET JAZZ ROOM has offered for our listening pleasure:

In May I was fortunate to attend a concert featuring the Christian McBride trio at the Cabaret Room. With Christian on bass, Ulysses Owens, guitar and Christian Sands on piano, their brilliant sounds and reminded me of the original Ahmad Jamal trio whom I had heard many times in Chicago. Ahmad Jamal made a significant impact on the jazz idiom and has served as a model for other artists, among them Miles Davis who loved Jamal's complex use of space and simple embellishments.

Another great concert at the Cabaret Room on June16th featuring Diane Schuur with fellow two-time Grammy winner, saxophonist Ernie Watts. This fantastic songbird on piano with her multi-vocal range captured the audience from the first note to the very last one of the concert. Ms. Schuur took old standards and rearranged them to sound fresh and brand new and her band pushed her over the edge. She loved it as much as we did…a great evening and a great show.

We can only say MANY THANKS for keeping our National Treasure ALIVE!

10 Contributed by Chuck “Mr. C” Carter SPOTLIGHT: NEXT GENERATION

WHY JAZZ? An interview with

Angelo Stokes

Among the students who have come out of the UNLV Jazz JS: You have had the privilege of working with some program, ANGELO STOKES’ deep knowledge of drums internationally respected musicians. Are there any that have stands out. Angelo’s music career has had him performing left a lasting impression on you and how you approach with names such as Aretha Franklin, Bo Diddley and Stevie music? Wonder. Additionally, he has contributed to UNLV’s Jazz AS: The most important lesson I have learned from the program most notably with the Downbeat Award winning majority of the cats I’ve played with is that it’s not about you, Latin Jazz Ensemble. He performs regularly at the it’s about the music. You don’t have to play a solo on every Dispensary Lounge with the Uli Geissendoerfer trio. song, you don’t have to play a million choruses either, you let the music dictate what it needs. We are just the conduit. Jazz Society (JS): Mr. Stokes, you have an exceptionally mature sound as a Jazz drummer. What was your earliest JS: You have worked extensively with Uli Geissendoerfer, experience with Jazz, why did it stand out to you, and what and have been the house drummer at the Dispensary made you decide to study it? In other words, why Jazz? Lounge for three years. How has this helped your musical development? Angelo Stokes (AS): Well, first thing first. I am not a jazz drummer. I am a drummer! I say that because when I am AS: It has help immensely. For example, if there is a playing other forms of Black music with is its roots in Africa, particular drum fill that I have been trying to practice for a am I then a Funk drummer, a Rock drummer, and so forth? while, I can actually work it out there on the gig within the music. I can’t necessarily do that on a corporate pop gig. So JS: What made you choose drums as your instrument? being able to play that weekly gig allows me to stay fresh on my instrument! AS: I chose drums because of how it can move people. If you ever watch people in any spiritual setting it’s the rhythm JS: What do you think are the best ways to get young that takes them to a trance-like state. people interested in Jazz?

JS: You are originally from Detroit. Can you give some AS: Tell them the TRUTH!! Stop watering down the music! background as to how you ended up in Vegas? Explain that this music was born out of a cathartic situation! You can’t play a blues if you never had the blues. Respect AS: I actually had no idea that I was moving to Vegas, it was the history of it. life itself, being life, that allowed me to come here. JS: Do you have any advice for young Jazz players, JS: How has your music education helped your career? drummers or otherwise?

AS: Well, the education has taught me I must unlearn all the AS: Learn to play the melody to all the heads (tunes, you things I learned in school. I say that because this music isn’t know) on the kit. like classical music. This is music that was born in the slums and ghettos of America. So yes, knowing the music theory JS: Can you speak about some of your latest projects, and and what scale to play over what chord is important, but it what LVJS Jazz fans should keep an eye/ear out for? isn’t the end all. AS: Yes, the Uli Geissendoerfer Trio has a new record coming out soon, so keep an eye out for it! 11 COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

12 CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR ELECTION TO LVJS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Elections for the Las Vegas Jazz Society Board of Directors are rapidly approaching. The present Board consists of the following seven members: Judy Tarte, Rick Vittallo, James Corwin, Adam Schroeder, Chuck Carter, Jonathan Karrant and Maggie Mancuso (currently on a leave of absence. Shawn Whitmer has been appointed as an alternate to complete her term).

Each year, approximately half the board members are elected to two-year terms, beginning on the 1st of January following their election. This year, three of the seven board positions are up for election, four members have another year remaining. Continuing members are James Corwin, Adam Schroeder, Chuck Carter and Jonathan Karrant.

Following is a form that may be used by current LVJS members to nominate a member in good standing for election to the Board. Completed nomination forms will be reviewed by the LVJS Governance Committee to assure that all criteria are met. A slate of eligible candidates will then be presented for election at the annual membership meeting on December 3, 2017. The top three vote-getters from the slate will be elected to the Board.

To submit your candidate choice, please mail or e-mail the completed nomination form to LVJS (addresses below and on form) or submit the form in person to any Board member listed above. In accordance with LVJS Bylaws Article II, Section 4, nominations must be submitted or postmarked no later than November 12, 2017, three weeks prior to this year’s annual membership meeting. This will allow time for the Governance Committee to determine eligibility of the nominees and to prepare the election ballot. NOTE: There will be no write-in nominations or nominations from the floor at the annual meeting.

In considering your nominations, please be aware of the following:

 Nominations must be submitted no later than November 12, 2017.  Elections will be held at annual membership meeting on December 3, 2017.  Present Board members may be nominated for re-election  Candidates must have been members in good standing since at least January 1, 2017.  Each nominee must approve of his/her nomination.  Each nominee must understand and agree to assume the duties and responsibilities of a Board member as stated in LVJS Bylaws, Article II, Section 3, as Amended (Digital copy available upon request):

‘The Board is responsible for setting the vision and goals of the organization, approving strategies and appointing standing committees in accordance with the current business plan of the Society.’

In addition, each nominee should…

✓ have knowledge and understanding of the Society’s mission ✓ be willing to make decisions based on what’s best for the Society as a whole. ✓ have demonstrated his/her commitment to the Society through participation in Society operations, committees, events and other activities. ✓ be able to adapt his/her schedule and time commitments for attendance at Society events and meetings. ✓ have the desire and ability to follow through on commitments

 LVJS officers, President, Vice-President, Secretary, Treasurer, are elected by the newly-constituted board from among its members. For 2018, a President and Vice-President must be elected. The Secretary and Treasurer will continue in their offices for the remainder of their terms.

Please use the nomination form on pg. 14 and submit in any of the listed ways.

13

Jazz Happens Here! Support Live Jazz!

Board Member Nomination Form

Candidate Information

Name ______Phone number ______E-mail address ______Work phone number ______Employment/Position ______Education ______

Previous experience (if any) with (name or org) ______

Please circle any of the following skills or experience that the candidate possesses.

Finance, accounting Management, administration Grant writing Nonprofit experience Fundraising and special events Teaching experience, curriculum development Public relations, communications Contacts, networking Other ______Other ______

Affiliations or organizations the candidate belongs to (e.g., membership, professional, civic). ______

------Submitted by By checking I certify that…

 the nominee and I are both members in good standing of the Las Vegas Jazz Society since January 2017

 the nominee has been contacted and consented to this nomination

 the nominee understands the duties and responsibilities of a board member as stated in the LVJS Bylaws, Article II, Section 3

 the nominee has the desire, ability and reputation for following through on commitments

Name______Date ______

Phone ______E-mail ______

Please submit to LVJS no later than November 12, 2017 in any of the following ways:

USPS MAIL: President, Las Vegas Jazz Society, P.O. Box 60396, Las Vegas, NV 89160

E-MAIL: [email protected] or [email protected] (Scan completed form and attach to email)

IN PERSON: Give to any member of the LVJS Board of Directors

14 Thank you for your nomination STAY CONNECTED: When you change your address, name, or email, please let us know. (702) 313-6778, message line; [email protected], email; or mail the info to us. TICKET POLICY: Members will be asked to show their membership cards when purchasing tickets. Membership dues entitle members to concert ticket discounts, an electronic version of JazzNotes!, and a bi-monthly mailed version of JazzNotes!. Additionally, your memberships and donations support the following outstanding jazz functions: Printing/mailing of JazzNotes!; jazz education programs; community jazz events; maintenance to the website; Vegas Jazz Radio; partnerships with UNLV, CSN, and Clark County School District. Please consider a tax deductible donation or sponsorship to help us continue these outstanding programs. Las Vegas Jazz Society Member information Policy: All information is confidential, and will never be shared with other organizations or individuals. N O T E S The official publication of the lvjs.org Las Vegas Jazz Society and Las Vegas Jazz Scene. P.O. Box 60396  Las Vegas  NV  89160 Message Line: (702) 313-6778

LAS VEGAS SOCIETY J a z z H a p p e n s H e r e ! S u p p o r t L i v e J a z z !

2017 Membership Application

1 Listing of jazz related events in the JAZZNOTES bimonthly magazine 2 Listing of jazz related events on the lvjs.org website calendar of events 3 Assistance in publicizing Artist member events and information via social media and emails to membership 4 Listing in LVJS Artist Member directory

For information on opportunities for sponsoring events and/or specific activities, email LVJS Marketing at [email protected] Volunteers wanted for assistance at LVJS events. Please contact LVJS Events at [email protected]

Revised 08/2017 A 501(c)(3) NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION EIN # 88-0281671