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Happy Birthday Dizzie Gillespie

"In the naturally effervescent Mr. Gillespie, opposites existed. His playing — and he performed constantly until nearly the end of his life — was meteoric, full of virtuosic invention and deadly serious. But with his endlessly funny asides, his huge variety of facial expressions and his natural comic gifts, he was as much a pure entertainer as an accomplished artist." - Peter Watrous

"His playing showcases the importance of intelligence. His rhythmic sophistication was unequaled. He was a master of harmony — and fascinated with studying it. He took in all the music of his youth" Wynton Marsalis

Filed under  Jazz  

The New Jazz Artists

Well, maybe not new, exactly.  But, I am crazy about many of the standards singers who've started recording and performing during the last ten years.  If you get a chance to see them at a jazz club, take it.  You won't be sorry.

Steve Tyrell
Jane Monheit
Renee Olstead
Harry Connick Jr

And don't forget these fabulous older artists who are still performing.

Nancy Wilson
Herb Alpert
Dionne Warwick
Keely Smith

Filed under  Jazz  

Duke Ellington in Sacramento Come Sunday

During the last years of his life, Duke Ellington concentrated on writing and performing sacred music.  In 1967, he came to Sacramento to perform the Come Sunday suite. And last weekend, in tribute and honor, the Sacramento Master Singers  and friends performed it again.

Ain't but the one,
Just one,
Ain't but the one,
Just one,
Ain't but the one good lord above
Ain't but the one great God of love.

My friends, Julia Dollison http://juliadollison.com and Jacosa Limutau were soloists and sang beautifully.  Ardie Bryant, the 80+ year old "Ambassador of Dance" wowed with his performance of David Danced.  The house was packed for three shows.  Congrats to all on a wonderful show.

Filed under  Jazz  
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