JAM Magazine: February/March 1999 Issue: News and Notes

Claude, Chuck & DB
The world's youngest 90 year old (91 on Feb. 22) jazz violinist continues to enjoy well deserved press. And this time Claude "Fiddler" Williams will be written up -- in Down Beat, no less -- by Chuck Haddix, Friday-Saturday KCUR radio host and Director of the Marr Sound Archives at UMKC. Look for the feature in the new DB sometime in February. And speaking of "Fiddler," NPR's "Jazz Profiles" will re-run its "Tribute to Claude Williams" in the month of February. KCUR is planning to air the show on Thursday, February 25 at 8:00 p.m.

Paseo, Duke & D.C.
The Paseo Academy Winter Jazz Concert will be held on Thursday, February 4, in the Recital Hall at the academy, 4747 Flora. Both of the school's big bands will back guest saxophonist Ahmad Alaadeen, and Paseo's Ensemble I will perform two of Alaadeen's compositions, "Big Six" and "Peace in the Neighborhood." An admission price of two dollars will be charged with proceeds helping to send Ensemble I to Washington D.C. this spring. The group, directed by Clarence Smith, has been invited to participate in the Duke Ellington 100th birthday celebration there and, as we go to press, we've learned that Chief's football star Pellom McDaniels has donated $1000 for the band's trip. A most excellent kickoff, indeed. Showtime on the 4th is 7:00 p.m.

A Jazzy Benefit for a Worthy Cause
The Doug Talley Quartet will perform on Friday, February 5, at Valley View United Methodist Church, 8412 E. 95th in a benefit concert for "re-Start," an organization that provides services for homeless men, women and children in the Kansas City area. Talley is a well-known jazz saxophonist in KC jazz circles and always has a top-notch rhythm section backing him on a wide variety of standards and originals. Tickets for this benefit are available through the Valley View Church office which, like the church itself, is located one block east of 95th and Antioch. Call 642-4400 for more.

Jazz at UMKC...
With a new director of jazz studies on the staff in saxophonist Hal Melia, the University of Missouri/Kansas City continues to offer solid jazz programming as a part of its Conservatory of Music concert calendar. On Sunday, February 7, 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., the 22nd annual George Salisbury Cabaret Concert will take place at Pierson Auditorium and will feature such area jazz musicians as Rich Hill, Milt Abel, Frank Smith, Joe Cartwright, the Scamps, Ahmad Alaadeen and Melia's UMKC Jazz Ensemble. This concert will serve as a kick off for Black History Month and, as always, its proceeds will benefit the Conservatory's Salisbury Memorial Scholarship Fund named after the acclaimed jazz pianist and educator.

Also, on Sunday, February 14, the UMKC faculty Kansas City Jazztet will offer a special "Valentine's Day Program" at Pierson starting at 2:00 p.m. (One guess what tune will be on that show...) The Jazztet consists of Hal Melia (woodwinds), Stan Kessler (trumpet), John Leisenring (trombone), guest artist Frank Mantooth (piano), Bob Bowman (bass) and Tommy Ruskin (drums).

And on March 5-6 the Conservatory will present its annual District Jazz Band and Jazz Festival Concerts in White Recital Hall. Both performances begin at 7:30 p.m, and the one on the 6th will feature guest artists Gary Foster (woodwinds) and Steve Rochinski (guitar).

Like to know more about reservations for these events? Call the Central Ticket Office at 235-2700.

...And at K-State
In addition to UMKC, there are several area colleges and universities with active jazz programs. Kansas State University in Manhattan is also gearing up for its annual festival, this year on Saturday, February 13. Guests artists scheduled to perform are vocalists Kevin Mahogany and Carmen Bradford and New York's acclaimed Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. For more information, call K-State's music department at 913-532-5740.

More Hot KCJW Sounds for '99...
If you haven't already, be sure to pencil in the remaining three '98-99 Kansas City Jazz Workshop concerts in that new 1999 calendar you just bought. They are:

Monday, February 8 -- Phil Wilson (trombone) and Jimmy Seeley (trumpet) backed by Paul Smith (piano), Danny Embrey (guitar), Bob Bowman (bass) and Tommy Ruskin (drums).
Tuesday, March 16 -- The Ted Rosenthal Trio featuring Rosenthal on piano.
Sunday, April 25 -- A 100th Birthday Salute to Duke Ellington featuring the Kerry Strayer Orchestra with vocalists David Basse and Pat Wilson.

The Phil Wilson and Ted Rosenthal shows begin at 7:00 p.m., with Wilson in the 12th Street Rag Room of the Downtown Marriott, Rosenthal in the hotel's Basie Ballroom. The Ellington salute begins at 1:00 p.m. and will be also in the Marriott's Basie Ballroom. For tickets and additional information, call 436-0318 or 737-3627.

...And More Cool Jams at the Gem
The newly renovated Gem Theater at 18th & Vine continues to be an excellent venue for the showcasing of special jazz events. So far in '98-99, the "Jammin' at the Gem" series has presented The Jazz Messengers: The Legacy of Art Blakey, the Sun Ra Arkestra, a tribute to the late Betty Carter, and an appearance by drummer/bandleader T.S. Monk. Next up is an evening with The Heath Brothers, one of the true family dynasties in all of jazz. Catch Percy, Jimmy and Tootie in concert at the Gem on Saturday, April 17, at 8:00 p.m. For tickets, call the Gem at 842-1414; for more info about this and other happenings on The Vine, dial 474-VINE.

Fat Tuesday!
On Tuesday, February 16, 8:00 p.m. to midnight, the Kansas City Blues Society will presents its 8th Annual Mardi Gras Blues Club Crawl with 15 bands performing in 15 different clubs. Much like the Jazz Lover's Pub Crawl (sm), busses will run continuously between the venues to give revelers a chance to sample the music while getting around safely. The complete night of entertainment, which includes transportation, is $10 per person in advance, $12 at the door. Proceeds from the Club Crawl help to fund the many activities of the Kansas City Blues Society including the "Blues in the Schools" program, the Mayfield Towns Committee (which acquires musical instruments for local school children), the Blue Sheet Project (which books local bands for civic and corporate functions), and various grants and gifts to area musicians. Last year's Club Crawl was so successful that the society was able to present the First Annual Blues Acoustic Showcase in the fall.

Like the Jazz Ambassadors, the Blues Society is a not-for-profit organization and is always looking for volunteers to help with events. Call 432-5227 if you'd like to sign up.

In Person
On Thursday, March 4, Bravo Arts & Entertainment Cable Network and Borders Books & Music are inviting the Kansas City jazz community to meet legendary jazz performer, Little Jimmy Scott. Scott's haunting voice has electrified audiences the world over for the past four decades and in recent years he has enjoyed an overdue comeback of sorts. In honor of Black History Month, Bravo will also air a special entitled "The Life and Times of Little Jimmy Scott" on February 22 as part of Jazz Masters Week. The singer will be appearing at the Borders outlet at 119th and Metcalf on the 4th at 7:30 p.m.

Another Worthy (and Jazzy) Cause
On Sunday, March 14, more than 40 Kansas City jazz artists will jam at the second annual "Jazz Outreach, A Benefit for Swope Parkway Health Center." Organist extraordinaire Everette DeVan will return as the event's talent coordinator. "Jazz Outreach is a fundraiser whose proceeds help to assist the center's Outreach Department, which provides services to the homeless and HIV patients," says Dr. Leslie E. Becker, honorary chair of the event. Dr. Becker is also a member of the Swope Parkway Health Foundation Board of Directors and one of the jazz community's best friends and boosters. "This year Jazz Outreach '99 will raise additional funds for the important work we do," Les says, "and it's probably the best lineup of Kansas City jazz for your dollar." The benefit will take place at the Beaumont Club, 4050 Pennsylvania in Westport's Manor Square. Tickets are $25 per person, $60 for VIPs (which includes a buffet and souvenir cap). Like to know more? Call the Swope Parkway Health Center at 922-7606.

Jazz Ambassadors Wanted for 1999-2000
Kansas City has had good luck with the cultural exchange programs conducted under the auspices of the Kennedy Center and the U.S. Information Agency. Singers Lisa Henry and Angela Hagenbach and pianist Joe Cartwright have all taken the sounds of America's classical music to far off lands with positive results. Now the search is on for some new "Jazz Ambassadors" for 1999-2000. The emphasis this time is on trios -- ten will be chosen -- and each member of prospective threesomes must submit a separate application no later than March 1, 1999. Auditions will be held in April and May. If you'd like to learn more about this opportunity, contact Kevin Struthers, Kennedy Center Jazz, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20566-0001, or call 202-416-8824. His email address is: struthers@mail.kennedy-center.org

Topeka Jazz Fest '99
Topeka Jazz Festival 1999 is fast approaching. Scheduled for Memorial Day weekend of '99 -- May 29-31 -- the event will include, among others, Monty Alexander, John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, Bill Watrous, Bobby Shew, Bob Kindred and Trudy Desmond. As was the case with the successful inaugural event in '98, there will also be a healthy contingent of Kansas City-based jazz musicians. Look for continuing coverage in this publication, and for additional information about tickets, call either 785-234-2787 or 785-267-1315.

Got News? Got Notes? Please send to: Editor/JAM, P.O. Box 36181, Kansas City, MO 64171-6181. Deadline for all submissions is the 15th of each odd numbered month.

RETURN TO FEBRUARY/MARCH 1999 MAIN INDEX

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© Kansas City Jazz Ambassadors 1996-2001. All rights reserved.






	Search our site:		Claude, Chuck & DB The world's youngest 90 year old (91 on Feb. 22) jazz violinist continues to enjoy well deserved press. And this time Claude "Fiddler" Williams will be written up -- in Down Beat, no less -- by Chuck Haddix, Friday-Saturday KCUR radio host and Director of the Marr Sound Archives at UMKC. Look for the feature in the new DB sometime in February. And speaking of "Fiddler," NPR's "Jazz Profiles" will re-run its "Tribute to Claude Williams" in the month of February. KCUR is planning to air the show on Thursday, February 25 at 8:00 p.m. Paseo, Duke & D.C. The Paseo Academy Winter Jazz Concert will be held on Thursday, February 4, in the Recital Hall at the academy, 4747 Flora. Both of the school's big bands will back guest saxophonist Ahmad Alaadeen, and Paseo's Ensemble I will perform two of Alaadeen's compositions, "Big Six" and "Peace in the Neighborhood." An admission price of two dollars will be charged with proceeds helping to send Ensemble I to Washington D.C. this spring. The group, directed by Clarence Smith, has been invited to participate in the Duke Ellington 100th birthday celebration there and, as we go to press, we've learned that Chief's football star Pellom McDaniels has donated $1000 for the band's trip. A most excellent kickoff, indeed. Showtime on the 4th is 7:00 p.m. A Jazzy Benefit for a Worthy Cause The Doug Talley Quartet will perform on Friday, February 5, at Valley View United Methodist Church, 8412 E. 95th in a benefit concert for "re-Start," an organization that provides services for homeless men, women and children in the Kansas City area. Talley is a well-known jazz saxophonist in KC jazz circles and always has a top-notch rhythm section backing him on a wide variety of standards and originals. Tickets for this benefit are available through the Valley View Church office which, like the church itself, is located one block east of 95th and Antioch. Call 642-4400 for more. Jazz at UMKC... With a new director of jazz studies on the staff in saxophonist Hal Melia, the University of Missouri/Kansas City continues to offer solid jazz programming as a part of its Conservatory of Music concert calendar. On Sunday, February 7, 2:00 to 6:00 p.m., the 22nd annual George Salisbury Cabaret Concert will take place at Pierson Auditorium and will feature such area jazz musicians as Rich Hill, Milt Abel, Frank Smith, Joe Cartwright, the Scamps, Ahmad Alaadeen and Melia's UMKC Jazz Ensemble. This concert will serve as a kick off for Black History Month and, as always, its proceeds will benefit the Conservatory's Salisbury Memorial Scholarship Fund named after the acclaimed jazz pianist and educator. Also, on Sunday, February 14, the UMKC faculty Kansas City Jazztet will offer a special "Valentine's Day Program" at Pierson starting at 2:00 p.m. (One guess what tune will be on that show...) The Jazztet consists of Hal Melia (woodwinds), Stan Kessler (trumpet), John Leisenring (trombone), guest artist Frank Mantooth (piano), Bob Bowman (bass) and Tommy Ruskin (drums). And on March 5-6 the Conservatory will present its annual District Jazz Band and Jazz Festival Concerts in White Recital Hall. Both performances begin at 7:30 p.m, and the one on the 6th will feature guest artists Gary Foster (woodwinds) and Steve Rochinski (guitar). Like to know more about reservations for these events? Call the Central Ticket Office at 235-2700. ...And at K-State In addition to UMKC, there are several area colleges and universities with active jazz programs. Kansas State University in Manhattan is also gearing up for its annual festival, this year on Saturday, February 13. Guests artists scheduled to perform are vocalists Kevin Mahogany and Carmen Bradford and New York's acclaimed Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. For more information, call K-State's music department at 913-532-5740. More Hot KCJW Sounds for '99... If you haven't already, be sure to pencil in the remaining three '98-99 Kansas City Jazz Workshop concerts in that new 1999 calendar you just bought. They are: Monday, February 8 -- Phil Wilson (trombone) and Jimmy Seeley (trumpet) backed by Paul Smith (piano), Danny Embrey (guitar), Bob Bowman (bass) and Tommy Ruskin (drums). Tuesday, March 16 -- The Ted Rosenthal Trio featuring Rosenthal on piano. Sunday, April 25 -- A 100th Birthday Salute to Duke Ellington featuring the Kerry Strayer Orchestra with vocalists David Basse and Pat Wilson. The Phil Wilson and Ted Rosenthal shows begin at 7:00 p.m., with Wilson in the 12th Street Rag Room of the Downtown Marriott, Rosenthal in the hotel's Basie Ballroom. The Ellington salute begins at 1:00 p.m. and will be also in the Marriott's Basie Ballroom. For tickets and additional information, call 436-0318 or 737-3627. ...And More Cool Jams at the Gem The newly renovated Gem Theater at 18th & Vine continues to be an excellent venue for the showcasing of special jazz events. So far in '98-99, the "Jammin' at the Gem" series has presented The Jazz Messengers: The Legacy of Art Blakey, the Sun Ra Arkestra, a tribute to the late Betty Carter, and an appearance by drummer/bandleader T.S. Monk. Next up is an evening with The Heath Brothers, one of the true family dynasties in all of jazz. Catch Percy, Jimmy and Tootie in concert at the Gem on Saturday, April 17, at 8:00 p.m. For tickets, call the Gem at 842-1414; for more info about this and other happenings on The Vine, dial 474-VINE. Fat Tuesday! On Tuesday, February 16, 8:00 p.m. to midnight, the Kansas City Blues Society will presents its 8th Annual Mardi Gras Blues Club Crawl with 15 bands performing in 15 different clubs. Much like the Jazz Lover's Pub Crawl (sm), busses will run continuously between the venues to give revelers a chance to sample the music while getting around safely. The complete night of entertainment, which includes transportation, is $10 per person in advance, $12 at the door. Proceeds from the Club Crawl help to fund the many activities of the Kansas City Blues Society including the "Blues in the Schools" program, the Mayfield Towns Committee (which acquires musical instruments for local school children), the Blue Sheet Project (which books local bands for civic and corporate functions), and various grants and gifts to area musicians. Last year's Club Crawl was so successful that the society was able to present the First Annual Blues Acoustic Showcase in the fall. Like the Jazz Ambassadors, the Blues Society is a not-for-profit organization and is always looking for volunteers to help with events. Call 432-5227 if you'd like to sign up. In Person On Thursday, March 4, Bravo Arts & Entertainment Cable Network and Borders Books & Music are inviting the Kansas City jazz community to meet legendary jazz performer, Little Jimmy Scott. Scott's haunting voice has electrified audiences the world over for the past four decades and in recent years he has enjoyed an overdue comeback of sorts. In honor of Black History Month, Bravo will also air a special entitled "The Life and Times of Little Jimmy Scott" on February 22 as part of Jazz Masters Week. The singer will be appearing at the Borders outlet at 119th and Metcalf on the 4th at 7:30 p.m. Another Worthy (and Jazzy) Cause On Sunday, March 14, more than 40 Kansas City jazz artists will jam at the second annual "Jazz Outreach, A Benefit for Swope Parkway Health Center." Organist extraordinaire Everette DeVan will return as the event's talent coordinator. "Jazz Outreach is a fundraiser whose proceeds help to assist the center's Outreach Department, which provides services to the homeless and HIV patients," says Dr. Leslie E. Becker, honorary chair of the event. Dr. Becker is also a member of the Swope Parkway Health Foundation Board of Directors and one of the jazz community's best friends and boosters. "This year Jazz Outreach '99 will raise additional funds for the important work we do," Les says, "and it's probably the best lineup of Kansas City jazz for your dollar." The benefit will take place at the Beaumont Club, 4050 Pennsylvania in Westport's Manor Square. Tickets are $25 per person, $60 for VIPs (which includes a buffet and souvenir cap). Like to know more? Call the Swope Parkway Health Center at 922-7606. Jazz Ambassadors Wanted for 1999-2000 Kansas City has had good luck with the cultural exchange programs conducted under the auspices of the Kennedy Center and the U.S. Information Agency. Singers Lisa Henry and Angela Hagenbach and pianist Joe Cartwright have all taken the sounds of America's classical music to far off lands with positive results. Now the search is on for some new "Jazz Ambassadors" for 1999-2000. The emphasis this time is on trios -- ten will be chosen -- and each member of prospective threesomes must submit a separate application no later than March 1, 1999. Auditions will be held in April and May. If you'd like to learn more about this opportunity, contact Kevin Struthers, Kennedy Center Jazz, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20566-0001, or call 202-416-8824. His email address is: struthers@mail.kennedy-center.org Topeka Jazz Fest '99 Topeka Jazz Festival 1999 is fast approaching. Scheduled for Memorial Day weekend of '99 -- May 29-31 -- the event will include, among others, Monty Alexander, John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton, Ed Bickert, Rob McConnell, Bill Watrous, Bobby Shew, Bob Kindred and Trudy Desmond. As was the case with the successful inaugural event in '98, there will also be a healthy contingent of Kansas City-based jazz musicians. Look for continuing coverage in this publication, and for additional information about tickets, call either 785-234-2787 or 785-267-1315. Got News? Got Notes? Please send to: Editor/JAM, P.O. Box 36181, Kansas City, MO 64171-6181. Deadline for all submissions is the 15th of each odd numbered month. RETURN TO FEBRUARY/MARCH 1999 MAIN INDEX ------------------------------------------------- © Kansas City Jazz Ambassadors 1996-2001. All rights reserved.