VOL 19 ISSUE 6 NOVEMBER-DECEMBER 2010T h e n e w s l e t t e r o f V e g a s J a z z • J a z z H a p p e n s H e r e !

A Unique Presentation of

Gershwin Music

Sunday • November 21 • 2:00 p.m.

A Not to be MissedMusical Experience!

Details- page 3

Vegas Jazz proudly supports and invites you to attend

JOIN OUR JINGLE BELL JAMBe sure to mark Sunday, December 5 from 1 to 5 for our

HOLIDAY MEMBERSHIP PARTYA great way to kick off the season!

Bring your horn and join in. Keyboard, drums, bass and sound system provided by Vegas JazzFood, soda, and wine available for a nominal fee (while it lasts!)

Location: Studio Instrument Rentals, Inc (SIR) • 4760 Polaris From West Tropicana turn North on Polaris, SIR is on east side of Polaris -1 block up

Please note: the Joe Lano “Fiery Strings” concert scheduled for November 7 has been postponed

VEGAS JAZZ

PRESIDENT Frank Leone

V. PRESIDENT Carolyn Freeman

TREASURER Joyce Devers

SECRETARY Samantha Bagley

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

J. J. Brennan Rocky Gordon Soeren Johnson Kim Linzy Dave Loeb Marty Mahoney Katrina Sumner Judy Tarte

ADVISORS

Pat Anderson Manny Gomez Daniel Teich Mimi Williams

JAZZ NOTES! Is published bi-monthly by VegasJazz, a 501© nonprofit corporation. Subscribe by membership at: vegasjazz.org or by emailing: info@vegasjazz.org Send newsletter emails to Editor@vegasjazz.org or AdMgr@vegasjazz.org Deadline for publication is 1st of the month prior to issue date. SEND MAIL TO: JAZZ NOTES!, Editor, P. O. Box 60396, Las Vegas, NV 89160

EDITOR Judy Tarte

CONTRIBUTORS Walt Boenig Susan Cowen Wayne Echt Travis Lohmann David Viger

PHOTOGRAPHY Paul “Spyder” Evans

MEMBERSHIP Anna Lea

DESIGN Julee Flicker

VEGAS JAZZ MSG. LINE (702) 313-6778

WEBSITE vegasjazz.org

FROM YOUR PRESIDENT FRANK LEONE

VOL 19 ISSUE 6 NOV-DEC 2010

2 President’s Column

3 Meet the Artists

4-6 Reviews

7 Meet the Board / In Memoriam

8 Chicago Jazz

9 Meet the Sponsor

10-11 Happenings / Announcements In a continued effort to streamline Vegas Jazz, we have decided to make a changeover in billing of membership dues. Our present fiscal year practice whereby annual memberships can come due in each and any month, will be supplanted by that of a calendar year

system in which everybody’s membership expires December 31st, and comes due January 1st. This will make us more efficient in several ways; such as maintaining records, making work less time consuming for our Registrar of Members (whose service is volunteered), and give us a clear idea at the beginning of the year—as to just how much capital we’ll have with which to work. The last item will ease the planning of concerts and allow your board to plan with a whole year or more in mind. We beg your cooperation during this transition, which will start with the memberships of October, November, and December of this year (2010).First, let me state that no existing members will be paying any more than usual based on

their membership level. Each level will for simplicity’s sake, be pro-rated to the nearest 50¢ of the dollar according to the month of membership expiration. For example: An individual Ella Member at $25.00, annually coming due this October will be asked to pay $31.00; $6.00 for the last three months of the year pro-rated (25 ÷ 12=$2.08; then X 3 (months) = $6.24, rounded out to the nearest 50¢ of the dollar =$6.00. The October member will then receive a membership card bearing an expiration date of December 31, 2011, three months plus a full year.This math will be done similarly for November and December expirees; January members

will automatically be paid through December 31st, February through September, 2011 expirees will be pro-rated at percentages of their annual membership level, e.g., 11/12ths (February); 10/12ths (March), etc., through September. Expiring memberships in 2011 will not be obliged to pay 2012—until January of 2012. This makes it absolutely fair and equitable for all of our existing memberships. As to new members or members rejoining after being dropped for lack of maintaining

membership, they will pay based on a newly devised special pro-rated quarterly schedule, and pay according to which quarter of the year in which they join. This will keep our accounting and record keeping simple. The method is fair and equitable; furthermore, it is the fiscal practice of other social organizations of many types and varieties.I hope I have succeeded in making everything clear. The end result will be greater efficiency

and ease, and the enhancing of our ability to plan events and services for members. Fiscal tracking and maintenance of membership is awkward and time consuming. It’s time we bridged this gap!

Bridging the Gap!

2 I JAZZ NOTES! Nov-Dec 2010

Vegas Jazz is very appreciative of all who have contributed or participated in our organization, but unfortunately, cannot continue to mail complimentary copies of Jazz Notes! to non-members after December 31, 2010.

Please, if you’ve been receiving a complimentary copy of the newsletter as our thanks for your past support, help us today by joining as members, and continue to receive Jazz Notes!, THE jazz newsletter in Las Vegas. Joining is easy, either do it by filling out a membership application on-line at vegasjazz.org

and using PayPal, or mail in a check to Vegas Jazz, P.O. Box 60396, Las Vegas, NV 89160. Membership rates are listed on the back of the Jazz Notes! Newsletter.

Nov-Dec 2010 JAZZ NOTES! I 3

MEET THE ARTISTS

A special treat is in store for you when the Arnold Shaw Popular Music Research Center and Peacock Entertainment present Nathan Tanouye and the Las Vegas Jazz Connection featuring Bobby Shew, Otto Ehling and the new Vegas Tenors in a special program of music by George Gershwin at the

Judy Bayley Theatre at UNLV.In 1965 Shelly Manne commissioned John Williams to arrange a Gershwin medley for his quintet plus big

band. Flip Manne, his widow, has generously given the use of this work for this program entitled: “Manne, that’s Gershwin.”Harvey Siders, contributing editor for Downbeat Magazine describes this presentation…”well-known standards…long neglected

tunes…classical excerpts. This is the cross section that puts Gershwin in the best possible focus for a whole new generation of music lovers. All that can be said about such a venture has already been coined: “Manne, that’s Gershwin…!”

Highlighting the afternoon will be special appearances by:Legendary trumpet and flugelhorn player Bobby Shew

Bobby Shew began playing the trumpet at age ten and spent most of his teen years playing at dances, jazz coffee houses, concerts and in dinner clubs. He was introduced to jazz at the age of 12 via records by jazz greats such as Paul Desmond, Stan Getz and others. This introduction has led not only to an illustrious career but also to a passion for old records which continues today, resulting in a collection of over 14,000 LP’s. After spending three years as the jazz trumpet soloist in the NORAD band he joined the Tommy

Dorsey Orchestra and from there went on to play with Woody Herman, Maynard Ferguson, Benny Goodman, Buddy Rich and many other jazz greats. He has performed all around the world and was, for years, a mainstay in the Las Vegas music scene where he was widely known for his strong lead

playing. In the early 70s he moved to LA and back into the jazz scene. While in LA he played with such jazz notables as Art Pepper, Bud Shank, Horace Silver and in various big bands such as Bill Holman, Louie Bellson, Toshiko Akiyoshi-Lew Tabackin, Bill Berry and Bob Florence. He also began recording many of his own albums. One of these Outstanding In His Field was nominated for a Grammy in 1980, while his Heavy Company was awarded the Jazz Album of the Year in 1983.Today, in addition to his performances, he spends much of his time conducting clinics and master classes at high schools and college

campuses all over the world. Reflecting on his contributions to the history and future of jazz he states: “It’s natural for me to play jazz, it’s where I belong. It’s

what’s kept me alive to this very day.”

Otto Ehling: UNLV’s prize winning pianist will be playing Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Bue”with accompaniment arranged by Nathan Tanouye

Otto started piano at age two and began giving recitals at four. At 8 years of age, he was a soloist at the Ford Theater for the Brazilian Summer Festival and praised by the Los Angeles Times. At 10 he was selected city wide to play Beethoven at the Greek Theater, “Youth at the Greek.” In addition to having won several prestigious piano competitions, he was the youngest student ever awarded an elementary school piano scholarship (he was 6 at the time.) Raised as a Brasilian-American, he was introduced to Bossa-Nova and samba at a very

young age. The Joe Williams Every Day foundation provided him opportunities to discover the modern jazz idiom. He currently attends UNLV, enjoys performing both classical and jazz music as well as composing modern jazz style tunes.

Gershwin

Bobby Shew

Otto Ehling

Mark your calendars for Sunday, November 21 at 2:00 p.m.MANNE THAT’S GERSHWIN

continued next page...

REVIEWS

4 I JAZZ NOTES! Nov-Dec 2010

“In their fourth straight return to St.Louis, vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Don Cunningham and his lovely vocalist/pianist spouse Alicia surely outdid themselves. The music blend, personalities, visual images, and the addition of a big band were all superb components of a spectacular whole…”“With remarkable energy and spontaneity, this 79 year-old constantly

engaged the adoring crowd and his gifted sidekick mirrored his ebullience, always holding her own while complementing his brilliance-with her soft glowing smile and pristine vocal colors…”“St. Louis’ “Jazz Edge” band, under the direction of 88 year-old trombonist

and former St. Louisan Jimmy Wilkins, came out for the second half. They were welcome allies as they jumped into Ellington’s “Cotton Tail” and a swinger called “Right On, Right On…”“Throughout the evening, Don delighted the attendees with anecdotes and

reflections-at one point, giving them a brief, light-hearted parody of Michael Jackson (and his moves.)…other highlights were…Don and Alicia scattin’

and Jimmy Wilkins being cajoled by Don to offer short trombone riffs and some Clark Terry-style mumblin…”“The finale was a rousing “Flyin’

Home” as the stage lit up with all the musicians in a version that rivaled the familiar Lionel Hampton, Teddy Wilson, Illinois Jacquet rendition. The fans naturally wanted more, but at over three hours, the concert provided more than their money’s worth-in full blown invention and excitement.”

Don & Alicia Cunningham with special guest Jimmy Wilkinswin “Kudos” for their “homecoming” concert in St. Louis

Excerpts from Roscoe Crensham’s review of September 2010 • Photos by Paul “Spyder” Evans

Alicia and Don Cunningham

The New Vegas Tenors who will bring their unique vocal styling and energyto classic Gershwin tunes: TREVOR, JO’EL, ROBIN & SAM

Trevor Otsuka: born in Las Vegas and member of multiple choirs, toured Europe in a choir of sixty students; loves to sing and perform; played the role of Linus in the musical “You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown” as well as the role of Benny Southstreet in “Guys & Dolls.”Jo’El Hawkins: Sings high and low tenor; plays keyboard and sings in his church choir; sings tunes of Marvin Gaye, Donnie

Hathaway and Lionel Richie; has performed at the Palms Hotel & Casino.Robin Panganiban: Comes from a musical family; sings classical and opera; dances, composes, writes and reads music; plays piano

and cello.Samuel Kamano: Enjoys singing Hip Hop, classic R&B and reggae music; was inspired at an early age by artists such as Steve

Wonder, The Temptations and Marvin Gaye; was born and raised in Hawaii and exposed to various types of music: classic R&B being his all time favorite.

Jimmy Wilkins

Nov-Dec 2010 JAZZ NOTES! I 5continued next page...

UNLV Liberace Quartet September 8 • Clark County Flamingo Library • Review by David Viger

The Liberace Museum may be closing down soon, but the beat still goes on! Where, you might ask? At Wednesday night’s performance at the packed, acoustically near perfect, Flamingo Library’s indoor amphitheater.How? In the hearts and souls, instruments, and talents that go forth from the esteemed benefactors of Liberace’s generous largess,

UNLV’s Liberace Quartet; through the premier recipients of the Liberace Scholarship, UNLV’s finest assemblage of four select musicians-Otto Ehling, piano; Julian Tanaka, tenor sax; Paul Ringenbach, drums and Scott Teeple, bass. These Liberace Scholars are not ordinary in any respect, as witnessed by their marvelous performance, fine selection of tunes, creativity,

exquisite voicings, and impeccable rhythmic form. These are one in a million, maybe in a billion, young college musicians. Otto, Julian, and Paul have been awarded outstanding performers, individually and collectively, in the past year at such distinguished events as the Monterey Jazz Festival, the Reno Jazz Festival and from recordings that they participated in where UNLV’s jazz performers were listed in the prestigious Downbeat Magazine as the best in the world! Scott Teeple, a former Liberace Scholar with Julian, Paul, and Otto, has returned to UNLV as a graduating senior, after playing in a number of venues on the Strip. Many jazz programs such as Julliard, USC, Northridge, Eastman, Berkeley, Manhattan, North Texas, or the New School feature some

extraordinary phenom on one instrument or the other. Rarely, if ever, do any of these schools feature an entire quartet of the universe’s best! Otto, Julian, Paul, Scott all live up to that standard, in spades (strictly Vegas terminology)! They are truly the brightest stars in the constellation!Otto Ehling a UNLV graduate in TWO majors, Classical Piano performance AND Jazz Performance, is now a Graduate Assistant and Masters

Candidate in Jazz Performance at UNLV. Julian, Paul, and Scott are soon to be graduating seniors. I defy any scholastic program to find their match at the piano; tenor, alto, soprano and clarinet; drums or bass! It’s a special alignment of the stars that few student bodies, jazz programs, or universities ever experience or enjoy. I can only wish the year was longer, that we could go see them play every day, and that each of their performances were at least 24-hours long! That is what you walked away with if you were one of the lucky few to be in attendance at the Flamingo Library! Keep an eye out for their

next performance, be there, and don’t miss one second!

A Tribute to RememberSeptember 22 • UNLV Ham Hall • Review by Travis Lohmann

On Wednesday, September 22, 2010, some six hundred people flocked to UNLV’s Artemus Ham Hall to attend a concert. Granted, Ham Hall can hold more than six hundred people, but this was a concert of UNLV’s own. The theme was: “A Tribute to Rob McConnell,” a Canadian trombonist, jazz educator, composer/arranger and leader of the Boss Brass, known as one of the top jazz ensembles in

Canada. UNLV’s high-octane Jazz Ensemble I played McConnell’s arrangements with vigor and seamless energy. They were joined by the Las Vegas Academy Jazz III and gave a spectacular concert of big band jazz.LVA’S Jazz III took the stage first, under the direction of Mr. Pat Bowen. Their set list consisted of charts such as “Dark Blue” (featuring duo

guitar solos), the funky “Jackhammer” and concluding the set list with “Little Bro’s Blues.” For a high school, these students played extremely well and their rhythm section kept the groove together while never losing time. Standout solos were presented by the guitarists and the trumpet solo on “Little Bro’s Blues.” It was extremely refreshing to hear a high school band cover so much ground in terms of stylistic genre. From funk, to fusion, to blues, LVA’s Jazz III had just enough material to fill anyone’s musical appetite.After a brief ten minute intermission, UNLV’s Jazz Ensemble I took the stage to begin the main event of the evening. Directed by David Loeb

and Nathan Tanoyue, UNLV’s Jazz Ensemble I has recently been put on the map as one of the top graduate schools for jazz. This past spring DownBeat magazine officially gave UNLV a “Best Graduate College Large Ensemble Outstanding Performance” award. There were only six schools out of the U.S. which were originally contenders, including: USC, University of Miami, and University of North Texas. “Our gifted students never cease to amaze me with their dedication and commitment to musical excellence and I am honored to have the opportunity to work with them,” Loeb said. This concert surely showed musical excellence. Starting off the set was a wonderful arrangement of “You Stepped out a Dream” showcasing the arranging talent of UNLV’s own Julian

Tanaka. With a nice groove and extremely lush, colorful arrangement, this tune was a great opener. The next tune was a composition by Rob McConnell titled: “Winter in Winnepeg.” This tune featured a wonderfully melodic piano solo by Otto Ehling, as well as an alto solo by Keaton Martin. The tune reminded me a lot of Vince Guaraldi’s “Skating” from the classic Charlie Brown series. To change things up a bit, the next selection presented was a waltz. “Waltz I Blew For You” was a wonderful composition, which featured Joel Gibson on trumpet and a wonderful tenor solo by Nick Tulli. A delightful selection to the program was the Gershwin classic, “I’ve Got Rhythm.” Rob McConnell did this arrangement and the chart was

absolutely swinging. In addition to tight harmonies between the trumpets and bones, “I’ve Got Rhythm” featured a blazing, frenetic solo by

6 I JAZZ NOTES! Nov-Dec 2010

W here are the songs, where is the music? Sunday 10/03/2010 they were at the Whitney Library Theater featuring Ginger and Scott singing and playing great tunes. With the help of a stellar rhythm section, Dave Loeb (piano),

Derek Jones (bass), John Abraham (drums) and with some fine sax and flute playing from Gary Anderson, a wonderful time was had by all who attended.The first I ever heard of Scott Whitfield was from Carl Fontana at the old musicians’

union building on Tropicana. Carl said he had just returned from Orlando, FL where he had been doing a recording with a new up and coming trombone player. Carl said you will be hearing about him very soon…and I have been hearing about him ever since.The concert featured Scott and his wife Ginger singing great duets on great tunes from song writers such as Steve Allen, Jimmy Van

Heusen-Sammy Cahn, Frank Loesser, Irving Berlin plus many more. Very impressive, too, was the writing of Ginger Berglund-Scott Whitfield. One of these tunes was “Pardon Me While I Fall in Love,” which was followed by “Whatever Happened to Romance” by Steve Allen and then a Scott Whitfield tune “I’m a Romantic Sap.” Scott. on trombone, as well as the rhythm section and Gary on sax, all did some wonderful solo work. It was a very enjoyable

afternoon of songs and music.

“Blue in Green…Pianist Otto Ehling and saxophonist Julian Tanaka-in the spotlight as very fine players, composers and arrangers-were members of the quartet during all three academics years. The bass and drums shifted among new personnel over the years…In each edition, the band is tight and the music is superb. On Ehling’s solo version of “Monk’s Dream,” the pianist digs deep to add a lot of his own Monkish nuances and touches. Tanaka and Ehling are featured on the saxophonist’s lively arrangement of “Footprints.” There are also beautiful interpretations of the Miles Davis and Bill Evans title track, Joe Henderson’s “Inner Urge” and Evans’ “Re: Person I Knew,” an anagrammed tribute to Orrin Keepnews. Tanaka’s arrangement of “The Days of Wine and Roses” is an interesting reinvention in which his tenor strays quickly from the baseline melody and takes on an angular, biting solo. Standout compositions include Ehling’s breezy “Aquilea,” meditative “Florentine” and conversationlike burner “Disagreements.” Tanaka’s “Cliff Commander” and Jeff Davis’ ballad “My Dog Sam.” There is much more to savor here from musicians headed, with great diligence, to the pros. The City features recordings of the UNLV’ Jazz Ensemble I, as configured in years 2007 through 2010 as well as three tracks by last year’s UNLV Contemporary Jazz Ensemble. Not surprising given their versatility and talent, the bands include the personnel featured in UNLV’s Liberace Scholarship Quartet. Clearly, inspired and talented students are busy students. “…All of the bands feature fine section work as well as strong soloists…”

Ginger Berglund & Scott Whitfield

Ginger Berglund & Scott Whitfield“Lucky To Be Us” concert

October 3 • Whitney Library Theater • Review by Walt Boenig

Excerpts from JazzTimes Reviews of:

UNLV’S Liberace Scholarship Jazz Quartet 2007-2010 Blue in Green (TMC)UNLV Jazz Ensemble I 2007-2010 & Contemporary Jazz Ensemble 2009-2010 The City (TMC)

Julian Tanaka, as well as a sax soli. This chart was a wonderful way to add variety to the already diverse set list, and show off the band’s ability to play great jazz standards. The evening concluded with two contrasting pieces: “The Four Millionth Blues” by Rob McConnell conducted by Nathan Tanoyue featured

exquisite call and response segments from the trombones and trumpets. The final selection of the evening was standard “Just Friends.” This tune was a delightful, bright closer with lush harmonies provided by the horns and even featured an uncharacteristic trombone soli. Former LVA student and UNLV grad Nate Kimball provided an edgy, no-holds-barred bebop solo on the trombone and obviously pleased the audience. In the end, there was no question why UNLV’s Jazz Ensemble I had received the recent accolades and recognition from DownBeat magazine.

With chops to burn, a balanced and colorful distribution of sound, as well as talented students doubling as arrangers and composers, UNLV has it all. This concert certainly proved Jazz Ensemble I deserved every bit of recognition it had won.

Current SECRETARY of Vegas Jazz, Samantha Badgley, was born in southern Michigan. Throughout her school years, while attending Ann Arbor High School, the University of Michigan and Eastern Michigan University, she also worked for an interior design firm in Ann Arbor. She had worked

for interior design firms in Denver, San Francisco and Portland prior to establishing her own design firm here in Las Vegas in the fall of 1969. Subsequently she formed a partnership with another local designer and this partnership of over 35 years continues today, designing and furnishing businesses and residences throughout Nevada and other areas in the U.S.

Originally a Music Major in college, she has always been very supportive of all music endeavors but most especially of JAZZ. Her marriage 29 years ago to renowned bassist, Bob Badgley (one of the original supporters of the Las Vegas Jazz Society and close friend to our founder, Monk Montgomery) involved her more closely into the jazz world. She has worked diligently for the Society over the years and we thank her for her continued support!

Samantha BadgleyPhoto by

Paul “Spyder” Evans

Introducing…Vegas Jazz Board Member:

Samantha Badgley

Nov-Dec 2010 JAZZ NOTES! I 7

William Marcel “Buddy” Collette Designated in 1998 as “A Living L.A. Cultural Treasure,” Buddy Collette died September 19 at age 89. Collette was a Grammy nominated jazz saxophonist, flautist, bandleader and educator. He was the first African American to appear in a television studio orchestra and active in integrating L.A. studio musicians. He helped merge the black and white musicians’ unions in L.A. in 1953, and served as a mentor to many African American musicians. He was active in preserving and promoting L.A. jazz history, urging the development of the UCLA Oral History project, “Central Avenue Sounds” and in co-founding JazzAmerica, a nonprofit organization working to provide education to gifted high school musicians.

LaVerne Christie Vegas Jazz member LaVerne Christie, guitarist based in Las Vegas, passed away peacefully in her sleep on September 24. Originally from Buffalo, New York, LaVerne attended Jazz School at Berkeley. Her Las Vegas jazz trio played at many venues around the city and their CD East of the Sun, West of the Moon, received critical acclaim and heavy airplay across the US and Canada.

Kenny Greig A memorial in celebration of Kenny Greig, who passed away March 6, was hosted by his daughter Stephanie on October 3 at the Italian American club. Kenny was a 44 year resident of Las Vegas and was widely admired for his talent as a bassist and for his musical knowledge. He had worked with such jazz greats as Joe Venuti, Red Norvo and Bob Florence. For years, every Friday morning, Kenny had a jam at his home with his dear friends. Regulars Ronnie Simone, Howie Agster, Dick Jones, Tom McDermott, Dick Geuder

and others who came by to join in, with what Kenny whimsically called: “The Church of the Living Swing.”

Buddy Morrow 91 year old trombonist and band leader BUDDY MORROW died September 27, four days after leading the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra and playing a trombone solo of his famous “Night Train” which had sold more than a million copies for him in 1954. While in his teens Morrow moved to New York from his home in New Haven, Ct. and began playing with established musicians such as Harry James, Buddy Rich and Jimmy Dorsey. He formed the Buddy Morrow Orchestra in 1947 and after its breakup in 1968 he played with various well known bands until becoming conductor of the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra in 1977. As conductor of the “ONE

AND ONLY TOMMY DORSEY ORCHESTRA,” he insisted that the band retain the authentic sound and style and high level of expertise of the late Tommy Dorsey. Buddy was presented with a lifetime achievement award in 2008 by the International Tromborne Association in recognition of his musicianship and contributions to the world of music.

In MemoriamWe pause to remember those we’ve recenty lost from our Jazz World…

8 I JAZZ NOTES! Nov-Dec 2010

V egas Jazz is pleased to announce that we’ve been awarded a Better Education Through the Arts (BETA) grant from the Nevada Arts Council. This grant is to fund a pilot program, in partnership with the Clark County School District, to introduce Jazz to elementary school students.

Basic concepts of this art form such as the “roots” of Jazz, its history, the elements, traditional instrumentation and various styles will be presented by the Jazz Out the Box trio. This trio, consisting of Eric Schauer, Julian Tanaka and Nick Schmitt has developed a unique program called “Adventures in Jazz Land” for the students. These presentations will begin in October and we hope they will become part of an ongoing educational program to excite and educate a new audience for our valuable American art form.

Vegas Jazz Receives Grant

Nick Schmitt, bass; Eric Schauer, drums; Julian Tanaka, clarinet

CHICAGO JAZZ HISTORY By Wayne Echt

As all jazz historians and lovers of jazz know, the earliest American forms of our beloved music began in New Orleans most notably in the section of Storyville. Jazz did not actually begin in Storyville. It played in hothouses, bars and places of ill repute all over the city and flourished there until 1917, when it was

ordered shut down by the federal government for being a “bad influence” during World War I.As a result of Storyville’s closure most musicians began an exodus from the South and migrated North to the Midwest and found a home in

Chicago. Jazz came straight to Chicago’s 12th Street station via the Illinois Central Railroad. Part of a mass movement of African Americans from South to North, this came to be called “The Great Migration.” Jazz musicians came North for the same reasons that other people did, failing crops and discrimination in the South. WWI produced a demand for workers in Chicago factory jobs, paying decent money and holding out the hope of a better life up North. The earliest known club was The Pekin Club at 27th and State. It thrived between 1910 and 1920 and featured Shelton Brooks, Joe “King”

Oliver, Sidney Bechet and Jelly Roll Morton. Other flourishing joints were the Elite Club, the Grand Theater and the Lincoln Theater, all located on State Street between 31st and 32nd Streets (exact addresses not included).Louis Armstrong blew onto the jazz scene in Chicago around 1922 with his Hot Five and Hot Seven. At this time, Chicago was becoming

the center of the jazz universe and Armstrong lived extravagantly and enjoyed renowned success there. Later he joined Fletcher Henderson’s band in New York and would commute back and forth between New York and Chicago. He settled in New York in 1929 but not before making several recordings in Chicago. This marked the transition of New Orleans jazz to a more sophisticated type of improvisational music. From 1930 on, Chicago boomed with jazz. More and more clubs were opening and the migration continued. Many artists, though, hailed

from Chicago and had grown up there. Benny Goodman and Gene Krupa were the best known musicians who were born and raised there. Other jazz musicians from or closely associated with the Windy City are Herbie Hancock, Ramsey Lewis, Eddie Harris, Dinah Washington and Jack DeJohnette.Jazz was not the only form of great music during the period of 1920-1950 and beyond. Blues was its sister and the two genres became

synonymous with each other pretty much all over the country. Chicago, as well as “The Great Migration” from the South influenced many blues artists, particularly McKinley Morganfield, aka Muddy Waters, Howlin’ Wolf, Willie Dixon and guitar players such as Tampa Red, Buddy Guy, Bo Diddley and Elmore James.Chicago continues as one of the top jazz and blues cities in the world. For the last 25 years it has hosted the largest free jazz festival in the

country every Labor Day weekend. This festival, sponsored by the City of Chicago and the Chicago Jazz Society, is held in Grant Park near Lake Michigan and the Loop. If you visit Chicago you can check out these clubs: Andy’s, 11 E. Hubbard; The Green Mill, 4800 N. Broadway (Kurt Elling started there);

The Jazz Showcase, 806 N. Plymouth Ct.; The Velvet Lounge, 67 E. Cermak; Pete Miller’s Steakhouse, 1557 Sherman, Evanston. For more info visit: jazzchicago.net Next time, Let’s go to a JAZZ FESTIVAL! Find out where the world’s best are, along with complete details of costs and locations for

2011.

Nov-Dec 2010 JAZZ NOTES! I 9

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Cruise Holidays of Summerlin is a full-service travel agency. We are one of the oldest networks of cruise and travel specialists with over 25 years of experience and more than 200 locations in the United States and Canada. Cruise Holidays has a list of over 100 Festivals and Cruises, so give them a call to discuss your travel needs.In the quest to bring the best of all travel services, Cruise Holidays of Summerlin has launched a program called Jazz and Beyond under the

direction of Betty Brewer. Jazz and Beyond tours are custom-designed with a mix of Traveling, Sightseeing, Cultural Encounters and best of all, Jazz Cruises and Festivals. Think of it as Live Music and Living Live. Call Betty at 370-2608 for more information.

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Spring Transatlantic--with Bermuda and Europe Ft. Lauderdale to Barcelona April 12-April 28, 2011 Balcony rooms at $2126.11 per person -less expensive rooms available or treat yourself to a suite for not much more. Deposit due by November 10, 2010, pay in full by January 10, 2011. *Book and receive a complimentary Specialty Restaurant dinner for 2.

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YOU DO THE DREAMING–WE MAKE IT HAPPEN!Be sure to meet Betty at the October 17th concert “Bone Up” at the Whitney Library Theater. She looks forward to meeting you.

8447 West Lake Blvd., Las Vegas, NV 89128 • summerlin.cruiseholidays.com • (702) 982-0268

2011 Jazz CruisesHolland America Cruise lines, Round trip Ft.Lauderdale, 7-nights Caribbean Cruise, Nassua, San Juan, St. Maarten, Half Moon Cay January 16-23, 2011 Smooth Jazz Cruise SOLD OUT!!!January 23-30, 2011 Smooth Jazz Cruise 3-4 cabins still available, Deluxe Verandahs, First Come First Serve basis–cannot guarantee availability, call Cruise Holidays of Summerlin to ask. January 30-February 6, 2011 Straight Ahead Jazz Cruise–Ocean View & Deluxe Verandahs still available, grab one while possibly still available. Ocean View Cabins–$2350.00 up to $2370.00 per person, double occupancy. Balcony Cabins–$$2525 up to $2600.00 per person, double occupancy

*Prices include all government taxes and fees and for the cruise only. Does NOT include air fare, hotel stays or travel insurance. *Not many rooms left, please call Cruise Holidays of Summerlin for prices and availability.

2012 Jazz Cruises (groups now being put together with Vegas Jazz members). Holland America Cruise Lines, 7-night Caribbean Cruises, Round Trip Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Nassau, St. THomas, St. Barths, half Moon Cay Holland America Westerdam January 15-22, 2012 Smooth Jazz Cruise–65-70% full already January 22-29, 2012 Smooth Jazz Cruise–65-70%full alreadyJanuary 29-February 5, 2012 Straight Ahead Jazz Cruise–still in the process of being planned Not Jazz, but of interest: a cruise of 50’s-60’s music–Malt Shop Cruise November 2011, 4-ngihts, Round Trip Tampa, FL.

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UNLV HAPPENINGSContemporary Jazz Ensemble, Jazz Guitar Ensemble

Wednesday, November 10, Flamingo Library Theater, 7:00pmJazz Ensemble I and Jazz Faculty perform with Bobby Shew

Thursday, November 18, Judy Bayley Theater, 7:30pmJazz Ensemble II and Jazz Ensemble III perform with Bobby Shew

Friday, November 19, Judy Bayley Theater, 7:30pmUNLV Jazz Combos

Wednesday, December 8, Flamingo Library Theater, 7:00pm

Please, be sure to check out our brand new CD’s!! Available for purchase at our concerts!

CSN HAPPENINGSVOCAL JAZZ SOLO NIGHTS • Friday & Saturday • November 12 & 13

The College of Southern Nevada Jazz Singers showcase their talents on Nov. 12 and Nov. 13 at 7:30 p.m., in the Recital Hall at the Cheyenne Campus, 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave., North Las Vegas. In addition ensemble selections, each individual will perform a solo, ranging from jazz standards to Broadway.

JAZZ COMBOS & JAZZ SINGERS • Sunday • December 5 The College of Southern Nevada’s music program features its student jazz combos and the talented CSN Jazz Singers in an afternoon complete with jazz standards and contemporary works on Dec. 5 at 2 p.m. in the Nicholas J. Horn Theatre at the Cheyenne Campus, 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave., North Las Vegas.

BIG BANDS • Wednesday • December 8 The College of Southern Nevada’s dynamic big bands, directed by Walter Blanton and Matt Taylor, present the best in contemporary jazz band literature on Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Nicholas J. Horn Theatre at the Cheyenne Campus, 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave. North Las Vegas.

College of Southern Nevada • Performing Arts Center • 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave. • North Las Vegas, NV 89030Ticket prices: $8 adults; $5 students/seniors • For reservations, call 651-LIVE(5488). csn.edu/pac

Join KUNV at: kunv.unlv.edu; or call 895-0061

Nov-Dec 2010 JAZZ NOTES! I 11

BIRDJerry S Rowland & Edwin Boyer

DUKEChris Giunchigliani & Gary Gray

SATCHMOCarolyn Freeman

ARTISTEmanuel SchmidtLaura Taylor & David Mulkey, M.D.Bob Rozario

ELLA-INDIVIDUALJoshua AshleyWilliam C. BrandtCharles CarpenterWarren CobbJoyce DeversKen EastmanWayne EchtBill EulerMike EvansSandra GreeneBob Huntly

Chris MelitoFred MillerKris Russell/RosolowskiBob ScannMidgene SpatzPatrick ThompsonPhyllis TribbyRandy Winslow

MILES-FAMILYArthur & Kjestine CareyKendall Hardin & Hans WallbroLoren & Christy Little

MEMBERS LIST New & Renewing Members August & September 2010

Howard & Lynda JenkinsJohn & Mariam LindnerRocky & Sherry GordonBob SenteneriTom & Rose JohnsonRichard Hanke & Mary MaassenMaryann Overcamp-MartiniBill & Hazel O’BrienMitchell Hirschman & Shelly TaylorRobert Reese

MONK-STUDENTStewart Shane

Artists MembershipArtists who pay membership dues at the $50 or above membership level receive a listing of their jazz-related gigs on the VegasJazz web site, vegasjazz.org, in the monthly Events calendar as well as a photo, short description, and link to their web site on the Artists page.

ARTISTIC EXPRESSION: Although Vegas Jazz informs those whom we feature that the core of our membership are mainstream jazz lovers, we in no way wish to curtail artistic expression, freedom, and experimentation. Therefore, we beg your indulgence, cooperation, and support on the rare occasions that artists present more adventurous or even experimental music.

Time on your hands? Looking to get involved?Have we got a deal for you…

Vegas Jazz is looking for a few good people to assist on various projects, specially in the areas of HOSPITALITY and PUBLICITY

Interested? Please e-mail Judy Tarte at: jtarte@gmail.com

If you would be interested in advertising in JAZZ NOTES!

Please contact Mimi Williams:AdMgr@vegasjazz.org

Winchester Cultural Center EventsMoksha • Friday • November 19 • 8 p.m.

The Las Vegas funk rock band with Sam Lemos, voice; Jeremy Parks, guitar; Brian Triola, keyboards, John Heishman, bass; Patrick Gray, drums; plus special guest saxophonist Marc Solis, takes a break from touring the West for an appearance in its home town. This is the third concert in the Young Originals series. Addmission $10.

3130 S. McLeod • (702) 455-7340 • Center Hours • Tuesday - Friday, 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; Closed Sundays & Mondays

Ira Aldridge Theatre Company PresentsDuke Ellingon Meets Count Basie • Sunday • November 28 • 2 to 3:30 p.m. • Clark County Flamingo Library Theater

The Ira Aldridge Theatre Company kicks-off its 2010-2011 season with a musical tribute to the Big Band Era featuring the talents of the Jimmy Wilkins New Life Orchestra. Also featured will be the Westside Las Vegas Performing Ensemble, the tap dancing of Lindell Blake and the voices of the Soprano Sisters. Anthony “Sachmo” Brady, violinist Chase Nichter and vocalist Mortonette Stephens will also appear. Choreography is by Stephan Reynolds. Addmission Adults $10, Students $6.

1401 E. Flamingo Road, Las Vegas, 89119 • Email IraAldridgeTheatreCompany@yahoo.com or call (702) 516-4309 for ticketing information

Please help Vegas Jazz by subscribing to Jazz Notes! electronically. As a courtesy, Vegas Jazz has sent Jazz Notes! electronically to all members that have email addresses since the Jan-Feb issue of 2009. We can save money on printing and mailing if you choose to receive only an electronic copy of the newsletter. We are asking members to choose this option when this copy of the newsletter is sent to you by email. If you agree, please reply simply stating “Yes.” Otherwise, do nothing to continue receiving both versions. Other jazz societies charge extra to members who want a printed and mailed copy of their newsletter.

If you have an email, and you are not receiving concert updates and newsletters from us, then please send your email address to:info@vegasjazz.org so you receive Vegas Jazz news. Thank you.

The newsletter of Vegas Jazz

P.O. BOX 60396 • LAS VEGAS, NV • 89160VEGASJAZZ.ORG

MESSAGE LINE: 702.313.6778

Your membership dues entitle you to concert ticket discounts, and the bi-monthly mailing of Jazz Notes!. Additionally, your membership supports the following outstanding jazz functions: Printing/mailing of Jazz Notes!, 10 Student Scholarships to CSN Summer Jazz Camp; our new website; the Annual Black History Celebration; the Jazz in the Clubs Series; and partnerships with UNLV, CSN, the Joe Williams Foundation, the Junior League, and the Las Vegas Academy of the Performing Arts High School. Please consider increasing your membership level to help us continue these outstanding programs.Vegas Jazz Member Information Policy: All information is confidential, and will never be shared with other organizations or individuals.

STAY CONNECTED: When you change your address, name, or email, please let us know. 702.313.6778, message line; info@vegasjazz.org, email; or mail the info to us.

TICKET POLICY: Members will be asked to show their membership cards when purchasing tickets.

vegasjazz.org

JOIN VEGAS JAZZ • KEEP JAZZ ALIVE & THRIVING

12 I JAZZ NOTES! Nov-Dec 2010

__T. Monk $10-Student __Ella $25-Individual __Miles $35-Family__Artists $50 __Sachmo $100 __Duke $250__Coltrane $500 __Bird $1000 __Dizzy $1500-Corporate

Join Vegas JazzVegas Jazz, PO Box 60396, Las Vegas, NV 89160

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