VOL 20 ISSUE 2 MARCH-APRIL 2011T 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 !

THE CITY OF LAS VEGASOFFICE OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS PRESENTS

THE BRUBECK BROTHERS QUARTET

WITH SUPPORT FROM VEGAS JAZZ

Saturday • March 12 • 8:00 p.m.Historic Fifth Street School Auditorium

401 S. Fourth Street, downtown at Clark & Fourth

$10 advance / $15 performance dayBuy tickets online at

www.artslasvegas.org

For more information, please call (702) 229-3515Tickets Link: https://www.vendini.com/ticket-software.html?t=tix&e=c3b76fd1886091f8a9bc7dcd2914d3d7

Note: Parking is available in lot adjacent to the building and on surrounding streets

VEGAS JAZZ

PRESIDENT Frank Leone

V. PRESIDENT Carolyn Freeman

TREASURER Joyce Devers

SECRETARY Samantha Bagley

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

J. J. Brennan Kim Linzy Dave Loeb Marty Mahoney Katrina Sumner Judy Tarte Mimi Williams

ADVISORS

Manny Gomez Rocky Gordon Dave Rowell Daniel Teich

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 J.J. Brennan Wayne Echt Matt M Koerner David Mulkey, M.D.

PHOTOGRAPHY Paul “Spyder” Evans Samantha Badgley

MEMBERSHIP Anna Lea

DESIGN Julee Flicker

VEGAS JAZZ MSG. LINE (702) 313-6778

WEBSITE vegasjazz.org

FROM YOUR PRESIDENT FRANK LEONEVOL 20 ISSUE 2 MAR-APR 2011

2 President’s Column

3 Meet the Artists

5-7 Reviews

8 Meet the Board / In Memoriam

8 Jazz & the Media

9-11 Happenings / Announcements

I am so pleased to report that the Vegas Jazz presentation of Laura Taylor’s tribute to Johnny Mercer, “Have Mercer on Me,” Saturday, January 22, 2011, at Winchester Community Center, concert for our Annual Membership Meeting, was a spectacular success. It was virtually

a sellout, with close to 260 people in attendance, leaving only a few vacant seats. I wish to thank Laura and her sponsor, Eureka Casinos, and additionally, Laura’s other friends, who also generously added their support, thereby enabling us to present this event, which ended up in black chips, in contrast to the losses of previous concerts.In analyzing the reasons for this concert’s success I can cite several factors beginning with Laura’s

achieving sponsorship and also having a loyal and sizeable following. Next, was the choosing of a football safe day in January; the 22nd was the safest, plus—there were no other major competing musical events at the same hour. We also had wonderful cooperation and support from Winchester under its director, Patrick Gaffey. For many jazz fans, Winchester feels like home. Integral to this success I believe was the pricing of tickets at $12, GA, and $10, Members. Our board members worked very hard on an individual basis to promote the concert, and we also utilized new PR sources. At such pricing, 200 in attendance minimally, must always be achieved.Not to be overlooked is the obvious fact that this was to be the music of Johnny Mercer, his

well-known songs thereby putting our mainstream jazz fans immediately at ease, as opposed to suffering angst at the possibility of being presented stylistically strange and content unfamiliar. Finally, perhaps my article in our last issue helped enlighten, moving more to attend. The main thing is that all combined, it produced a happy ending, for which we are all grateful. We will move forward, but will keep all these factors in mind in planning our forthcoming events, lest we suffer the unacceptable consequences of last October’s two concerts. Support of your organization’s events is paramount, which leads to my next topic: the daytime

policy and format change of radio station KUNV, 91.5 FM. This is the sole jazz station in this locale. As a result of their Fall-Winter fund drive which greatly failed to achieve its goals, and whereby it was determined that only 1% of those listening contributed to the station, its daytime policy (except Fridays) is now that of Contemporary Rhythm “n” Blues, which sounds curiously akin to Smooth Jazz. The station claims it had no alternative less they suffer loss of Federal funding due to insufficient market share. KNPR, which carries classical music, long ago deduced that classical listeners far surpassed jazz listeners in station membership and contributions, as reflected by KNPR. Nevertheless, it’s important to continue your support, remembering that KUNV, 91.5 FM, still carries 12 hours of mainstream jazz nightlong from 7:00 pm to 7:00 am, kicking off with the special programming (Piano Jazz, Jazz at Lincoln Center, etc.) nightly 7;00-8:00 pm, followed by new releases (mostly mainstream) 8:00-10:00 pm, followed by Jazz With Bob Parlocha, 10:00 pm-7:00 am. . Let’s not lose this too; complain if you must, but also send a contribution. Vegas Jazz of course will be presenting concerts, which if not in time for JazzNotes!, will be

announced via our website and by postcard. Meanwhile our members can take pride in the focus of our organization and its primary task: to foster a greater understanding of jazz by young people through the teaching & performances of jazz in all schools, as exemplified by the following: 1. Vegas Jazz provides scholarships every year to deserving high school students who wish to

further their knowledge & skill in jazz music. 2. Jazz in the Schools: becoming more involved in public schools with their “Jazz in the

School Program,” helping to further define and expand on this program to elementary school-aged students and their families and teachers.

Greater Than the Sum Of Its Parts!

2 I JAZZ NOTES! Mar-Apr 2011

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Mar-Apr 2011 JAZZ NOTES! I 3

MEET THE ARTISTS

3. Black History Month every February—3 to 4 programs to elementary school-aged children about the history of jazz and it’s development as the only American musical art form. This February we will provide four free children’s concerts for which we will pay out of our funds.Jazz, especially mainstream, all across the country is being assailed by many forces, and its demise would be tragic. Vegas Jazz will fight to

not merely preserve and maintain it, but to help propagate it. As members, you are part of that fight, and we need your continuous help and support in the battle. With this, I’m happy to report that because of the keen efforts by our board member Katrina Sumner, Vegas Jazz can now expect to achieve co-sponsorship with the City of Las Vegas-Cultural Affairs Division, for its jazz presentations throughout the year.The last three years, at our annual membership meeting before the concert, we have seen an increasing number of members attending the

meeting. Thank you to all who attend for your interest and input; we can only hope this trend will keep growing, including receiving input from our members throughout the year. Constant and positive effort can make an organization greater than the sum of its parts.

T he sons of jazz legend Dave Brubeck, Daniel and Chris Brubeck will be playing with their quartet at the Historic 5th Street School in downtown Las Vegas on Saturday, March 12. As the Brubeck Brothers Quartet this group has performed at concerts, colleges, and jazz festivals throughout North America and Europe. Their debut recording, Intuition, has received enthusiastic reviews from

such publications as JazzTimes and Downbeat.

CHRIS BRUBECK, composer, orchestral arranger, lyricist and performer is equally at home playing jazz, rock, classical, funk and folk music. An award-winning composer he has won the ASCAP Deems Taylor award for best composition for television broadcast and has twice been named a Meet The Composer/Music Alive Composer.

DANIEL BRUBECK, drummer has toured the international music circuit for more than two decades. He produced and played on Trio Brubeck for which he received a Grammy nomination. He has appeared on the Today Show, BBC specials, the PBS syndicated series “Jazz in America,” the Tonight Show and the Grammy Awards Show.

MIKE DeMICCO, guitarist and composer, has toured worldwide since 1980. He has appeared at major European jazz festivals as well as on the internationally syndicated PBS series, “Jazz In America.” He has recorded with, among others, Michael Franks, Peter Erskine, Larry Coryell, Nick Brignola and Dave Brubeck.

CHUCK LAMB, pianist, composer and percussionist, co-founded the group DRY JACK, cited in the Rolling Stone History of Music as a premier, cutting-edge jazz fusion group. He has played with many musical greats including the Woody Herman Orchestra, Bela Fleck, Dave Holland, Tom Harrell and Ernestine Anderson.

Chuck LambMike DeMicco

Chris & Dan Brubeck

Brubeck Brothers Quartet

4 I JAZZ NOTES! Mar-Apr 2011

REVIEWS

Mar-Apr 2011 JAZZ NOTES! I 5

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Bone Up, with the Nathan Tanouye Trombone QuartetOctober 17, 2010 • Whitney Library Auditorium • Review by David Mulkey, M.D.

LAURA TAYLOR - TRIBUTE TO JOHNNY MERCER

HAVE MERCER ON MEJanuary 22 •Winchester Theater • Review by J.J. Brennan

Backed by a smoking rhythm section, a fantastic and formidable foursome of trombones blew the exit doors off Whitney Library Auditorium on Sunday afternoon, October 17!The talented bandleader, arranger, and composer, Nathan Tanouye, along with trombonists Dr. Dick McGee, Kevin Stout and

bass trombone Stephen Kunzer, provided the enthusiastic crowd with plenty to shout about with their blended harmonies and wonderful solos. Opening with “San Jose,” composed and arranged by trombonist Michael Davis, the septet demonstrated far more than a single

rehearsal could promise, with the skill and professionalism that Las Vegas has in such plenty. “Waltz for Debbie,” Bill Evans’ song for his daughter, beautifully arranged by Nathan, went from a waltz time into four, with solos from each trombone and powerful shared licks. With Bill Zappia (Billy Z) playing precisely on piano, Derek Jones’ impeccable intonation and time on bass and John Abraham’s tasteful strokes on drum, the group charmed us with this wonderful tune. “August 2,” which Billy wrote on that date (We hope he doesn’t have to name a second tune written the same date!), gave him a chance to stretch out and plenty of room for the others as well. “There Will Never Be Another You,” the beautiful Harry Warren tune, arranged by Nathan, was skillfully harmonized by the quartet, with solos for all. Dick McGee’s arrangement of the Paul McCartney favorite “Michelle,” was beautifully harmonized and voiced and very touching, with Dick showing his exquisite tone and articulation. Closing with “Rain Dance,” again from a CD set by Michael Davis, allowed Abraham to show why he is one of the finest drummers to inhabit our LV Strip. The second half, skillfully introduced by Jazz Society President Frank Leone, and giving deserved credit to concert sponsor Cruise

Holidays of Summerlin, brought equal excitement. “Potluck” (A. Wiggins/arr. McGee), an Airmen of Note favorite, had great solos by McGee, Tanouye and a plunger mute by Stout, plus a great Billy Z solo and more great harmonies. Coltrane’s “Giant Steps” started with great effects and creative sliding notes and sounds by Derek on fretless electric bass, and four playing together in a mixed Caribbean funk rhythm generated by John on drums, with an increasing tempo adding energy. “Deluge” (W. Shorter/arr. Stout) featured solos by the three tenors, i.e., tenor trombones, with all four joining together. Trumpeter Lee Morgan’s Ceora was beautiful, and Abraham’s rim-shot beats were magical. Closing with “Blues for Bones,” pretty up-tempo for blues, had a great piano solo and a catchy walking bass line. Nathan and the septet deserve accolades for this exciting performance of some of the best Las Vegas has to offer!

S OLD OUT - SOUL OUTYes, the show was sold out! Her fans, those who know and love her, filled the theatre to capacity because they know she sings

her soul out!She moves in and out of the library of Johnny Mercer with ease, demonstrating the consummate performance of a career entertainer.

From the hauntingly reflective, “I Remember You,” through to the rambling romantic, “I Thought About You,” all moved with smooth transition. In the dramatic, “Come Rain Or Come Shine,” Laura showed the powerful soulful expression befitting this classic. Then came a thoughtful, “When The World Was Young,” this is a Mercer collaboration with Angele Vannier, with music by Phillipe Bloch. “Jeepers Creepers,” was her next selection.Laura’s vocal versatility illustrates the many moods of Johnny Mercer’s lyrics. He collaborated with a vast number of composers,

Harold Arlen, Harry Warren, James Van Heussen, Jerome Kern, and Hoagy Carmichael, to name a few. This helps to explain the diversity of lyrics that range from solemnity to whimsy. Very few singers could pull off a successful rendition of “Goody Goody.” She nailed it, and with audience participation. The last time

another vocalist did it in a live performance, as I recall, was the opening number in a live performance by Frank Sinatra in “Sinatra In Paris,” June 5, 1962. In a poignant moment, she introduced and brought to the stage, her grandson. With perhaps genetic stage presence, he confirmed to the audience, that this was his fourth birthday. A great intro to “You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby.” With the full band, a rousing, “Atchison, Topeka, and the Santa Fe,” concluded part one of the program.

6 I JAZZ NOTES! Mar-Apr 2011

Opening part two, Laura, with the full band, gave a driving rendition of, “That Old Black Magic.” Laura was backed up by the trio comprised of, on piano, Dave Loeb; bass, Bob Sachs; and drums, John Abraham. Augmenting the group, to enhance the presentation of selected numbers, were, Fred Haller, woodwinds; Lenny Lopez, percussion and backup vocals; and Dick McGee on trombone. Every honest and truthful singer, and Laura is in that group, will confess that their success or failure is dependent upon the quality of the musicians that back them up. Laura had the best of the best. With her own arrangement, and Laura does arrange some of her songs, hauntingly mysterious lyrics blended with creative jazz riffs in her namesake ballad. She really let her soul out in a soft and dreamy, “Laura.” The mellow trombone of Dick McGee, announced another sentimental Mercer, “I’m Old Fashioned,” music by Jerome Kern.The band left the stage, and Laura was joined by her friend, pianist Frank Leone. Frank began

his accompaniment, with his arrangement of, “Fools Rush In.” This blend of talents created a very special intimate scene, Frank and Laura. One of the very moments that endeared Laura to her fans. Only the bassist, drummer, and percussionist returned to the stage for “Accentuate The Positive.” Laura and these three created a totally unique interpretation, which included a terrific solo by bassist, Bob Sachs. Solos by Fred Haller, sax, and Dick McGee, trombone, with the full band, highlighted Laura’s, “Early Autumn.” Fred Haller, along with Stan Getz, were members of Woody Herman’s band which first introduced this song. “The Glow Worm,” (which in case you didn’t know, is a firefly), permits Laura to harmonize in riffs with Fred Haller, Dick McGee, and Lenny Lopez. Another creative arrangement that had whimsical fun with an old classic. Warbling of Fred Haller’s flute, announced Laura’s personal favorite, “Skylark.” She lived up to her nickname, Songbird, with this strong spirited interpretation as the final number of the program.A great show, by a great voice that blends the best of the ballad and the jazz singer; but most

important of all, her audience feels her soul, the soul that stimulates the voice that conveys the meaning of her songs.

MANNE, THAT’S GERSHWIN CONCERTNovember 21, 2010 • Judy Bayley Theater • Review by Matt M. Koerner

T he Las Vegas Tenors opened the evening with admirable charm performing Gershwin’s “‘S Wonderful.” A short literary synopsis by Jersey Boy’s Rick Faugno preceded what left us in a state of awe, as the premier of Nathan Tanouye’s “Rhapsody In Blue,” featuring UNLV’s prize-winning pianist Otto Ehling, captured our attention. Many sat perplexed and intrigued as Tanouye’s orchestration

reminisced of Gershwin’s original treatment; a juxtaposing fierce Latin groove traversed the arrangement’s expansive form as Ehling negotiated the highly improvisatory writing with ease. Ehling was given the spotlight as he performed an inspiring cadenza worthy of notation for it’s own rich complexities and thematic development. Returning to the original melodic material with modernized orchestration, this American classic was met with standing applause! In a post-concert interview, Las Vegas Jazz Connection Musical Director Nathan Tanouye revealed he was inspired to orchestrate and

innovate the Gershwin work not only to fit his custom instrumentation; “I didn’t want to do the original piece simply re-orchestrated. The original couldn’t sound any better…it’s perfect the way it is; I felt we should do something completely different.” Working around the clock only days prior to the performance, Tanouye created one of his most innovative arrangements to date. A touch of class- Ms. Stephanie Haynes, accompanied by Dave Loeb (piano), Derek Jones (bass) and John Abraham (drumset), graced us

with “How Long Has This Been Goin’ On.” Loeb (Director of Jazz Studies at UNLV) demonstrated his unmatched ability to accompany vocalists with almost intuitive guise, anticipating Haynes’ every inflection. Haynes’ and trio also performed Gershwin’s “Shall We Dance,” featuring a precisely executed, vocal-like bass solo by Jones.Another bit of excitement; Tanouye announced a second world-premier, an original composition titled “Eleven Colors.” The piece was

commissioned by Clark County School District’s Las Vegas Academy (Pat Bowen, Director of World Jazz Studies.) The piece has been characterized by Tanouye as “…a contemporary through-composed work. The time alternates between six-four, and five-four meters, adding to groupings of eleven.” Intricate and delicately approached, the tune featured a stunning improvised conversation between distant relatives of violin (DeAnn Letourneau) and tenor saxophone. Letourneau’s improvisation was natural and beautiful, a tumbrel compliment to the tenor saxophone. Tanouye’s work climaxes in a whirlwind of modal changes. Tanouye stated the work “is based on the fifth mode of harmonic minor, utilizing Phrygian-chromatic harmony;” the lush orchestration conjured associations of studio film orchestras of the 1960’s, a testament to Tanouye’s prowess a composer. To conclude the first half of the program Don and Alicia Cunningham delighted us with a mixed duet of “A Foggy Day” and “Our Love Is

Here To Stay.” Performed in easy tempo, the somber duet was simply beautiful.

Letter to the Editor: Laura Taylor tribute concert, letter from Susan Richards

Dear Judy:I was one of the privileged audience members to attend an extraordinary tribute concert in honor of Johnny Mercer by the very gifted singer Laura Taylor on January 22nd at Winchester Community Center. I have seen Ms. Taylor in performance on several occasions and have always admired her tremendous musicality, phrasing, beautiful voice and expert style. This time was no exception. It was her most polished performance ever, as she put her own special stamp on many Mercer favorites, including “Skylark,” a personal favorite of mine. As she sang with flute accompaniment, she became one with the instrument and with nature. It was flawless! The other band members were equally skilled. It seemed as if they had all been performing forever! It was so exciting to be in the presence of such sterling musicians, listening to sounds that were heaven sent. I am so grateful that there are still venues in Las Vegas which support this kind of music....these players and this superb singer! I will never forget this show! Susan RichardsLas Vegas, NV

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Mar-Apr 2011 JAZZ NOTES! I 7

As Dr. Ken Hanlon (Director, Arnold Shaw Popular Music Research Center) recalls, in 1965 Shelly Manne led a quintet and big band performing eight arrangements of the music of George Gershwin by John (“Johnnie”) Williams featuring trumpeter Conti Candoli. Nearly forty-five years later we were joined by master trumpeter and Las Vegas musical icon Bobby Shew, as well as UNLV’s own Julian Tanaka (tenor saxophone,) enjoying these timeless arrangements again for the first time. With Tanouye at the helm, The Jazz Connection performed seven of the eight original arrangements: “BR Strauss,” “My Man’s Gone Now,” “Love Is Here To Stay,” “Summertime,” “The Real American Folk Song,” “The Man I Love,” and “Concerto In F.” Bobby Shew is a master musician! He exerts such energy in his playing; his lyric interpretation, palette of sound colors, intensities, and

melodic improvisation set Shew in a class by himself. Those that witnessed Shew’s performance will attest to how powerful his playing can be; his flugelhorn solo on “The Man I Love” was said to be “moving,” even “humbling!” “He lifts up the band” Tanouye recalls, regarding Shew’s performance; “…he’s makes you want to perform at a higher level.” Audience members were of course ecstatic following Shew’s ballad performance. What’s a concert without a high-note or two? After an entire set of solo trumpet work, Shew annihilated a double-range concert “c” to once

again receive standing approval of the audience! Shew was joined by Julian Tanaka for the performance of the jazz suite; a true prodigy in his own right, Tanaka’s unique approach to his horn and masterful sense of musicianship made for a magical collaboration!After a brief dialogue Rick Faugno joined the Jazz Connection to close out the evening with yet another premier arrangement; Gershwin’s

“Strike Up The Band.” The famous melody and tag with the voice of Frankie Valli made for a stellar conclusion to the performance. As Dr. Ken Hanlon stated: “Tonight there is history in the making.” The contribution made to America’s own unique art by the production of this performance is insurmountable. Manne That’s Gershwin was brought to us by Peacock Entertainment and the Arnold Shaw Popular Music Research Center. The reviewer

wishes to include congratulations to Mrs. Carolyn Freeman and the newly formed American Jazz Initiative!

K atrina Sumner received her B.S. from Marylhurst College in Portland, Oregon. Her background in various marketing and sales functions in the high-tech business arena for over 20 years has gifted her with skills to help Vegas Jazz in their advertising, public relations,

e-communications, and promotional efforts, as well as help in growing their membership. When she was 4 years old, Katrina brought smiles and looks of amazement to numerous church

congregations by singing every verse and stanza of “The Saints Go Marching In.” By high school she was singing, and winning awards, in madrigal groups as well as choral groups. In addition to singing, Katrina was avidly interested in poetry and literature; turning her writing skills into award-winning essays at the state level in writing competitions during high school. She worked her way through college, selling visual arts as well as sculpture by artists such as Johns, Motherwell, Hunderwasser, and Picasso, among others. After 4 years pursuing a degree in teaching, she realized that she was already teaching others in the business arena. She switched majors to business, gravitated to the high energy of software and other technologies, including

medical technologies, and eventually ended up not only selling various technical products, but marketing them as well. In her last position in high-tech, she was Vice President of Sales and Marketing for an embedded software company.Ms. Sumner has been an agent for talented jazz artists since moving to Las Vegas in 2004, and brings her deep love and knowledge of jazz

as well as her business acumen to the table as Marketing/Communications Director for Vegas Jazz.

Introducing…Vegas Jazz Board Member:

Katrina Sumner

FRANK GAGLIARDI, former UNLV Department of Music professor, director of percussion and creator of UNLV’S Jazz Ensembles program passed away on February 6, 2011 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s. In 1964 Frank was hired for what he called the best job in the world, percussionist for the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas, where he played for entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and the “Rat Pack.” In 1974 he joined the faculty of UNLV and over the next 22 years he led the UNLV Jazz Ensemble to international stature, traveling world-wide, capturing multiple awards and releasing 12 albums and CDs. Frank had a maxim first coined by Mae West: “You only live once, but if you work it right, once is enough”…and that he did!

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

8 I JAZZ NOTES! Mar-Apr 2011

JAZZ AND THE MEDIA:LISTENING, READING AND DIGGING

By Wayne Echt

On January 3 Las Vegas radio lost a large percentage of its mainstream, straight ahead, jazz when KUNV changed its format to smooth jazz four days a week. This leaves the straight ahead format only on Fridays while retaining Bob Parlocha’s syndicated show on weeknights from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. The reason for the switch was because of a threat by the Federal Communication Commission (FCC) to revoke KUNV’s radio station license because it was only receiving 1% or less financial support from the listening audience. So although listening to real jazz in the car has been significantly reduced here,

fear not, because if you listen to live streaming on your computer or iPhone you’re still in business as there are still many stations that play straight ahead jazz 24/7, not only in the United States, but around the world. Most stations listed play straight ahead jazz 24 hours a day but programming schedules may vary. Each station’s schedule can be found on its website. LISTEN LIVE and enjoy.WHAT TO READJAZZ TIMES-JazzTimes is a magazine that dates back to Radio Free Jazz, a

publication founded in 1970 by Ira Sabin when he was operating a record store in Washington, D.C. It was originally a newsletter designed to update shoppers on the latest jazz releases and provide jazz radio programmers with a means of communicating with the industry. However, Radio Free Jazz grew substantially over the next decade, attracting readers and writers from around the world. ALL ABOUT JAZZ-All About Jazz is a leading jazz music website for

enthusiasts and industry professionals based in Philadelphia in the United States. Founded by Michael Ricci in 1995, the Web-Site is maintained by a volunteer staff of writers, editors, and musicians, and provides coverage of all genres of jazz from independent to major record label releases. As an advocacy site, All About Jazz aims to raise the awareness of jazz music, its history and its players. It has been awarded “The Best Web-Site Concentrating On Jazz” eight times by the Jazz Journalist Association. DOWN BEAT-Down Beat is an American magazine devoted to “jazz, blues

and beyond,” to indicate its expansion beyond the jazz realm which it covered exclusively in previous years. The publication was established in 1934 in Chicago, Illinois. It is named after the “downbeat” in music also called “beat one” or the first beat of a musical measure. Down Beat publishes results of annual surveys of both its readers and critics in a variety of categories. The Down Beat Jazz Hall of Fame includes winners from both the readers’ and critics’ poll. The results of the readers’ poll are published in the December issue, those of the critics’ poll in the August issue. Well-known features of Down Beat magazine include its “Reviews” section where jazz critics, using a ‘1-Star to 5-Star’ maximum rating system, rate the latest musical recordings, vintage recordings, and books; articles on individual musicians and music forms; and its famous “Blindfold Test” column, in a which a musician listens to records by other artists, tries to guess who they are, and rates them using the 5-star maximum rating systemJAZZ REVIEW-Jazz Review was a British jazz magazine, founded in 1998 by a former editor of The Wire and jazz writer Richard Cook

and Roger Spence of the talent management agency Direct Music. The magazine covered the entire range of jazz history from early jazz, through Swing to Bebop, Modern Jazz and the Avant-Garde, and was known for its scholarly approach and independent stance. Major artists - including Keith Jarrett, Lee Konitz, Ornette Coleman, Dave Brubeck and Wynton Marsalis - have given interviews to the magazine; historical surveys have included the Modern Jazz Quartet, Fletcher Henderson, Oscar Peterson and Andrew Hill; the magazine is also renowned for coverage of British jazz.The magazine went bi-monthly in 2005. A rival monthly publication, Jazz Journal International, was presumed to have ceased publication in January 2009, after the death of its editor, but its holding company, which changed ownership, absorbed Jazz Review around April 2009. It was revived as Jazz Journal International, incorporating Jazz Review at the end of April. Direct Music was no longer involved in the publication.PENGUIN GUIDE TO JAZZ-The Penguin Guide to Jazz is a reference work containing an encyclopedic directory of jazz recordings on

CD which are currently available in Europe or the United States. The first nine editions were compiled by Richard Cook and Brian Morton, two well known chroniclers of jazz who resident in the United Kingdom.CODA-CODA is a Canadian magazine devoted to covering all things related to jazz. The magazine produces 6 publications a year on a

bi-monthly basis. Founded in 1958 by publisher and record producer John Norris, the magazine contains reviews and articles about current jazz artists on the international scene, as well as articles on jazz recordings, jazz books, and other topics related to jazz. In 1976 Norris was succeeded by the magazine’s current editor, saxophonist Bill Smith.

Stations are listed here:

KSDS San Diego, CA www.jazz88.orgKKJZ Long Beach, CA www.jazzandblues.orgKRML Carmel, CA www.krmlradio.comKCSM San Francisco, CA www.kcsm.org KXJZ Sacramento, CA www.capradio.org KMHD Mt. Hood, OR www.kmhd.fmKPLU Seattle, WA www.kplu.orgKJZZ Phoenix, AZ www.kjzz.orgKUWL Laramie. WY www.wyomingpublicradio.orgKUVO Denver, CO www.kuvo.orgKRTU San Antonio, TX www.krtu.orgKBEM Minneapolis, MN www.jazz88.mplsKCCK Cedar Rapids, IA www.kcck.orgWWOZ New Orleans, LA www.wwoz.orgWUCF Orlando, FL www.wucf.orgWDNA Miami, FL www.wdna.orgWCLK Atlanta, GA www.wclk.comWFSS Fayetteville NC www.wfss.orgWSIE Edwardsville, IL www.wsieradio.comWDCB Chicago, IL www.wdcb.org WEMU Ypsilanti, MI www.wemu.orgWBFO Buffalo, NY www.wbfo.orgWGBH Boston, MA www.wgbh.org 5PM-2AM PT WBGO Newark, NJ www.wbgo.orgCJRT Toronto, ON www.jazz.fm Canada’s only jazz station

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Mar-Apr 2011 JAZZ NOTES! I 9

Want to attend one of the jazz festivals this summer?Consider the following recommendations, and let someone else do all the work getting you there.

Long Beach Jazz FestivalLong Beach, California / August 12,13,14, 2011

The only Southern California Jazz Festival held on the gorgeous grassy knoll in a beautiful lagoon setting.See the beautiful new city of Long Beach and enjoy the night life and cruising.

PricingFriday, August 12 VIP Seating / 155.00 Per Person Box Seating / 65.00 Per PersonSaturday & Sunday, August 13 & 14 VIP Seating / 180.00 Per Person Box Seating / 75.00 Per Person

General Admission 45.00 Per Person / Payment at Gate 50.00 Per PersonPerforming Artist To Be Announced March 10, 2011

Call Betty at Cruise Holidays of Summerlin for more information.702-982-0268 Office / 702-228-6014 Cell

Also, if the following festivals are of interest to you, call Betty for details.

Playboy Jazz Festival *** Make your plans to go.Idyllwild Jazz in the Pines *** More information to come.

August 2011, Idyllwild, CA

CRUISE HOLIDAYS • 8447 West Lake Mead Blvd, LV 89128

ALL MUSIC GUIDE TO JAZZ is a non-fiction book that is an encyclopedic referencing of jazz music compiled under the direction of All Media Guide. The first edition, All Music Guide to Jazz: the Best CDs, Albums & Tapes, appeared in 1994 and was edited by Ron Wynn with Michael Erlewine and Vladimir Bogdanov (head of the All Music Guide book series). The book’s fourth edition was released on November 27, 2002 and was edited by Vladimir Bogdanov, Chris Woodstra and Stephen Thomas Erlewine.Next time: Jazz and the Media-Where to listen, What to Read, How Jazz is Covered.

–Wayne Echt has been hosting jazz appreciation classes in the OLLI Program at UNLV since 2004 & has been called by some as the “jazz ambassador of Las Vegas:”

News from the Jazz Cruise…by Judy T.

F rom January 30 to February 6 a lucky few of our Vegas Jazz members were able to listen to the jazz greats and enjoy the island luxury of Nassau, San Juan, St. Maarten and Half Moon Cay. The 10th anniversary JAZZ CRUISE on Holland America’s m/s Noordam featured the music of such jazz luminaries as Freddy Cole, Wycliffe Gordon,

Jeff Hamilton, Bryan Lynch, Bill Mays, The Clayton Brothers, Ken Peplowski, Houston Person, Bucky Pizzarelli and funny man Pete Barbutti. Not to rub it in…but hope you enjoy the photos of us enjoying this terrific opportunity!

Front: Paul Evans; l to r: Aurellia and Walter Mason, Winston, Carolyn Holland, Bill Bryant, Jillian Williams,

Carolyn Freeman, Sharon ReschJudy Tarte, Uli Geissendoerfer, Carolyn FreemanJudy Tarte, Jeff Hamilton, Bill Bryant

10 I JAZZ NOTES! Mar-Apr 2011

UNLV HAPPENINGSSunday, March 6 • UNLV Jazz Combos and Jazz Ensemble III • Flamingo Library Theater • 2-4pm (access to venue at 12pm)Wednesday, March 9 • Jazz Ensemble II • Flamingo Library Theater • 7pm (access to venue at 5pm)Sunday, March 27 • Jazz Ensemble I with Bob Sheppard and Faculty • Judy Bayley Theater • 2pmWednesday, April 13 • Jazz Ensemble I and Latin Jazz Ensemble • Flamingo Library Theater • 7pm (access to venue at 5pm)Thursday, April 14 • Contemporary Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Guitar Ensemble • Black Box Theater • 7:30pmFriday, April 15 • Jazz Ensemble I at Las Vegas Academy Jazz Invitational • (details TBA)Wednesday, April 27 • Jazz Ensembles II and III • Black Box Theater • (details TBA)

CSN HAPPENINGS3rd Hands Across the Arts BenefitThe Music of Duke Ellington Meets the Music of Count Basie • Friday, Saturday & Sunday • February 25 - 27

In celebration of Black History Month, the Ira Aldridge Theatre Company and the CSN Performing Arts Center present their 3rd Hands Across the Arts benefit on Feb. 25 at 6 p.m. in the Nicholas J. Horn Theatre at the Cheyenne Campus. Directed by Walter Mason, the show features the Jimmie Wilkins New Life Orchestra, the West Side Las Vegas Performing Ensemble, The Soprano Sisters, tap dancer Lindell Blake and Anthony “Sachmo” Brady. Tickets are $25 and include a reception at 6 p.m.; award presentation honoring Steve Schorr of Cox Communications at 7 p.m., and the performance at 7:30 p.m.Additional performances will be Sat., Feb. 26 at 7:30 p.m., and Sun., Feb. 27 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for seniors, For reservations, call 651-LIVE (5483).

College of Southern Nevada • Performing Arts Center • 3200 E. Cheyenne Ave. • North Las Vegas, NV 89030

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

Vegas Jazz Supports

The Las Vegas Philharmonic

lvphil.com

Diamonds Are Forever ANNUAL GALA • Saturday, March 19Mark your calendar, the Las Vegas Philharmonic’s 2011 annual Diamonds Are Forever Gala will be held at the incredible Frank Gehry-designed Life Activity Center at the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health. The center is located in the arts and science community of Symphony Park in downtown Las Vegas. The event will include a performance by the Las Vegas Philharmonic, silent and live auctions, raising of the paddle, dinner, and a Saks Fifth Avenue fashion show.

Pops III • Saturday, March 26, 8pmAn Evening with Rodgers and Hammerstein

Cabaret Event III • Wednesday, April 13, The cabaret events are held from 6:30 pm - 9:30 pm at private residences in the Las Vegas community. Ticket price is $125 per person.

Masterworks IV - Saturday, April 16, 8pmZuill Bailey back by popular demand!

For more information, call the Las Vegas Philharmonic office (702) 258-5438 (702) 258-5438email lvpinfo@lvphil .com

Mar-Apr 2011 JAZZ NOTES! I 11

ARTIST Greg & Christine BlandoRay CartwrightMat Catingub

ELLA-IndividualRobert AckermanPaul AndersonMargaret AnsonJacqueline A. AudainIrene Cheney BanksDavin L. BassMary Ellen BourgeoisSue ByrumEvelyn T. ChaversLouise ColucciDiane EllisMarie C. EmmonsJack Feldman

Robert FerraroStewart M FreshwaterRichard J. GaleckiNigel GiovanniRichard A. GraingerMichelle Palombi GuerinSusan KruegerCindy KucikBarbara MiyamotoVirginia MonierMildred ReynoldsSamuel SharpeTerrence Sotak.Jean StahlCarrier B. ThomasMillicent J. TolbertRobert L. WigfallJames “Jimmy” Wilkins

Joe WilsonSusan Young

MILES-FamilyLeroi & Beverly ArcherBob & Samantha BadgleyGeorge Beres & Edea TraplettiJuan & Helga BrunoriJim & Judy BrushRobert C. & Joanne M. CampbellWilliam & Aline ChristPaul & Sue ColadarciFrank & Cameron DeAngeloDurell & Carl DemartiniTi & Bobbie DulyanaiJ. Wendell & Peggy EdwardsGrant HoskinsDoug & Nancy KrauseVictor J. Mistretta & Ruth S. Wilson

MEMBERS LIST New & Renewing Members December 2010 - January 2011

Anna Lea & Mike MontanoRobert & Gloria MayerPaul & Judy MooreAl & Cece OsterlingBill & William OwensWade & Jacquelynne ParkerBill & Polly PalmerCedric & Carrie PeeryBrace & Gwen PhillipsDon & Alice RevelleMarc & Patty Solis & FamilyIra & Claudia ThomasRichard D. & Carolyn J. WalkerRobert R. & Cornelia WallaceClifton & Easter WashingtonTom, Devon & Dana WickensSheila & William WingfieldTom Wright & Sen. Dina Titus

Artists MembershipArtists who pay membership dues at the $50 or above membership level receive a listing of their jazz-related gigs on the Vegas Jazz web site in the monthly Events calendars, as well as a photo, short description, and link to their web site on the Artists page. All Artist level members please email your gig listings to: calendarlistings@vegasjazz.org

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

Interested in advertising in JAZZ NOTES!

Please contact Mimi Williams:AdMgr@vegasjazz.org

MONK-StudentSharen Petrillo

SATCHMODr. & Mrs. Robert P. CrokeAl & Olga GaultRichard O. JanesAlan R. JavorckyDon & Judy MerzHarvey C. MillerRonnie & Dottie RoseJudy Tarte (in memory ofJoe Romano)

Eric TewaltGloria Banks Weddle

Brass Roots Quintet In ConcertSaturday • March 5 • 2:00 p.m. • Charleston Heights Art Center • $5.00

Program in Memory of Frank William DoughertyPlaying his arrangement written for the Brass Roots Quintet

Rocky Lombardo & Tony Scodwell / Trumpets

Doug Beasley / Horn

Walt Boenig / Trombone

Dan Uhrich / Tuba

The newsletter of Vegas Jazz

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

MESSAGE LINE: 702.313.6778

Membership dues entitle members to concert ticket discounts, an electronic version of Jazz Notes!, and a bi-monthly mailed version 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; maintenance to the website; the Annual Black History Celebration; 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.

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