Submitted by Al Kanovsky 10/10/14
*Editor's note* More info on the event at: http://jazz-bluesflorida.blogspot.com/2014/10/14-orchestra-to-perform-jazz-benefit.html
...the final movement of a symphony being played by a full 100 piece orchestra. There is nothing like the last act of an opera with the full cast on stage and live orchestra in the pit. And when it comes to JAZZ there is nothing like Big Band. Big Bands can be as few as 12 or as many as 20. Last night it was a band called "14". A director and 13 musicians. I should have capitalized some letters because both the leader and sidemen were great. Here goes. Director/Arranger Dan Bonsanti, Dr. Ed Calle (tenor sax), Ed Maina (alto/flute/piccolo), Neal Bonsanti (tenor), Peter Brewer (bari/bass clarinet), Dante Luciano (trombone), Major Bailey (bass trombone), Steve Reid, Cisco Dimas and Ray Chicalo (trumpets), Tom Lippincott (8-string guitar), Jack Ciano (drums), Matt Bonelli (bass) and last but certainly not least Jim Gasior on keyboard and piano. During the 2d set they had a guest vocalist who has to remain unnamed in this review due to contractual obligations. The sound engineer was Brian Montgomery and I mention him because of the great work he did. This night was ticketed fundraiser for Bethany Christian School, and if you missed it and still want to support their music program, here is the site to hit: DONATE.
The band opened with Chick Corea's "Blue
Miles" and Jim Gasior did the intro and it was followed with very nice solos
by Peter, Neal and Tom. "Black Narcissus" was next. Dr. Calle
was featured on tenor. Ed Maina accompanied playing both flute and piccolo. Jim
had a solo portion and Major Bailey made me pay attention. There is a sad story
behind the next number. It is attributed to Tommy Dorsey (trombonist/band
leader). It was really written by a Pastor Thomas A. Dorsey in 1932 after
losing his wife in childbirth and his first born son a day later. Truly sad,
but inspiring. The trumpet section was featured and they
did 'take it to church'. Peter and Jim's solos were equally impressive. The next tune was straight
ahead JAZZ. "Pools". Jim playing keys to Dr. Calle's 5* solo. If you
want to know what JAZZ saxophone is all about, just listen to the Dr. now and
again. Billy Strayhorn wrote this tune for a "special engagement" gig
in N.Y.C. a long time ago. The title is "U.M.M.G.". The letters stand
for 'Upper Manhattan Medical Group'. Hey, a gig is a gig. Dante had a chance to
show his 'chops' along with Ed Maina. The last piece of the set was written by
the late Jaco Pastorius. "John & Mary". Jim had the introductory
bars. Dr. Calle was featured on soprano and Jack Ciano had a shot at the
spotlight.
During the break, my companions, Dr. Jules Oaklander and Ms.
Jackie Deering had the opportunity of chatting with Jeannette Pina and her Dad.
We were all in agreement about "Big Band" music.
The 2d set opened
with Ray Charles' "Hit The Road Jack". Matt bringing it in and Dante
playing plunger muted trombone, growls and all. Steve Reid hit the unbelievable
notes that only appear far above the normal G clef. "Hit" was
followed by the guest artist. Blond like Peggy Lee. A style like hers as well.
JAZZy, yes. She did "Guide Me To Paradise", "When You're
Smiling" with a Ray Chicalo solo. She moves to the piano and does a
'pay attention' "Slow Boat to China" with a scat portion. Peggy Lee's
favorite tune, "the Folks Who Live On the Hill" followed "Slow
Boat". You know how to end a Big Band show? Play "Stompin' At the
Savoy", have Dr. Ed take a tenor solo and have a gal singer do some scat
in unison with the trumpet section.
The audience comes to its feet for an
extended period of applause. Well deserved. Don Bansanti did a great job
conducting this orchestra of outstanding musician/educators. Jeannette Pina
awarded lottery prizes to folks who submitted e-mail addresses to her.
Jackie won 2 tickets to a Glenn Miller Band appearance. She promised to take
me. I could 'fall in love' with a gal like that.
Jackie, Dr. Jules and I headed
for the Floridian on Los Olas for a late night breakfast. The food was good,
the conversation even better.
Hey Jackie, HAPPY LANDINGS!!!!!!!!
Al's Disclaimer:
A short note: The reason I write this is because I love music and words. I do not book acts. I do not promote acts. I do not accept invitations to review artists. I go to venues of my own choice. When and where is not influenced by anything other than who I would like to hear that night or day. If I don't like what I hear, I won't write about it. When I like it I let you all know. I never mention a name without asking permission. "Pardon me, Miss. Would you like to dance?"
~ ~ ~
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