Submitted
by Al Kanovsky 05/10/15
was JAZZ, JAZZ, JAZZ at the Essential Ellington Competition
in N.Y.
Four schools, Garfield H.S (Seattle), Newark Academy (N.J.), Lexington
H.S, (MA) and the Community Arts Program (Coral Gables) made up the morning
program. The afternoon had three competitors, Tucson JAZZ Institute (AZ), NewWorld School of the Arts (Miami) and Mount Si H.S.(WA). Tucson followed
AMP's example and played complex charts from memory. My notes on what each
band played disappeared into the ether-world but let it suffice to say that
each and every youngster left an impression.
The judges, Wynton Marsalis, David
Berger, Jeff Hamilton, Carlos Henriquez and Dee Spencer took the stage with
words of advice for all the youngsters. Wynton's wisdom matches his level of
play. Examples: Don't let anyone tell you "You Can't" when it comes
to accomplishment. Starting out your playing might be "sad". The
shame would be letting it "stay sad". I have said that
'listening is not an objective art'.
Imagine how difficult judging it has to
be. I would not relish the task. American Music Project(1st place), Lexington
H.S.(2nd), Tucson JAZZ Institute(3d) and Dillard Center of the Arts(honorable
mention). The top 3 had the opportunity to perform once again with a musician
from the JALCO. Lexington did "Things To Come" with a great drum solo
finish, and "Roll 'em" with Kenny Rampton (trumpet) as their
guest.
Lexington H.S. is fortunate to have a young lady, Sahana Srinivasan, as
a vocal addition to the outstanding group of instrumentalists. Nice pipes.
Really professional stage presence. Can sell a song. She sang "I'm
Just A Lucky so and So". She definitely has a future in JAZZ. Marcus
Printemps represented the JALCO.
American Music Project has a 4 trombone
section. 3 of the 4 are female. Sherman Irby as guest showed why he
is one of the world's best altoist. The JALCO took the stage to do the
songs they had rehearsed yesterday including Michelle's "St. Louis
BLUES" and Matt Wong's arrangement.
The band directors were invited
to the stage for awards. That was followed by individual honorable mention and
outstanding performance recognition. Dillard Jazz Ensemble, New World and CAP were well
represented in this group including individual awards to Chris Cummings
and Anthony Hervey (DCA). My personal and deeply felt thanks to Msrs. Chris
Dorsey (DCA), Daniel Strange (CAP) and Jim Gasior (NWSA) for the
wonderful work they do with the youngsters of our community. JAZZ has
as bright a future as it has a past.
As Wynton said "The music is
now."
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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