Oh, I absolutely have to start practicing! Do I have enough time to become semi-amateurish by September 2011 . . . . ?
Consider the following, very enticing for anyone who’s got rhythm:
CHAUTAUQUA INSTITUTION PRESENTS
THE CHAUTAUQUA TRADITIONAL JAZZ WORKSHOP
Dan Barrett, Music Director
September 11-15, 2011
Faculty:
Duke Heitger, Trumpet
Scott Robinson, Reeds
Dan Barrett, Trombone
Rossano Sportiello, Piano
Howard Alden, Guitar / Banjo
Kerry Lewis, Bass
Ricky Malachi, Drums
Rebecca Kilgore, Vocals
Chautauqua’s first ever Traditional Jazz Workshop will be held on the beautiful grounds of the Chautauqua Institution in western New York, with your home base at the historic Athenaeum Hotel. The 4-day session will include ensemble workshops, coaching, jam sessions, and performance opportunities in student groups and with faculty members. Students will focus on jazz standards and works from the American Songbook, with emphasis on improvisation and ensemble performance. Enjoy social events with faculty and fellow students on beautiful Chautauqua Lake. The workshop culminates in a performance opportunity at the opening session of the 14th Annual Jazz at Chautauqua traditional jazz party on Thursday evening.
Tuition for the workshop will be $550 USD; the lodging and meal package at the Athenaeum Hotel will be $525 per student (single occupancy) or $775 (double occupancy) USD. Stay on for the annual Jazz at Chautauqua party and receive a 20% discount on your food and lodging. For reservations at the Athenaeum, call 1-800-521-1881 or email athenaeum1881@hotmail.com. For information about the workshop, contact Nancy Griffith at 216-956-0378 or email her at nancylynngriffith@yahoo.com.
I wasn’t quite serious about practicing enough to be accepted into the workshop in time for September, but I meant “A Splendid Present” emphatically. Many older jazz fans lament the impending demise of traditional jazz. Why not give the art form we love a blood transfusion from young folks — that grandson of yours who has just discovered Teddy Bunn, or that niece who is trying to play Cootie Williams’ growls on BENNY’S BUGLE — being able to attend this workshop and learn from these genial masters could be a life-changing event. And you don’t have to be a raw youth to come aboard, either . . . if you yourself would like to sound more like Benny Morton or Tricky Sam Nanton, this is a heavensent opportunity. Maybe I should sign up for the singers’ workshop just to be taught breath control by Rebecca Kilgore . . . now there’s a thought.
See you in Chautauqua, and don’t be late!
