PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse NY 13202
315.479.5299
larry@cnyjazz.org

Acclaimed Jazz, R&B Singer Tracy Hamlin to Visit Syracuse Feb. 25-26
Music Legend to Speak at Syracuse Symposium, Hold Master Class
The Syracuse Symposium continues its yearlong look at “Belonging” with a mini-residency by acclaimed singer Tracy Hamlin. Her visit also is part of the University’s observance of Black History Month.

Hamlin will headline a panel discussion titled “Music, Identity & Belonging” on Monday, Feb. 26, from 12:00 -1:30 p.m. in the Peter Graham Scholarly Commons, 114 Bird Library. The event is moderated by Kal Alston, interim executive director of the Community Folk Art Center (CFAC), professor of Cultural Foundations of Education in the School of Education and a faculty affiliate in women’s & gender studies in the College of Arts and Sciences. Rounding out the panel are Theo Cateforis, associate professor of music history and cultures in A&S, and Jeff Welcher in the College of Visual and Performing Arts’ Setnor School of Music, where he teaches jazz and commercial music and directs the SU Vocal Jazz ensemble.

Also on Feb. 26, Hamlin will lead a vocal master class from 7-8:30 p.m. at CFAC, 805 E. Genesee St. Syracuse. Space is limited, and registration is required. To register and request accessibility accommodations, contact cfac@syr.edu. Both events are free and open to the public. For more information, call the Humanities Center in A&S at 315.443.7192, or visit humcenter.syr.edu.

Hamlin’s visit to campus follows her performance with saxophonist Eric Darius on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 5 p.m. at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown (100 Onondaga St.). Their concert is part of CNY Jazz’s Black History Month Cabaret. For tickets and more information, contact Cathleen O’Brien Brown, general manager of CNY Jazz, at 315.479.5299 or cathleen@cnyjazz.org.

Additional support for Hamlin’s residency comes from A&S, CFAC and the Department of Art and Music Histories in A&S. “We are honored to partner with CNY Jazz in presenting Tracy Hamlin: Her singular voice redefines every genre she performs,” says Vivian May, director of the Humanities Center and professor of women’s and gender studies in A&S. “As a singer, producer and creative entrepreneur, Tracy defies stereotypes about race and gender. Her visit will explore how music shapes and is shaped by individual and collective notions of belonging.”
As the title suggests, Hamlin’s noontime discussion will explore connections between music and identity, with special attention to how music promotes social and cultural understanding and how new technologies, such as digital streaming, help showcase diverse cultural histories.

Larry Luttinger ’79, G’81, founder and executive director of the CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, anticipates a lively interdisciplinary discussion. “Music communicates values and shapes identity, and as such, fosters bonds between people across cultural origins,” says Luttinger, also an award-winning percussionist and music educator. “Tracy will draw on personal experience, as a classically trained singer who has crossed over into other genres, to illustrate how music intersects with ideas about belonging, identity, mobility and social relations.”

At the master class, the Baltimore native hopes to work with singers of all ages and backgrounds. Interested participants should prepare a solo (preferably memorized) from the Great American Songbook or the pop/soul canon. Each singer also should bring two copies of his or her lead sheet or keyboard accompaniment, or, if applicable, a mobile phone audio file. “This is an opportunity for singers to find their voice and connect with a major artist,” May adds. “Tracy will briefly work with each person, focusing on sound, technique and overall performance. Since this is a community event, spectators are welcome to attend.”

As an internationally touring solo artist, Hamlin has shared the stage with some of the biggest names in soul, jazz, R&B and house music. They include Carlos Santana, Wynonna Judd, Chaka Khan, Esperanza Spalding, Jonathan Butler, Marcus Miller and DJ Spen. She also has served as lead vocalist for the smooth jazz group Pieces of a Dream, and has been a songwriter, arranger and lead background vocalist for disco queen Gloria Gaynor. Hamlin has produced and released five solo albums on her label, DMH Records. Currently, she is working on her sixth solo album.

Hamlin is a trustee of the Recording Academy (internationally known for the GRAMMY Awards); the producer of an annual “fringe” event of the St. Lucia Jazz festival; and a music teacher at Baltimore’s Jemicy School, serving students with dyslexia and other language-based learning differences. Classically trained, Hamlin studied at Peabody Preparatory and the Baltimore School for the Arts.
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About the Symposium

Organized and presented by the Humanities Center, Syracuse Symposium is a public humanities series that revolves around an annual theme. Programs include lectures, workshops, performances, exhibits, films and readings. Located in the Tolley Humanities Building, the Humanities Center serves the campus community by cultivating diverse forms of scholarship, sponsoring a broad range of programming and partnerships and addressing enduring questions and pressing social issues.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse, NY 13202
315-479-5299
larry@cnyjazz.org

Jazz Central Hosts Charlie Brown Christmas Show

Winter Clothing Collected for Relocated Hurricane Victims

Syracuse NY – For many, Christmas is not complete until they have watched Linus explain the true meaning of the holiday to Charlie Brown at the holiday pageant. As recognizable as these beloved characters are, a few notes from pianist Vince Guaraldi’s jazz soundtrack are enough to bring the spirit of the season back to any Peanuts fan. On December 16th at 2 p.m. audiences will have a chance to relive the spirit of the holiday, when “A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Karl Stabnau Quartet” visits Jazz Central to perform the complete album of favorites from the 1965 TV special, plus more holiday music for the entire family.

Now in its eighth year of touring, the Rochester-based Karl Stabnau Quartet is a group of highly sought-after soloists with extensive performance credits. “We all play a wide array of musical styles year-round, but something magical happens whenever we play these tunes each Christmas,” according to Stabnau, leader and arranger of the seasonal concert. “We re-imagine the songs for our quartet while remaining true to the original score, all the songs from the album, including Skating, Christmas Time Is Here, and Linus and Lucy, along with original arrangements of other Christmas songs. We guarantee our audiences of all ages a fun and meaningful holiday experience.”

CNY Jazz Central is partnering with the Spanish Action League of Syracuse, La Liga, to help with their relief efforts for victims of Hurricane Maria. Audiences for this show and all other shows presented at the Jazz Central theater during December are encouraged to bring winter clothing items: caps, gloves, mittens, scarves, sweaters, boots and coats, to be donated to victims of Hurricane Maria who have been temporarily relocated to Syracuse.

One show only is scheduled, on Saturday December 16th at 2 pm during the festivities of the Holidays in the City weekend. Entry price is $20 general admission, $15 for seniors and under eighteen, available at www.cnyjazz.org. Seating is limited in the cozy Jazz Central venue, and advance reservations are strongly suggested. Drinks, snacks and hot cocoa will be on hand.

What: A Charlie Brown Christmas with the Karl Stabnau Quartet
When: Saturday December 16th 2:00 p.m.
Where: Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St, Syracuse NY 13202
Cost: Admission $20, $15 seniors and under eighteen, at cnyjazz.org or 315-479-5299. Donations of winter clothing accepted.

For interviews call Larry Luttinger 315-479-5299

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse, NY 13202
315-479-5299
larry@cnyjazz.org

Broadway Leading Men Visit Jazz Central

Entertainment offerings this holiday season will include a reprise production of “Leading Men Don’t Dance”, the hit revue that celebrates and exposes the talents and egos of typical Broadway leading men, their narcissism, hubris, and need for attention, presented by Salt City Center for the Performing Arts at downtown’s Jazz Central theater on December 9th and 10th. Director Bob Brown’s repertoire for this new edition of the show includes almost two dozen songs from the world’s greatest stage productions, including Cabaret, Hunchback of Notre Dame, La Cage aux Folles, My Fair Lady, Aspects of Love, Jesus Christ Superstar, and to celebrate the season, select holiday titles. The leading men, in the necessary alphabetical order to avoid infighting, are Bob Brown, Liam Fitzpatrick, Frank Fiumano, and Gary Troy. All are multi-decade veterans of both local and national touring productions, and local audiences will recognize Troy as Del Grogan from Boardwalk Empire, as well as Bill Snibson, from many past productions of Me and My Girl at Salt City Playhouse.

“Storytelling and hijinks will abound this time around,” according to Bob Brown, who has been reviving this show with a revolving cast of leads since 2002. “This cast may refuse to dance, with the exception of Gary, who we absolutely forbid to dance although he repeatedly tries, but boy can they sing. This year’s audiences are in for a treat, with a holiday flair to boot.”

Two shows only are scheduled, on Saturday, December 9th at 8 pm and a Sunday matinee December 10th at 2 pm. Tickets are $20 general admission and are available at www.cnyjazz.org. Seating is limited in the cozy Jazz Central venue. Advance reservations are strongly suggested.

What: “Leading Men Don’t Dance”
When: Saturday & Sunday, December 9th and 10th
Where: Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St, Syracuse NY 13202
Cost: Tickets $20 advance at cnyjazz.org or 315-479-5299

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse, NY 13202
315-479-5299
larry@cnyjazz.org

CNY Jazz Cabaret Reveals Hidden Treasure

CNY Jazz launches their 22nd subscriber series on Sunday November 19th at the Sheraton Syracuse University, with a return Central New York appearance by Harlem-based guitarist and singer “King” Solomon Hicks. Tickets are $35 at the door or $30 in advance at cnyjazz.org/subscribe, or by calling 315-479-5299. Students will be admitted for $10.

Hicks has been on the scene at Harlem’s famous Cotton Club since age 13, as lead guitarist and singer in the house orchestra. Now only 23, he has already performed with Ne-Yo, Tony Bennett, Jon Hendricks, Mike Stern, and Lee Ritenour, and has opened for Joe Bonamassa and Gregg Allman. Solomon performs regularly in New York City clubs like The Iridium, Ashford and Simpson’s Sugar Bar, and Minton’s Playhouse. He has become a sought-after touring performer at international festivals in Spain, Germany, France, Japan, Denmark, Mexico, and throughout the Caribbean.

“Solomon has been anointed by the best in the business, and deservedly so,” according to concert organizer Larry Luttinger. “His career is skyrocketing. We first found him a few years back as a member of Antoinette Montague’s band in one of our cabarets, and vowed to bring him back as a leader. This summer he absolutely killed our south side Jazz in the City audience, and now we’re finally able to present him in the comfortable surroundings of the Sheraton. His guitar style seamlessly blends blues with jazz, and he sings like George Benson as well, with an infectious grin and outgoing personality. We’ve fallen in love with him, and we know our audience will too.”

An added element of his appearance will be the homecoming presence of his new organist, Will Gorman, a graduate of CNY Jazz scholastic programs like the SummerJazz Workshop and the Stan Colella Parks and Recreation All-Star Big Band. Now a New York freelancer, Gorman recently finished a European tour with Hicks.

The CNY Jazz Cabarets feature international talent in a club atmosphere, with cash bar and affordable food stations available starting at 4pm. Two sets are scheduled, at 5 and 6pm. Sheraton parking garage tickets will be validated at the door, and holders of CNY Jazz Club Discount Cards will receive 10% off food and drink.

Who: “King” Solomon Hicks
When: Sunday, November 19th, 2017 – Doors 4 p.m. Showtime 5 p.m.
Where: Sheraton Syracuse University Grand Ballroom, 801 University Ave, Syracuse, NY
Cost: Tickets $35 door, $30 advance at cnyjazz.org/subscribe or 315-479-5299.
$10 w/student ID

For interviews with Solomon, call CNY Jazz art 315-479-5299

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PRESS RELEASE
Contact: Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse, NY 13202
315-479-5299
Larry@cnyjazz.org

JAZZ AT THE CAVALIER DEBUTS AT THE MARRIOTT SYRACUSE DOWNTOWN

Syracuse NY – The storied Marriott Syracuse Downtown, the historic Hotel Syracuse, will partner with CNY Jazz Central to create the new “Jazz at the Cavalier” series in the luxurious Cavalier Room. All events will take place Wednesdays from 5:30 to 8:30 pm, beginning on November 8th.

Twenty eight events are scheduled, featuring over a dozen of Upstate New York’s finest resident jazz and cabaret vocalists with grand piano accompaniment. Among the lineup of artists are Nancy Kelly, who will kick off the series, Ronnie Leigh, Moe Harrington, Andrea Miceli, Danielle Patrice, Scott Dennis, Just Joe, Rochester’s Jon Seiger and Ithaca-based Sally Ramirez, supported by pianists Rick Montalbano, Dick Ford, Dave Solazzo, and Jimmy Cox, among others. The full schedule may be found at www.cnyjazz.org.

Modeled after formats made famous in midtown Manhattan at hotels like the Carlisle and the Algonquin, the series provides an intimate cabaret atmosphere in the cozy, clubby surroundings of the Cavalier Room. The series is free, with no cover charge, and holders of CNY Jazz Club cards will enjoy 10% food and drink discounts off craft cocktails and the small plate menu.

“I feel very privileged to be able to present a series like this in the historic surroundings of our city’s flagship hotel”, said Larry Luttinger, organizer of the series. “To be programming where bandleaders like Carl Silfer, Williamson’s Parisians, and the Stan Colella Orchestra held court for so long, is an honor. I can’t tell you how thankful I am that Ed Riley’s team has embraced this concept. I also remember the more recent days when the hotel was the mid-week ‘over the hump day’ place to unwind for downtown professionals. Now there’s a reason to restart this tradition as well”.

Said Ed Riley, developer and driving force behind the hotel’s renaissance, “The Cavalier Room was designed to be the perfect setting for patrons to relax and enjoy everything the hotel has to offer, and we’re delighted to partner with CNY Jazz to host this series. Jazz at the Cavalier personifies our commitment to quality hospitality for travelers and downtown residents alike, carrying on our hotel’s tradition as the social and cultural hub that this grand old girl has been for almost a century”.

A full “Jazz at the Cavalier” entertainment schedule can be found at http://www.cnyjazz.org/jazz-at-the-cavalier/

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Larry Luttinger, Executive Director
CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, Inc.
(315) 479-5299
(315) 479-7409 (fax)
larry@cnyjazz.org
cnyjazz.org

Jazz@SITRUS Talent Lineup Announced

Sheraton Syracuse University Hosts Series for Seventh Year

(Syracuse, NY) — The popular JAZZ@SITRUS series returns for a seventh season at Sitrus on the Hill, the cocktail lounge in the Sheraton Syracuse University, commencing with a kickoff concert by Nancy Kelly and her band in a tribute to Mark Murphy, Syracuse’s most famous jazz singing export. The celebration starts Friday, September 29th at 6pm. Admission is free to all events in the series.

This season will shift to a monthly schedule and present heftier musical offerings, including a new holiday show of music from Vince Guaraldi’s Charlie Brown Christmas album. “This venue is in great demand throughout the season, so we decided to lean out our schedule and bring in bigger acts and unique new packages,” according to Larry Luttinger, organizer of the series. “The ever-popular Nancy Kelly will again anchor the series with three performances, we’re featuring an America’s Got Talent semi-finalist, a Peanuts holiday show, Donna Alford’s soulful voice, and a CNY Jazz reunion gig with Melissa and friends. Ending your week by winding down and attending these fun gigs should be a priority for all who love good music, food and drink.”

This year, the Sheraton is extending the CNY Jazz Club 10% food and drink discounts to all who show a valid S.U. I.D. card, and validated parking is available. 2016-17 CNY Jazz Club cards will be honored through the November 3rd event. Call 315-479-5299, email info@cnyjazz.org or visit www.cnyjazz.org for more information.

JAZZ@SITRUS 2017-18 Series: All dates Friday 6-9PM
Sept 29th: Nancy Kelly’s Mark Murphy Tribute
Oct 20th: Edgar Pagan’s GPL with Julia Goodwin
Nov 3rd: ESP with Kirsten Tegtmeyer & Jeff Stockham
December 15th: A Charlie Brown Christmas: Karl Stabnau Quartet
Jan 12th: Nancy Kelly
Feb 16th: Donna Alford JaSSBand
Mar 23rd: Melissa Gardiner’s MG3 & Friends
Apr 13th: Nancy Kelly

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Larry Luttinger
441 E. Washington St.
Syracuse, NY 13202
315-479-5299
larry@cnyjazz.org

Cabaret Series Brings International Jazz and Blues Stars
CNY Jazz 22nd Season Logs Over 300 Events

Syracuse, NY – CNY Jazz Central will produce over 300 events in their 22nd season, including new events in the historic surroundings of the Marriott Downtown Syracuse and in the Syracuse Stage Sutton Pavilion. This expanded palette of offerings includes their core Cabaret Series, a Vespers Series, Nancy Kelly Vocal Jazz Jams and Cabarets, January JAZZfest, multiple educational programs in public and in schools, a total of 5 “CNY Jazz Club” series, and an eclectic season of offerings in downtown’s Jazz Central, offering theater, improv comedy, film, burlesque, and music in all styles.

The CNY Jazz Cabaret Series, the centerpiece of their season, hosts three international acts – ascending blues and jazz wunderkind “King” Solomon Hicks, the Contemporary Jazz of Eric Darius and Tracy Hamlin, and Tony DeSare, the heir to the Harry Connick legacy, with the 17-piece CNY Jazz Orchestra in a closing concert.

Tickets may be purchased in advance at www.cnyjazz.org or by calling 315-479-5299. Cabaret subscriptions are offered for $85 until November 10th. Individual tickets, group, and corporate tables are also available.

At all Cabaret Series events, a cash bar and affordable buffet stations are available. All CNY Jazz subscribers and donors will be given a “CNY Jazz Club Card” to receive 10% discounts on food and drink at all cabarets, other CNY Jazz Club Series, and validated parking privileges at the Sheraton Syracuse University.

“We like to say that we’re the only arts organization you’ll need”, said Larry Luttinger, CNY Jazz founder and Executive Director. “This year we’ll reach an audience of well over 55,000 in total, with something for practically everyone. Our CNY Jazz Club discount cards are now accepted not only at our cabarets, but during our other events at the Sheraton, the Hotel Syracuse, Le Moyne Plaza, Finger Lakes on Tap, and the Sutton Pavilion. We call these our “gateway” series, meant to bring in new faces and build our donor and subscriber base by giving audiences lots of added value. Just buy a subscription or advance cabaret tickets, or make a minimum $50 donation, and you get a card. And, you become a member of our growing CNY Jazz family.”

CNY JAZZ CENTRAL 22ND SEASON CABARET SERIES

Sunday, Nov. 19th, 2017
“King” Solomon Hicks
4 p.m. Doors; 5 p.m. SHOWTIME at the Sheraton Syracuse University
Solomon has been performing since age 13 as lead guitarist at Harlem’s legendary Cotton Club, a post he held for 9 years. His schedule now includes worldwide festival appearances and dates at the most prestigious clubs in the Big Apple, including the Iridium and Minton’s Playhouse. Barely into his 20’s, he has already performed with artists like Ne-Yo, Tony Bennett, Jon Hendricks, Mike Stern, and Lee Ritenour.

Sunday, Feb. 25th, 2018 
Black History Month Cabaret with Eric Darius & Tracy Hamlin
Sponsored by Brackens Financial Solutions Network
4 p.m. Doors; 5 p.m. SHOWTIME at the Marriott Syracuse Downtown, 100 Onondaga St, Syracuse NY 13202
This event moves to the historic and lavish surroundings of the Marriott Downtown Syracuse for the first time. Eric Darius, contemporary Jazz saxophonist from L.A., brings his band plus Philadelphia’s Tracy Hamlin, formerly of Pieces of a Dream, for a first-time public show in Syracuse.

Sunday, April 29th, 2018
An evening with Tony DeSare and the CNY Jazz Orchestra
4 p.m. Doors; 5 p.m. SHOWTIME at the Sheraton Syracuse University
Jazz Times has said that DeSare’s “position among male crooners places him squarely between the pop sensibility of Michael Bublé and the jazz smarts of Harry Connick Jr”. He will sing and play not only from the Great American Songbook, but tackle newer fare like Prince’s “Kiss” and the Gibb Brothers’ “How Deep is Your Love” in this season-closing concert. The entire CNY Jazz Orchestra will be on hand to accompany him, and perform an opening set.

ARTIST VIDEO LINKS

“King” Solomon Hicks – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7sdSxcMkK2w

Eric Darius and Tracy Hamlin – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7BH8RgA1_Mc

Tony DeSare – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=22To0DtSWdA

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Larry Luttinger, Executive Director
CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, Inc.
(315) 479-5299
(315) 479-7409 (fax)
larry@cnyjazz.org
cnyjazz.org

CNY Jazz Swings Into Action At LeMoyne Plaza

Twin Series Celebrate Jazz and Americana, Jams Mix Students with Pros

Syracuse, NY — Le Moyne College and CNY Jazz will collaborate on a new season of jazz and Americana with a continuation of the “Jazz at the Plaza” and “Parties in the Plaza” series, as well as their “Scholastic Jazz Jams”. A total of 50 CNY Jazz events are scheduled throughout the upcoming season at Le Moyne Plaza, 1135 Salt Springs Rd, the college and community center bordering the college campus.

Jazz at the Plaza, a Wednesday “lunch and listen” series, features area veterans like Dave Solazzo, Jeff Stockham, John Spillett, Melissa Gardiner, and Edgar Pagan, among others, and add newcomers Kanjira, Ithaca’s Sally Ramirez, LuBossa and the Jeff Martin Organ Trio to the mix.

Entering its second season, the Saturday evening singer/songwriter Americana series “Parties in the Plaza” relies on experienced, published professionals including Mark Hoffmann, Todd Hobin, Just Joe, Frenay & Lenin, and Dave Porter, along with Novak/Nanni, Lisa Lee, Jason Bean and the Ghost Town Ramblers.

Four more “Scholastic Jazz Jams” are slated for Saturday afternoons, where aspiring jazzers can hone their skills backed by the CNY Jazz Quartet in a welcoming setting.

“Le Moyne Plaza is becoming known as a relaxing environment where good music is regularly available, and where the community is welcome to enjoy the friendly, laid-back atmosphere,” according to Larry Luttinger, CNY Jazz founder and designer of the content for all three series. “Thanks to Le Moyne College, campus and community come together seamlessly to enjoy fine music in the cozy surroundings of the plaza, with food and drink on hand from Cam’s Pizzeria and Dunkin. The college’s commitment to Syracuse, and to the arts as a unifying force, is a model for the nation, and I thank them for their vision and ongoing partnership.”

Complete schedules and details on all three series are available at http://www.cnyjazz.org.

All events are free and open to the public.

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About CNY Jazz Central
The CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, established in 1996, is the primary year-round provider of jazz presentations for the public and for schools across the entire Upstate New York region. Its growing list of programs includes The CNY Jazz Orchestra Big Band Club dates, Scholastic Jazz Jams, Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival, Stage of Nations ECOfest, Jazz Vespers Series, SummerJazz Workshop, Jazz in the City, the Black History Month and Jimmy Van Heusen Cabarets, Syracuse Parks and Rec “Stan Colella” All-Star Big Band, and more. www.cnyjazz.org

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Contact: Larry Luttinger, Executive Director
CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, Inc.
(315) 479-5299
(315) 479-7409 (fax)
larry@cnyjazz.org
cnyjazz.org

CNY Jazz Kicks Off Regional Jazz Club Series

Skaneateles Brewpub Hosts 20 “Jazz On Tap” Dates

Syracuse, NY, September 6th — Music Lovers will be glad to hear that CNY Jazz Central will again offer a full schedule of 20 “Jazz On Tap” events at Finger Lakes On Tap, 35 Fennell Street, Skaneateles. Holders of CNY Jazz Club discount cards will receive 10% off food and drink at these free shows.

The schedule begins with a special Saturday night kick-off party from 6 to 9pm on September 9th, featuring Diana Leigh, Ithaca’s premier jazz chanteuse, with her band. All ensuing dates are scheduled for Sunday afternoons from 2 to 5pm, with the exception of a special New Year’s Day party with the Angelo Candela group on Monday January 1st from 2 to 5pm.

The lineup represents a cross-section of the region’s finest musicians across a wide variety of styles. Artists scheduled for return appearances are Ronnie Leigh and Marcus Curry, Jimmy Johns, Steve Brown, Angelo Candela, Melissa Gardiner, Cookie Coogan, Jeff Stockham, and Bob Piorun. Newcomers are Carol Bryant, Take Four, Ithacans Diana Leigh and Sally Ramirez, and Rochester’s Jon Seiger.

“This series was an instant hit when it debuted last year,” according to Larry Luttinger, founder of CNY Jazz Central and organizer of the series. “We’re extending our regional reach with this offering, to introduce new faces to CNY Jazz programs and bring more into the fold because of the discount card, which pays for itself in short order. Call it a gateway series, if you will. We dare you not to have fun at these shows, and want you to get interested in more of the over 300 events that we produce every year. Many thanks to Tom Ierardi, our gracious host, who always offers the best regionally brewed craft beers and light menu at his establishment, which is a perfect setting for our events. These gigs are a fun new experience for anyone who love good music, food and drink, and who wants to know more about CNY Jazz Central.”

For more information on how to purchase a discount card by making a tax-deductible donation, visit www.cnyjazz.org/donate or call 315-479-5299 for detailed information. The discount card is honored at many other events as well, including the upcoming CNY Jazz Cabaret Series, to be announced at a later date.

Jazz On Tap 2017-2018 Schedule:

Saturday September 9th, 6 to 9pm – Kickoff Party with Diana Leigh

Sundays 2-5 pm:

September 24 – Ronnie Leigh & Marcus Curry
October 8 – Jimmy Johns Trio
October 22 – Steve Brown Guitar Duo
November 5 – Ronnie Leigh & Marcus Curry
November 19 – Sally Ramirez Latin Duo
January 1 – Angelo Candela’s NYD Party – Monday!
January 14 – Jon Seiger Trio
January 28 – Bob Piorun & The Swing Kats
February 11 – Jeff Stockham
February 25 – Steve Brown Guitar Duo
March 11 – Melissa Gardiner’s MG3
March 25 – Take Four: Jazz
April 8 – Jimmy Johns Trio
April 22 – Cookie Coogan
May 6 – Ronnie Leigh & Marcus Curry
May 20 – Jeff Stockham
June 3 – Sally Ramirez Latin Duo
June 17 – Carol Bryant Trio
June 24 – Steve Brown Duo

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About CNY Jazz Central
The CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, established in 1996, is the primary year-round provider of jazz presentations for the public and for schools across the entire Upstate New York region. Its growing list of programs includes The CNY Jazz Cabaret Series, Scholastic Jazz Jams, Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival, Stage of Nations ECOfest, Jazz Vespers Series, SummerJazz Workshop, Jazz in the City, Syracuse Parks and Rec “Stan Colella” All-Star Big Band, and much more. www.cnyjazz.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Larry Luttinger

CNY Jazz Arts Foundation

T: (315) 479-5299

C: (315) 436-9082

www.nejazzwinefest.org

 

NORTHEAST JAZZ & WINE FESTIVAL ANCHORS ARTSWEEK

New Title Sponsor Berkshire Bank, Symphoria Performs, Staycation at Sheraton Offered

 

Great music, wines, food and fun converge this summer at the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival in Clinton Square, the heart of downtown Syracuse, on July 28^th and 29^th.

 

For the 8^th year, the two-day event will provide the performing arts anchor for Syracuse Artsweek, the “festival of festivals” that stretches from Clinton Square to the Everson Museum, attracting over 66,000 festivalgoers.

 

The lineup of artists appearing on the main stage has never been stronger, thanks to support from new title sponsor Berkshire Bank. The main stage will be inhabited by a typically eclectic mix of jazz, including the 50-piece Symphoria with special guest Joe Magnarelli; Bobby Militello, Dave Brubeck’s mainstay saxophonist for 35 years; Bob Holz & A Vision Forward performing a Larry Coryell tribute; Nashville’s eight-piece funk band Dynamo, and perennial funky dance favorite, Atlas, celebrating their thirty-seventh anniversary as a mainstay of Upstate New York’s music scene. The festival’s Mardi Gras and World Beat pavilions will host the J.A.S.S. All-Stars featuring Ron Joseph, breaking pop reggae group Root Shock, Dave Mathews saxophonist Sam Kininger backed by local funk favorite Brownskin, and classic Motown from Trumptight315. The festival’s main stage will again include a Battle of the Community Jazz Bands and a professionally adjudicated Scholastic Festival, and after-hours jams will take place at Jazz Central.

 

“We continue our tradition of programming with purpose by presenting an eclectic mix of musical styles with a decidedly urban flair,”, said Larry Luttinger, founder and director of CNY Jazz Central, the organizer of the festival. “We’re celebrating the fast-growing downtown Syracuse neighborhood, and giving 13202 what it’s telling us it wants. We’re delighted to showcase the jazz capabilities of Symphoria with our most famous jazz expatriate Joe Magnarelli. The CNY Jazz mission is to educate, inform and entertain, and we’re doing so via a myriad of styles, from reggae to funk to bebop to trad jazz, America’s music in all its forms. And we’re putting heads in beds, making our town a cultural hub as the performing arts anchor of Artsweek. It’s a thrill, and humbling, to be able to be a major part of creating the single biggest not-for-profit festival audience in the region.”

 

Said Chris Papayanakos, representing Berkshire Bank, “We are proud to be the title sponsor of the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival. Our partnership in this event continues in the tradition of Berkshire Bank’s support of the Central New York community and our appreciation of the arts as a whole. We look forward to enjoying this year’s acts in the company of our employees, clients and neighbors living in downtown Syracuse, Central New York, and beyond.”

Senator John A. DeFrancisco, a longtime supporter of the arts and major sponsor of this year’s event, said, “I am always pleased to help support the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival. This collaborative event helps to highlight the outstanding local talent that we have in our community, while drawing thousands of residents and visitors alike to downtown Syracuse. As a jazz enthusiast, I look forward to this year’s great lineup.”  

 

Van Robinson, President of the Syracuse Common Council, added “Not only is this festival the cultural centerpiece of Syracuse Artsweek, but it always shows strong support for a diverse group of local artists deserving of much critical acclaim. This event and the Jazz in the City concert series have become the summer staples of our local urban culture”.

 

“Downtown Syracuse is the epicenter of the arts in our community, and we always look forward to the last weekend in July as an opportunity to showcase the center of our city through an artist’s lens,” said Merike Treier, the executive director of the Downtown Committee. “We can’t wait to experience the diverse, high-quality talents of the craftspeople who make Columbus Circle their home for three days during the AmeriCU Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival, and how this compliments the Northeast Jazz and Wine Festival and the Syracuse New Times Street Painting Festival.  These events serve as anchor events in the ArtsWeek celebration in Downtown Syracuse. The weekend offers something for everyone.”

 

Proceeds from wine tasting courses held during the festival will benefit CNY Jazz and the local chapter of the American Red Cross. Wine sponsor Southern Glazer’s Wine & Spirits will unveil their all-new selection of festival wines at a later date. 

 

The event supports cultural tourism by offering a VIP lodging experience at the Sheraton Syracuse University where the festival artists stay, which includes two free main stage preferred seat passes with a value of $100, 2 sets of wine tasting wristbands, complimentary cocktails for two, hotel garage parking and a festival shuttle, for a highly discounted rate per night of $135 to $185.

 

The CNY Jazz commitment to arts education and cultural literacy continues with the event’s scholastic festival and alumni jam sessions. “We’ve turned out more than 1,000 SummerJazz Workshop and Parks & Rec All-Stars alumni in the last 15 years,” said Larry Luttinger, organizer of the festival. “The kids that you see on stage getting mentored by and performing with national artists are the kids who will be at our reunion jams for years afterward.  It’s a kick to be able to keep in touch with this group. The oldest are now professionals in all walks of life, and they have made America’s music their creative outlet. They’re playing their part keeping creativity alive in Central New York.” Some of these students will be jamming with main stage artists in twin “Late Night Jam Sessions” at Jazz Central.

 

The event also provides the only highly visible creative outlet for the region’s many avocational jazz bands on Saturday afternoon, with shows by the Rhythm-Airs big band, Utica’s Easy Money Big Band, and the most unique big band imaginable, the “Brig Juice Mini-Corps”, a twenty-two piece brass-and-drum set ensemble consisting of members of the Syracuse Brigadiers, playing high energy arrangements including Buddy Rich’s “Channel One Suite”.

 

Full information about the festival, including advance sale of wine passes, complete wine list, links to artist videos and printable schedules are available at www.nejazzwinefest.org.

 

To schedule phone interviews with artists, call CNY Jazz at 315-479-5299.

 

About CNY Jazz – The CNY Jazz Arts Foundation, established in 1996, is the largest year-round provider of jazz presentations for the public and for schools across the entire Upstate New York region. Its growing list of programs includes The CNY Jazz Cabaret Series, Scholastic Jazz Jams, Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival, Stage of Nations ECOfest, Jazz Vespers Series, Nancy Kelly Vocal Jazz Jams and Stars of Tomorrow Cabarets, SummerJazz Workshop, Jazz in the City, Jazz@SITRUS, Jazz at the Plaza, Parties in the Plaza, Jazz On Tap, the Black History Month Cabaret, Stan Colella City of Syracuse Parks & Recreation All-Star Big Band, and more. Learn more at www.cnyjazz.org

NORTHEAST JAZZ AND WINE FESTIVAL TALENT SCHEDULE 2017

Friday July 28

A – Main Stage

7:00 – 8:15 pm                  Symphoria! With Joe Magnarelli

9:30 – 11:00 pm                Atlas XXXVII

 

B – Mardi Gras Pavilion

5:00 – 7:00 pm                  J.A.S.S. All-Stars with Ron Joseph

8:15 – 9:30 pm                  J.A.S.S. All-Stars with Ron Joseph

 

C – World Beat Pavilion

5:00 – 7:00 pm                  Root Shock

8:15 – 9:30 pm                  Root Shock

 

D – Jazz Central

11:00 pm                             Late Night Jam

 

Saturday July 29

A – Main Stage

Scholastic Festival

Noon                                     Stan Colella City of Syracuse Parks & Recreation All-Star Big Band

1:00 pm                               Ray Middle School “Katz Pajamaz” Jazz Ensemble

 

Battle of the Community Jazz Bands

2:00 pm                               Rhythm-Airs

3:00 pm                               Brig Juice Mini-Corps

4:00 pm                               Easy Money Big Band

 

Evening Schedule

6:30 – 7:30 pm                  Bob Holz & A Vision Forward featuring Chet Catallo & Ralphe Armstrong:

Tribute to Larry Coryell and Alphonse Mouzon

8:15 – 9:15 pm                  Bobby Militello

10:00 – 11:00 pm             Dynamo

 

B – Mardi Gras Pavilion

5:00- 6:30pm                     Trumptight315
7:30- 8:15pm                     Trumptight315
9:15-10:00pm                   Trumptight315

 

C – World Beat Pavilion

5:00- 6:30pm                     Sam Kininger with Brownskin
7:30- 8:15pm                     Sam Kininger with Brownskin
9:15-10:00pm                   Sam Kininger with Brownskin

 

D – Jazz Central

11:00 pm                             Late Night Jam

 

*

ARTIST DESCRIPTIONS

Symphoria with Special Guest Joe Magnarelli

Symphoria is a world-class symphony orchestra that currently presents more than 50 concerts each season and reaches 100,000 people annually in venues ranging from their home venue, the Crouse-Hinds Theater at the Civic Center, to libraries, health care facilities, public parks, churches and museums across New York State. They are composed of a diverse group of talented musicians hailing from all across the globe, bringing with them a breadth of musical talent that extends far beyond the Syracuse community. They bring their ability to swing with the best jazz artists in the country, dating to their years as the Syracuse Symphony under the baton of the late great Calvin Custer. They will be joined by Joe Magnarelli, arguably the most successful jazz expatriate hailing from Syracuse since Sal Nistico, perennial jazz poll winner from the 1950s. Magnarelli is no stranger to Central New York audiences, having performed at multiple summer festivals including the Northeast Jazz & Wine festival with the Syracuse Symphony in 2009. He has nine records out as leader, and leads a busy life collaborating with countless other jazzmen and women.  He has performed and toured with Harry Connick, Lionel Hampton, Jack McDuff, Toshiko Akioshi, John Hendricks, the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra and the Carnegie Hall Jazz Orchestra. He is also an adjunct professor of music at the Juilliard School and Rutgers University.  

http://experiencesymphoria.org/

http://www.joemagnarelli.com/

 

Bobby Militello

Saxophone legend Bobby Militello brings back the spirit of Paul Desmond when he performs at festivals worldwide. After playing locally in Buffalo, he toured with Maynard Ferguson (1975-1979). He has played or recorded with the Bill Holman and Bob Florence Orchestras and Charlie Shoemake. He made his considerable mark on the jazz world by touring with NEA Jazzmaster Dave Brubeck for an incredible 35 years, until Brubeck’s death in 2012.

http://02b1d2d.netsolhost.com/bobbymilitello/welcome.html

 

Bob Holz & A Vision Forward: Tribute to Larry Coryell and Alphonse Mouzon

Bob Holz and A Vision Forward is an all-star jazz/fusion band consisting of drummer and composer Bob Holz (The Larry Coryell Trio), Chet Catallo (Spyro Gyra) on guitar and Ralphe Armstrong ( Mahavishnu Orchestra, Frank Zappa) on bass. They are touring in support of Holz’s new release, A Vision Forward which features Randy Brecker, Larry Coryell, Mike Stern and Steve Weingart.  Holz has composed and recorded numerous live and studio recordings, movie sound tracks and theatrical productions. He has released five albums as leader. His third CD, entitled Split Decision, was nominated for Best Jazz category in the 2014 SAMMY Awards.

http://www.bobholzband.com/

 

Dynamo

Dynamo is a Nashville-based, award winning touring band whose music fuses jazz, rock, and funk with elements of soul and R&B. Formed in 2012, Dynamo consists of nine core musicians. They have been the recipients of both the 2015 NIMA (Nashville Industry Music Award) for best Reggae/Funk/Fusion band and Album of the Year. When they’re not performing or recording in Nashville, the band is on the road, spreading their unique brand of feel-good music to audiences all over the world.

https://www.dynamo-music.com/

 

Atlas XXXVII

Atlas, the mainstay of the upstate funky dance scene, has been providing the public with scintillating funk of all kinds since 1981, the year they were founded by Maynard Ferguson and Melba Moore alumnus Larry Arlotta. Each time they perform at the Northeast Jazz & Wine Festival, they commemorate their longevity by adding their anniversary roman numeral to their name. They year they celebrate as “Atlas XXXVII”. Their current lineup is fronted by vocalists Andre Johnson and Juliane Holiday. They perform at festivals, clubs, schools and corporate events across the region.

 http://www.atlasband.com/index.html

 

Sam Kininger with Brownskin

Berklee alum and saxophone journeyman Sam Kininger is building his fan-base and repertoire at clubs and festivals across the country. Kininger has built his reputation in legendary funk/soul groups including Lettuce and Soulive. He also performs with the Dave Matthews Band, DJ Quick and Wyclef Jean. As a solo artist, Sam has developed a distinctive, organic sound on the saxophone that is extremely funky. He’ll be backed by Brownskin, RnB and Soul standard bearers for Central New York, a popular and  frequent NE Jazz & Wine Festival band.

https://www.facebook.com/samkiningerband/

http://www.brownskinband.com/

 

Root Shock

Root Shock was formed in 2012 by regional veteran musicians whose love of reggae music flows deep. Their unique blend of reggae and heavy drum & bass combined with American roots and soul, creates an infectious and positive dance music vibe. The band has been delighting crowds across the New York region and beyond, spearheaded by the soulful vocals of Jessica Brown. On the heels of their 2016 debut album, Root Shock is touring their live show to clubs, festivals and concert halls across the country. They are the winners of the Syracuse Area Music Awards “Best New Artist” accolade as well as being crowned winner of the NYS Music state-wide “March Madness” fan favorite competition.

http://www.rootshockmusic.com/

 

Trumptight315

Trumptight315 is an Old School R&B Funk band that plays the smooth and funky sounds of Motown.  Entertaining the public since 2012, they consist of Mr. Trumptight, Eric Love Jones, and his beautiful wife Belinda (Belové), Jamar Lacey on drums, his dad, James “Pops” Lacey on bass, Donny on guitar, Brody White on congas and Marty on sax. When people ask them how they came up with their name: In certain card games, the highest ranking suit is called trump). When a person has nothing but trump cards in his hand it is referred to as being “trump tight”.

https://www.trumptight315.com/

 

J.A.S.S. All-Stars with Ron Joseph

https://www.jasscny.org/

 

Brig Juice Mini-Corps

http://www.groove-therapy.com/

 

Rhythm-Airs

https://www.facebook.com/Rhythm-Airs-122864104462802/

 

Easy Money Big Band

http://easymoneybigband.webs.com/

 

Late Night Jam Sessions

These post-festival jams at Jazz Central, 441 E. Washington St. are led by a house rhythm section of distinguished CNY Jazz Alumni, graduates of the finest conservatories in the country. They are a living legacy of the scholastic programs of CNY Jazz. All are welcome to sit in and jam at these sessions, which start immediately after the conclusion of Clinton Square programming at 11 pm.

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