Thanks for visiting Exodus To Jazz.com. The first three concerts of this year reflect a positive response to the artists selected for the series and the recent overall changes to the series. Though suggested by a number of you who miss wine during the concerts, the Exodus To Jazz will not incorporate Communion services into the shows. “Let them drink water!”…and you are drinking lots of it!
In response to the unfortunate cancellations of the Somi and Marc Antoine concerts, I am pleased with the addition of The Lynne Arriale Quartet on April 9, 2011. Touring to promote her new CD entitled Convergence, pianist Lynne Arriale leads saxophonist JD Allen, bassist Omer Avitel and drummer Johnathan Blake to their Rochester stop.
“Lynne Arriale creates difficulties for reviewers: how to find fresh superlatives for a pianist who maintains such extraordinarily high standards? There are a handful of jazz pianists that I would gladly listen to all night long. Those master craftsmen Ahmad Jamal and John Bunch immediately come to mind. Arriale makes three”. (Clive Davis)
While the schedule has changed, The Kate Davis Trio remains the featured group for the final concert of this season. Preceded by Kristin Korb (Kristin Korb Trio), Kim Clarke (Jazzberry Jam) and Marion Hayden (Johnny O’Neal Trio), Kate Davis is only the fourth female bassist to perform in the series. Among female bassists who also sing, she and Kristin Korb are within an even smaller circle that is sure to expand dramatically in coming years.
Seeking the answer to “Who is Esperanza Spalding and why did she win the Grammy for Best New Artist?” will introduce many young women to Spalding and other talented female vocalist-bassists. The May 7th Exodus To Jazz concert is an opportunity to experience one such highly talented artist on a steep ascent.
Many of you who attended recent shows have said you like the Lutheran Church with its excellent acoustics, ample parking and wheelchair accessibility. The significant increase in on-line ticket purchases indicates BrownPaperTickets.com provides improved service and value. The Customer Service Centers in the Wegmans stores have become the preferred ticket outlet by far.
Based on your comments (including those not-so-serious) I will strive to enhance Exodus To Jazz to enrich everyone’s entertainment experience. Doing so will increase the focus on the music, which in the end, is what it’s all about. I am excited about the remaining artists and look forward to welcoming you to the April and May concerts.
Thank you for your continued support of live jazz in Rochester.
“Rhythmly” Yours,
Jose DaCosta
