Preview: The Monterey Jazz Festival 56

By Michael Katz

For those of us in love with the Monterey Jazz Festival, the longest six months of the year are the time between the final note of the last Sunday night show at the fairgrounds and the April 1 announcement of artists for the next MJF. That wait ended Monday morning with the lineup for MJF 56, on September 20-22. Putting together a festival of this repute is no small task for Artistic Director Tim Jackson. He’s got to book enough legitimate headliners to satisfy a sometimes prickly Arena ticket base, while maintaining the diversity and inventiveness that makes MJF such a treasure.

My immediate reaction: good news for Arena season ticket holders, with jazz virtuosos at every stop; good news for Grounds attendees, with the usual mix of big names and intriguing new performers visiting the four smaller venues, and challenging news for those of us who like to float between stages. There are just too many shows that you wouldn’t want to miss.

Gregory Porter

The three evening Arena lineups are especially loaded.  For those of us who caught part of vocalist Gregory Porter’s rousing set at the Night Club last fall and wished we had seen more, wish granted. Porter will be opening the show Friday night. Next up is the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra, playing a specially commissioned tribute to the late Dave Brubeck. Filling out the usual Latin jazz spot capping the Friday night program is Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club. That is quite an opening night slate.

Joe Lovano

Saturday evening promises to be one of the most creative in recent memory. Leading off is Artist-In-Residence saxophonist Joe Lovano, teaming with trumpeter Dave Douglas, performing Sound Prints, music inspired or composed by Wayne Shorter. The middle slot is led by bassist Dave Holland, an MJF favorite. He brings his quartet, Prism, featuring guitarist Kevin Eubanks, pianist Craig Taborn and superb drummer Eric Harland. Closing out the show is Bobby McFerrin, touring with his Spirityouall release.

Diana Krall

The Sunday show is opened by Wayne Shorter, celebrating his 80^th birthday, with his all-star quartet featuring Danilo Perez, John Patitucci and Brian Blades. Closing the festival is Diana Krall. There’s little need to embellish; you clearly wouldn’t want to miss any of these shows. And yet…

And yet, check out a few of the artists performing at the Grounds venues: Friday night has pianist Uri Caine playing three sets at the Coffee House and vocalist Carmen Lundy at the Night Club, as well as a reprise performance by Gregory Porter, and separate ensemble appearances by Joe Lovano and Dave Douglas. Saturday night has the Brubeck Brothers quartet with a tribute to their dad; Ravi Coltrane, the Charlie Hunter-Scott Amendola duo, pianists Marc Cary and Craig Taborn, the Douglas-Lovano Sound Prints band, and classic vocalist Mary Stallings.

Wayne Shorter

Sunday features perhaps the festival’s greatest dilemma.  You wouldn’t dare miss Wayne Shorter or Diana Krall, but the annual B-3 organ blowout at Dizzy’s Den opens with guitarist Anthony Wilson’s trio featuring Larry Goldings and Jim Keltner,  and closes with the great Dr. Lonnie Smith. Meanwhile, over in the Night Club, alto player Lou Donaldson opens, and pianist Cedar Walton brings his latest Eastern Rebellion to close the show.  Usually music fans are too exhausted to be running between venues by Sunday night, but MJF 56 may prove to be the exception.

The two afternoon schedules offer their own pleasures: an eclectic mix of jazz, blues, kids, world music and a few things that defy description.  The Saturday line-up has morphed over the years from blues to roots music, to none-of-the-above. This year The Relatives, a gospel-funk group, leads off the Arena show and also gets the 5:30 slot at the Garden Stage. If you haven’t heard them before the festival, don’t worry, you will — along with the hundreds of fans hanging from tree limbs and lined up behind the bleachers.

George Benson

George Benson has the headline billing at the Arena.  Benson was on the short list of great post-Wes Montgomery guitarists in the seventies before changing his orientation to R and B type vocals, but he can still “play this-here guitar,” as evidenced by his recent Guitar Man CD. Out on the grounds, the Saturday Garden Stage show is always a blast from start to finish, even if you aren’t familiar with any of the acts. And if you are looking for some straight ahead jazz amidst all the blues-funk-whatever, bari sax and flutist Claire Daly has a Monk-influenced program at 4 pm in the Night Club. And, as per the last several years, one of our favorite vocalists, Judy Roberts, will be performing with sax man Greg Fishman throughout the festival on the Yamaha AvantGrand stage.

David Sanborn

Sunday afternoon features college and high school bands, highlighted by the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, which will feature a guest appearance by the ubiquitous Mr. Lovano. As usual, I warn all of you not to miss this band – these kids will amaze you. Bob James and David Sanborn are the headliners for the Sunday afternoon show. I’ve always loved Sanborn’s blues and funky rock-tinged tenor sax, and James has done some great work as a composer and keyboardist. They have sometimes tailed off into the Ooze of Smooth, but their band, featuring drummer Steve Gadd, is hitting the major jazz festival circuit this summer, including the Playboy Jazz Festival in LA and the Blue Note Festival in New York, so here’s hoping for some classic jazz riffs from these guys.

I know I’ve left out a few highlights.  There are always acts I haven’t heard of that turn out to be knockouts, and new combinations that enthrall. Add that in with the usual mix of festival food, lovely Monterey weather and the camaraderie of new and old friends, and you’ve got an unforgettable experience.

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To read more iRoM reviews and posts by Michael Katz, click HERE.

To visit Michael Katz’s personal blog, “Katz of the Day,” click HERE.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 26 – Mar. 3

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Willie Nelson

- Feb. 27. (Wed.)  Willie Nelson & Family.  The inimitable Willie Nelson performs his memorable hits with the musical companionship of his talented family members. Click HERE to read an earlier iRoM review of Willie Nelson and his Family.  Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-3000.

= Feb. 27. (Wed.)  Shofar. The three Polish musicians in the group Shofar are questing after a “common denominator shared by Hasidic music and free jazz.”  Blue Whale.  (213) 620-0908.

- Feb. 27. (Wed.)  Sascha’s Bloc. An entertaining band of players, many from Russia, who bring new perspectives to a musical approach that blends traditional sounds and rhythms with far-ranging contemporary music. Click HERE to read an iRoM review of a recent Saschas’s Bloc performance.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Gustavo Dudamel

- Feb. 28 – 3. . (Thurs. – Sun.)  Dudamel Conducts Stravinsky’s Firebird. The ever-dynamic Dudamel leads the Los Angeles Philharmonic in an adventurous approach to one of the 20^th century’s intrepid musical works. Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Feb. 28 – Mar. 2.  (Thurs. – Sat.)  Oleta Adams.  Versatile singer Adams moves freely – and convincingly – across genres, from soul and gospel to rhythm & blues and jazz.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Anna Mjoll

- Mar. 1. (Fri.)  Anna Mjoll.  Iceland’s gift to jazz applies her warm, embracing voice to everything from jazz classics to the Great American Songbook.  She performs with the Pat Senatore Trio.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Mar. 1. (Fri.)  Juan de Marcos & the Afro-Cuban All-Stars.  The Grammy-nominated All-Stars cover a full range of Latin music, including bolero, cha-cha-cha, salsa, rumba, danzon, timba and beyond.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.    (562) 916-8501.

- Mar. 1 – 3.(Fri. – Sun.)  Oguri and Wadada Leo Smith.  Adventurous trumpeter Smith and his band interact creatively with Japanese dancer Oguri.  Electric Lodge, Venice.   (310) 306-1854.

- Mar. 2. (Sat.) Patricia Barber. One of the jazz vocal world’s most uniquely individual artists, Barber will sing selections from her new album, Smash.  To read the iRoM review of the album, click HERE.  She performs in a Jazz Bakery Movable Feast at the Musicians Institute Concert Center.   (310) 275-8961.

- Mar. 2. (Sat.)  An Evening With Rudresh Mahanthappa. Alto saxophonist/composer Mahanthappa works at synthesizing South Indian elements with a variety of other international musical genres. He does so here in the company of two ensembles – the Indo-Pak Coalition and Gamak. A  CAP-UCLA concert at Royce Hall.    (310) 825-2101.

Katia Moraes

- Mar. 3. (Sun.)  Katia Moraes.  Los Angeles is filled with musically diverse Brazilian artists.  And the dynamic Moraes, who invests her singing with the stimulating energies of her dancing, continues to be one of the best.  Click HERE to read an iRoM review of a recent performance by Moraes.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Mar. 3. (Sun.)  Patrick Tuzzolino Trio.  Singer/keyboardist Tuzzolino is an impressive talent who has not yet received the full acknowledgement he deserves.  Here’s a rare chance to hear him in action, performing with trombonist Bob McChesney and drummer Billy Paul.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Feb. 28 – Mar. 1 (Thurs & Fri.)  Ana Moura.  Fado is being revived by a gifted generation of young Portuguese singers.  And Ana Moura is one of the best.  An SFJAZZ event at Miner Auditorium.    (866) 920-5299.

Washington, D.C.

- Feb. 28 – Mar. 3. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Mike Stern and Dave Weckl.  Jazz fusion in all its many invigorating forms is at its best in the talented hands of guitarist Stern and drummer Weckl.  They’re ably supported by bassist Anthony Jackson and saxophonist Bob Franceschini.  Blues Alley.    (202)337-4141.

New York

- Feb. 27 – Mar. 2. (Wed. – Sat.)  Gary Peacock, Marc Copland and Joey Baron.  It’s an all-star jazz trio, by any definition, with pianist Copland, bassist Peacock and drummer Baron triggering a continuing flow of imaginative improvisation.  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

Ravi Coltrane

- Feb. 27 – Mar. 3. (Wed. – Sun.)  Ravi Coltrane Quartet.  Saxophonist Coltrane, who makes the most of his genetic gifts as the son of John Coltrane, plays with the superb backing of Billy Childs, Fender Rhodes, Lonnie Plaxico, bass, Nikki Glaspie, drums.  Trumpeters Tim Hagans and Jason Palmer trade off on Thurs.(28) and Fri.(1).  The Jazz Standard.   (212) 576-2232.

London

- Feb. 27 – Mar. 3. (Wed. – Sun.)  Arturo Sandoval. Versatility doesn’t begin to describe trumpeter/pianist/percussionist/singer Sandoval’s remarkable talents.  Click HERE to read a recent iRoM review of a Sandoval performance.  Ronnie Scott’s.    +44 0(20) 7439 0747.

Paris

- Feb. 27. (Wed.)  The Robert Cray Band.  Five time Grammy award winner Cray has throroughly established himself as one of the most convincingly authentic contemporary blues artists.  Paris New Morning.    01 45 23 51 41.

Berlin

Jason Moran

- Mar. 3. (Sun.)  Jason Moran & the Bandwagon.  Pianist Moran, the winner of a MacArthur “genius” award, takes time away from his role as jazz advisor for the Kennedy Center to lead his gifted Bandwagon trio, with bassist Tarus Mateen and drummer Nasheet Waits.  A-Trane.    030/313 25 50.

Copenhagen

- Mar. 1 & 2. (Fri. & Sat.)  Bobo Moreno.  Highly praised Danish singer performs with pianist Ole Kock Hansen, bassist Bo Stief and American drummer Adam Nussbaum.  Jazzhus Montmartre.   (+45) 70 263 267.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 19 – 24.

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Ron Kobayashi

- Feb. 20 (Wed.)  The Ron Kobayashi Trio.  Versatile pianist Kobayashi’s resume reaches from Mel Torme and Margaret Whiting to Teddy Edwards and Kenny Burrell.  Here he’s on his own and in the spotlight.  Steamers.

- Feb. 20. (Wed.) Monk’estra.  A Big Modern Jazz Band.  John Beasley.  Pianist/composer/arranger Beasley displays his imaginative musical wares with a big band featuring the works of Thelonious Monk.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

Larry Goldings

- Feb. 21/ (Thurs.)  Larry Goldings Piano Trio.  He’s an impressive jazz organist, but this time Goldings applies his keyboard skills to the classic jazz piano trio.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 21 – 24. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Dudamel, Shaham and the Los Angeles Philharmonic with German Romanticism.  Dudamel and violinist Shaham dip into the rich, emotionally textured music of the Romantic era.  On the program — Wagner: Music from Gotterdammerung; Brahms: Violin Concerto; Schuman: Symphony No. 3 (“Rhenish). Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Feb. 22 – 24.  (Fri. – Sun.)  The New West Symphony and violinist Rachel Barton Pine.  The New West Symphony presents another weekend of music across the Southland.  Boris Brott conducts Ms. Pine and the NWS in Tchaikovsky’s Violin Concerto in D Major, followed by Beethoven’s Symphony No. 3 (Eroica).  Performances take place:  Fri. at the Oxnard Performing Arts Center.   Sat. at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.  And Sunday at Santa Monica’s Barnum Hall.   (805) 497-5800.

Bebe Neuwirth

- Feb. 23. (Sat.)  Bebe Neuwirth.  Stories With Piano.  You know her from her long run on the hugely successful sitcom, Cheers.  But Neuworth’s also an appealing cabaret singer and dancer.  Scott Cady, piano.  Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-3000. 

- Feb. 23. (Sat.)  Cecilia Coleman Quartet.  Pianist Coleman, a much-favored Southland jazz regular before moving to New York, Coleman makes a rare L.A. appearance.  She performs with Steve Huffsteter, trumpet, Pat Senatore, bass and Kendall Kay, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Feb. 23. (Sat.) Robert Randolph presents the Slide Brothers.  With special guests: the Otis Taylor Band. The pedal steel guitar in all its glory, led by master player Randolph and the four Slide Steel Brothers.   CAP UCLA at Royce Hall.

- Feb. 23. (Sat.) The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.  Jeffrey Kahane, multi-talented Music Director of the LACO, opens the evening with an in-depth discussion of Beethoven’s Piano Concerto #4 at the Orchestra’s annual “Discover” concert.  In the second half, he conducts the work from the piano.  Ambassador Auditorium.  (626) 354-6407.

Trevor McShane

 - Feb. 23. (Sat.)  Trevor McShane.  His real name is Neville Johnson, and he’s also one of the entertainment world’s highly regarded attorneys, as well as an ambitious performer.  He describes his songs as rock-folk-country-pop, but a more accurate description would be a contemporary singer/songwriter in the classic mode of James Taylor, Kris Kristofferson, etc.  McSHane/Johnson will be joined by Lloyd Price and the Fleetwoods’ Gretchen Christopher.  McCabes.     (310) 821-5858.

- Feb. 23. (Sat.)  Roadwork Ahead.  Featuring Bill Mays, piano, Peter Sprague, guitar, Bob Magnusson, bass, Jim Plank, drums.  Pianist/composer Mays is well known for his accompaniment work.  But he’s also a prime jazz artist on his own.  He’s not in L.A. often, so take this opportunity to check him out. Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

San Francisco

Cassandra Wilson

- Feb. 21 – 23.  (Thurs. – Sat.)  Cassandra Wilson. Blessed with a warm and intimate voice, Wilson makes the most of it with her intimate, musical story-telling skills. Yoshi’s San Francisco.

Portland, Oregon

Steve Kuhn

Feb. 20 – 24.  (Wed. – Sun.)  The Portland Jazz Festival.  Always one of the best-planned, best-programmed jazz events of the year, the Festival continues to offer some irresistible music.  But it sells out fast.  Still available for this week: On Wed. Matt Wilson’s Arts & Crafts.  On Fri. A Tribute to Art Blakey including Javon Jackson, Bobby Watson, Curtis Fuller and more.  Also on Fri., the Steve Kuhn Trio.  On Sat., Steven Bernstein’s Sex Mob.  On Sun., Nancy King.  Check the PDX website for complete information.  The Portland Jazz Festival.  (503) 228-5299.

Seattle

- Feb. 19 & 20. (Tues. & Wed.)  Jack DeJohnette Quartet featuring Don Byron.  Jazz Alley. Drummer DeJohnette has found the perfect reed player for his Quartet in the imaginative playing of the versatile Byron.  Jazz Alley.

New York

- Feb. 21 – 24. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Benny Green Trio.  He’s played with everyone, and with good reason – his ability to bring captivating inventiveness to his jazz mainstream style.  Green With Georgos Antoniou, bass, Kenny Washington, drums.  Jazz Standard.

  London

Billy Cobham

- Feb. 20 – 24.  (Wed. – Sun.)  The Billy Cobham Band: Tales From the Skeleton Coast. The always dynamic drumming of Billy Cobham celebrates his latest album with an electrifying band including two keyboards, violin, guitar and steel pans.  Ronnie Scott’s.    +44 (0)20 7437 5081.

Copenhagen

- Feb. 22 (Fri.)  The Bjorn Ingelstam 5Tet.  “Tribute to Lee Morgan.”  Trumpeter Ingelstam leads a quintet of Denmark’s finest young players in a tribute to the iconic jazz trumpeter Lee Morgan.  Jazzhus Montmartre.    (+45)70 263 267.

Milan

- Feb. 20 (Wed.)  The Bill Charlap Trio. He comes from a highly successful musical family closely associated with the musical theatre.  But Charlap’s focus has been, and continues to be the jazz piano that he plays with complete authenticity. The Blue Note Milano.    02.6901 6888.

Palermo

Noa

- Feb. 20. (Wed.)  Noa and Gil Dor.  The irresistible Israeli musical partnership of singer Noa and guitarist Dor enhance their intimate musical togetherness with the string quartet of Vincenzo Di Donna and Luigi Di Maio, violins, Gerardo Morrone, viola, Anonio Di Francia, cello.    Teatro Jolly di Palermo.  091.6376336.

Tokyo

- Feb. 22 – 24. (Fri. – Sun.)  Fourplay.  Grammy-nominated Fourplay has had some personnel changes in the guitar chair over the past two decades.  But the addition of Chuck Loeb to the regulars – keyboardist Bob James, bassist Nathan East and drummer Harvey Mason – has invigorated the band’s always lively style.  Blue Note Tokyo.    +81 3-5485-0088.

Picks of the Week: Nov. 21 – 25

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Nov. 23. (Fri.)  Chuck Manning-John Daversa Quartet.  Saxophonist Manning and trumpeter Daversa get together for an evening of adventurous improvisation.  They’re backed by Pat Senatore, bass and Dick Weller, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 23. (Fri.)  Deana Martin.  Yes, she’s Dean Martin’s daughter.  But Deana has transformed her musical inheritance into an appealing style of her own.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Ahmad Jamal

- Nov. 24. (Sat.) Ahmad Jamal.  The great jazz pianist, admired by Miles Davis, as well as  his legions of fans, makes a rare Southland appearance.  Renee and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.    (714) 556-2787.

- Nov. 25. (Sun.)  Harry Allen and Larry Goldings.  Tenor saxophonist Allen combines a mainstream style with a contemporary imagination.  Keyboardist Goldings provides ideal backing, along with Chuck Berghofer, bass and Roy McCurdy, drums.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 25. (Sun.)  “A Tribute To Dinah Washington: Queen of the Blues.  Barbara Morrison with the BMPAC All Stars Band conducted by John Stephens. Who better than the versatile blues mistress Barbara Morrison to honor the Dinah Washington musical memory. Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Chicago

Roberta Gambarini

- Nov. 21 – 25. (Wed. – Sun.)  Roberta Gambarini. Italian native Gambarini has thoroughly established herself as one of the world’s finest jazz singers, regardless of origin. Hear her whenever you can.  Jazz Showcase.  http://www.jazzshowcase.com  (312) 360-0234.

New York

- Nov. 21 – 24. (Wed. – Sat.) Cyrille Aimee. With a French gypsy background and Dominican roots, Aimee – a runner up in the Thelonious Monk vocal competition – enhances her jazz skills with world music seasoning.  Birdland.     (212) 581-3080.

- Nov. 21 – 25.  (Wed. – Sun.)  Jason Moran and the Bandwagon. Currently one of the most critically praised jazz pianist/composers, Moran performs in a classic trio setting with  Taurus Mateen, bass, and Nasheet Waits, drums.  Village Vanguard.   (212) 255-4037.

Maria Schneider

- Nov. 20 – 25. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Maria Schneider Orchestra.  Schneider’s far-reaching musical imagination has brought compelling new timbres and adventurous performances to the classic big band setting. Jazz Standard.    (212) 889-2005.

Copenhagen

- Nov. 22 – 24. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Sinne Eeg.  One of Denmark’s – and Europe’s – most admired jazz singers, Eeg celebrates the release of her new album, The Beauty of Sadness, recorded with a Danish national orchestra and her own quartet.   Jazzhus Montmartre.  (+45) 70 15 65 65.

Paris

Ravi Coltrane

- Nov. 23. (Fri.) The New Ravi Coltrane Quartet.  John Coltrane’s gifted, saxophone playing son Ravi is keeping the creative legacy of his father alive and well.  Paris New Morning.   01 45 23 51 41.

Milan

- Nov. 21 – 24. (Wed. – Sat.)  Al Di Meola. Master guitarist Di Meola has an impressive  resume, reaching from his electric jazz fusion with Return to Forever to his superb solo acoustic outings.   Blue Note Milano.   02.69016888.

Tokyo

Nov. 22 – 25. (Thurs. – Sun.) and Nov. 27 & 28. (Tues. & Wed.)  Natalie Cole.  Nat ‘King” Cole’s daughter is a major star in her own right, singing with the authentic jazz inflections characteristic of her father’s finest work.  Blue Note Tokyo.   03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: Oct. 31 – Nov. 4

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Bob Sheppard

- Oct. 31. (Wed.)  Bob Sheppard and Friends.  Halloween Party and Jam.  With Larry Koonse, guitar, Dave Robaire, bass, Charles Ruggiero, drums.  Wear a Halloween costume and get in free.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

-  Nov. 2. (Fri.)  David Grisman Sextet.  Special guest David Lindley. Mandolin virtuoso Grisman, moving easily across styles and genres, teams up with similarly eclectic string player Lindley.  A CAP UCLA concert at Royce Hall.   (31) 825-2101.

- Nov. 2. (Fri.) Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernandez.  Traditional folk music and dance from the rich cultural traditions of Mexico, presented in colorful costumes.  The Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-3000 Also on Sat. Nov. 3.  (562) 916-8501.

Bill Holman

- Nov. 2. (Fri.)  Bill Holman Big Band.  Holman’s imaginative big band arrangements have been influencing young musicians since the ‘50s.  Hear them live and up close in a great listening room.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 2 – 4 (Fri. – Sun.)  Kenny Burrell Quintet.  Veteran guitarist Burrell takes a break from his responsibilities at the UCLA jazz program to display his potent playing talents.  Catalina Bar & Grill.    (323) 466-2210.

Betty Bryant

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- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Betty Bryant’s Birthday Brunch.  She may be celebrating a birthday in her eighties, but pianist/singer Bryant is still setting examples for jazz singing at its best.    Catalina Bar & Grill.  .   (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Llew Matthews and Pat Senatore Duo.  A pair of versatile jazz artists team up for an evening of improvisation, swing and balladry.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Orquesta Aragon. More than 70 years after they were founded as a danzon ensemble, Orquesta Aragon continues to record and perform in classic Cuban fashion.   An SFJAZZ Concert at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.    (866) 920-5299.

Washington D.C.

- Nov. 1 – 4.  (Thurs. – Sun.)  Roberta Gambarini. At her best – which is basically in every performance – Gambarini is doing a convincing job of defining the best in contemporary jazz vocalizing. Click HERE to read a recent kRoM review of Gambarini.   Blues Alley.    (202) 337-4141.

New York

Anat Cohen

- Nov. 2 & 3. (Fri. & Sat.)  Anat Cohen with Falafel, Freilach & Frijoles – From Mambo to Borscht. Clarinetist Cohen and percussionist Benny Koonyevsky join the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra in a musical exploration of the cultural relationships between the Jewish and the Hispanic communities.  Symphony Space.  (212) 864-5400.

- Nov. 2 – 7. (Fri. – Wed.)  The Chick Corea & Stanley Clarke Band.  With Ravi Coltrane, saxophone and Marcus Gilmore, drums.  To call this ensemble an all-star band still wouldn’t quite identify the extraordinary quality of the music they make together.  The Blue Note.    (212) 475-8592.

- Oct. 31 – Nov. 3. (Wed. – Sat.)  Lee Konitz Quartet.  Into his eighties, a significant force on the jazz alto saxophone since the late ‘40s, Konitz continues to maintain the gifted, individuality he has expressed for his entire, remarkable career.  Birdland.   (212)581-3080.

Copenhagen

Vini Iuel

- Nov. 1. (Thurs.)  Vini Iuel sings Jobim.  Danish singer Iuel, backed by pianist Thomas Clausen and bassist Mads Vinding, brings the warm rhythms of Brazil to Denmark just before the arrival of winter.  Making the music even more convincing, she’s invited Brazilian singer/percussionist Robertino Silva to join the celebration.   Jazzhus Montmartre.    (+45) 70 15 65 65.

Milan

- Nov. 2. (Fri.)  Jacky Terrasson.  French-born pianist Terrasson has thoroughly established his credentials as a world class jazz artist.  Blue Note Milano.   02.6901 6888.

Bill Holman photo by Lesley Bohm.

 

Picks of the Week: Aug. 20 – 26

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Alison Balsom

- Aug. 21. (Tues.)  McGegan conducts Haydn.  Nicholas McGegan conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program of Papa Haydn’s finest, including the Alleluia Symphony and the Drumroll Symphony.  Add to that an appearance by the brilliant British trumpeter Alison Balsom performing the Haydn Trumpet Concerto.  The Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 22. (Wed.) Anita Baker.  Esperanza Spalding.  A pair of the finest jazz/pop/r&b crossover singers in the world make a rare Bowl appearance.  Baker will no doubt perform her  new hit digital single, “Lately,”  “Sweet Love” and “Giving You the Best That I’ve Got” and Spalding will display some of the dynamic singing and bass playing that brought her a Grammy new star award.  (323) 850-2000.  The Hollywood Bowl. 

- aug. 22. (Wed.) Annie Sellick.  I once described singer Sellick as “an utterly unique personality.”  And she’s accomplished that by transforming influences — such as Janis Joplin — toher own personal (and personable) style.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 22. (Wed.) Kofi Baker’s Tribute to Cream.  Up close and personal with one of the great rock bands.  Baker (son of Ginger Baker), drums.  Fran Banish, guitar, Rick Fierabracci, bass.  Baked Potato.    (818) 980-1615.

- Aug. 23. (Thurs.)  Midsummer Mozart.  Nicholas McGegan again conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program of delightful summer music — this time by Mozart.  The featured solo artist will be Norwegian violinist Henning Kraggerud, making his debut Bowl appearance in a performance of the Mozart Violin Concerto No. 4.  (323) 850-2000.  The Hollywood Bowl.

Christian McBride

- Aug. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Christian McBride Quartet.  He was everybody’s first call bassist when he was barely out of his teens.  But McBride’s ambitions have reached out to embrace big band writing (and leading) and wide activities as an educator, curator and administrator.  Here, he’s back to basics, leading his own fine trio.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 24. (Fri.)  The Kevin Toney 3.  The “New American Suite” tour.  Composer/pianist Toney introduces selections from the classically-inspired compositions in his new recording.  He’ll be backed by bassist Michael Bradford and drummer Chris Coleman.  Vitello’s.

Diana Krall

- Aug. 24 & 25. (Fri. & Sat.)  Diana Krall.  It’s been less than two decades since jazz singer/pianist Diana Krall released her first album, at a time when she was honing her skills in L.A. — much admired, but with low visibility.  Since then, she’s become an international star, selling albums in the millions, maturing into one of the finest jazz vocalists of this, or any, generation.   Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 25.  (Sat.)  Dale Fielder Quartet.  Saxophonist Fielder’s versatility reaches across saxophones  from the baritone up to the soprano.  But his versatility is not simply technical, it’s enhanced by a rich musical understanding of the qualities of each instrument, combined with an inventive musical imagination.  He’ll perform with bassist Pat Senatore, pianist Theo Saunders and bassist Ramon Banda.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Aug. 24 – 26. (Fri. – Sun.)  A Tribute to Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgmery.  Organ jazz trios and quartets never got any more exciting and imaginative than they did in the hands of Smith and Montgomery.  But this ensemble, celebrating the masters, comes close.  And how could it be otherwise, with Joey DeFrancesco, Jimmy Cobb, Larry Coryell and Steve Cotter.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  http://www.yoshis.com/oakland/jazzclub/artist/show/2768  (510) 238-9200.

Seattle

Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin

- Aug. 21 – 26. (Tues. – Sun.)  Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin.  A pair of the path-finding masters of the music generally grouped under the titles of smooth jazz, funk, crossover and instrumental pop get together for one of their many musical encounters.  Expect to be hugely entertained by a pair of guys who have never abandoned their straight ahead roots. Jazz Alley.   (206) 441-9729.

Chicago

- Aug. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Ira Sullivan Quartet.  81 year old Sullivan is a truly iconic jazz figure — a superb player on trumpet, saxophone and flute, whose playing career has reached from gigs with Charlie Parker, Lester Young and Roy Eldridge to Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius and beyond.  Still a remarkable improvisational artist, he should be heard at any opportunity.   Jazz Showcase.     (312) 360-0234.

New York

Michael Brecker

- Aug. 21 – 23.  (Tues. – Thurs.)  Celebrating Michael Brecker.  The music of the late, great saxophonist is featured in all its far-reaching glories by a band with all the skills to do it right: Joey Calderazzo, piano and musical director, Ravi Coltrane, saxophones, James Genus, bass and Jeff “Tain” Watts, drums.  With special guests.  The Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592.

- Aug. 21 – 26. (Tues. – Sun.)  Trio Da Paz.  The Music of Stan Getz and Joao Gilberto.  The Trio Da Paz — guitarist Romero Lubambo, bassist Nilson Matta and drummer Duduka da Fonseca reach back into the roots of bossa nova with the spendid aid of saxophonist Harry Allen, vibist Joe Locke  and singer Maucha Adnet.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.  (212) 258-9595.

London

- Aug. 25. (Sat.)  A Portrait of Jaco”  The Laurence Cottle Big Band.  Bassist Laurence Cottle, a world class instrumentalist in his own right, showcases the influences — both instrumental and compositional — that have impacted him from the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius.  Ronnie Scott’s. (0) 20 7439 0747.

Berlin

Celine Rudolph

- Aug. 21 – 25. (Tues. – Sat.  Celine Rudolph.   Singer Rudolph’s urban oriented jazz  blurs the boundaries between musical styles, finding common ground where little seems to exist.  Appropriately, her musicians come from locations such as Lisbon, Paris and Berlin.  She’ll no doubt feature songs from her CD, Salvador. A-Trane.    030/313 25 50.

Picks of the Week: July 31 – Aug. 5

 By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Overtone

- July 31. (Tues.)  Overtone.  This impressive sextet of a cappella singers from South Africa are on the verge of breaking onto the international music scene.  Discovered by Clint and Dina Eastwood, they’ve got the right support to match their extraordinary potential.  Let’s hope they have a few more dates in the Southland. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

- Aug. 1. (Wed.)  Bob McChesney Quintet.  If there’s a better trombonist than McChesney – technically, creatively and inventively – I’d like to hear him (her).  In the meantime, here’s a chance to hear Bob in action, backed by the fine support of pianist Andy Langham, saxophonist Rob Lockart, bassist Darek Oles and drummer Peter Erskine.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

The Neville Bros.

- Aug. 1. (Wed.)  The Neville Bros. Farewell Tour.  The inimitable Neville’s celebrate their more than three decades of prominence as a New Orleans icon.  Also on the bill, the funky exuberance of Trombone Shorty and the Crescent City roots-rock of Roddie Romero.  The Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 1. (Wed.)  Miles Evans Big Band.  Trumpeter Evans is the son of the legendary arranger/composer Gil Evans.  The mission of his band, he says, is to “pick up where Gil Evans, Miles Davis, Jimi Hendrix, Jaco Pastorious and Rashied Ali left the notes on the page.”  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 2. (Thurs.)  All Beethoven.  The Los Angeles Philharmonic, Lionel Bringuier conducting, perform Beethoven’s lively Symphony No. 7.  And violinist Renaud Capucon joins the ensemble for Beethoven’s only Violin Concerto. The Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 2. (Thurs.)  The Alaev Family.  The Tajikistani Alaev Family, with eight, multi-generational musicians and drummers, performs the music of Central Asia, Turkey, Persia and Russia, along with the Jewish music of Bukhara.  Expect a party atmosphere. Skirball Center Sunset Concerts.   (310) 440-4500.

Ravi Coltrane

- Aug. 2 – 5.) Thurs. – Sun.  Ravi Coltrane Quartet.  The son of the iconic jazz great, John Coltrane, Ravi Coltrane – also playing the tenor and soprano saxophones – has carved out a uniquely inventive style of his own.  His playing deserves to be heard at every opportunity.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 3. (Fri.) Sony Holland.  Her singing has been critically praised, but Holland has not yet received the popular response that she deserves.  She’ll be performing with the prime ensemble of pianist Andy Langham, bassist Hussain Jiffrey, drummer Kendall Kay and her husband, guitarist Jerry Holland.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 3 – 5. (Fri. – Sun.)  Pixar in Concert.  The Hollywood Bowl Orchestra conducted by Thomas Wilkins presents an evening of music and video celebrating characters from such memorable Pixar films as Toy Story, Cars, Wall-E and more.  The Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

Strunz & Farah

- Aug. 4. (Sat.)  Strunz and Farah.  Niyaz.  A pair of superb groups – early leaders in the emergence of the World Music genre appear on the same stage.  Strunz and Farah with their remarkable 2-guitar excursions; Niyaz led by the soaring vocals of Azam Ali.  Grand Performances.    Niyaz also appears Aug. 9 at the Irvine Barclay Theatre in Orange County.

- Aug. 4. (Sat.)  “Cosmic Oscar” The Music of Oscar Brown, Jr.  One couldn’t ask for a more entertaining and illuminating program than the songs of Oscar Brown.  Add that the presence of precisely the right performers: Dwight Trible & Co., with Trevor Ware, bass; Breeze Smith, percussion and soundscape artist; Paul Lagaspi, drums; John Beasley, piano.  A Jazz Bakery Movable Feast at Boston Court. (310) 271-9039.

San Francisco

- Aug. 4 & 5. (Sat. & Sun.)  The Family Stone. Still keeping alive the memory and the music of one of the great groups of the ‘60s and ‘70s, some of the original members revive the great Stone classics.  Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

Seattle

- Aug. 2 – 5. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Dirty Dozen Brass Band.  More than three decades since they arrived on the New Orleans seen, the DDBB is continuing to prove that traditional New Orleans style has plenty of room to encompass bebop, funk and beyond.  Jazz Alley.  http://www.jazzalley.com/calendar.asp  (206) 441-9729.

New York

Jane Monheit

- Aug. 1 – 5. (Wed. – Sun.)  Jane Monheit. The mellow-voiced Monheit celebrates her first decade as a performer a five night run, singing selections from the 10^th anniversary album, Home. The Blue Note.    (212) 475-8592.

- Aug. 2 – Sat. (Thurs.- Sat. )  Irabagon Fest. Irabagon, winner of the 2008 Thelonious Monk saxophone competition, demonstrates his creative versatility on three  consecutive nights, with three different ensembles: Thurs., Jon Irabagon Trio; Fri.,, the Barry Altschul Group; and Sat., the Jon Irabagon Jazz Quartet.    Cornelia St. Café.  (212) 989-9319.

- July 31 – Aug. 4. (Sat.)  The Masters Quartet.  For the line up of Steve Kuhn, Dave Liebman, Steve Swallow and Billy Drummond, “Masters” is the only appropriate title.  Expect to hear music as rich and bracing as a vintage bottle of Chateau Lafitte Rothschild..  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

London

- Aug. 3 & 4. (Fri. & Sat.)  Legends of Latin Jazz.  The Classic Jazz Series, celebrating the 1012 Olympics, features two evenings of great Latin jazz, performed by the U.K.’s top jazz artists.    Ronnie Scott’s.    (0) 20 7439 0747.

Paris

Patti Austin

- Aug. 2 (Thurs.)  Patti Austin Group.   Versatile Patti Austin can sing anything from pop to soul to r&b, blues and jazz.  And do so with authenticity, swing and sheer entertainment panache.  She may not be a huge name, but she’s a great vocal artist.  New Morning.    01 45 23  51 41.

Tokyo

- Aug. 5 – 7. (Sun. – Tues.)  The Count Basie Orchestra.  Yes, the Count Basie Orchestra still lives – with vibrancy and rhythm, performing some of the most memorable big band classics in the history of jazz.  Don’t miss this one.  Blue Note Tokyo.   03. 5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: April 25 – April 30

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Freda Payne

- April 25. (Wed.)  Corky Hale and Freda Payne.  A Salute to Billie Holiday’s Birthday.  Lovely Freda Payne has a convincing way with the musical riches of the Holiday legacy.  And  the versatile pianist/harpist Hale, once Lady Day’s accompanist, provides the perfect setting.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- April 25. (Wed.)  Anthony Wilson residency Part 4. Guitarist Wilson wraps up his residency with special guests Donald Vega, Mark Ferber, Dave Robaire, Gilbert Castellanos, Matt Otto, Matt Zebley and Adam Schroeder.  The Blue Whale.    (213) 620-0908.

- April 25. (Wed.)  The Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell. The rightly much-honored violinst Bell performs the Beethoven Violin Concerto with the accompaniment of the Academy’s superb ensemble.  Valley Performing Arts Center.  (818) 677-8800.         Bell and the Academy perform a similar program Thursday, 4/26 at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.    (818) 677-8800.

- April 26, 27 & 29.  (Thurs., Fri. & Sun.)  Pepe Romero and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Veteran classical/flamenco guitarist Romero performs Rodrigo’s great Concierto de Aranuez with the L.A. Phil under the baton of Christoph Konig.  Also on the program: Dvorak’s Scherzo Capriccioso and Brahms’ Symphony No. 2.  Disney Hall. (323) 850-2000.

Della Reese

April 27 & 28. (Fri. & Sat.)  Della Reese. She may have reached her largest audience as a star of the hit ‘90s television series, Touched By An Angel, but Reese has been an eminently listenable singer since the ‘50s.  And she’s still going strong.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- April 27 & 28. (Fri. & Sat.)  Nnenna Freelon and Earl Klugh.  Jazz vocalist Freelon and guitarist Klugh are at the top of their form, skilled jazz individualists and engaging performers.  Samueli Theatre at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts.   (714) 556-2787.

- April 27 & 28. (Fri. & Sat.)  The Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet.  The 15-member Cedar Lake company concentrates on the works of innovative choreographers.  For this performance they’ll feature works by Regina van Berkel, Crystal Pite and Alexander Ekman.  A UCLA Live event at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-4401.

- April 28. (Sat.) Nailah Porter and Billy Childs.   Porter’s been a Capitol Hill attorney as well as a singer/songwriter. Currently working on a new album, she’ll no doubt be trying out some of the material with her producer – pianist/composer Childs.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

* * * HIGHLIGHT EVENT * * *

 - April 30. (Mon.)  1^st International Jazz Day Celebration.  Herbie Hancock’s first initiative as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador was to create International Jazz Day – the climactic event celebrating April as Jazz Appreciation Month.  Concerts will take place in Paris, New York, New Orleans and dozens of other countries.  In Los Angeles, Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. has stepped up with a major jazz event featuring an all-star line-up of the Southland’s finest players in an evening of continuous jazz.  The stellar list of names is too long to include here – check the Vibrato web site for the full line-up: Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9400.

* * * * *                                                     * * * * *

San Francisco

Anat Cohen

- April 29. (Sun.)  The 3 Cohens and the Gilad Hekselman Trio.  It’ll be a celebration of the impact jazz has had on young Israeli musicians – and vice versa.  With Cohen siblings Anat, clarinet and tenor saxophone, Yuval, soprano saxophone, and Avishai, trumpet, as well as guitarist Hekselman’s Trio. SFJAZZ at the Jewish Community Center of San Francisco.    (866) 920-5299.

Washington

Jon Faddis

April 25 – 28.  (Wed. – Sat.)  Jon Faddis.  Arguably one of the most virtuosic trumpeters of his generation, Faddis’ performances are virtual seminars in the length and breadth of jazz trumpetry.  Blues Alley.   (202) 337-4141.

New York

- April 24 – 28.  (Tues. – Sat.)  Bossabrasil.  Featuring Marcos Valle and Paula Morelenbaum.  Fifty years after the girl from Ipanema, keyboardist Valle and singer Morelenbaum get together to explore the broad connections Brazilian music has established with pop, jazz, world music and beyond.  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

- April 25 – 29.  (Wed. – Sun.)  “Endangered Species: The Music of Wayne Shorter.”  It may not actually be endangered, but Shorter’s works  surely deserve more attention than they’ve received in recent years.  And there’s no better collection of interpreters than Ravi Coltrane, Jeremy Pelt and Marcus Strickland.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.  (212) 258-9800.

London

- April 25 & 26. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Clare Teal. BBC Jazz Singer of the Year in 2006, Teal’s busy career includes a pair of Radio 2 weekly shows featuring her eclectic vocal stylings.   Ronnie Scott’s.   020 7439 0747.

Paris

David Sanchez

- April 27. (Fri.)  David Sanchez.  Puerto Rican born saxophonist Sanchez enlivens his solid jazz skills with occasional seasonings of Caribbean rhythms.  New Morning.  01 45 23 51 41.

Berlin

- April 29. (Sun.)  Vijay Iyer Trio. Starting out as violinist, while absorbing some Carnatic music along the way, holder of a PhD in music cognition, Iyer has brought a rich creative perspective to his art as a jazz pianist.  A-Trane.  030 / 313 25 50.

Milan

- April 27. (Fri.)  Patti Austin.  Few singers can match Austin’s remarkable stylistic versatility, her ability to move with great authenticity from jazz to pop to rock to r & b and beyond.  Blue Note Milano.    02.69.01.68.88.

Live Jazz: The Ravi Coltrane Quartet and the Christian McBride Trio in a UCLA Live Concert at Royce Hall

By Don Heckman

The performances by the Christian McBride Trio and the Ravi Coltrane Quartet at Royce Hall Saturday night provided a fascinating prologue to Sunday’s Grammys.  A prologue that revealed some of what was largely missing the next day in the granting of the awards.

Start with the fact that the McBride and Coltrane choice of bandmates demonstrated an awareness of the superlative qualities present in the newly arriving generation of jazz players.  An awareness that was virtually non-existent in either the Grammy jazz nominations or the awards.  Add to that the far-reaching collection of music, ranging from the Coltrane group’s adventurous explorations of boundary-less improvisational territories to the McBride Trio’s equally imaginative transformations of the jazz mainstream.  A range of music affirming the still-mesmerizing creativity present in the jazz art.

Ravi Coltrane

Ravi Coltrane was less than two years old when his legendary saxophonist father, John Coltrane, died in 1967.  And it would be completely understandable if – after deciding to make a career playing his father’s primary instrument, the tenor saxophone – he had decided to build a style calculated to avoid any comparisons.  Instead, he has gradually matured as an important independent voice, embracing his musical inheritance while continually expanding his creative horizons.

The Coltrane set largely consisted of several original works bearing titles such as “Coincide” and “Prelude.”  Each was framed as a springboard for Coltrane and his young musicians – pianist David Virelles, bassist Joe Sanders and drummer Kendrick Scott – to leap into unrestricted improvisational flights.  And each made the most of the opportunities, supported by spontaneous accents, counterlines and rhythmic embraces from the other players.  The result was gripping, an irresistible display of the way in which instant, wide open improvising can make as much deep connectivity with a listener as traditional, chord based playing.

Christian McBride

The Christian McBride Trio was equally compelling, coming at the music from a variety of different directions.  Despite the familiarity of most of the selections, each was viewed from a new perspective.  Thelonious Monk’s “I Mean You” found both the wit and the jaunty musicality of its composer.  “My Favorite Things” surfaced in a challenging 5/4, with drummer Ulysses Owens’ solo revealing every element in his drum kit as a musical instrument rather than an object for bashing.  “Cherokee,” energized by McBride’s propulsive, high speed drive and the dynamic piano of 22 year old Christian Sands, revived the song’s history as a daunting, jam session challenge to young players.  A challenge thoroughly met by McBride’s youthful associates.  In contrast, “I Have Dreamed,” a lovely tune from The King and I, featured McBride’s cello-like arco playing.  At its best, it recalled Ben Webster’s assertion that jazz musicians should only play a ballad “if they know the words to the song.”  McBride clearly did.

As an enthusiastic crowd poured out of Royce Hall Saturday night, the Grammys were looming on the horizon for Sunday.  And when the fateful moments arrived, the Grammy voters selected McBride’s fine big band album, The Good Feeling, as the winner in the Large Jazz Group category.  (Although one couldn’t help but wish that 93 year old Gerald Wilson – six times nominated – would finally have received the acknowledgment he deserves via his Legacy album.)

But after all the statuettes had been handed out, the thought remained: Could new recordings by youth-oriented, envelope-stretching groups such as the Coltrane Quartet and the McBride Trio make it to the nominations, much less the awards, at the 2013 Grammys?  One hopes so.  But I have my doubts.

To check out my more detailed comments about the 2012 jazz Grammy awards, click HERE.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 6 – 12

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Feb. 7. (Tues.)  Misha Piatigorsky and Sketchy Black Dog.  Winner of the 2004 Thelonious Monk Composers’ Competition, Piatigorsky applies his adventurous composition and piano playing skills within the offbeat string quartet sounds of the Sketchy Black Dog. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. http://www.vibratogrilljazz.com  (310) 474-9400.

- Feb. 7. (Tues.)  Guitar Night.  John Pisano and Barry Zweig.  The two veteran guitarists share a birthday celebration with a typical evening of Guitar night jamming. Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 7. (Tues.)  Joshua Bell in Concert.  Versatile violinist Bell applies his rich interpretive skills to a program of Mendlssohn, Brahms, Ravel, Ysaye and Gershwin.  Pianist Sam Haywood accompanies.  Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

Janis Siegel

- Feb. 9. (Thurs.)  Janis Siegel with the Elliot Deutsch Big Band.  “Love: Swinging From the Heart.”  The Manhattan Transfer’s eclectic singer takes a break from quartet life for an evening of love songs with Deutsch’s briskly swinging young band.  Old Town Temecula Community Theatre.    (866) 653-8696.

- Feb. 10. (Fri..)  Pete Christlieb.  Every bandleader loves to have tenor saxophonist Christlieb on stage with him (or her), knowing that – whatever the music demands – Christlieb will deliver it in world class style.  Here’s a chance to hear him up front, doing his own thing.  Expect the best.  He’ll be backed by the Pat Senatore Trio.  Vibrato.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Feb. 10. (Fri.)  Hugh Masekela. South African trumpeter and human rights activist Masekela and his South African band survey his far reaching career – from “Grazing in the Grass” to straight ahead jazz and Afro-pop. Royce Hall.  UCLA Live.    (310) 825-2101.

- Feb. 10. (Fri.)  The Glendale Pops Orchestra with Kenny Loggins.  “This Is Romance.” Hitmaker and pop superstar Loggins has been producing soft rock romantic tunes since the ’70s, and he’s still going strong.  He’ll be singing some of his classics with the Glendale Pops as the perfect lead-in to Valentine’s day.  Matt Catingub conducts.  The Glendale Pops Orchestra at the Alex Theatre.  (818) 552-2787.

- Feb. 10 – 12. (Fri. – Sun.) and Feb. 16. – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Steve Tyrell.  The warm and fuzzy baritone of Steve Tyrell can always be counted on to add the right romantic touch to an evening of songs for Valentine’s Day.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  Jaye Maynard’s Blossom Dearie Songbook. Maynard explores the delightfully whimsical material favored by the one and only Dearie, without falling into the trap of imitating her inimitable singing style.  1 p.m. matinee show.  Also Mon., Feb. 13.  8 p.m.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

Judy Collins

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  Judy Collins. It’s been more than four decades since Grammy winning Collins was first thrilling boomers with songs such as “Both Sides Now,” “Someday Soon,” “Who Knows Where The Time Goes” and much more.  At 72, she continues to bring new life to everything she sings. Disney Hall.    (323) 850-2000.

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  Inner Voices Valentine Show. The Southland’s primo vocal collective brings their lush harmonies and soaring solos to a program of holiday-appropriate love songs. Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  Pasatono Orquesta.  The first concert in this year’s “Sounds of L.A.” series showcases the indigenous music of Mexico performed on hand-crafted instruments.  The Getty Center. (310) 440-7300.

Ravi Coltrane

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  Christian McBride Trio and Ravi Coltrane Quartet. Two of the contemporary jazz scene’s most gifted artists share the Royce Hall stage, as well as their individual quests to explore new jazz territories. Royce Hall.  UCLA Live.    (310) 825-2101.

- Feb. 12 (Sun.)  Los Angeles Master Chorale. The LAMC take on a pair of compelling choral works: Bruckner’s lush textured Mass in E minor, performed with a wind orchestra, and Stravinsky’s three-movement, neo-classical Symphony of the Psalms.  Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Feb. 12. (Sun.)  Marian Petrescu. Bucharest-born pianist Petrescu brings astonishing technical virtuosity to a jazz style blending mainstream elements with a free flying, fiercely rhythmic improvisational inventiveness. Pierre’s Fine Pianos.  (310) 247-0331.    

- Feb. 12. (Sun.)  Moscow Festival Ballet. Founded in 1989 by Bolshoi Ballet dancer Sergei Radchenko, the Moscow Festival Ballet offers their own version of the magical fairy tale, Cinderella.   Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.     (562) 916-8501.

San Francisco

- Feb. 10 – 12. (Fri. – Sun.)  The Manhattan Transfer.  “Valentine’s Weekend.” The Transfer offer their richly harmonized versions of songs for the holiday. Singer Margaret Dorn steps in for Cheryl Bentyne, who is recovering from a serious illness. Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

Miami

- Feb. 11. (Sat.)  The Jacky Terrasson Trio.    Born in Berlin to an American mother and a French father, pianist Terrasson has thoroughly established himself as a world-class jazz artist.  In his first Florida appearance he’s backed by the sturdy swing of bassist Ben Williams and drummer Jamire Williams.  The Miniaci Performing Arts Center.  (954) 462-0222.

Washington

- Feb. 10 – 12 (Fri. – Sun.)  Jerry “The Iceman” Butler. One of the original Impressions, Butler – and his smooth baritone — followed up with a string of solo hits. At 72, he’s still going strong, while also serving as a Cook County Board Commissioner.  Blues Alley.    (202) 237-4141.

New York

Roy Hargrove

- Feb. 7 – 12. (Tues. – Sun.)  Roy Hargrove Big Band with Special Guest Roberta Gambarini.  After a string of performances with his quintet, trumpeter Hargrove is back in front of his dynamic big band.  But many of the high points will also be provided by the superb jazz singing of Gambarini.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

- Feb. 9 – 12.  (Thurs. – Sun.) Benny Golson.  He’s written some of the great jazz standards, but tenor saxophonist Golson also has a lot to say through his horn.  Don’t miss this rare club appearance.  Jazz Standard.    (212) 576-2232.

- Feb. 10. (Fri.)  The American Symphony Orchestra.  “Orientalism in France”  The ASO takes a close look at the impact that the music of Asia had upon French composers of the late 19^th and early 20^th cenuries.  The program includes works by Saint-Saens, Franck, Delage, Ravel and Bizet’s rarely heard one act opera, Djamileh. Carnegie Hall, Stern Auditorium, Perelman Stage.   (212) 247-7800.

London

- Feb. 8 & 9. (Tues. & Wed.)  Gilad Atzmon.  “The Music of Charlie Parker.”  Alto saxophonist Atzmon takes on some of the familiar Parker works, including pieces from the classic Bird with Strings recordings.  Ronnie Scott’s.    020 7439 0747.

Berlin

- Feb. 10. (Fri.)  Gwilym Simcock.  Although he is best known in the U.K., Welsh jazz 30 year old Simcock is one of the most innovative pianists of his generation, applying many of his classical skills to his improvisational excursions.  He performs here on solo piano.   A-Trane.  030/313 25 50

Milan

Billy Cobham

- Feb. 9 – 11. (Thurs. – Sat.)  The Billy Cobham Band. Fusion, crossover, whatever one chooses to call it, drummer Cobham is one of the master chefs of the mixed musical stew of jazz, pop, rock and beyond. Blue Note Milano.     02.69.01.68.88.

Tokyo

Feb. 11 & 12. (Sat. & Sun.)  Take 6. The six a cappella singers of Take 6 have taken every element in the history of jazz vocal ensembles, added their own unique talents and created the best new jazz ensemble singing of the 21^st century. Blue Note Tokyo.   03.5485.0088.

Janis Siegel photo by Bob Barry.