That's the text I received from my daughter after I sent her a picture text of the Skechers Shape-Ups I wanted to buy. True, they are rather obnoxious and are pretty much the essence of what a middle-aged woman who wants to get in shape the easiest way possible would wear.
These are the shoes that are supposed to improve posture and circulation, strengthen the back, tighten the abs, firm the butt, tone and firm the thighs, firm the calves and relieve joint stress. I asked the salesgirl if she had any personal experience with them, and she said that her mom was a waitress and swore by them. She would never return to regular sneakers. And, yes, she had lost weight.
Yes. I bought them. My apologies to Caroline and a promise to never wear them in her presence.
I picked the black suede ones; they are the least obnoxious looking. They don't "go" with anything except, maybe, my black yoga pants. Mostly because those are long enough to cover up a lot of the shoe. They are silly looking, with the (mostly white and some grey) sole one inch thick at its thinnest and a full 1 and 7/8 inches at the thickest point. The sole comes up at the toe and at the heel - so much so that when I leaned back, like you do, I almost fell over. Dangerous, these shoes.
So, first I tried walking around the house in case I didn't like them, that way I could return them. After I got used to that, Drew and I took the dogs for a long walk. I kept the shoes on while I did a few things around the house, ran some errands and did a little shopping at Wegmans.
Since my calves (and my ass) are tired, I have to say that they must have some merit. I hope so anyway. I'm going to try to use them every day on dog walks, errands, trips to the store, etc. Maybe they will make a difference.
Now, what to do about my arms?
yours in music and shoes,
Tracy
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
Lawnmowers + Redline Zydeco + Tina & the Two-Timers + Small Town = Musical Weekend
A very musical weekend, indeed!
Friday night, I dragged Joe out of Fairport to the world of hellish parking that is downtown Rochester so that we could catch one of my faves, The Lawnmowers, at Abilene. They must be many peoples' faves, because the place was packed. Lots of musicians out to see this band with their special guest, Rudy Valentino. Not the one from the silent films.
The band sounded great, but the venue was a problem. I really like what the owner is trying to make happen at Abilene, but the setup is difficult. I was sitting at the bar watching people rudely walk in front of Russ Roberts to get out to the patio - WHILE HE WAS PLAYING - over and over again, and it made me mad. At least wait until a song ends, people. I couldn't really see much, just Russ being cut in front of, since there was a guy the size a of SubZero refrigerator who chose to stand directly in front of me. Oh well, I could still hear, and what I heard, I enjoyed.
The next night, I was going to a private party at which Redline Zydeco was playing, with a nice surprise of our friend, Dave Cohen, sitting in on drums. A beautiful night, the party host had built a nice little covered bandstand lit with white Christmas lights - it was really beautiful. Everybody loved the band; there were many dancers (even me; thank God it was dark) whooping it up on the lawn. Really fun band, really good sound.
From the party, I popped in to see my friends, Tina & the Two-Timers at The Landing. Tone-god, Dave Charneski, was sounding really good. I especially liked his solo on Waitin' on the World; it was beautiful. Tina's voice is one of my all-time favorites, so I always enjoy listening to her, and her harmonies with Bob Miller were lovely. Bob's slide guitar, $Bill Blind's drumming, and Richie's bass all come together real nice. A fun band, don't miss them the next time they hit The Landing (or anywhere else).
Finally on Sunday afternoon, I got Joe to take me to Schooner's to listen to Small Town. I have to admit, that I did more talking (to Kevin Hart's lovely wife) than I did listening. However, what I heard were dead-on covers of songs everyone loves. That's why this band is so successful; they're excellent musicians, they know what people want, and they do it really well. The last song was Soul Sister, by Train, which I absolutely love - everyone was singing along! There was a big crowd for them at Schooner's, and it was a very fun way to pass the afternoon. I can't wait to do it again.
Speaking of Small Town, apparently there's going to be a big bash featuring them at Slammer's this Friday night. I hope to be there. I am betting a lot of Rochester's musicians will be; it should be an excellent night for music.
yours in music,
tracy
Friday night, I dragged Joe out of Fairport to the world of hellish parking that is downtown Rochester so that we could catch one of my faves, The Lawnmowers, at Abilene. They must be many peoples' faves, because the place was packed. Lots of musicians out to see this band with their special guest, Rudy Valentino. Not the one from the silent films.
The band sounded great, but the venue was a problem. I really like what the owner is trying to make happen at Abilene, but the setup is difficult. I was sitting at the bar watching people rudely walk in front of Russ Roberts to get out to the patio - WHILE HE WAS PLAYING - over and over again, and it made me mad. At least wait until a song ends, people. I couldn't really see much, just Russ being cut in front of, since there was a guy the size a of SubZero refrigerator who chose to stand directly in front of me. Oh well, I could still hear, and what I heard, I enjoyed.
The next night, I was going to a private party at which Redline Zydeco was playing, with a nice surprise of our friend, Dave Cohen, sitting in on drums. A beautiful night, the party host had built a nice little covered bandstand lit with white Christmas lights - it was really beautiful. Everybody loved the band; there were many dancers (even me; thank God it was dark) whooping it up on the lawn. Really fun band, really good sound.
From the party, I popped in to see my friends, Tina & the Two-Timers at The Landing. Tone-god, Dave Charneski, was sounding really good. I especially liked his solo on Waitin' on the World; it was beautiful. Tina's voice is one of my all-time favorites, so I always enjoy listening to her, and her harmonies with Bob Miller were lovely. Bob's slide guitar, $Bill Blind's drumming, and Richie's bass all come together real nice. A fun band, don't miss them the next time they hit The Landing (or anywhere else).
Finally on Sunday afternoon, I got Joe to take me to Schooner's to listen to Small Town. I have to admit, that I did more talking (to Kevin Hart's lovely wife) than I did listening. However, what I heard were dead-on covers of songs everyone loves. That's why this band is so successful; they're excellent musicians, they know what people want, and they do it really well. The last song was Soul Sister, by Train, which I absolutely love - everyone was singing along! There was a big crowd for them at Schooner's, and it was a very fun way to pass the afternoon. I can't wait to do it again.
Speaking of Small Town, apparently there's going to be a big bash featuring them at Slammer's this Friday night. I hope to be there. I am betting a lot of Rochester's musicians will be; it should be an excellent night for music.
yours in music,
tracy
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Emotionally invested.
My friend, Val, hit the nail on the head when she said that I "get completely emotionally invested" in every job that I have applied for in my ten-month-long job hunting odyssey.
All of the positions that I've applied for have been ones that a) sound like a good fit for my skill set, b) sound like something I would enjoy and be successful at, and c) are at institutions for which I have a great deal of respect. I am not applying willy-nilly to any and all jobs out there; I'm choosing carefully and thoughtfully.
When I find that kind of a job description, I read and re-read it. I do a little organizational research if it's not an institution that I know well. I think about all of that, and I see if I can picture myself in the role. If I can, then I craft my cover letter, tweak my resume to best fit the job description - highlighting relevant skills - and fill out the online application. It takes time, it takes care and it takes thought.
By the time I'm done with all of that, I am, indeed, emotionally invested. Then I wait. Wait to hear nothing. Wait to hear "No, thank you, you don't have your Bachelors degree." Wait to hear that the position has already been filled. Wait to hear that I have an interview. Wait to hear that I'm "one of the top three candidates, but ..." Wait to hear that "it came down to you and one other, but ..." Wait and wonder. And try again.
When I first was laid off, I thought about going back to school and working on my degree. There wasn't much going on in the job market at that time, and it made sense to focus on finishing my education. Between that time and January, however, there seemed to be more activity in the job market, and I decided it made more sense to pursue getting a job instead of school. That was probably a mistake. I don't know how many positions I've applied for - I could check my records, but I think that would be too depressing - but I still don't have a job. And, I haven't knocked off any classes toward my degree.
I've been doing some freelance work, and I love that. It's just not enough to count on, not enough to pay the bills. I've had time to help with the Rochester Music Hall of Fame, and that is great, too. And, I've had time for me and for my family, which has been wonderful. But, eventually, I need to find a job.
I am currently emotionally invested in several positions. If I am not successful with any of them, then it will be time to make a decision. I have until September 1 to register for November classes. I think I'll continue plugging away at the job market while doing the prep work for returning to school. By September 1, I'll at least no longer be in limbo, and I will be investing in my future - one way or another.
yours in music (and job-hunting),
tracy
All of the positions that I've applied for have been ones that a) sound like a good fit for my skill set, b) sound like something I would enjoy and be successful at, and c) are at institutions for which I have a great deal of respect. I am not applying willy-nilly to any and all jobs out there; I'm choosing carefully and thoughtfully.
When I find that kind of a job description, I read and re-read it. I do a little organizational research if it's not an institution that I know well. I think about all of that, and I see if I can picture myself in the role. If I can, then I craft my cover letter, tweak my resume to best fit the job description - highlighting relevant skills - and fill out the online application. It takes time, it takes care and it takes thought.
By the time I'm done with all of that, I am, indeed, emotionally invested. Then I wait. Wait to hear nothing. Wait to hear "No, thank you, you don't have your Bachelors degree." Wait to hear that the position has already been filled. Wait to hear that I have an interview. Wait to hear that I'm "one of the top three candidates, but ..." Wait to hear that "it came down to you and one other, but ..." Wait and wonder. And try again.
When I first was laid off, I thought about going back to school and working on my degree. There wasn't much going on in the job market at that time, and it made sense to focus on finishing my education. Between that time and January, however, there seemed to be more activity in the job market, and I decided it made more sense to pursue getting a job instead of school. That was probably a mistake. I don't know how many positions I've applied for - I could check my records, but I think that would be too depressing - but I still don't have a job. And, I haven't knocked off any classes toward my degree.
I've been doing some freelance work, and I love that. It's just not enough to count on, not enough to pay the bills. I've had time to help with the Rochester Music Hall of Fame, and that is great, too. And, I've had time for me and for my family, which has been wonderful. But, eventually, I need to find a job.
I am currently emotionally invested in several positions. If I am not successful with any of them, then it will be time to make a decision. I have until September 1 to register for November classes. I think I'll continue plugging away at the job market while doing the prep work for returning to school. By September 1, I'll at least no longer be in limbo, and I will be investing in my future - one way or another.
yours in music (and job-hunting),
tracy
Sunday, July 25, 2010
The Plateros
I stopped out to Ganondagan's Native American Dance and Music Festival in Victor yesterday. I was there to wander, but I also wanted to be sure to catch The Plateros. These three kids from the Navajo Nation in New Mexico are some very talented blues/rock musicians. They tore up the main stage with originals and well-done covers. I especially enjoyed a real slow blues tune they did, which I took phone video of, but my phone is old and does not do them justice. Check out their tunes on their MySpace page.
The group is comprised of Levi Platero on lead guitar and vocals, Douglas Platero on the drums, and Bronson Begay on bass. I can't imagine that these young men won't be hugely successful, not only on Native American music scene, but also in mainstream blues/rock. They've won awards and been recognized nationally. They've got energy, heart and talent.
Check them out today at 4:30 at Ganondagan. Get there early and try some food, walk the trails, check out the longhouse and see the beautiful art and native crafts. You won't be disappointed!
Yours in music,
tracy
The group is comprised of Levi Platero on lead guitar and vocals, Douglas Platero on the drums, and Bronson Begay on bass. I can't imagine that these young men won't be hugely successful, not only on Native American music scene, but also in mainstream blues/rock. They've won awards and been recognized nationally. They've got energy, heart and talent.
Check them out today at 4:30 at Ganondagan. Get there early and try some food, walk the trails, check out the longhouse and see the beautiful art and native crafts. You won't be disappointed!
Yours in music,
tracy
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Books and Records
Call me old-fashioned, I won't cry. I like books. I like to smell the paper and the ink. I like to feel the weight of the pages between my fingers. For the same reasons, I like magazines - real ones, not online 'zines - and newspapers. I love the smell of newsprint in the morning. It just isn't the same to read the morning news online.
The commercial for, I think, the Kindle cracks my daughter and me up. This guy is sitting on the beach with his Kindle, reading. What happens if he leaves his Kindle in his beach bag in the hot sun? What happens if he leaves it in his beach bag, goes into the water to swim, the tide rises, and his beachbag gets all wet? Or what if it's windy and sand gets in it? I know what happens to a book. The pages get endearingly crinkled, and sand gets stuck by the binding. And when you open that book again, months or years later, memories of that beach trip come flooding back. I can't imagine that the Kindle would fare as well.
I feel the same way about my music. I'd much rather buy a CD (what I still sometimes refer to as a record or album) versus downloading it via iTunes (or any other source). I like to fight with the shrinkwrap. I enjoy the frustration of trying to get that sticky "lock" off the top of the jewelbox. It's like getting a prize out of a treasure chest. This is why the songs I download onto my iPod are from music that I've uploaded (did I get those two verbs right, Caroline?) to my computer from actual CDs. I like owning a concrete thing versus owning the rights to have a song on my iPod. Some people actually still buy vinyl records and play them on a turntable! We used to call these record players. I think that is very cool.
I guess this all makes me a fossil. The way of the world is electronic. But I, for one, will not be buying a Kindle, Nook, or any other e-reader if I can possibly avoid it. And I will be buying albums for as long as the world will let me.
yours in music,
tracy
The commercial for, I think, the Kindle cracks my daughter and me up. This guy is sitting on the beach with his Kindle, reading. What happens if he leaves his Kindle in his beach bag in the hot sun? What happens if he leaves it in his beach bag, goes into the water to swim, the tide rises, and his beachbag gets all wet? Or what if it's windy and sand gets in it? I know what happens to a book. The pages get endearingly crinkled, and sand gets stuck by the binding. And when you open that book again, months or years later, memories of that beach trip come flooding back. I can't imagine that the Kindle would fare as well.
I feel the same way about my music. I'd much rather buy a CD (what I still sometimes refer to as a record or album) versus downloading it via iTunes (or any other source). I like to fight with the shrinkwrap. I enjoy the frustration of trying to get that sticky "lock" off the top of the jewelbox. It's like getting a prize out of a treasure chest. This is why the songs I download onto my iPod are from music that I've uploaded (did I get those two verbs right, Caroline?) to my computer from actual CDs. I like owning a concrete thing versus owning the rights to have a song on my iPod. Some people actually still buy vinyl records and play them on a turntable! We used to call these record players. I think that is very cool.
I guess this all makes me a fossil. The way of the world is electronic. But I, for one, will not be buying a Kindle, Nook, or any other e-reader if I can possibly avoid it. And I will be buying albums for as long as the world will let me.
yours in music,
tracy
Monday, July 12, 2010
Great Intentions
I had all sorts of great intentions to hear music this past weekend. And what a gorgeous weekend it was! The weather was perfect for the Corn Hill Festival, at which some of my favorite bands were playing - Teagan and the Tweeds, The Lawnmowers (who've been seeing some coverage in the D&C as of late), Tinted Image, The Coupes, Bob Henrie and the Goners, Steve Greene Trio, Gabe Condon, and Jimmy Richmond and friends.
I, alas, did not make it down there. Too much other stuff going on at home. I still have a chance to hear some music this week, though, and so do you. Tuesday night, at the Penfield Amphitheater, Bill Tiberio Band will be hitting the stage at 7:00 pm for a night of jazz. Then on Sunday, the 18th, BTB will be opening for Mindi Abair at the Glenora Jazz Greats Series, Part I, at 2:00 pm. In between the two BTB shows, Hot Sweets will be playing on Friday night at the Port of Pittsford Park (across the canal from Aladdin's) as part of Pittsford's Summer Music Series. They begin at 7:00 pm. I'm looking forward to it. Hot Sweets is a funky, soulful, danceable five-piece group that will make you want to get up on your feet and dance!
Hope to see you at some of these shows.
yours in music,
tracy
I, alas, did not make it down there. Too much other stuff going on at home. I still have a chance to hear some music this week, though, and so do you. Tuesday night, at the Penfield Amphitheater, Bill Tiberio Band will be hitting the stage at 7:00 pm for a night of jazz. Then on Sunday, the 18th, BTB will be opening for Mindi Abair at the Glenora Jazz Greats Series, Part I, at 2:00 pm. In between the two BTB shows, Hot Sweets will be playing on Friday night at the Port of Pittsford Park (across the canal from Aladdin's) as part of Pittsford's Summer Music Series. They begin at 7:00 pm. I'm looking forward to it. Hot Sweets is a funky, soulful, danceable five-piece group that will make you want to get up on your feet and dance!
Hope to see you at some of these shows.
yours in music,
tracy
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Whispering Pines and Marge's Lakeside
What do I like to do when it's 90 degrees in the evening? Well, I like to go to Parkside Whispering Pines miniature golf course - the oldest miniature golf course in the country - and then top off the evening with a drink on the beach at Marge's.
I have very fond memories of Whispering Pines (which may still have been called Tall Maples Miniature Golf Course at that time, I'm not sure) from my teenage years of going on there on dates and for an ice cream down at Seabreeze afterward. Those were simple times, yes? Anyway, I still love going there and playing miniature golf. No other mini golf place can compare. This is not Putt-Putt, it's not some "Disney-fied," commercialized version of miniature golf.
Designed in 1929 by Robert Ocorr, Whispering Pines was built and opened for business in 1930. This is the oldest surviving (and thriving) miniature golf course in the country. It is the old-fashioned, real deal - it has the windmill, two-tiered holes, mysterious pipes which make where the ball ends up rather unpredictable. It's amazing to think that before my parents were born, people were playing on the same course where I've taken my kids and still go myself.
Based on the fact that Marge's Lakeside Inn is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, it's another establishment that's been around longer than I have! I only found it a few years ago, but I do enjoy sitting on the sandy beach right by the water listening to the waves and enjoying a drink. You don't even realize you're in Rochester when you're sitting there. You can pretend you're on vacation. I would definitely recommend spending a warm, moonlit night on the beach there. If it's earlier in the week, it's less crowded, and could even be considered romantic. Fridays and Saturdays, and definitely this past Fourth of July weekend, were pretty packed.
The atmosphere inside at Marge's is pretty "Gilligan's Island," but that's okay. It makes the transition from being in the parking lot at Seabreeze to being on the beach all the more fun.
yours in music (and mini golf),
Tracy
I have very fond memories of Whispering Pines (which may still have been called Tall Maples Miniature Golf Course at that time, I'm not sure) from my teenage years of going on there on dates and for an ice cream down at Seabreeze afterward. Those were simple times, yes? Anyway, I still love going there and playing miniature golf. No other mini golf place can compare. This is not Putt-Putt, it's not some "Disney-fied," commercialized version of miniature golf.
Designed in 1929 by Robert Ocorr, Whispering Pines was built and opened for business in 1930. This is the oldest surviving (and thriving) miniature golf course in the country. It is the old-fashioned, real deal - it has the windmill, two-tiered holes, mysterious pipes which make where the ball ends up rather unpredictable. It's amazing to think that before my parents were born, people were playing on the same course where I've taken my kids and still go myself.
Based on the fact that Marge's Lakeside Inn is celebrating their 50th anniversary this year, it's another establishment that's been around longer than I have! I only found it a few years ago, but I do enjoy sitting on the sandy beach right by the water listening to the waves and enjoying a drink. You don't even realize you're in Rochester when you're sitting there. You can pretend you're on vacation. I would definitely recommend spending a warm, moonlit night on the beach there. If it's earlier in the week, it's less crowded, and could even be considered romantic. Fridays and Saturdays, and definitely this past Fourth of July weekend, were pretty packed.
The atmosphere inside at Marge's is pretty "Gilligan's Island," but that's okay. It makes the transition from being in the parking lot at Seabreeze to being on the beach all the more fun.
yours in music (and mini golf),
Tracy
Monday, July 5, 2010
Fourth of July at Tony D's!
I love fireworks, and I love Tony D's; what a perfect combination for the Fourth!
We enjoyed a great Fourth of July evening in the city of Rochester! Tony D's, for those of you who don't know, is a gourmet pizza and pasta (and oh-so-much-more) place in Corn Hill Landing. Their location on the water is just perfect, the service is good, and Jay's food is awesome. Met the owner, Tony, last night - very busy, very nice guy. Karen, the manager, always treats us as though she remembers us as special friends. Very, very nice. Try the Sunday Sauce (on Sundays, of course) or any of the pizzas, and you're sure to be pleased.
Last night, I tried the greens and beans because I want to figure out how to make mine like Jay does. They were excellent, and I have some ideas on how to improve mine! We had the white pizza, the special clams cooked in a beer broth with sausage, Sunday Sauce, lemon cream cake and lemon ice. Oh, and a Caesar salad.
Tony D's was slammed last night. The food was the usual high quality, and the service was efficient. This is something that many restaurants can't do on a regular night, let alone a night when there are double, maybe triple or more customers than usual.
We sat on the patio before dinner enjoying a beautiful breeze, ate dinner inside, and then went back out in time to watch the fireworks. What a view! The evening breeze kept us comfortable, there were no bugs, and our view of the fireworks was completely unobstructed. I highly recommend Tony D's any time, but I have to say it made the Fourth of July even more special than usual.
The City didn't seem to skimp on the fireworks in this year of budget cuts. There were still plenty of big booms, the whistlers, the sizzlers, lots of colors and designs. I thought it was a beautiful show. It filled my heart with happiness.
yours in music,
tracy
We enjoyed a great Fourth of July evening in the city of Rochester! Tony D's, for those of you who don't know, is a gourmet pizza and pasta (and oh-so-much-more) place in Corn Hill Landing. Their location on the water is just perfect, the service is good, and Jay's food is awesome. Met the owner, Tony, last night - very busy, very nice guy. Karen, the manager, always treats us as though she remembers us as special friends. Very, very nice. Try the Sunday Sauce (on Sundays, of course) or any of the pizzas, and you're sure to be pleased.
Last night, I tried the greens and beans because I want to figure out how to make mine like Jay does. They were excellent, and I have some ideas on how to improve mine! We had the white pizza, the special clams cooked in a beer broth with sausage, Sunday Sauce, lemon cream cake and lemon ice. Oh, and a Caesar salad.
Tony D's was slammed last night. The food was the usual high quality, and the service was efficient. This is something that many restaurants can't do on a regular night, let alone a night when there are double, maybe triple or more customers than usual.
We sat on the patio before dinner enjoying a beautiful breeze, ate dinner inside, and then went back out in time to watch the fireworks. What a view! The evening breeze kept us comfortable, there were no bugs, and our view of the fireworks was completely unobstructed. I highly recommend Tony D's any time, but I have to say it made the Fourth of July even more special than usual.
The City didn't seem to skimp on the fireworks in this year of budget cuts. There were still plenty of big booms, the whistlers, the sizzlers, lots of colors and designs. I thought it was a beautiful show. It filled my heart with happiness.
yours in music,
tracy
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Bloggist
My daughter and I visited Charlotte Beach one fine day not too long ago, and as I was laying there soaking up the sun, I started telling her something about my friend, Greg Bell, being a "bloggist." "Blogger," she said, rather authoritatively. That caused me to lay there and think. Hard.
Why are you a blogger, and not a bloggist? You're an artist, not an arter, right? You're a flutist, a cellist, a guitarist, a pianist, a saxophonist, a harpist, a violinist, a trombonist . . . but, you're a drummer, not a drummist; though, a drummer IS a percussionist, right? You're a tuber, not a tubist. No. Wait. You're just a tuba player, I guess.
You're an actor, not an actist. Though, many of today's actors are activists. You're a doctor, not a doctist, but you're a specialist, a generalist, an internist, dermatologist, a psychiatrist and a hospitalist. You're a surgeon, though, not a surgist OR a surger. You're a typist, not a typer; pharmacist, not a pharmer; a farmer, not a farmist; a physicist, not a physicer.
Let's see, what have I forgotten? Acupuncturist, anesthetist, archaeologist, balloonist, biologist, chemist, cosmetologist, cyclist, ecologist, evangelist, flavorist and the list goes on.
Columnist! There's an ist for you. However, it's author, editor, reporter, reviewer, and writer; not authist, editist, reportist, reviewist and writist. So, until such time as bloggist becomes a real word, I guess I will have to use blogger. Like my daughter said.
yours in music (and words),
Tracy
Why are you a blogger, and not a bloggist? You're an artist, not an arter, right? You're a flutist, a cellist, a guitarist, a pianist, a saxophonist, a harpist, a violinist, a trombonist . . . but, you're a drummer, not a drummist; though, a drummer IS a percussionist, right? You're a tuber, not a tubist. No. Wait. You're just a tuba player, I guess.
You're an actor, not an actist. Though, many of today's actors are activists. You're a doctor, not a doctist, but you're a specialist, a generalist, an internist, dermatologist, a psychiatrist and a hospitalist. You're a surgeon, though, not a surgist OR a surger. You're a typist, not a typer; pharmacist, not a pharmer; a farmer, not a farmist; a physicist, not a physicer.
Let's see, what have I forgotten? Acupuncturist, anesthetist, archaeologist, balloonist, biologist, chemist, cosmetologist, cyclist, ecologist, evangelist, flavorist and the list goes on.
Columnist! There's an ist for you. However, it's author, editor, reporter, reviewer, and writer; not authist, editist, reportist, reviewist and writist. So, until such time as bloggist becomes a real word, I guess I will have to use blogger. Like my daughter said.
yours in music (and words),
Tracy
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
2010 XRIJF - Finale!
Well, it's about time for me to sit down and write up my adventures from the last day of the ninth edition of the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival!
My daughter and I started out by grabbing a quick bite to eat on Jazz Street - a hot dog for her and a Santa Fe Chicken Wrap for me. This was my fourth of the Jazz Fest. They seemed the least bad for me of all the "street meat" that was there to be had.
We finished up and tried to find a place to see one of my favorite local bands, The Lawnmowers, who were supposed to appear on the Jazz Street stage at 6:30. Lots of people wanted to see The Lawnmowers; there was no place to sit and hardly anywhere to stand where you could see. I had a great view of a tree. They were late starting due to some sound problems. We stayed for a few songs but then had to head down East to see Tinted Image at the East and Alexander stage.
The last (and, also, first) time I saw Tinted Image was at The Keg - an intimate venue to say the least. They were a trio that night, and were somewhat subdued. But they sounded great then. This show was on a big stage outdoors; I wondered if they would sound as good. They did. This show was all five pieces, and I was impressed. I like their sound very much. I would be surprised if this band wasn't able to take it to the next level - success-wise. Though, there are many excellent bands in this city, and some that are world class, and they just don't get that lucky break. I wish Tinted Image luck.
After we'd been there for a while, I had gotten tired of being hot, gotten tired of standing, and had gotten especially tired of having people blow their smoke in my face. So we hit the road. I was tempted to call it a night, call it a wrap. But Joe wanted to come down after working late, so I took my daughter home, and then Joe and I headed back downtown.
We walked into the Big Tent to hear Bryan Lee and the Blues Power Band. They were good, but, to be honest, they were nothing special. They were a blues band, like the kind that plays at the Dinosaur on a nightly basis. You could definitely dance to them if you were so inclined. No offense to Bryan Lee, but there are certainly a number of local bands of equal or higher musicianship that could have been playing in the Big Tent that night.
We left there and headed down Jazz Street over to the East and Chestnut stage where we listened for a while to Marc Broussard. I'd never heard of him before that night, but judging from the fact that many women were swaying and singing along to the words, many others had. He had a nice, romantic sound - music you would put on in the background for a night of seducing your special someone. He looked kind of cute, too, which might explain all the swaying ladies.
We headed over to the Montage for our last club show of this edition of the Jazz Fest - Ibrahim Electric. FUN!! We were at their second show of the night, and it was apparent that they were enjoying themselves. It was their first time in America, but they said that they were feeling "at home." They wanted to do a different set for the 10:00 crowd since there were many repeat attendees; this was not always the case with other artists - many did exactly the same performances. Anyway, the band said they were going to go out on a limb and do more debuts in this set. They did one that they entitled, "Rochester Suite." It was good. And the guitarist, and seeming band leader, Niclas Knudsen, did his "robot guitar dance." This was special. Actually, it was quite fun! It was a great way to end the festival on a night when we really didn't know whom to see.
So, Joe asked me how many shows I saw, and, after thinking about it, I realized that this has been a record for me. I saw at least part of each of 21 acts. And of those 21, I saw the entire shows of 14. This does not include the Eastman shows - John Pizzarelli and Jeff Beck. I am very happy with that. I could have seen more given the right circumstances, but I have no regrets. I chose thoughtfully. This has been my best XRIJF experience ever. I'm a little whipped, and I need some recovery time, but next year seems such a long time away!
There is still lots of music to be had in this great music city - tons of great local bands. We can get our fill of live music, and we should get out and support these bands the way we support the Jazz Fest. Come on, people of Rochester! Get off your butts and come out and support our live music scene. I will be there. You be there, too!
yours in music,
tracy
My daughter and I started out by grabbing a quick bite to eat on Jazz Street - a hot dog for her and a Santa Fe Chicken Wrap for me. This was my fourth of the Jazz Fest. They seemed the least bad for me of all the "street meat" that was there to be had.
We finished up and tried to find a place to see one of my favorite local bands, The Lawnmowers, who were supposed to appear on the Jazz Street stage at 6:30. Lots of people wanted to see The Lawnmowers; there was no place to sit and hardly anywhere to stand where you could see. I had a great view of a tree. They were late starting due to some sound problems. We stayed for a few songs but then had to head down East to see Tinted Image at the East and Alexander stage.
The last (and, also, first) time I saw Tinted Image was at The Keg - an intimate venue to say the least. They were a trio that night, and were somewhat subdued. But they sounded great then. This show was on a big stage outdoors; I wondered if they would sound as good. They did. This show was all five pieces, and I was impressed. I like their sound very much. I would be surprised if this band wasn't able to take it to the next level - success-wise. Though, there are many excellent bands in this city, and some that are world class, and they just don't get that lucky break. I wish Tinted Image luck.
After we'd been there for a while, I had gotten tired of being hot, gotten tired of standing, and had gotten especially tired of having people blow their smoke in my face. So we hit the road. I was tempted to call it a night, call it a wrap. But Joe wanted to come down after working late, so I took my daughter home, and then Joe and I headed back downtown.
We walked into the Big Tent to hear Bryan Lee and the Blues Power Band. They were good, but, to be honest, they were nothing special. They were a blues band, like the kind that plays at the Dinosaur on a nightly basis. You could definitely dance to them if you were so inclined. No offense to Bryan Lee, but there are certainly a number of local bands of equal or higher musicianship that could have been playing in the Big Tent that night.
We left there and headed down Jazz Street over to the East and Chestnut stage where we listened for a while to Marc Broussard. I'd never heard of him before that night, but judging from the fact that many women were swaying and singing along to the words, many others had. He had a nice, romantic sound - music you would put on in the background for a night of seducing your special someone. He looked kind of cute, too, which might explain all the swaying ladies.
We headed over to the Montage for our last club show of this edition of the Jazz Fest - Ibrahim Electric. FUN!! We were at their second show of the night, and it was apparent that they were enjoying themselves. It was their first time in America, but they said that they were feeling "at home." They wanted to do a different set for the 10:00 crowd since there were many repeat attendees; this was not always the case with other artists - many did exactly the same performances. Anyway, the band said they were going to go out on a limb and do more debuts in this set. They did one that they entitled, "Rochester Suite." It was good. And the guitarist, and seeming band leader, Niclas Knudsen, did his "robot guitar dance." This was special. Actually, it was quite fun! It was a great way to end the festival on a night when we really didn't know whom to see.
So, Joe asked me how many shows I saw, and, after thinking about it, I realized that this has been a record for me. I saw at least part of each of 21 acts. And of those 21, I saw the entire shows of 14. This does not include the Eastman shows - John Pizzarelli and Jeff Beck. I am very happy with that. I could have seen more given the right circumstances, but I have no regrets. I chose thoughtfully. This has been my best XRIJF experience ever. I'm a little whipped, and I need some recovery time, but next year seems such a long time away!
There is still lots of music to be had in this great music city - tons of great local bands. We can get our fill of live music, and we should get out and support these bands the way we support the Jazz Fest. Come on, people of Rochester! Get off your butts and come out and support our live music scene. I will be there. You be there, too!
yours in music,
tracy
Saturday, June 19, 2010
2010 XRIJF - Day 8 - Nils Landgren and Jeff Beck
I started out the evening being way too late on the scene to get into the 6:00 pm Jane Monheit show. The person working at the door of Kilbourn told me the room was SRO and closed. I wondered if the people still waiting in the alley had any idea they were waiting for nothing. Unless they were planning on standing there until the 10:00 show . . . That's one that I'm really sorry I missed, but I heard that she does come to town every once in a while. I'll have to catch her next time.
So I ended up loitering over near Max of Eastman Place scanning the show listings for what to do while I waited for Joe. As I was standing there, an former neighbor/friend showed up with his pals, Skip, Paul and Phyllis. We headed into Max's for the 6:00 pm show - Brazilian singer Joyce Silveira Moreno. Said a quick hello to Kevin Hart in the bar and a quick goodbye to Rich Russell on my way out about 6:30. Since we were in the bar, we couldn't really hear too well, but what I did hear sounded like enjoyable dinner music. The group sitting and listening to her seemed entranced.
We wandered out of there and down to the East Avenue and Chestnut stage for the 7:00 show of Nils Landgren's Funk Unit. I had heard a couple of their tunes last night, and they were fun and funky. So, I was looking forward to seeing them again. They were introduced, they came onto the stage, said hello, and the sound for the keyboards was messed up. So, after dilly-dallying for a moment, they left the stage to wait while things got fixed. It was taking a while, and Nils Landgren came back out and entertained us solo with his red trombone. First he played the whole trombone, then he took off the bell, and played what was left. Then he played just the slide piece, then the mouth piece and then just made noise with his mouth. It was all surprisingly good, and it took up just enough time to get the keyboard amplification problem solved.
Then, the Unit, as a whole, took the stage and funked out! The crowd was dancing from the first note. Joe arrived on the scene, and he thought the group was really good. The crowd obviously loved the funky vibe - our very own PTF should be playing out more - people want this stuff. It's a feel-good dance groove that makes people happy.
We had to leave to grab iced tea and a "health" cookie at Java's on our way to see Jeff Beck's 8:00 show at the Eastman. We cut it so close that I needed to find the ladies room as soon as we'd been seated, and by the time I came back, Jeff Beck was into his first tune. Knowing nothing about Jeff Beck, I was expecting a sort of Pat Metheny meets Allan Holdsworth kind of thing, not the rock concert that this show was.
Jeff Beck is such a huge talent, Narada Michael Walden (drums) was killing, Jason Rebello (keys) was excellent, but I was totally blown away by Rhonda Smith, the bassist. Now you know I love my Victor Wooten, and I saw the SMV Thunder Tour last year (Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor), which was absolutely phenomenal and one of my favorite shows of all time. But I've got to tell you, Rhonda Smith could hold her own with those guys - technically and soulfully - and she does it in stilettos. And, guys, I've got to tell you, that says a lot. She was an awesome player, she had a great singing voice, she could totally rock out, and she was wearing killer shoes. She's my hero.
After that, we wandered about a little bit on Jazz Street, caught a few tunes by Djabe, ran into my new friend - photographer, musician, music scholar and more, Gerry Szymanski, then ran into my jazz blogger friend, Greg Bell, got ice cream and then headed for home on a funky, rocked-out vibe.
Looking forward to The Lawnmowers and Tinted Image tonight - both free shows by excellent local musicians. I might try to catch Ibrahim Electric at the Montage depending on weather and other factors. If my daughter comes down, we'll see Smashmouth after the other two free shows.
Enjoy the last night of the 2010 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival - the best yet, IMHO.
yours in music,
Tracy
So I ended up loitering over near Max of Eastman Place scanning the show listings for what to do while I waited for Joe. As I was standing there, an former neighbor/friend showed up with his pals, Skip, Paul and Phyllis. We headed into Max's for the 6:00 pm show - Brazilian singer Joyce Silveira Moreno. Said a quick hello to Kevin Hart in the bar and a quick goodbye to Rich Russell on my way out about 6:30. Since we were in the bar, we couldn't really hear too well, but what I did hear sounded like enjoyable dinner music. The group sitting and listening to her seemed entranced.
We wandered out of there and down to the East Avenue and Chestnut stage for the 7:00 show of Nils Landgren's Funk Unit. I had heard a couple of their tunes last night, and they were fun and funky. So, I was looking forward to seeing them again. They were introduced, they came onto the stage, said hello, and the sound for the keyboards was messed up. So, after dilly-dallying for a moment, they left the stage to wait while things got fixed. It was taking a while, and Nils Landgren came back out and entertained us solo with his red trombone. First he played the whole trombone, then he took off the bell, and played what was left. Then he played just the slide piece, then the mouth piece and then just made noise with his mouth. It was all surprisingly good, and it took up just enough time to get the keyboard amplification problem solved.
Then, the Unit, as a whole, took the stage and funked out! The crowd was dancing from the first note. Joe arrived on the scene, and he thought the group was really good. The crowd obviously loved the funky vibe - our very own PTF should be playing out more - people want this stuff. It's a feel-good dance groove that makes people happy.
We had to leave to grab iced tea and a "health" cookie at Java's on our way to see Jeff Beck's 8:00 show at the Eastman. We cut it so close that I needed to find the ladies room as soon as we'd been seated, and by the time I came back, Jeff Beck was into his first tune. Knowing nothing about Jeff Beck, I was expecting a sort of Pat Metheny meets Allan Holdsworth kind of thing, not the rock concert that this show was.
Jeff Beck is such a huge talent, Narada Michael Walden (drums) was killing, Jason Rebello (keys) was excellent, but I was totally blown away by Rhonda Smith, the bassist. Now you know I love my Victor Wooten, and I saw the SMV Thunder Tour last year (Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Victor), which was absolutely phenomenal and one of my favorite shows of all time. But I've got to tell you, Rhonda Smith could hold her own with those guys - technically and soulfully - and she does it in stilettos. And, guys, I've got to tell you, that says a lot. She was an awesome player, she had a great singing voice, she could totally rock out, and she was wearing killer shoes. She's my hero.
After that, we wandered about a little bit on Jazz Street, caught a few tunes by Djabe, ran into my new friend - photographer, musician, music scholar and more, Gerry Szymanski, then ran into my jazz blogger friend, Greg Bell, got ice cream and then headed for home on a funky, rocked-out vibe.
Looking forward to The Lawnmowers and Tinted Image tonight - both free shows by excellent local musicians. I might try to catch Ibrahim Electric at the Montage depending on weather and other factors. If my daughter comes down, we'll see Smashmouth after the other two free shows.
Enjoy the last night of the 2010 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival - the best yet, IMHO.
yours in music,
Tracy
Thursday, June 17, 2010
My XRIJF 2010 Highlight - I got kissed by Joe Locke!!
Yes, I did. I am now a very big fan. And it's not just because of the kiss, though that was very nice. It's because he plays his music with the whole of his being - heart, mind, soul and body. You can see and hear the passion with which he plays and with which he composes.
His choice of accompanying musicians - Geoffrey Keezer, Clarence Penn and Reuben Rogers - was perfect. Each complemented the other. His choice of a vocalist, Kenny Washington, was obviously very thoughtful, as well.
I loved how he took the time to tell us stories of the how and why of each song. He opened up his heart to the audience, and it really was a beautiful thing. Each tune was better than the one before, and then he got to Verrazano Moon. He told the story of how that song came to be - a dedication to his dear friend who had died - and the reason for the song, along with the beautiful words, brought me to tears. And me with no kleenex.
It was a completely packed house. I sat behind the D&C's Anna Reguero, who was blogging and tweeting about the show, and next to my Rochester Music Hall of Fame colleague, Kathy Palokoff. And, of course, Joe Chiappone.
The set included many ballads, which I love. Kenny Washington sang and scatted and sang some more. He has a real nice, soulful voice. There were some very uptempo, high energy tunes, too, including the one which closed the set. (Joe Locke must burn a zillion calories each show.) Then he and the pianist came back for the encore. After that, Joe came out into the lobby of Kilbourn to sign CDs.
Which brings me to the kiss.
So, Joe (Chiappone) bought a CD for us, and we waited in line to have it signed. Joe Locke talked with each person as if he knew them. Surely, there were some he did know - he's a hometown boy, after all. But it just seems like it is his way to make each person feel like a friend. When we got up to him, he complimented my funky coat. We chatted a bit about my coat, his shirt, and Andy Calabrese and Steve Curry - with whom he has played. He signed the CD, and I asked him to sign my pass as well. Then, for some reason as we said our goodbyes, we hugged and he kissed my cheek! I think I might have floated out of Kilbourn.
Although I am looking forward to seeing as much as possible the last two days of the 2010 XRIJF, I don't think anything can top that!
yours in music,
tracy
His choice of accompanying musicians - Geoffrey Keezer, Clarence Penn and Reuben Rogers - was perfect. Each complemented the other. His choice of a vocalist, Kenny Washington, was obviously very thoughtful, as well.
I loved how he took the time to tell us stories of the how and why of each song. He opened up his heart to the audience, and it really was a beautiful thing. Each tune was better than the one before, and then he got to Verrazano Moon. He told the story of how that song came to be - a dedication to his dear friend who had died - and the reason for the song, along with the beautiful words, brought me to tears. And me with no kleenex.
It was a completely packed house. I sat behind the D&C's Anna Reguero, who was blogging and tweeting about the show, and next to my Rochester Music Hall of Fame colleague, Kathy Palokoff. And, of course, Joe Chiappone.
The set included many ballads, which I love. Kenny Washington sang and scatted and sang some more. He has a real nice, soulful voice. There were some very uptempo, high energy tunes, too, including the one which closed the set. (Joe Locke must burn a zillion calories each show.) Then he and the pianist came back for the encore. After that, Joe came out into the lobby of Kilbourn to sign CDs.
Which brings me to the kiss.
So, Joe (Chiappone) bought a CD for us, and we waited in line to have it signed. Joe Locke talked with each person as if he knew them. Surely, there were some he did know - he's a hometown boy, after all. But it just seems like it is his way to make each person feel like a friend. When we got up to him, he complimented my funky coat. We chatted a bit about my coat, his shirt, and Andy Calabrese and Steve Curry - with whom he has played. He signed the CD, and I asked him to sign my pass as well. Then, for some reason as we said our goodbyes, we hugged and he kissed my cheek! I think I might have floated out of Kilbourn.
Although I am looking forward to seeing as much as possible the last two days of the 2010 XRIJF, I don't think anything can top that!
yours in music,
tracy
Wednesday Night at 2010 XRIJF
A lovely night at XRIJF! I began the night at the 6:00 pm show at the Club Pass Tent. It was the Bill Tiberio Band - Bill Tiberio, Scott Bradley, Joe Chiappone, Phil Lake and Geoff Smith. The guys were hot, hot, hot! Everything sounded great, from the Scott Bradley originals to covers of a Stevie Wonder tune and Watchin' the River Flow. Everyone was ON! The tent was packed! They had a great crowd - old friends and new fans. And not only did they sound great, they looked like they were having fun - and that makes for an awesome vibe.
Next up was John Pizzarelli along with the Woody Herman Orchestra. Wow! All I can say is, I'm pretty sure I was born in the wrong era. Loved the big band music, loved the Ellington, Sinatra. All the musicians were top-notch, and Joe noticed that one of the sax players was an old professor of his from Miami. Gary Lindsay, also a member of Miami Sax Quartet, was one of Joe's mentors when he was in music school in Miami.
I loved John Pizzarelli's choice of songs, and he had a great voice for them; he is a talented musician - really can play the guitar. The orchestra was excellent, and it was totally fun. As far as I'm concerned, they could have played another hour, and I wouldn't have been tired of it. My only complaint was that John's vocals could have been louder. Quite often, he was drowned out by the orchestra.
As much as I loved the big band sound, I would love to see him again with just his pianist, his drummer, and his brother, the bass player, in a smaller venue. In fact, just John and his guitar would be awesome.
Wishing I could be in two places at once tonight, and doubting that I'll get down to the scene in time to see both, my choices for tonight would be Joe Locke and Nils Landgren Funk Unit. I'd also like to see Get the Blessing.
This iteration of XRIJF has seen me picking and choosing very carefully as my time has been more limited than I'd expected. In the past, I've almost felt an obligation to see as much as possible, and it very much began to feel like a job. That has not been my feeling this time. That's due, in part, to the great stuff I saw early on that made it feel like whatever else I saw was just gravy.
Serve me up that gravy.
yours in music,
tracy
Next up was John Pizzarelli along with the Woody Herman Orchestra. Wow! All I can say is, I'm pretty sure I was born in the wrong era. Loved the big band music, loved the Ellington, Sinatra. All the musicians were top-notch, and Joe noticed that one of the sax players was an old professor of his from Miami. Gary Lindsay, also a member of Miami Sax Quartet, was one of Joe's mentors when he was in music school in Miami.
I loved John Pizzarelli's choice of songs, and he had a great voice for them; he is a talented musician - really can play the guitar. The orchestra was excellent, and it was totally fun. As far as I'm concerned, they could have played another hour, and I wouldn't have been tired of it. My only complaint was that John's vocals could have been louder. Quite often, he was drowned out by the orchestra.
As much as I loved the big band sound, I would love to see him again with just his pianist, his drummer, and his brother, the bass player, in a smaller venue. In fact, just John and his guitar would be awesome.
Wishing I could be in two places at once tonight, and doubting that I'll get down to the scene in time to see both, my choices for tonight would be Joe Locke and Nils Landgren Funk Unit. I'd also like to see Get the Blessing.
This iteration of XRIJF has seen me picking and choosing very carefully as my time has been more limited than I'd expected. In the past, I've almost felt an obligation to see as much as possible, and it very much began to feel like a job. That has not been my feeling this time. That's due, in part, to the great stuff I saw early on that made it feel like whatever else I saw was just gravy.
Serve me up that gravy.
yours in music,
tracy
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Day 5 - Russell Malone at the Kilbourn
Well, my lovely daughter and I arrived on the scene about 5:00pm only to find the line for Russell Malone down the alleyway and onto the street behind the Kilbourn all the way to the back door of the Rochester Club. I almost gave up, thinking that we wouldn't get in. But folks in front of me were optimistic - their experience on previous nights led me to believe we would make it through the doors. And, voila, we did. We had nosebleed seats, but that was okay.
Russell Malone performed contemporary, original tunes - my favorite being Flirt - alongside some standard ballads. Everything was great. Always a melody, but his own spin on everything. The members of his band were excellent as well. I'm looking at his website as the band members were not listed in the program. This is wrong, as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the amazing drummer was Johnathan Blake. And he was ... AMAZING.
The concert was over exactly an hour after it started, and based on what Russell said before the last tune, we knew there was not going to be an encore. But we definitely got a full hour of delightful music, for sure. He was engaging with the audience - had great stage presence - and his talent, and that of his band, was not to be denied. I would love to see him again for more than an hour. I'm trying not to make this concert sound as good as it was since Joe missed it. But Russell Malone was damn good.
As we were finding our way out of the building, my daughter chose a bathroom with a line. As she waited, she saw the band coming out of a room next door to the bathroom. I positioned myself strategically, and as the band members were being led out of the "green room?" to go out to dinner, I ambushed both the drummer and Russell for autographs. They most graciously signed our Club Passes and chit-chatted a bit with us.
My daughter and I left to go get something to eat. We were going to go down to Veneto, but stopped at the Sagamore Grill instead. We got in, got seated and placed our orders. After that, I decided it was my time to find the Ladies' Room. Just as I got settled in there, the fire alarm went off - flashing lights and honking siren and all. Had my daughter not been out there, I would have stayed in the bathroom and finished what I had intended to do; however, with her out there in some possible danger, I fled out the door. As I came into the restaurant, she was evacuating with the rest of the patrons. We all stood around outside for a few minutes, and then when it was determined there was no danger, we were let back in. Our salad awaited. It was good. Simple, but good. Then Caroline's tuna steak arrived in all its rare glory. She said it was perfect. It was accompanied by a fabulous orzo salad. My burger was cooked exactly to my specifications - well done to over-cooked. Just like I ordered it; I don't like raw! The fries were so good that they should be illegal. Seriously. Could. Not. Stop. The owner/manager gave us a drink on the house for the inconvenience of the "fire." The food was really good. Can't wait to go back and take Joe.
Ran into my good friend and jazz bloggist (??), Greg Bell. It's always good to see him at anything. Had the chance to chat with one of Joe's good friends and colleagues - John Nau. Met a new friend in the line. That is the one cool thing about all this standing in lines. Sometimes you meet some really awesome people.
Tomorrow night - 6:00 pm at the Club Pass Tent - Bill Tiberio Band, which includes Joe Chiappone, Geoff Smith, Scott Bradley and Phil Lake. Be there.
yours in music,
Tracy
Russell Malone performed contemporary, original tunes - my favorite being Flirt - alongside some standard ballads. Everything was great. Always a melody, but his own spin on everything. The members of his band were excellent as well. I'm looking at his website as the band members were not listed in the program. This is wrong, as far as I'm concerned. Anyway, the amazing drummer was Johnathan Blake. And he was ... AMAZING.
The concert was over exactly an hour after it started, and based on what Russell said before the last tune, we knew there was not going to be an encore. But we definitely got a full hour of delightful music, for sure. He was engaging with the audience - had great stage presence - and his talent, and that of his band, was not to be denied. I would love to see him again for more than an hour. I'm trying not to make this concert sound as good as it was since Joe missed it. But Russell Malone was damn good.
As we were finding our way out of the building, my daughter chose a bathroom with a line. As she waited, she saw the band coming out of a room next door to the bathroom. I positioned myself strategically, and as the band members were being led out of the "green room?" to go out to dinner, I ambushed both the drummer and Russell for autographs. They most graciously signed our Club Passes and chit-chatted a bit with us.
My daughter and I left to go get something to eat. We were going to go down to Veneto, but stopped at the Sagamore Grill instead. We got in, got seated and placed our orders. After that, I decided it was my time to find the Ladies' Room. Just as I got settled in there, the fire alarm went off - flashing lights and honking siren and all. Had my daughter not been out there, I would have stayed in the bathroom and finished what I had intended to do; however, with her out there in some possible danger, I fled out the door. As I came into the restaurant, she was evacuating with the rest of the patrons. We all stood around outside for a few minutes, and then when it was determined there was no danger, we were let back in. Our salad awaited. It was good. Simple, but good. Then Caroline's tuna steak arrived in all its rare glory. She said it was perfect. It was accompanied by a fabulous orzo salad. My burger was cooked exactly to my specifications - well done to over-cooked. Just like I ordered it; I don't like raw! The fries were so good that they should be illegal. Seriously. Could. Not. Stop. The owner/manager gave us a drink on the house for the inconvenience of the "fire." The food was really good. Can't wait to go back and take Joe.
Ran into my good friend and jazz bloggist (??), Greg Bell. It's always good to see him at anything. Had the chance to chat with one of Joe's good friends and colleagues - John Nau. Met a new friend in the line. That is the one cool thing about all this standing in lines. Sometimes you meet some really awesome people.
Tomorrow night - 6:00 pm at the Club Pass Tent - Bill Tiberio Band, which includes Joe Chiappone, Geoff Smith, Scott Bradley and Phil Lake. Be there.
yours in music,
Tracy
Monday, June 14, 2010
Stanley Jordan Made Me Cry ...
but only in the best way.
So, on Day 4 of the Jazz Fest, because of time constraints, the only show I could see was Stanley Jordan's 7:15 Harro East show. Well, if I could only see one show, that was the one to see! This man is an incredible talent. A solo show, just Stanley and his guitar (and his piano), tonight's music ranged from a Mozart piece to his improvisation of a Bela Bartok concerto to Stairway to Heaven.
The Mozart piece was where the tears began, but I was able to hold it together. Although I wanted to see his hands moving on the guitar strings, it was so beautiful to just close my eyes and be transported to a place of peace and beauty. And it kept the tears where they belonged! His improv on the Bela Bartok concerto took him to the piano. With the guitar still strapped to him, he started with both hands on the piano, then one hand on the guitar for the lower notes and one on the piano for the higher notes. At the same time. And he switched. It was amazing. What was cool about it, was that it wasn't some kind of showy trick; it was like musical genius. At least to me. And, I think it was to everyone in the packed Harro East because he got his first standing ovation after that. Well deserved, I'd say.
There's nothing I can say about his version of Stairway to Heaven except that it was so well done and very, very cool. Once again, a standing ovation after that which brought him back out on stage for an encore. That was Somewhere Over the Rainbow, and that was when the tears were unstoppable. So beautiful, so different, so excellent.
I managed to wipe my face and get myself together enough for the "meet and greet" in the lobby where he most graciously signed my Club Pass.
yours in music,
Tracy
And now, an addendum to my post on Mose Allison. Everyone who has mentioned that particular show has expressed disappointment, but also surprise. It is obvious that he was much more of a talent when he was younger. The man is 82, and he is still touring around the country. I feel kind of bad that I was so negative about his show when, clearly, I do not have 1/100th of his abilities.
So, on Day 4 of the Jazz Fest, because of time constraints, the only show I could see was Stanley Jordan's 7:15 Harro East show. Well, if I could only see one show, that was the one to see! This man is an incredible talent. A solo show, just Stanley and his guitar (and his piano), tonight's music ranged from a Mozart piece to his improvisation of a Bela Bartok concerto to Stairway to Heaven.
The Mozart piece was where the tears began, but I was able to hold it together. Although I wanted to see his hands moving on the guitar strings, it was so beautiful to just close my eyes and be transported to a place of peace and beauty. And it kept the tears where they belonged! His improv on the Bela Bartok concerto took him to the piano. With the guitar still strapped to him, he started with both hands on the piano, then one hand on the guitar for the lower notes and one on the piano for the higher notes. At the same time. And he switched. It was amazing. What was cool about it, was that it wasn't some kind of showy trick; it was like musical genius. At least to me. And, I think it was to everyone in the packed Harro East because he got his first standing ovation after that. Well deserved, I'd say.
There's nothing I can say about his version of Stairway to Heaven except that it was so well done and very, very cool. Once again, a standing ovation after that which brought him back out on stage for an encore. That was Somewhere Over the Rainbow, and that was when the tears were unstoppable. So beautiful, so different, so excellent.
I managed to wipe my face and get myself together enough for the "meet and greet" in the lobby where he most graciously signed my Club Pass.
yours in music,
Tracy
And now, an addendum to my post on Mose Allison. Everyone who has mentioned that particular show has expressed disappointment, but also surprise. It is obvious that he was much more of a talent when he was younger. The man is 82, and he is still touring around the country. I feel kind of bad that I was so negative about his show when, clearly, I do not have 1/100th of his abilities.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Charnett Moffett
This guy was all that I expected and more. Charnett played with a drummer and a woman playing tambora (sp?). Both of these musicians shared the last name Moffett. I can only assume the drummer is his brother. The woman may be his sister or his wife. There was a pianist whose name I didn't catch, and a trumpet player - RJ Avallone. Charnett introduced these players multiple times, but through the applause, I couldn't be sure of all their names. It's unfortunate that none of the band members' names are listed in the XRIJF program book. (I noticed this when I looked up the Bill Tiberio Band and found that none of the members besides Bill were listed, and no bios for them.)
Anyway, back to Charnett. I saw him, for the first time, when he played with McCoy Tyner. His "mad skills" blew me away, and I knew if I ever had the chance to see him play again, I would. His was the first name I saw on the 2010 XRIJF artist list, and I was so happy to have my Club Pass to be able to see him.
If memory serves, when he played with McCoy, most of the tunes were jazz standard type tunes. Tonight, he was much more avant-garde, maybe bebop-ish, but there was always a little melody I could hold on to or that he would come back to - for simple Tracy. You all know I like my melodies. So, tonight's Charnett was a little more challenging for me, but he was awesome. His fingers FLEW. And the drummer would keep up, note for note. Very cool. Charnett very graciously signed my Club Pass after the show; he was sitting in the foyer on the way out so the crowd could meet and greet. Love that!
One of my favorite photogs was there, and he showed me some shots he got of Charnett - they were most excellent. I need a camera like his. And skills like his, too!
Because of some unforeseen family conflicts, I was only able to stay for that one show. But that was the one show I wanted to see, so all's well that ends well.
I'll probably be back on the scene tomorrow; I'll post my schedule when I know it. There are a few I'd like to see. Hope to see YOU!
yours in music,
Tracy
Anyway, back to Charnett. I saw him, for the first time, when he played with McCoy Tyner. His "mad skills" blew me away, and I knew if I ever had the chance to see him play again, I would. His was the first name I saw on the 2010 XRIJF artist list, and I was so happy to have my Club Pass to be able to see him.
If memory serves, when he played with McCoy, most of the tunes were jazz standard type tunes. Tonight, he was much more avant-garde, maybe bebop-ish, but there was always a little melody I could hold on to or that he would come back to - for simple Tracy. You all know I like my melodies. So, tonight's Charnett was a little more challenging for me, but he was awesome. His fingers FLEW. And the drummer would keep up, note for note. Very cool. Charnett very graciously signed my Club Pass after the show; he was sitting in the foyer on the way out so the crowd could meet and greet. Love that!
One of my favorite photogs was there, and he showed me some shots he got of Charnett - they were most excellent. I need a camera like his. And skills like his, too!
Because of some unforeseen family conflicts, I was only able to stay for that one show. But that was the one show I wanted to see, so all's well that ends well.
I'll probably be back on the scene tomorrow; I'll post my schedule when I know it. There are a few I'd like to see. Hope to see YOU!
yours in music,
Tracy
Day 3 - Shorter schedule tonight
My big must-see tonight is Charnett Moffett at Harro East. I'll be shooting for the 5:30 show. After that, I'll try to get in to see Christine Ohlman and Rebel Montez at Abilene at 7:45. If that line looks too long, I might go see Ted Michaels at the free stage although I can't find that much about him online.
It's going to be a short night, tonight, I think. I'm pretty whipped, but you never can tell what might happen at XRIJF!
yours in music,
tracy
It's going to be a short night, tonight, I think. I'm pretty whipped, but you never can tell what might happen at XRIJF!
yours in music,
tracy
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Day 2 - Catherine Russell and Michael Kaeshammer
Wow! I stuck to my schedule, and if it hadn't have rained, I would have heard everything. I missed only Filthy Funk because they couldn't take the stage on time due to the rain. Otherwise, I got to everything on my schedule.
Starting about 4:45, I stood in what was a pretty long line for the 5:30 Catherine Russell show. I got in and was able to grab a stool near the back. She was excellent - her voice, her engagement with the audience, her choice of tunes - what a great show! She looked and sounded like she loved what she was doing. Even the Harro East sound system was pretty good; either that, or they have better sound engineers these days. Anyway, what a delight!
At the end of that, I ran over to the Lutheran Church to get in line for Torben Waldorff. I was Number 2 in line! We had our pick of seats, and this time, the guitarist wasn't hung up by visa problems. The sax player, Seamus Blake, was quite good. I think, though, that he and Torben had never played together because a) Seamus was reading everything, and b) Torben mispronounced his name. Twice. It's Shay-mus, not See-mus. Felt bad for the guy. The music was just a little bit "out there." (Tracy is kind of a simpleton when it comes to jazz - I like a melody.) Anyway, there was enough melody throughout their pieces for me to hang on to, and the "out there" stuff was fine.
Running through the fairly heavy raindrops to get umbrellas and jackets was fun! Then a trip to the Merch Tent for Joe to buy a non-pastel blue umbrella and a hat. The hat will ultimately be mine! We grabbed some chow and met up with some friends, caught a few Los Lonely Boys tunes and waited for Filthy Funk.
We parted ways at 9:30, and I headed over to the Montage to hear Michael Kaeshammer. Holy Cow. I'm in love. (Just kidding, Joe.) This kid is huge talent and huge personality. Not only can he play piano like crazy, he can sing, he is totally engaging and has fun with the audience, and he is ADORABLE. And, he gave his bassist and drummer lots of their own time in the spotlight. I wish I knew their names, and he did introduce them several times, but people were clapping and yelling so loud I missed them. I felt like the bassist was channeling a little bit of Ralph now and again. Here's a little piece of a number he did tonight. This is just a clip I found on You Tube. I do not own the video or any rights to the song. His CDs were sold out, so I'm going to his website to see how to order them.
Catherine Russell and Michael Kaeshammer's shows went a long, long way in making me feel like I sure did get my money's worth from this year's Club Pass. I can't wait to see them both again.
yours in music,
Tracy
Starting about 4:45, I stood in what was a pretty long line for the 5:30 Catherine Russell show. I got in and was able to grab a stool near the back. She was excellent - her voice, her engagement with the audience, her choice of tunes - what a great show! She looked and sounded like she loved what she was doing. Even the Harro East sound system was pretty good; either that, or they have better sound engineers these days. Anyway, what a delight!
At the end of that, I ran over to the Lutheran Church to get in line for Torben Waldorff. I was Number 2 in line! We had our pick of seats, and this time, the guitarist wasn't hung up by visa problems. The sax player, Seamus Blake, was quite good. I think, though, that he and Torben had never played together because a) Seamus was reading everything, and b) Torben mispronounced his name. Twice. It's Shay-mus, not See-mus. Felt bad for the guy. The music was just a little bit "out there." (Tracy is kind of a simpleton when it comes to jazz - I like a melody.) Anyway, there was enough melody throughout their pieces for me to hang on to, and the "out there" stuff was fine.
Running through the fairly heavy raindrops to get umbrellas and jackets was fun! Then a trip to the Merch Tent for Joe to buy a non-pastel blue umbrella and a hat. The hat will ultimately be mine! We grabbed some chow and met up with some friends, caught a few Los Lonely Boys tunes and waited for Filthy Funk.
We parted ways at 9:30, and I headed over to the Montage to hear Michael Kaeshammer. Holy Cow. I'm in love. (Just kidding, Joe.) This kid is huge talent and huge personality. Not only can he play piano like crazy, he can sing, he is totally engaging and has fun with the audience, and he is ADORABLE. And, he gave his bassist and drummer lots of their own time in the spotlight. I wish I knew their names, and he did introduce them several times, but people were clapping and yelling so loud I missed them. I felt like the bassist was channeling a little bit of Ralph now and again. Here's a little piece of a number he did tonight. This is just a clip I found on You Tube. I do not own the video or any rights to the song. His CDs were sold out, so I'm going to his website to see how to order them.
Catherine Russell and Michael Kaeshammer's shows went a long, long way in making me feel like I sure did get my money's worth from this year's Club Pass. I can't wait to see them both again.
yours in music,
Tracy
XRIJF 2010 - Second Night Plan
Here's the plan, we'll see how it goes.
5:30 - Catherine Russell at Harro East
7:30 - Torben Waldorff at the Lutheran Church
9:00 - Los Lonely Boys at the free stage for a tune or two
9:15 - Filthy Funk at the Jazz Street Stage for a tune or two
10:00 - Michael Kaeshammer at Montage
I'm going to wear my more comfy shoes tonight!
yours in music,
Tracy
5:30 - Catherine Russell at Harro East
7:30 - Torben Waldorff at the Lutheran Church
9:00 - Los Lonely Boys at the free stage for a tune or two
9:15 - Filthy Funk at the Jazz Street Stage for a tune or two
10:00 - Michael Kaeshammer at Montage
I'm going to wear my more comfy shoes tonight!
yours in music,
Tracy
Friday, June 11, 2010
XRIJF 2010 - Night 1 - Beautiful evening but a somewhat disappointing music experience
So, I was late. As usual. I wanted to get to Jazz Street by 4:00 to stand in line for Mose Allison. It didn't work out that way at all, and we got down to XRIJF's Jazz Street about an hour or so before Andreas Oberg was set to hit the stage at Reformation Lutheran Church. Joe got some coffee at Java's and we headed down to the Church to stand in line for Andreas.
We only had to wait about 15 minutes or so, and then we got really nice seats in the church. The emcee came on the stage at 7:30 to make some announcements. Unfortunately, the last one was the Andreas Oberg's visa was held up and so he was not going to be there. It was going to be the Marian Petrescu Trio with Christian Haus (sp?) on electric violin. We were there, along with many, many others, to see the phenomenal guitarist, Andreas Oberg. We were very disappointed, and I was tempted to leave and get into something else I wanted to see. But we stayed put, and were pleasantly surprised at the great band we ended up seeing. Petrescu was a great pianist, the violinist, bassist and drummer were all excellent as well. It was much, much less of a disappointment than what I had originally thought it would be.
However. If I did not have a Club Pass, and I had waited in that line and paid $20 or $25 at the door with the express purpose of seeing Andreas Oberg, and they did not have the courtesy of letting me know that the guy I was paying to see was still at home in Sweden, I'd be pretty darned angry. To put it bluntly.
After that, we went down to Kilbourn and stood in line for an hour or so to see Mose Allison. Now, I've heard his name forever, and it was always uttered in that "legend" sort of way. Obviously, others have had the same experience because I heard the first show had lots of people who did not get in - the line stretched down Jazz Street, down the alley, along the street behind that all the way to East Avenue. The people who were standing in line behind me had been shut out of the first show. So, I was not alone in my delusion that I was in for something really great.
There were points in Mose's first song that I think even I could have banged out. Then, in the second song (and subsequent songs) Mose "sang." Which was really him speaking in rhymes in a very repetitive manner. Also, he kind of growled some kind of scat singing as he played which was picked up by the mic. It was kind of disturbing. Every tune he played seemed to have the same rhythm, every "song" he "sang" seemed to have the same melody. I was extremely disappointed. We left before the halfway mark.
We then hit the Club Pass Tent and saw Sauce Boss. That was a waste of walking. The guy was a good-enough blues guitar player, but did too much talking. We heard, later, that during his first set he took a 30-minute break to cook and talk. Apparently, the tent cleared out. We stayed only a few minutes and headed out to find food.
We found friends, instead, and walked up East Avenue ending up in front of the Inn on Broadway listening to an impromptu jam of contemporary jazz performed by some young guys. They were good! I will have to get more info on them, because I'd love to see them again. We got a quick bite a Matthew's and headed home.
I need to plan out tomorrow much better than I planned out today. And I have high hopes that tomorrow will be better. The Jazz Fest's line, "It's not who you know, it's who you don't know!" did hold true as far as the Marian Petrescu group goes. I'll look for more surprises like that tomorrow.
yours in music,
Tracy
We only had to wait about 15 minutes or so, and then we got really nice seats in the church. The emcee came on the stage at 7:30 to make some announcements. Unfortunately, the last one was the Andreas Oberg's visa was held up and so he was not going to be there. It was going to be the Marian Petrescu Trio with Christian Haus (sp?) on electric violin. We were there, along with many, many others, to see the phenomenal guitarist, Andreas Oberg. We were very disappointed, and I was tempted to leave and get into something else I wanted to see. But we stayed put, and were pleasantly surprised at the great band we ended up seeing. Petrescu was a great pianist, the violinist, bassist and drummer were all excellent as well. It was much, much less of a disappointment than what I had originally thought it would be.
However. If I did not have a Club Pass, and I had waited in that line and paid $20 or $25 at the door with the express purpose of seeing Andreas Oberg, and they did not have the courtesy of letting me know that the guy I was paying to see was still at home in Sweden, I'd be pretty darned angry. To put it bluntly.
After that, we went down to Kilbourn and stood in line for an hour or so to see Mose Allison. Now, I've heard his name forever, and it was always uttered in that "legend" sort of way. Obviously, others have had the same experience because I heard the first show had lots of people who did not get in - the line stretched down Jazz Street, down the alley, along the street behind that all the way to East Avenue. The people who were standing in line behind me had been shut out of the first show. So, I was not alone in my delusion that I was in for something really great.
There were points in Mose's first song that I think even I could have banged out. Then, in the second song (and subsequent songs) Mose "sang." Which was really him speaking in rhymes in a very repetitive manner. Also, he kind of growled some kind of scat singing as he played which was picked up by the mic. It was kind of disturbing. Every tune he played seemed to have the same rhythm, every "song" he "sang" seemed to have the same melody. I was extremely disappointed. We left before the halfway mark.
We then hit the Club Pass Tent and saw Sauce Boss. That was a waste of walking. The guy was a good-enough blues guitar player, but did too much talking. We heard, later, that during his first set he took a 30-minute break to cook and talk. Apparently, the tent cleared out. We stayed only a few minutes and headed out to find food.
We found friends, instead, and walked up East Avenue ending up in front of the Inn on Broadway listening to an impromptu jam of contemporary jazz performed by some young guys. They were good! I will have to get more info on them, because I'd love to see them again. We got a quick bite a Matthew's and headed home.
I need to plan out tomorrow much better than I planned out today. And I have high hopes that tomorrow will be better. The Jazz Fest's line, "It's not who you know, it's who you don't know!" did hold true as far as the Marian Petrescu group goes. I'll look for more surprises like that tomorrow.
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, June 5, 2010
Planning my XRIJF strategy - Part I
Well, it's been pretty busy of late. I haven't written since just before the Remembering Ralph II concert at the Lilac Festival. Since then, I've hit the road twice - once to pick up my daughter from college and once to attend my son's graduation from college. He graduated on the 23rd, and my daughter celebrated her birthday driving home in the car on the 24th.
Now, it's time to get back to the music and planning for 2010 XRIJF. Looking at the Artist Lineup, I think my plan of attack for the opening night will be to see Mose Allison at Kilbourn at 6:00 pm and Andreas Oberg at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation at 7:30. Those are the two artists I definitely want to see that night. (Click on my second Oberg link, and you'll see why both Joe and I are looking forward to this guy!) If we could get to see them both first thing, then we could go to Abilene, XRIJF's new Americana/Roots venue, to see Earl Pickens and Family.
Now, I realize that due to lines, we might not be able to make it happen just that way, so we could always wander around until the 7:30 Oberg show and then head over to stand in line for the later 10:00 Mose Allison show. We'd miss the Pickens group, but c'est la vie; we might catch the Michael Kaeshammer 6:15 show instead. If not, then I have the chance to see him on Saturday night.
Wow, I've written and rewritten this post, getting more confused as I go along. I think I actually need to draw up a schematic to make sure I have plans for all situations! Given my "flexible schedule" these days, I'm hoping to get to really use that Club Pass to the utmost this year. No excuses.
yours in music and Jazz Fest anticipation,
Tracy
Now, it's time to get back to the music and planning for 2010 XRIJF. Looking at the Artist Lineup, I think my plan of attack for the opening night will be to see Mose Allison at Kilbourn at 6:00 pm and Andreas Oberg at the Lutheran Church of the Reformation at 7:30. Those are the two artists I definitely want to see that night. (Click on my second Oberg link, and you'll see why both Joe and I are looking forward to this guy!) If we could get to see them both first thing, then we could go to Abilene, XRIJF's new Americana/Roots venue, to see Earl Pickens and Family.
Now, I realize that due to lines, we might not be able to make it happen just that way, so we could always wander around until the 7:30 Oberg show and then head over to stand in line for the later 10:00 Mose Allison show. We'd miss the Pickens group, but c'est la vie; we might catch the Michael Kaeshammer 6:15 show instead. If not, then I have the chance to see him on Saturday night.
Wow, I've written and rewritten this post, getting more confused as I go along. I think I actually need to draw up a schematic to make sure I have plans for all situations! Given my "flexible schedule" these days, I'm hoping to get to really use that Club Pass to the utmost this year. No excuses.
yours in music and Jazz Fest anticipation,
Tracy
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Remembering Ralph II - May 19th at the Lilac Festival Mainstage
This is from the press release sent out by Sally Cohen, PR as Creative as You Are.
2ND ANNUAL "REMEMBERING RALPH" AT LILAC FEST
Rochester, NY – The second annual "Remembering Ralph" concert takes place on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 from 4-8:30 p.m. at the Lilac Festival's Sam's Club Main Stage (corner of South and Highland Avenues). The show is free, but donations to the Ralph Ortiz Memorial Fund, which provides music scholarships to area students, are welcome.* In addition, all participating musicians are waiving their fees, and the Lilac Festival will donate $2,000 to the fund. Organizers hope the event will become an annual Lilac Fest tradition.
MC'd by WRMM 10.3 FM's Tony Infantino , the tribute features performances by the Stormy Monday Blues Band reunion (4-4:45 p.m.); Uncle Plum (5-6 p.m.), Mambo Kings (6:15-7:15 p.m.) and Prime Time Funk (7:30-8:30 p.m.) Guest artists include Steve Lyons, Rich Iman , Todd East , Jeff Martin and last year's scholarship recipients .
On April 26, 2009, more than 70 area musicians – all of whom had played with bassist Rafael "Ralph" Ortiz at one time or another – came together at Water Street Music Hall to create a nine-hour benefit concert in honor of their friend, who had passed away suddenly in February after a short battle with cancer. In addition to paying medical, funeral and travel expenses to fly Ralph's mother from Puerto Rico to attend the tribute, the first "Remembering Ralph" funded two scholarships: $1,000 to a deserving senior at Ralph's alma mater, Newark High School (Joe DeRue); and $500 worth of lessons to a deserving student (Mark Malsegna) at Northfield Music in Pittsford, where Ralph taught for 20 years. Those scholarships will be awarded again this year.
More about this year's performers:
Stormy Monday Blues Band reunion : the popular Monday night house band at the former Shnozz's in the Village Gate during the 80-90's returns with all of its original members: Jeff Cosco, Jim Richmond, Mike Andressi and Dave Cohen. Ralph often filled in for SMBB's bassist, Ricky Ellis . Guest artists: Steve Lyons from The Legendary Dukes, Richard Iman from the Park Avenue Band and Jeff Martin from Joyful Noise.
Uncle Plum : Unable to perform at the first "Remembering Ralph," they were the first to volunteer for RR2.
Mambo Kings : Ralph played with the band for several years, including several concerts with the RPO at Eastman Theatre and in Vail, Colorado.
Prime Time Funk : co-founded by Ralph and Jim Richmond in 1996, the ten-piece horn band continues to perform all over the Northeast with bassist, Ron France. Todd East, a former PTF member, will perform with the band.
yours in music,
tracy
2ND ANNUAL "REMEMBERING RALPH" AT LILAC FEST
Rochester, NY – The second annual "Remembering Ralph" concert takes place on Wednesday, May 19, 2010 from 4-8:30 p.m. at the Lilac Festival's Sam's Club Main Stage (corner of South and Highland Avenues). The show is free, but donations to the Ralph Ortiz Memorial Fund, which provides music scholarships to area students, are welcome.* In addition, all participating musicians are waiving their fees, and the Lilac Festival will donate $2,000 to the fund. Organizers hope the event will become an annual Lilac Fest tradition.
MC'd by WRMM 10.3 FM's Tony Infantino , the tribute features performances by the Stormy Monday Blues Band reunion (4-4:45 p.m.); Uncle Plum (5-6 p.m.), Mambo Kings (6:15-7:15 p.m.) and Prime Time Funk (7:30-8:30 p.m.) Guest artists include Steve Lyons, Rich Iman , Todd East , Jeff Martin and last year's scholarship recipients .
On April 26, 2009, more than 70 area musicians – all of whom had played with bassist Rafael "Ralph" Ortiz at one time or another – came together at Water Street Music Hall to create a nine-hour benefit concert in honor of their friend, who had passed away suddenly in February after a short battle with cancer. In addition to paying medical, funeral and travel expenses to fly Ralph's mother from Puerto Rico to attend the tribute, the first "Remembering Ralph" funded two scholarships: $1,000 to a deserving senior at Ralph's alma mater, Newark High School (Joe DeRue); and $500 worth of lessons to a deserving student (Mark Malsegna) at Northfield Music in Pittsford, where Ralph taught for 20 years. Those scholarships will be awarded again this year.
More about this year's performers:
Stormy Monday Blues Band reunion : the popular Monday night house band at the former Shnozz's in the Village Gate during the 80-90's returns with all of its original members: Jeff Cosco, Jim Richmond, Mike Andressi and Dave Cohen. Ralph often filled in for SMBB's bassist, Ricky Ellis . Guest artists: Steve Lyons from The Legendary Dukes, Richard Iman from the Park Avenue Band and Jeff Martin from Joyful Noise.
Uncle Plum : Unable to perform at the first "Remembering Ralph," they were the first to volunteer for RR2.
Mambo Kings : Ralph played with the band for several years, including several concerts with the RPO at Eastman Theatre and in Vail, Colorado.
Prime Time Funk : co-founded by Ralph and Jim Richmond in 1996, the ten-piece horn band continues to perform all over the Northeast with bassist, Ron France. Todd East, a former PTF member, will perform with the band.
yours in music,
tracy
Thursday, May 6, 2010
Congratulations to Gabe Condon and Graham Keir
In my email today, I received the XRIJF newsletter which had an article about two Eastman Students who have won Downbeat magazine music awards.
I don't know Graham Keir, a senior, but I do know Gabe Condon. Just a freshman, Gabe's talents and "musical soul" are way beyond his years. I believe this is his second Downbeat award.
Congratulations to both of you!
yours in music,
Tracy
I don't know Graham Keir, a senior, but I do know Gabe Condon. Just a freshman, Gabe's talents and "musical soul" are way beyond his years. I believe this is his second Downbeat award.
Congratulations to both of you!
yours in music,
Tracy
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
What happened to my photo?
Well, the other day I was working on some photos from Dave and Tina's gig at Smokin' Joe's. I was editing in Picasa, and it said I could export directly to Blogger. I did that, and it seemed to work at the time. I was going to come back to it later but got sidetracked. It wasn't until it was brought to my attention this morning, that I realized it didn't work.
So, to remedy that, I'm going to try again. Using the method I really know. Anyway, the pictures aren't great because of the light streaming in the windows behind the band, and I didn't want to keep flashing in their faces. I would find that distracting. Though, these musicians are professionals, and maybe it doesn't bother them.
So, Tina and the Two-Timers is a fun band with a wide variety of types of tunes in their repertoire. From blues to R&B, a little jump, jive, 'n' wail, to Steely Dan to John Mayer, and everything in between; Tina and the Two-Timers covered it well. The Two-Timers include Bill Blind keeping the beat on drums, Dave Charneski on guitar (and I think I caught him singing some backup vocals), Bob Miller on guitar and backup vocals and Richie Simbari playing bass and offering some backup vocals as well. Tina is the incomparable Tina Albright - the woman with the voice I never tire of hearing.
And that top photo is my Joe sitting in with the band. I used the flash then, and I'm glad I did because it's a cute picture of him with Tina.
You can catch this band on May 14th at Rab's Woodshed and May 28th at Smokin' Joe's. You should check them out; I think you'll like them!
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, May 1, 2010
What fun!
After a lot of work on many people's parts, a lot of donated time and TALENT, and lots of love and vision, the Rochester Music Hall of Fame launched! The party was good. There really were a ton of people there; some I knew, many I didn't. It was great to see all those people enjoying the twelve bands we had assembled for the event. There was so much enthusiasm right from the first moment.
A little recap on the night, though I did not get to hear as much of each of the bands as I'd have liked - the Spencerport High School Jazz Band was really good, and obviously deserving of the awards they've received. John Akers is excellent, it was a shame to have him on so early in the evening before the bigger crowds came. Next time he plays, it will have to be later in the evening. I missed Paradigm Shift totally, but I heard from many that they were smokin'. I caught just a bit of Cross Roads Project. I am not a big country fan, but this was high-energy contemporary country, and the people listening to the them in The Keg seemed to be really enjoying them.
I missed Redline Zydeco, but having seen them before, I can only imagine that The Keg's dance floor was filled. I heard part of one of Small Town's tunes, and they sounded as great as ever. I was able to catch two of Tinted Image's songs, and I really liked them. They are normally a five-piece, but they played a stripped-down trio version last night. They have a real nice sound - the sax was sweet, the guitarist sounded good on both acoustic and electric, and the female vocalist had a lovely, natural voice. I predict big things for this band.
Crescent City Connection, the New Orleans style band, was lots of fun. They followed Senator Joe Robach's announcement of the first slate of 23 nominees for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. The Mambo Kings were hot, as always. I was too busy to get in to enjoy them, but it looked like the crowd did. Prime Time Funk was, of course, awesome. They never, ever disappoint. The dance floor filled up during their set and people were really into it. The Atlas horn section joined them for Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours), and WOW - very cool. Atlas followed PTF, and they have a really big, high-energy sound that the crowd liked. The dance floor stayed busy. Oh, and I very much wanted Julianne Holiday's black sequined pants! She looked like a rock star. With their very cool and unique sound, the Buddhahood took the stage last, and there were still a lot of people there ready to dance even though it was late by then.
Thanks to these bands, all of our volunteers, photographers (pictures to follow), and the great group of people who came out to enjoy and support this venture, the Rochester Music Hall of Fame is off to an excellent start!!
yours in music,
Tracy
A little recap on the night, though I did not get to hear as much of each of the bands as I'd have liked - the Spencerport High School Jazz Band was really good, and obviously deserving of the awards they've received. John Akers is excellent, it was a shame to have him on so early in the evening before the bigger crowds came. Next time he plays, it will have to be later in the evening. I missed Paradigm Shift totally, but I heard from many that they were smokin'. I caught just a bit of Cross Roads Project. I am not a big country fan, but this was high-energy contemporary country, and the people listening to the them in The Keg seemed to be really enjoying them.
I missed Redline Zydeco, but having seen them before, I can only imagine that The Keg's dance floor was filled. I heard part of one of Small Town's tunes, and they sounded as great as ever. I was able to catch two of Tinted Image's songs, and I really liked them. They are normally a five-piece, but they played a stripped-down trio version last night. They have a real nice sound - the sax was sweet, the guitarist sounded good on both acoustic and electric, and the female vocalist had a lovely, natural voice. I predict big things for this band.
Crescent City Connection, the New Orleans style band, was lots of fun. They followed Senator Joe Robach's announcement of the first slate of 23 nominees for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. The Mambo Kings were hot, as always. I was too busy to get in to enjoy them, but it looked like the crowd did. Prime Time Funk was, of course, awesome. They never, ever disappoint. The dance floor filled up during their set and people were really into it. The Atlas horn section joined them for Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours), and WOW - very cool. Atlas followed PTF, and they have a really big, high-energy sound that the crowd liked. The dance floor stayed busy. Oh, and I very much wanted Julianne Holiday's black sequined pants! She looked like a rock star. With their very cool and unique sound, the Buddhahood took the stage last, and there were still a lot of people there ready to dance even though it was late by then.
Thanks to these bands, all of our volunteers, photographers (pictures to follow), and the great group of people who came out to enjoy and support this venture, the Rochester Music Hall of Fame is off to an excellent start!!
yours in music,
Tracy
Wednesday, April 28, 2010
1 Evening + 12 Great Bands = Rochester Music Hall of Fame Launch Party
Come on out April 30th to the German House/The Keg and see and hear performances by some of the most popular bands in Rochester. Whether performing original music or covers, these are some of the finest musicians around, and you can see them all in one place!
Also, an announcement of the first slate of nominees for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame will be made. Be part of history in the making!
yours in music,
Tracy
Also, an announcement of the first slate of nominees for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame will be made. Be part of history in the making!
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Shades of Gray and Lemoncello
I was anxious to hear Shades of Gray, a group which includes excellent musicians whom I have heard in a variety of different bands in Rochester; this is the first time I was going to hear them together. So, on Friday I headed off to Bistro 135 with my friend, Janis, and I was not disappointed!
Mark Balestra on guitar(s); Harry Ford on bass; Emmett Ientilucci on drums; and Mike Pallini on lead vocals and keyboard. I could see (and hear) that Mark was singing backup vocals, and I'm pretty sure Harry was, too. Emmett's back was to me, so I don't know about him, but together they created a sound that was perfectly mixed instrumentally and had lovely vocal harmonies.
I used to go out to hear Mike Pallini when he was the lead singer with Perfect World. I have to admit, I was quite smitten with his style and his gorgeous voice. Hearing him on Friday night, it was obvious that his voice has only gotten better, mellower. When he sang a James Taylor tune, I thought JT was in the room. Was that John Mayer or Mike Pallini? Wish I'd brought my camera.
Shades of Gray - these guys are each excellent on their own, but put them all together, and what a delight! I can't wait to hear them again.
Just before their last set was about done, Janis and I, along with her friend Herminio, headed just down the street to Lemoncello. Herminio insisted. I'm glad he did, or who knows when I would have found this little gem. A coffee shop with pastries and gelato in front, a full bar and restaurant, albeit small, with live music in back, this place was really beautiful. Owners and gracious hosts, Fausto and Massimo Albano, have renovated what once might have been a laundromat (that's what I was told) into something that makes you feel like you've been transported to Italy. The stonework, mosaics (created by Fausto), textured walls - all the custom work - is absolutely beautiful.
Herminio treated Janis and me to Limoncello, of course, which was the perfect way to end the evening. I am looking forward to going back for dinner and dessert.
yours in music,
tracy
Mark Balestra on guitar(s); Harry Ford on bass; Emmett Ientilucci on drums; and Mike Pallini on lead vocals and keyboard. I could see (and hear) that Mark was singing backup vocals, and I'm pretty sure Harry was, too. Emmett's back was to me, so I don't know about him, but together they created a sound that was perfectly mixed instrumentally and had lovely vocal harmonies.
I used to go out to hear Mike Pallini when he was the lead singer with Perfect World. I have to admit, I was quite smitten with his style and his gorgeous voice. Hearing him on Friday night, it was obvious that his voice has only gotten better, mellower. When he sang a James Taylor tune, I thought JT was in the room. Was that John Mayer or Mike Pallini? Wish I'd brought my camera.
Shades of Gray - these guys are each excellent on their own, but put them all together, and what a delight! I can't wait to hear them again.
Just before their last set was about done, Janis and I, along with her friend Herminio, headed just down the street to Lemoncello. Herminio insisted. I'm glad he did, or who knows when I would have found this little gem. A coffee shop with pastries and gelato in front, a full bar and restaurant, albeit small, with live music in back, this place was really beautiful. Owners and gracious hosts, Fausto and Massimo Albano, have renovated what once might have been a laundromat (that's what I was told) into something that makes you feel like you've been transported to Italy. The stonework, mosaics (created by Fausto), textured walls - all the custom work - is absolutely beautiful.
Herminio treated Janis and me to Limoncello, of course, which was the perfect way to end the evening. I am looking forward to going back for dinner and dessert.
yours in music,
tracy
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
What happens on a walk on Park Avenue . . .
Bo and I wanted to take a walk. We wanted something "different," so we decided to hop in the car and head to Park Avenue. We parked at the plaza where Cobb's Hill Pizza and Pasta is, and headed west on Park. A short ways down the street, we came upon a trio - guitar, banjo and fiddle - playing in the park. I'm not one to over-categorize music, but if I had to say, they play Bluegrass, American roots music. Joe Kollar, Dan Forsyth, and Claire Byrne were here wandering the streets of Rochester and playing their music to promote their concert tomorrow night at Water Street Music Hall. Their fourth band member, Jon Doll, will join them then. Driftwood is the name of the band. They were kind enough to give me their CD which I will be playing at home and in the car.
I didn't have my camera when I first saw (and heard them), so I went back to the car to get it. By the time I caught up with them, they were on the move, looking for a new place to play. I stopped them, and they graciously agreed to let me take their pictures while they played. They were excellent musicians, and they were excited to hear that I would like to write about them in my blog!
If I can get over to Water Street tomorrow night, I'd love to see Driftwood. And, I think you should, too!
Tomorrow, I'll write more about the adventures Bo and I had today while we explored Rochester!
yours in music,
tracy
Monday, April 19, 2010
A Tale of Two Breakfasts
Well, three, really. I had been wanting to try Peaches in Webster as I'd heard good things about it, and I knew it was owned by Charlie - the guy who had owned Charlie Brown's. Charlie Brown's was a diner in the city that had a reputation for good food and good service.
I went with a friend one Friday at about noon time. Even though it was lunch time, we wanted breakfast food. The menu was extensive and looked great. I decided to have Eggs Benedict, the classic version. They had at least ten different versions of Benedict, but I went old school. My friend had a three cheese omelet. We both ordered shredded potatoes. Everything was great, including the service. I hesitate to order Eggs Benedict because, quite often, the Canadian bacon can be a) dry, b) grisly or c) just plain over cooked. What I had that morning was perfect.
Because of my experience on Friday, I convinced Joe to go back on Sunday. It was probably about 1:00 pm, but we both wanted breakfast, and we were both very hungry. The hostess didn't give us breakfast menus, so I had to go up and get one. When the server arrived, she took our orders, but didn't pay attention to the beverages, and then forgot to take the menus, which were quite large. I said, "Do you want these?" And she replied, "Oh, yeah. This is my third double in a row, and I can't wait to go home." I said to Joe, "Wow, I hope she doesn't take it out on us.
The food arrived. Joe had some kind of eggs and pancake combination; I, again, ordered the Eggs Benedict. What a difference a day (or two) makes. The Canadian bacon was a, b AND c. I couldn't cut it with my knife, let alone chew it. I figured when the waitress came back to check on things, I'd get another one or something different. The only problem? The waitress never, never came back. I was so hungry that I took the meat out and started eating the rest. Some other waitress came by and filled up Joe's long-empty coffee cup. I didn't even see our waitress. I thought she might have left. I finished all the english muffin and egg and sat there with the inedible Canadian bacon on my plate. And I was seething. The longer she left us sitting there, the madder I was getting. I finally asked another server if she could send ours over. After a long time, she finally meandered back. She said, "How was everything?" I kept my voice as even as I could, but I was so angry. I said, "If you had even bothered to come over and check on things, I would have told you that the meat was inedible, but you never came back." She said, "Oh, sorry. Do you want some more?" "Not now," I said. She asked if we wanted her to let Charlie know. I said, "Yes." Charlie came over and inspected my dried up old Canadian bacon, and asked if I wanted a new Eggs Benedict. I told him I was full; I couldn't eat another one now. I would have liked another one earlier.
When the waitress came back, she said that Charlie had the check; he was going to make an adjustment. Now, if it were my restaurant, I would have comped at least the one breakfast and given us a small gift card. But no. Charlie gave us $4.00 off my meal, and then proceeded to make me feel like I'd complained without cause and gave us all kinds of excuses about why the waitress never came back. I left with a very bad taste in my mouth, and it wasn't the bacon. I will not be going back.
Yesterday, we went to the Cracker Barrel in Henrietta for a late breakfast. Three of us ordered our meals and then sat and waited. And waited. And waited. Though, this time the waitress was always checking on us to see about our beverages. Finally, about 30 minutes into the wait, she came by and said that she "had the manager on our meals" and apologized for the delay. The manager came with our meals, kind of forgetting bits and pieces, but ultimately we all had what we'd ordered. Then he said he was going to take the cost of one of the meals off the bill. We thanked him very much. They'd been very attentive, apologetic, and were giving us something back. They had us at comping one meal. However, a manager, who was higher up the totem pole than the previous guy, came over and said he was going to comp the whole bill. He apologized profusely, said their goal was 11 - 20 minutes to get the food on the table and they'd failed. Wow. WOW!
And, yes, we WILL most definitely go back to the Cracker Barrel. That was great customer service.
yours in breakfast,
Tracy
I went with a friend one Friday at about noon time. Even though it was lunch time, we wanted breakfast food. The menu was extensive and looked great. I decided to have Eggs Benedict, the classic version. They had at least ten different versions of Benedict, but I went old school. My friend had a three cheese omelet. We both ordered shredded potatoes. Everything was great, including the service. I hesitate to order Eggs Benedict because, quite often, the Canadian bacon can be a) dry, b) grisly or c) just plain over cooked. What I had that morning was perfect.
Because of my experience on Friday, I convinced Joe to go back on Sunday. It was probably about 1:00 pm, but we both wanted breakfast, and we were both very hungry. The hostess didn't give us breakfast menus, so I had to go up and get one. When the server arrived, she took our orders, but didn't pay attention to the beverages, and then forgot to take the menus, which were quite large. I said, "Do you want these?" And she replied, "Oh, yeah. This is my third double in a row, and I can't wait to go home." I said to Joe, "Wow, I hope she doesn't take it out on us.
The food arrived. Joe had some kind of eggs and pancake combination; I, again, ordered the Eggs Benedict. What a difference a day (or two) makes. The Canadian bacon was a, b AND c. I couldn't cut it with my knife, let alone chew it. I figured when the waitress came back to check on things, I'd get another one or something different. The only problem? The waitress never, never came back. I was so hungry that I took the meat out and started eating the rest. Some other waitress came by and filled up Joe's long-empty coffee cup. I didn't even see our waitress. I thought she might have left. I finished all the english muffin and egg and sat there with the inedible Canadian bacon on my plate. And I was seething. The longer she left us sitting there, the madder I was getting. I finally asked another server if she could send ours over. After a long time, she finally meandered back. She said, "How was everything?" I kept my voice as even as I could, but I was so angry. I said, "If you had even bothered to come over and check on things, I would have told you that the meat was inedible, but you never came back." She said, "Oh, sorry. Do you want some more?" "Not now," I said. She asked if we wanted her to let Charlie know. I said, "Yes." Charlie came over and inspected my dried up old Canadian bacon, and asked if I wanted a new Eggs Benedict. I told him I was full; I couldn't eat another one now. I would have liked another one earlier.
When the waitress came back, she said that Charlie had the check; he was going to make an adjustment. Now, if it were my restaurant, I would have comped at least the one breakfast and given us a small gift card. But no. Charlie gave us $4.00 off my meal, and then proceeded to make me feel like I'd complained without cause and gave us all kinds of excuses about why the waitress never came back. I left with a very bad taste in my mouth, and it wasn't the bacon. I will not be going back.
Yesterday, we went to the Cracker Barrel in Henrietta for a late breakfast. Three of us ordered our meals and then sat and waited. And waited. And waited. Though, this time the waitress was always checking on us to see about our beverages. Finally, about 30 minutes into the wait, she came by and said that she "had the manager on our meals" and apologized for the delay. The manager came with our meals, kind of forgetting bits and pieces, but ultimately we all had what we'd ordered. Then he said he was going to take the cost of one of the meals off the bill. We thanked him very much. They'd been very attentive, apologetic, and were giving us something back. They had us at comping one meal. However, a manager, who was higher up the totem pole than the previous guy, came over and said he was going to comp the whole bill. He apologized profusely, said their goal was 11 - 20 minutes to get the food on the table and they'd failed. Wow. WOW!
And, yes, we WILL most definitely go back to the Cracker Barrel. That was great customer service.
yours in breakfast,
Tracy
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
Rochester Music Hall of Fame Launch Party April 30, 2010
Rochester Music Hall of Fame Launch Party – Friday, April 30, 2010, at The Historic German House and The Keg
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame is hosting its first event – a Launch Party on Friday, April 30, 2010, at The Historic German House and The Keg, 315 Gregory Street. The doors open to the general public at 6:30 pm, and twelve bands begin performing at 7:00 pm.
Bands scheduled to appear include Paradigm Shift, John Akers, Crescent City Connection, The Cross Roads Project, Redline Zydeco, Small Town, Tinted Image, Spencerport High School Jazz Band, Atlas, Mambo Kings, Prime Time Funk, and The Buddhahood.
Tickets will be $15 in advance/$20 at the door and are on sale beginning April 12, 2010, through Ticketmaster online, Ticketmaster locations at 885 East Main Street, and House of Guitars, 645 Titus Avenue. Tickets will also be available at Aaron’s Alley, the Bop Shop, The Keg, Northfield Music Studios (Pittsford), and The Music Store, Inc. (Webster).
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame (RMHF) began as a grassroots effort in the spring of 2009. RMHF is a nonprofit organization the mission being to recognize those with ties to Rochester whose talents, efforts, perseverance and creativity have contributed to the creation of musical excellence. Each year new members will be honored through ceremony and celebration and their achievements memorialized to promote an appreciation for the greater Rochester area’s rich and diverse musical history and culture.
Remarks Karl LaPorta, President of RMHF Board of Directors, “In my 40 years in the music business, I have found that that when it comes to music, no matter the differences we all have as individuals, none of that ever matters if we're enjoying musical entertainment together – music makes for common ground for all people. I believe everyone in our community would enjoy a music hall of fame.” RMHF would give Rochester the ability to celebrate and recognize musicians of every genre, entertainment venues, and other people and organizations which have been instrumental to Rochester’s culture of music and its rich musical tradition and history.
RMHF gratefully acknowledges Senator Joseph Robach, Freetime Magazine, The German House/The Keg, Brother Wease, The House of Guitars and St. Vincent’s Press.
Okay, that's all the details. Now, BE THERE!
yours in music,
Tracy
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame is hosting its first event – a Launch Party on Friday, April 30, 2010, at The Historic German House and The Keg, 315 Gregory Street. The doors open to the general public at 6:30 pm, and twelve bands begin performing at 7:00 pm.
Bands scheduled to appear include Paradigm Shift, John Akers, Crescent City Connection, The Cross Roads Project, Redline Zydeco, Small Town, Tinted Image, Spencerport High School Jazz Band, Atlas, Mambo Kings, Prime Time Funk, and The Buddhahood.
Tickets will be $15 in advance/$20 at the door and are on sale beginning April 12, 2010, through Ticketmaster online, Ticketmaster locations at 885 East Main Street, and House of Guitars, 645 Titus Avenue. Tickets will also be available at Aaron’s Alley, the Bop Shop, The Keg, Northfield Music Studios (Pittsford), and The Music Store, Inc. (Webster).
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame (RMHF) began as a grassroots effort in the spring of 2009. RMHF is a nonprofit organization the mission being to recognize those with ties to Rochester whose talents, efforts, perseverance and creativity have contributed to the creation of musical excellence. Each year new members will be honored through ceremony and celebration and their achievements memorialized to promote an appreciation for the greater Rochester area’s rich and diverse musical history and culture.
Remarks Karl LaPorta, President of RMHF Board of Directors, “In my 40 years in the music business, I have found that that when it comes to music, no matter the differences we all have as individuals, none of that ever matters if we're enjoying musical entertainment together – music makes for common ground for all people. I believe everyone in our community would enjoy a music hall of fame.” RMHF would give Rochester the ability to celebrate and recognize musicians of every genre, entertainment venues, and other people and organizations which have been instrumental to Rochester’s culture of music and its rich musical tradition and history.
RMHF gratefully acknowledges Senator Joseph Robach, Freetime Magazine, The German House/The Keg, Brother Wease, The House of Guitars and St. Vincent’s Press.
Okay, that's all the details. Now, BE THERE!
yours in music,
Tracy
Thursday, April 8, 2010
A Little Sneak Peak - Rochester Music Hall of Fame Launch Party
Save the date! Friday, April 30, 2010, at 7:00pm at The Historic German House and The Keg, the Rochester Music Hall of Fame is going to have its first music event - our Launch Party! We anticipate more than ten bands playing at what is sure to be a fabulous party. Stay tuned to find out exactly which excellent Rochester bands will be performing.
Tickets will be available April 14th at Ticketmaster online as well as the local Ticketmaster retail locations at the Auditorium Theatre and the House of Guitars. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Other locations to buy tickets include Aaron's Alley, The Bop Shop, The Keg, and Northfield Music.
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame (RMHF) began as a grassroots effort in the spring of 2009. RMHF is a 501(c)(3) (in progress) nonprofit organization with a mission to: Recognize those with ties to Rochester whose talents, efforts, perseverance and creativity have contributed to the creation of musical excellence. Each year new members will be honored through ceremony and celebration and their achievements memorialized to promote an appreciation for the greater Rochester area’s rich and diverse musical history and culture.
Save that date!!
yours in music,
Tracy
Tickets will be available April 14th at Ticketmaster online as well as the local Ticketmaster retail locations at the Auditorium Theatre and the House of Guitars. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Other locations to buy tickets include Aaron's Alley, The Bop Shop, The Keg, and Northfield Music.
The Rochester Music Hall of Fame (RMHF) began as a grassroots effort in the spring of 2009. RMHF is a 501(c)(3) (in progress) nonprofit organization with a mission to: Recognize those with ties to Rochester whose talents, efforts, perseverance and creativity have contributed to the creation of musical excellence. Each year new members will be honored through ceremony and celebration and their achievements memorialized to promote an appreciation for the greater Rochester area’s rich and diverse musical history and culture.
Save that date!!
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, April 3, 2010
Another Friday night delight - Dinner at Rocco and Music at Dino
We went to dinner at Rocco on Monroe Avenue just past Union. What a delight! The service was great, the food was fabulous! Joe, Tina and Dave all raved about the calamari appetizer (squid's not my thing), and the house-made ricotta with grilled bread appetizer was delish. Three of us had the Caesar salad, which was also very good. Dave and Tina had the striped bass special, Joe had the imported rigatoni with meatballs (presumably not imported!), and I had the lasagne alla pizzaiolo. This was not your usual lasagna. It was not a brick of pasta and meat and heavy cheeses. This was light and fluffy - just the pasta and the house-made ricotta with a touch of bechamel sauce and the red sauce. It was absolutely delicious and did not weigh me down. There was a nice wine list - one side was a $25/bottle list - and we chose a Zaccagnini Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, which was absolutely wonderful for everyone's meal.
Rocco is on my list for a return visit - and soon!
We left there and got to the Dinosaur just in time to hear the first notes of Redline Zydeco. And from the very first note, the dance floor was filled! I went to New Orleans in 1999, and the music of Redline Zydeco brought me right back. The only band member I know is Russ Roberts from The Lawnmowers. He really gave his cajun accordion a workout last night! The guy with the washboard came marching through the bar, and the people sitting next to me got to play! He must have known by looking at me that I have no musical ability because he did not even offer me the spoon to play his washboard abs! A fun band, especially for a warm and summery Friday night.
yours in music,
Tracy
Rocco is on my list for a return visit - and soon!
We left there and got to the Dinosaur just in time to hear the first notes of Redline Zydeco. And from the very first note, the dance floor was filled! I went to New Orleans in 1999, and the music of Redline Zydeco brought me right back. The only band member I know is Russ Roberts from The Lawnmowers. He really gave his cajun accordion a workout last night! The guy with the washboard came marching through the bar, and the people sitting next to me got to play! He must have known by looking at me that I have no musical ability because he did not even offer me the spoon to play his washboard abs! A fun band, especially for a warm and summery Friday night.
yours in music,
Tracy
Friday, April 2, 2010
Today is a gift.
This is the kind of day I long for - warm and sunny. A taste of summer. A tease, to be sure, because we'll see more cold days, rainy days - maybe even snowy days - before spring is truly here.
And then, oh, the beauty of it all. Magnolia trees in full bloom up and down Oxford Street. Beautiful pink and white dogwoods lining Fourth Avenue in Fairport. Baby ducklings following their mothers on the canal. Huge, blazing redbud trees, the sweet smell of lilacs and honeysuckle, roses in bloom, warm starry nights - no jacket required. Outdoor music events, dinner at sidewalk cafes, fireworks.
I live for these days.
yours in music,
tracy
And then, oh, the beauty of it all. Magnolia trees in full bloom up and down Oxford Street. Beautiful pink and white dogwoods lining Fourth Avenue in Fairport. Baby ducklings following their mothers on the canal. Huge, blazing redbud trees, the sweet smell of lilacs and honeysuckle, roses in bloom, warm starry nights - no jacket required. Outdoor music events, dinner at sidewalk cafes, fireworks.
I live for these days.
yours in music,
tracy
John Pizzarelli tickets have arrived!
The doorbell rang while we were just waking up. We wondered, "Who the heck is that?" What a pleasant surprise to open the door to a UPS package for me . . . John Pizzarelli tickets! Yay!
yours in music,
Tracy
yours in music,
Tracy
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Xerox Rochester International Jazz Fest 2010
Well, well, well. I was anxiously awaiting yesterday's release of the Jazz Fest '10 lineup. It's good enough to make me buy two club passes today while the prices are still a bit lower than they will be. I think it was damned straight of them to keep the price down for a couple of days after announcing the lineup. It's hard to justify buying tickets when one has no idea who might be playing.
At a quick glance of the lineup, I'm very excited about Charnett Moffett. I saw him a few years ago when he played the Jazz Fest with McCoy Tyner. The man was amazing. Can't wait to see Mose Allison, too. Joe's very excited about Russell Malone, Andreas Oberg and Joyce Cooling. I also bought tickets for Joe's birthday for us to see John Pizzarelli at the Eastman. I've been wanting to see him for a long time.
And, of course, I can't wait to see my Joe and the rest of the Bill Tiberio Band at the Club Pass Big Tent on June 16 at 6:00 pm. Got to have the Club Pass for that, right?
I have to say that I'm looking forward to this year's Jazz Fest very much. Get your club passes while they're still $135 - that's only today!
yours in music,
Tracy
At a quick glance of the lineup, I'm very excited about Charnett Moffett. I saw him a few years ago when he played the Jazz Fest with McCoy Tyner. The man was amazing. Can't wait to see Mose Allison, too. Joe's very excited about Russell Malone, Andreas Oberg and Joyce Cooling. I also bought tickets for Joe's birthday for us to see John Pizzarelli at the Eastman. I've been wanting to see him for a long time.
And, of course, I can't wait to see my Joe and the rest of the Bill Tiberio Band at the Club Pass Big Tent on June 16 at 6:00 pm. Got to have the Club Pass for that, right?
I have to say that I'm looking forward to this year's Jazz Fest very much. Get your club passes while they're still $135 - that's only today!
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, March 27, 2010
I Am In Love ... with The Lawnmowers!
I managed to drag my Joe into the city "where there is no parking" last night to go see The Lawnmowers at Abilene. I think he wanted to avoid my having the tantrum that I wrote about in my last post. Anyway, we pulled into the completely filled parking lot, and what to our wondering eyes did appear? A parking space was vacated in a most timely fashion for us, and Joe shimmied his car into it. So far, so good.
We walked into the packed, and I do mean PACKED, Abilene. The vibe was actually electric - like something really special was going to happen. It felt like The Place to be on this particular Friday night in Rochester. A space appeared at the bar, and we got our drinks and moved closer to where the band would be playing. The band members started getting organized to play, and who do you think was going to sit in? John Nugent! This was boding well.
From the first song on, there was no standing still. The beat was there to dance to, and had I more space, I could have really moved! As it was, though, we were packed in like sardines - but we were all dancing sardines. The vibe was relaxed and groovy but really alive! I loved this band.
The members include the ever-cool, Dave Cohen on drums. The lead singer, who also played guitar, is Ron Stackman. Now, I did a little online research this morning and found that he was the leader of the band Big Roots. They used to play at Milestones quite often, and I went to see them on my first date with my ex-husband. But I won't hold that against Ron! He has a very luscious, fluid voice - perfect for the reggae sound of the Lawnmowers. Vinnie Ruggiero is a great guitar player; I really liked his sound. It was pretty evident that he is a master of rock, jazz and probably most any genre of music. And I, of course, have very high standards for guitar players . . . I loved Russ Roberts and his cajun accordion - it added so much to the overall sound of the band. The bass player, Jim Schwarz, has a long history in music in the Rochester area, and includes Colorblind James Experience and Big Roots.
John Nugent picked up his sax and joined the band about halfway through their first set. He can really play. As Joe said, "He has a nice tone." It was great to see that someone who is so integrally linked to the jazz scene in Rochester can actually put his money where his mouth is. So to speak.
I can't wait to see the Lawnmowers again. It looks like they are going to be playing at the Lilac Festival, the Jazz Fest and Corn Hill. I wish I could get them to come and play at the soon-to-be-announced launch event for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. What do you think guys? It would be awesome to have sound of The Lawnmowers there.
I had a blast with The Lawmowers at Abilene last night. I think it really was THE place to be.
yours in music,
Tracy
We walked into the packed, and I do mean PACKED, Abilene. The vibe was actually electric - like something really special was going to happen. It felt like The Place to be on this particular Friday night in Rochester. A space appeared at the bar, and we got our drinks and moved closer to where the band would be playing. The band members started getting organized to play, and who do you think was going to sit in? John Nugent! This was boding well.
From the first song on, there was no standing still. The beat was there to dance to, and had I more space, I could have really moved! As it was, though, we were packed in like sardines - but we were all dancing sardines. The vibe was relaxed and groovy but really alive! I loved this band.
The members include the ever-cool, Dave Cohen on drums. The lead singer, who also played guitar, is Ron Stackman. Now, I did a little online research this morning and found that he was the leader of the band Big Roots. They used to play at Milestones quite often, and I went to see them on my first date with my ex-husband. But I won't hold that against Ron! He has a very luscious, fluid voice - perfect for the reggae sound of the Lawnmowers. Vinnie Ruggiero is a great guitar player; I really liked his sound. It was pretty evident that he is a master of rock, jazz and probably most any genre of music. And I, of course, have very high standards for guitar players . . . I loved Russ Roberts and his cajun accordion - it added so much to the overall sound of the band. The bass player, Jim Schwarz, has a long history in music in the Rochester area, and includes Colorblind James Experience and Big Roots.
John Nugent picked up his sax and joined the band about halfway through their first set. He can really play. As Joe said, "He has a nice tone." It was great to see that someone who is so integrally linked to the jazz scene in Rochester can actually put his money where his mouth is. So to speak.
I can't wait to see the Lawnmowers again. It looks like they are going to be playing at the Lilac Festival, the Jazz Fest and Corn Hill. I wish I could get them to come and play at the soon-to-be-announced launch event for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. What do you think guys? It would be awesome to have sound of The Lawnmowers there.
I had a blast with The Lawmowers at Abilene last night. I think it really was THE place to be.
yours in music,
Tracy
Friday, March 26, 2010
Twestival
Went to last night's Twestival at Lovin' Cup. As I explained to my daughter, it was a global event to raise money for an organization which builds schools for poor children all over the world. But the idea was that all the people, mostly Twitter aficionados, would be able to see all the celebrations across the globe via live stream. And there was a lot of tweeting going on.
I noticed, thankfully, that I was not the oldest person there. (Though I probably have the oldest phone.) There were as many people my age or older as there were younger. However, I noticed that most of the avid tweeters, especially those of the younger age, were scattered. In other words, trying to have a conversation with someone who keeps grabbing her phone and reading tweets or sending tweets was difficult as her attention was scattered - always thinking of her next good tweet.
I did get the chance to hang out with my good friend Greg Bell. He's the guy with the excellent jazz blog who got my little music blog noticed. It's always a pleasure to chat with him. I didn't hear the first band, really, but was there for all of the MOHO Collective's set. They were an eclectic trio with an "organic drummer." The guitarist also played lap steel. And pretty well. Had I no one to talk with, I wouldn't have minded just sitting and listening to their set.
I'm hoping to get to see the Lawnmowers tonight at Abilene. I've been wanting to see them, and if I can't get there tonight, I'm going to stomp my feet and have a tantrum. I might have to tweet.
yours in music,
tracy
I noticed, thankfully, that I was not the oldest person there. (Though I probably have the oldest phone.) There were as many people my age or older as there were younger. However, I noticed that most of the avid tweeters, especially those of the younger age, were scattered. In other words, trying to have a conversation with someone who keeps grabbing her phone and reading tweets or sending tweets was difficult as her attention was scattered - always thinking of her next good tweet.
I did get the chance to hang out with my good friend Greg Bell. He's the guy with the excellent jazz blog who got my little music blog noticed. It's always a pleasure to chat with him. I didn't hear the first band, really, but was there for all of the MOHO Collective's set. They were an eclectic trio with an "organic drummer." The guitarist also played lap steel. And pretty well. Had I no one to talk with, I wouldn't have minded just sitting and listening to their set.
I'm hoping to get to see the Lawnmowers tonight at Abilene. I've been wanting to see them, and if I can't get there tonight, I'm going to stomp my feet and have a tantrum. I might have to tweet.
yours in music,
tracy
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Friday night disappointment
We didn't make it to Tina and the Two-Timers because Joe wasn't feeling great after our dinner at Bonefish Grill, and then the same thing happened to me later. We probably won't be going back there again. The last time we went, the food was fine, but the service was lacking. Last night, the service was fine but the food was lacking. And I had the same thing I always do, the house salad and crab cakes, but this time my stomach was very unhappy with me. Not a great night for food or music for us.
yours in music,
tracy
yours in music,
tracy
Friday, March 19, 2010
Music out and about this weekend
Just sitting here enjoying yet another WRUR show, "Rejuvination," while I think about the possible music I might experience this weekend.
So, tonight, I was hoping to get to the Jazz at Immanuel series, but I don't think we're going to make it since Joe is still at work at 6:15, and I am hoping he will take me out to dinner first! So, it looks like we might make it out to Rab's Woodshed to hear our friends, Tina and The Two-Timers. Their show starts at 9:30ish. We should be able to make that.
Tomorrow night, the Bill Welch Band is having their CD release party at The Keg at The German House at 7:00 pm. I'll be there selling their new CD, Roots. I'm very excited for them. This is a great group; Bill Welch is a fabulous lyricist with a soulful voice.
Next weekend, I'm hoping to finally catch The Lawnmowers at Abilene.
Stay tuned for some very important news about an upcoming event for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. We are working very hard to bring this grassroots organization to fruition and make it a wonderful tribute to Rochester's musical legacy.
yours in music,
tracy
So, tonight, I was hoping to get to the Jazz at Immanuel series, but I don't think we're going to make it since Joe is still at work at 6:15, and I am hoping he will take me out to dinner first! So, it looks like we might make it out to Rab's Woodshed to hear our friends, Tina and The Two-Timers. Their show starts at 9:30ish. We should be able to make that.
Tomorrow night, the Bill Welch Band is having their CD release party at The Keg at The German House at 7:00 pm. I'll be there selling their new CD, Roots. I'm very excited for them. This is a great group; Bill Welch is a fabulous lyricist with a soulful voice.
Next weekend, I'm hoping to finally catch The Lawnmowers at Abilene.
Stay tuned for some very important news about an upcoming event for the Rochester Music Hall of Fame. We are working very hard to bring this grassroots organization to fruition and make it a wonderful tribute to Rochester's musical legacy.
yours in music,
tracy
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Tweeds!
Yesterday morning, I tuned in to hear Teagan and the Tweeds on Open Tunings. What a great show that is; what a great interviewer and host Scott Regan is! The Tweeds sounded great and were invited back to regale us with stories of SxSW. I can't wait.
Be sure to listen to Open Tunings on WRUR 88.5 fm every day from 9:00 am to noon. You can hear it on the radio or stream it live from the web. For those of us who love high quality music with lots of variety, this show is perfect!
yours in music,
Tracy
Be sure to listen to Open Tunings on WRUR 88.5 fm every day from 9:00 am to noon. You can hear it on the radio or stream it live from the web. For those of us who love high quality music with lots of variety, this show is perfect!
yours in music,
Tracy
Monday, March 15, 2010
Teagan and the Tweeds on WRUR's Open Tunings March 16
First, let me say that I love Scott Regan's show, Open Tunings, on WRUR 88.5 every morning from 9 - noon. I used to listen to it on the way in to work every morning (yes, I ran late a lot). And then once I got settled in to my office, I tuned in via the stream on the website. You never know what new and old music you're going to hear on the show; it's always a delight.
Given that a) Scott has artists perform live on the show quite often; and b) he is a big South x Southwest fan; and c) Teagan and the Tweeds are going to be performing twice at SxSW, I thought that Scott might like to have them on the show. I was right! Tomorrow, the Tweeds will be on Open Tunings at 10:30 am on WRUR 88.5 fm or streaming on the web. Be sure to tune in.
yours in music,
tracy
Given that a) Scott has artists perform live on the show quite often; and b) he is a big South x Southwest fan; and c) Teagan and the Tweeds are going to be performing twice at SxSW, I thought that Scott might like to have them on the show. I was right! Tomorrow, the Tweeds will be on Open Tunings at 10:30 am on WRUR 88.5 fm or streaming on the web. Be sure to tune in.
yours in music,
tracy
Sunday, March 14, 2010
The Tweeds and Bill Tiberio Band at Lovin' Cup
I can't believe how fast this week has flown by. I was going to write about last weekend's music when it was more fresh in my mind, but here we are.
Teagan and the Tweeds will be getting ready to head out to Austin for South X Southwest. Based on what I saw and heard last Sunday night, they should be well received. The sound was so much better at Lovin' Cup than it was when I saw the band at The Landing a few months ago. That time, I could not understand a word that Teagan was singing. That was a loss. At Lovin' Cup, her vocals came through loud and clear. What a set of pipes; that girl can sing. With Katy Wright's harmony, and the musical talents of the group as a whole, Teagan and the Tweeds just keep getting better and better.
After the Tweeds, the Bill Tiberio Band took the stage. They sounded great, as usual, and did a few new tunes. They also did a straight-ahead jazz standard - Coltrane's Impressions. I loved it, and so did my friends, the DeBolts. Very cool, very jazzy. The boys are working on their CD; hopefully, it will be done in time to have at their show in the Big Tent at this year's Xerox Rochester International Jazz Fest. See you there!
yours in music,
Tracy
Sunday, February 28, 2010
A Typical Saturday Night in Rochester . . .
So, since I stayed in Rochester (due to weather) instead of going to visit my daughter, Joe and I met some friends, Dave and Tina, out for dinner at Pomodoro. We had a good meal - Joe and I both had the Linguine Limone and Dave and Tina both had the cod special. Tom Passamonte and Special Blend - a group I've heard of, but I've never heard - was there last night. I really liked them. Tom's voice was very versatile and sounds a lot like Eric Clapton. I'd go just to listen to them again.
After dinner we buzzed over to the Little Cafe to hear Kinloch Nelson, Dave Arenius and Bill Blind. Very nice. I've heard Kinloch before, solo, and I've heard the other guys in different groups over the years. Their sound was just beautiful.
I'm happy to say that both places were packed!! On a cold Saturday night in Rochester! Some people actually do come out of hibernation to hear the wealth of musical talent we have here in Rochester.
yours in music,
Tracy
After dinner we buzzed over to the Little Cafe to hear Kinloch Nelson, Dave Arenius and Bill Blind. Very nice. I've heard Kinloch before, solo, and I've heard the other guys in different groups over the years. Their sound was just beautiful.
I'm happy to say that both places were packed!! On a cold Saturday night in Rochester! Some people actually do come out of hibernation to hear the wealth of musical talent we have here in Rochester.
yours in music,
Tracy
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Valentine's Day (the movie)
Not as impressive as I'd hoped given the cast and the trailers I'd seen. Kind of slow moving. None of the characters were engaging enough for me to care what happened to them. Not a big Ashton Kutcher fan, though I thought he was much less obnoxious in the film than in anything else I've ever seen him in. Joe thought his character was wimpy. I don't know. I just didn't care. Too bad; I had such high hopes.
Next movie is Joe's pick, and I know it's going to be Brooklyn's Finest, which would be mine too. It opens next week - I think on the 5th. Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Wesley Snipes, Ethan Hawke, Vincent D'Onofrio - another great cast. I think it will be more exciting and engaging than Valentine's Day, for sure.
Saw Rodrigo y Gabriela on some morning show yesterday. They are truly awesome; I wish Nugent would get them to come here for Jazz Fest. I'd be in line five hours ahead to see them!
yours in music (and movies),
Tracy
Next movie is Joe's pick, and I know it's going to be Brooklyn's Finest, which would be mine too. It opens next week - I think on the 5th. Richard Gere, Don Cheadle, Wesley Snipes, Ethan Hawke, Vincent D'Onofrio - another great cast. I think it will be more exciting and engaging than Valentine's Day, for sure.
Saw Rodrigo y Gabriela on some morning show yesterday. They are truly awesome; I wish Nugent would get them to come here for Jazz Fest. I'd be in line five hours ahead to see them!
yours in music (and movies),
Tracy
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
