It's been a week or so since I attended the second of five concerts in the 31st annual Essex Winter Series. Even though living in Essex for 8 years, I just never heard about the Winter Series and didn't know anyone who attended
When I first received complimentary tickets (my company is a sponsor) to the "great jazz" concert, I was apprehensive - who are the musicians? What is the program? What a surprise!
I quickly found out (after reading the program briefly before the program) that is was no ordinary concert: Jeff Barnhart, piano, Scott Philbrick, Trumpet, Dan Levinson, Clarinet and five other WORLD CLASS musicians and entertainers.
The program focused on the early Jazz years from 1890 to 1935 and the first number "Twelfth Street Rag" blew me away - truly outstanding Jazz right here in our small town and very reasonable ($20.00/ticket). The concert was even more appealing as I used to play the piano and enjoyed playing ragtime music - it sure brought back memories.
During Intermission, there were several CD's for sale in support of the musicians (I purchased "Ivory and Gold" by Jeff Barnhart and "Twin Pianos" by Jeff Barnhart and Louis Mazetier - both great albums).
So what's up next? It's not all Jazz, they'll be a mix of opera, and classical for the next three concerts ending on March 22.
Can't wait to hear the "String Orchestra of New York City" who claim "No conductor, no bow ties, just strings"!!! A total of 12 young, highly talented musicians to provide "big city" entertainment on Sunday, March 1 at 3:00pm at the Valley Regional High School - why not make plans to attend - most likely you'll be just as surprised as I was on my first concert. You can purchase tickets at the door or write "Essex Winter Series, P.O. Box 383, Essex, CT 06426.
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