Jazz in the Meadow 2013 – Update

Hi friends and jazz lovers – the time is rapidly approaching for the Bartlett-Benedum get-together on July 13, 2013. We honor invitees whom we admire, respect, and love.

We start the day at 1:00 p.m. with a welcome and a blessing. Then, the dean of jazz piano in Pittsburgh, Frank Cunimondo and his trio kick off the afternoon with great selections from his 20 records and CDs. Frank is a legend in jazz along with his many Westinghouse High School’s Wall of Fame honorees who include such artists as Ahmad Jamal, Dakota Staton, and many more. Frank played the “Tonight Show” and had the “best Jazz CD” in Paris, France just a couple of years ago. It is great to have Frank back along with his trio – Pat Crossley and our “house” drummer, Tom Wendt.

We welcome back the Rockwood Area High School and Alumni Jazz Band. They were a big hit at the last Jazz in the Meadow. Donations collected at that event in the sum of $500. were donated to the Music Department at Rockwood Area High School. We hope to continue this way of encouraging jazz in the high school age group.

And, what a finale we have arranged this year. The Joe Negri Quartet tops off the day at 5:30 p.m. Joe’s resume reads like the history of jazz in Pittsburgh – a radio and television star who often performs with the Pittsburgh Symphony, records with all of the great jazz artists, and is Michael Feinstein’s favorite guitar player. World wide, Joe is known as “Handyman Negri” on the Fred Roger’s Neighborhood. Joe is the epitome of a great jazz musician and great guy in life. Joe will be accompanied by the talented Max Leake on piano, Tony Depolis on bass, and the inimitable Tom Wendt on drums.

So, arrive early. Enjoy hardy hors d’oeuvres, beverages, and some of the best company with whom to spend a summer afternoon.

Official invitations will be arriving soon by land mail with RSVP status, directions to our meadow, etc.

P.S. Those wishing to spend an overnight in the Laurel Highlands should make early reservations at the local B and B’s and/or Seven Spring. Reservations are going quickly.