2021 Gregory Burrus Productions Live Music Year In Review

January 11, 2022 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, January 11, 2022

2021. What a fabulous, poignant, reflective year. In the beginning, we thought about it being a year of restart, recovery and renewal. I think we all lost some family, friends and, in our case, some fabulous musicians. Unfortunately, the losses continued so it was definitely a challenging year, but we found a way to live again. For listeners, a live music concert is a pleasurable social event that is among the most visceral and memorable forms of musical engagement. It's the same for musicians, with the added note that for many it’s not a side business, it’s their lifeblood and the thing that keeps them alive. With that in mind, we soldiered on through the year making music and great memories.

2021 Year In Review

As you can see, we made some great memories. Here are the 2021 lineup highlights:

In January 2021 we thought we’d start the year off with our Jazz973 program at The Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies, but no such luck as lots of uncertainties were still around, so our favorite Jazz Venue, Clement’s Place Jazz, did not have any programming.
For February for the Town of South Orange, we had a musical tribute and a South Orange Street renaming to honor our fallen buddy Lee Boz May. It was cold but a wonderful day.
For March, we celebrated Women's History Month with a wonderful online performance titled WHM2021 “Refresh in Progress” by Ife Basim. We also had a stirring and moving Cello performance by Caylen Bryant as we all Reflected Together For COVID-19 Victims at the lake in Meadowlands Park in South Orange, NJ. We tested the outdoor live music scene as Jazzy Nights, which joined the South Orange Jazz scene right before the pandemic hit us, turned into Jazzy Afternoons at The Fox & Falcon with an outdoor live R&B performance by MPACK. It was a big hit as folks starved for live music came out like crazy. It was really a great thing to experience.
For April, we honored Jazz Appreciation Month. Other than one rainout, it was a truly swinging set of Sunday afternoon performances which you can read more about here: Jazzy Afternoons South Orange Presents "Jazz Across The Generations" to Honor Jazz Appreciation Month 2021. The weather was great and music/the vibe was truly jumpin’.

Over the Months of May, June, July, August and September, we ran a number of concurrent live music performances. Our Summer Saturday South Orange Downtown performances ran every Saturday, 2 performances a day, along with our monthly Sunday Jazz On Sloan program at the South Orange Gazebo. There were about 60 fabulous performances. We rolled through Summer Wednesdays with a jumping Wednesday afternoon R&B-driven City of Orange Farmers Market. From 12-5 pm this program grew from a few attendees to a full house every week. We were also honored to crank up live music for the town of Cranford and had a really great Downtown Cranford Summer Sounds every Thursday evening all summer. Folks also enjoyed some great live music bands we provided to the town of Westfield with the Open Quimby Live Music program.

In September, we started with the Maplewood Community Music Maplewood Porchfest which was a nonstop all-day community fest of porch owners, honk paraders, and lemonade stands, and what really made it happen were some awesome local music performers and enthusiastic attendees. After a July weather cancellation, thanks to South Orange Downtown we conducted the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree, adapted for our times. Saturday gave us 12 hours of music, and Overnight gave us online musical performances including a wonderful performance from Japan by the Kumiko Tanaka Trio. On Sunday, we were finally able to host a Tribute to Darryl Clark. It was a glorious 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree headlined by the famous Nat Adderley Jr. Trio and members of Darryl’s former band. It was a sunny Sunday afternoon of beautiful music and great tributes.

October finally saw the return of our beloved Clements Place Jazz Venue, and while all the performances through December were great, a few highlights were 87-year-old Houston Person with Matt Chertkoff and 94-year-old Bassist Bill Crow with 19-year-old Leonieke Scheuble performing for our Jazz973 program on Wednesday evenings. This year the October Live Music Fest took over South Orange, NJ Spiotta Park and we had a really good time every weekend (when the weather cooperated). Meanwhile, the town of Cranford, NJ reached 150-years-old and MPACK was there to perform. Also in October, we performed for Pink Out Cranford Events. Finally, we performed a few weekends for the wonderful Cranford’s 14th Annual Scarecrow Stroll which had some amazing scarecrows.

November brought us some wonderful live music performance opportunities. Thanks to Linda Moody, wife of famed saxophonist James Moody, we were Making History as Linda Moody Honored the James Moody Scholars at 100 Blanchard Rd. in South Orange, NJ. It was a beautiful elegant night to remember. This was one swinging jamming experience. We then happily covered A Smooth Jazz Explosion Lights Up the Woodland in Maplewood. This event was very cool, as it opened up with an exciting group of young teenage jazz musicians from our town, The Baker Street Trio. Then, we got to experience the fabulous Smooth Jazz performances of Yankee great Bernie Williams and the phenomenal Blood, Sweat & Tears Guitarist Gil Parris and his band. It was definitely a really great performance to remember.

December ended with our entertainer Lynette Sheard joining Mr. and Ms. Claus on a Holiday Chorals Walk around Downtown Cranford, NJ. We had a fun time performing with the return of the award-winning South Orange Open-Air Holiday Market. We closed the month out in Maplewood where we enjoyed another great local performance, where Local Resident Jacqueline Lee Opened for 2 Contemporary Jazz Stars, and a fabulous off-the-chain performance at the Woodlands where Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon delivered an outstanding smooth jazz performance.

Of course along the way we conducted a number of private events as well.

Venues Around Our Towns

2021 consisted of multiple live music events, sometimes on the same day, conducted across multiple towns like South Orange, Newark, Cranford, Maplewood, the City of Orange, Westfield, West Orange, Montclair and more. You can read more here.

Videography. Livestream

Last year, we continued producing live music events and promoting them on various platforms. We were also happy to say that we continued documenting these events via video and livestreamIng them on multiple platforms such as YouTube, Facebook, Twitch and other websites. You can watch them here:

https://www.youtube.com/gregoryburrus
https://vimeo.com/gregoryburrus

In The News

In addition, we continued to provide additional artists promotions via articles and blog posts on local news sites, TAPinto, Patch, Newsrecord and across New Jersey via JerseyIndie and JerseyNYC. Read more below:

https://www.jerseyindie.com/ji-blogger-gregory-burrus
https://patch.com/users/gregburrus

Social Media

As we move through another year of unknowns and another “Are we inside or outside?” life, please continue to stay in touch with all our live music events. We are programming events for 2022, so check out the links and signup to know when we will go live again:

https://www.facebook.com/gregory.burrus
https://www.instagram.com/gregoryburrus
https://twitter.com/gregoryburrus
https://www.facebook.com/gregoryburruspromotions

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay Connected.

Thank you again for joining us on this live music journey.

About Gregory Burrus

Photography by Patrick Hilaire @l1stener.

Gregory Burrus spends his time as a Photojournalist, Live Music Producer, Promoter, Videographer, Arts and Entertainment Writer, Blogger, Business Reviewer, and Community Events Reporter. Gregory develops, manages, promotes and documents live music programs in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area.

http://gregoryburrusproductions.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregburrus
https://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com

Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon in Maplewood with Opening Performance by Violinist Jacqueline Lee (RECAP)

December 22, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, December 22, 2021

Once again Smooth Jazz History is being made in the very beautiful, very spacious, historic Georgian Revival-style mansion called The Woodland in Maplewood, NJ. Rich Engel, our local New Jersey resident, producer and promoter who for decades has produced numerous NYC Smooth Jazz Cruises along with many other marquee live music concerts is determined to make contemporary jazz a mainstay in our SOMA (South Orange-Maplewood) and beyond entertainment environment.

Rich brought two of the gold standards in contemporary jazz, Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon to town. Rich is re-establishing a past custom of one of the former #1 Contemporary Jazz stations in the country, the long-running New York CD 101.9 radio station. Co-hosting the show was former CD 101.9 radio personality Steve Harris along with Maplewood, NJ, Mayor Frank McGehee who introduced the opening set led by our own local rising star violinist, Jacquie Lee.

Steve Harris - CD 101.9 - JESPY House Logo - Mayor Frank McGehee

Rich Engel is also committed to supporting our towns and local live music musicians. In addition to stellar performances, patrons also were able to enjoy an open wine bar in support of the South Orange-based nonprofit JESPY House, which supports adults with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities. It was nice to know that 90% of the open bar purchase price went directly to JESPY to support their amazing work.

Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Together for Holidays at The Woodland

Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Band on Stage

Steve Harris from CD 101.9 introduced a full house to the main event performers, worldwide stars Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon.

Marion Meadows started playing tenor sax in high school, and then migrated to soprano sax. After studying jazz at Rippowam High School in Stamford, Conn, with Anthony Truglia, Meadows attended Berklee College of Music. There he majored in arranging and composition. He later went to the SUNY Purchase School for the Arts. He earned his break while playing his horn in Grand Central Station. His sound caught the ear of composer Jay Chattaway who signed Meadows to his record label and introduced him to jazz great, Bob James. Meadows went on to perform with Eartha Kitt, Brook Benton and the Temptations before launching his solo career in 1990. (Read more at www.marionmeadows.com.)

Alex Bugnon has been a prolific, energetic force on the contemporary music scene for almost three decades. A renowned musician, composer and bandleader, Bugnon hails from the picturesque town of Caux, Switzerland – four miles above Montreux, site of the world famous Montreux Jazz Festival. No doubt, the annual convergence in his hometown of some of music’s most illustrious names played a role in his decision to pursue a musical career. An early friendship with Herbie Hancock plus a legendary uncle Donald Byrd only served to further his decision. Shortly after moving to New York City, Bugnon began touring with almost every R&B artist, such as Melba Moore, Freddie Jackson, Patti Austin, James Ingram and Glenn Jones to name a few. (Read more at www.alexbugnon.com)

Clearly everyone in the band is a long-standing professional and their performance matched their history. These veteran band members with a super history consisted of Carl Carter on bass, and he has performed with Dizzy Gillespie, Phil Perry, Clark Terry and Ivan Neville. Poogie Bell was on drums, and he has worked with Roberta Flack, David Bowie, and David Sanborn, and Rohn Lawrence on guitar, who has played with Najee, Freddie Jackson, Diane Reeves and Jonathan Butler.

Backstage with Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Band

Besides playing a series of their originals and some holiday standards, they performed a number of popular hits from their previous albums which the audience remembered and immediately became excited. From standing in the back of The Woodland it was easy to see folks rocking and swaying to the music on every single tune that was played.

Guitarist Rohn Lawrence with Saxophonist Marion Meadows

In addition, guitarist Rohn Lawrence performed some out of this world guitar solos and became another crowd favorite. As the music cascaded across the audience, Marion introduced one tune by saying “you will recognize this one” and within a few beats, the audience was ecstatic as he performed a beautiful rendition of one of my favorite tunes “Suede”. It was extremely upbeat and off the chain. Later, another tune that Alex Bugnon introduced was his favorite interpretation of a George Benson Songm “The World is a Ghetto”. It took no time before the audience was raising hands, clapping and singing along, and the band just rocked the house.

It Was An Explosive Performance!

Audience Loves Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Performance

It was like this all night as they performed song after song. The audience joined in humming, singing and clapping, giving standing ovations in appreciation of a fabulous live music performance that definitely delivered. As stated, the event was titled “Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Together for ‘Holidays at the Woodland’”. Well-based on the audience response all night, that was a low key introduction to what turned out to be a truly explosive performance by two great contemporary jazz artists that folks will remember for a long time to come. Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon, as the old song goes, “blew the roof off” the Woodland Auditorium.

Jacqueline Lee Quartet Opening for Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon

Jacqueline Lee Quartet enjoys the night with Mayor Frank McGehee.

For this event, we had another awesome and fabulous opening set led by bandleader and local Montclair resident violinist, 16-year-old Jacqueline Lee. While young in years, she is not young in experience. Jacquie has been a member of Jazz House Kids and has a professional family of musicians surrounding her. They all thrive very well in the Greater New York, New Jersey and beyond live music scene.

Also note, that Jacqueline had been playing Violin for 11 years and received the Jazz Soloist Downbeat Student Music Award for an Outstanding Performance. Jacqueline has performed at the Jazz Standard and Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola at Lincoln Center in NYC and, recently, for my Jazz973 program at Newark NJ's Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies, Clements Place Jazz venue. Still the proof is in the moment. Jacquie said to me that “I’m comfortable with performing the music, but I am more concerned with making sure my speaking pieces are correct.”

Well, let the music play because Jacqueline did not disappoint at all. Her quartet included a number of local favorites, Seniar Raines on bass, Derick Campos on guitar, and Zack Perez on drums. She led her band through a number of standards: “Red Jumps” by Stuff Smith, “Cherokee” by Ray Noble and my favorite, “Invitation” by Bronislau Kaper Strasbourg/St. Denis - Roy Hargrove. All band and tune introductions were excellent, the tunes were performed eloquently, tight, and the band was totally in sync.

Videos courtesy of Rebecca Harris-Lee

Jacquie Lee stated afterwards: “It was a lovely experience to play with a band that I've become very comfortable with. This was the first time we’ve gotten to play a performance of this caliber and having such an enthusiastic and engaged audience made the whole experience so enjoyable. It’s been amazing but quite honestly very nerve wracking to start playing for real-life people again, but I don't think that was reflected too much in our music and our energy that night was better than ever!”

The band and audience clearly enjoyed their performance and big kudos go out to Jacqueline Lee for leading an absolutely wonderful performance.

You can enjoy more clips and videos at the links below :

Artist Meet and Greet

Enjoying the Night. Top-left Roxanne Burrus, Top-right Gregory Burus, Roxanne Burrus, DJ Roc, Patricia Harrison and Virgil Harrison, Bottom-left Al Clarke, Bottom-right Gregory Burrus, Mike Lee

After the event, there was a meet and greet area on the 2nd floor. Here you were able to meet with other friends and neighbors in attendance and enjoy the JESPY open bar. The artists showed up, chatted with audience members, and we purchased their CDs and event merchandise. All of us had a great time.

About The Author

Gregory Burrus with Alex Bugnon and Marion Meadows

Writer Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event planner, and community partner that curates, manages and promotes live music events in the SOMA (South Orange-Maplewood) community and Northern NJ and New York Area. Read more about Gregory Burrus at www.jerseyindie.com/gregory-burrus.

A Fabulous 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree, Sept 25 and 26, 2021 (RECAP)

December 15, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, December 15, 2021

The South Orange 24 Hours of Music Jamboree started in 2017 as a local live music event, where the musicians performed on multiple local stages, year after year for 3 years in our neighborhood parks, stores, and gazebos. However, in our new pandemic world in 2020, we all had to adjust in many unexpected ways. The COVID-19 pandemic drove many industries to instantly shut down. Borders, race politics, it did not matter.

We were faced with a new world and understanding that to resolve this problem we needed to know that “we were and still are all in this together“. Hence, the 24 Hours of Music Jamboree had no choice but to adapt and evolve with the times. In 2020, we adapted the event to be totally online. And we had a great time.

The great thing we learned is that live music is universal and musicians can play with each other from all over the world. We evolved this year's performance program to meet the lingering needs of a global pandemic, ongoing social distancing, and sporadic worldwide travel restrictions.

Making It All Happen

Additional adjustments were needed this season as we had scheduled a full-day tribute to one of our fallen musicians, bass player Darryl Clark. We kicked off the Darryl Clark Tribute in July, but we ran into some extremely uncooperative weather. Hence, we had to reschedule this event before the end of the Summer Saturdays season. Addressing the above issues of travel restriction, rescheduling, budget restrictions, lingering social distance issues, etc., we turned this year's 24 Hours of Music Jamboree into a hybrid affair of online and offline performances. While not continuous due to pandemic restrictions, we used a single venue flow for all performances, therefore turning the 24 Hours of Music Jamboree into 36 hours of music over the weekend.

Set 1: Saturday, 10 AM - 10 PM

Planning was done in time to enjoy 3 sets of live music performances. The weekend was divided up between 12 hours live on Saturday, 12 hours overnight, and an 11-hour in-person Tribute on Sunday. Now, let's take a walk through a wonderful day of live music, jazz, R&B, and a DJ Dance party.

Baker Street Duo with Alex Desrivieres and Senia Raines

The Baker Street Trio, featuring Ben Collins-Siegel on keys, Ben Schwartz on drums, Alex Desrivieres on Sax, and Sen Raines on Bass kicked off the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. The music at 10 AM was wonderful and a great way to start the day. You can read more about these youngsters here:

Matt Chertkoff Trio featuring Houston Person, Vince Ector, and Matthew Parish

This was an off-the-chain performance at the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. Thank you to the phenomenal Matt Chertkoff Trio performance with Houston Person on Sax, Vince Ector on Drums, and Matthew Parrish on Bass. The noon to 2 PM performance was a jazz performance that will be remembered for a long time. Read more about Matt Chertkoff Trio feat. Legendary Saxophonist Houston Person.

Leonieke Scheuble Quartet

Thank you to the fabulous Leonieke Scheuble Quartet for joining us in the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. The music performed by Nick Scheuble on Drums, Chuggy Carter on Percussion, and Leonieke Scheuble on Keys, with the legendary bassman Bill Crow, was swinging and just beautiful to listen to and the audience loved it all.

Learn more: Exciting Rising Pianist Leonieke Scheuble Leads Her "Jazz Across The Generations Trio" for Jazz Appreciation Month 2021.

Kumiko Tanaka

As you can see, the Kumiko Tanaka Trio’s performance was absolutely wonderful. Loving this performance and knowing that folks in Japan faced a lot of the same pandemic challenges we do in performing live music, I requested some background. I asked Kumiko about how they prepared, how they felt about their performance, and how it was received by their audience in Japan.

MPack Music

Thank you to MPack Band for kicking off the dancing Sounds In Spiotta Park for the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. The band consisted of Kev Moore (Natz) on Drums, Larry Greenberg on Keys, Kenny Robinson on Guitar, with Patricia Walton on Vocals, led by Clarence Conover on Guitar and Vocals. We switched over to R&B, and folks started moving to the beat with their feet as all entered into jamming and dancing part of the weekend. The audience loved it.

MPack is the musical brainchild of bassist, guitarist, keyboardist, drummer, and vocalist Clarence 'Groove Master' Conover. He’s the founder, leader, and vocalist of the Clarence Conover Project, the MPack Band, and the Founder and CEO of M-Pack Music Productions, whose motto is “Life Changing Sounds.” He released his first CD, My Time, in 2014.

New Jersey DJ Services LLC w DJ Jimmy

Thank you to New Jersey DJ Services LLC and their killer sound system for rocking Spiotta Park in the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree. The music played by DJ James Buttros was swinging and got folks up on their feet dancing the rest of the night. It was a perfect way to end 13 hours of live music in South Orange Downtown Summer Saturdays.

Watch: https://www.facebook.com/gregory.burrus/videos/410486934031777/

“New Jersey DJ service is a DJ, entertainment, and party rental services. Party Rental includes bouncy houses, game trailers, etc.. We've been in business for over 25 years and our rates are best in the business.” https://www.facebook.com/newjerseydjservices

Set 2: Saturday, 11 PM to Sunday, 12 PM

Set 2 was reflective of last year, 2020, which was all online. Pre-recorded performances were played throughout the night.

Set 3: Sunday, 10 AM - 10 PM — Darryl Clark Tribute

As mentioned above, thanks to the Town of South Orange and South Orange Downtown, we were able to use the final weekend of the Summer Saturdays Live Music Season. The third part of this hybrid weekend was an in-person 3rd set of all-day music on Sunday 9/26. Here's a short snippet:

You can review and listen to the full Sunday tribute here:

Darryl Clark Tribute in the 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree

It’s been a lot of fun every year since the beginning. Hopefully, we see you next year. For now, enjoy some of the good times above and below that went from in-person to totally online, and now back to hybrid events.

Enjoy Past 24 Hours of Music Jamboree Experiences:

Hopefully, you enjoyed this video walk-through. Talk soon.

About the Author

Gregory Burrus books bands and produces, promotes, captures, and records live music events along with various community and private activities.

My mission is to help my customers, which are community groups, live music bands, and local nonprofits, reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day-to-day process of life.

Learn more at https://24hoursofmusicjamboree.com and https://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Jazz973 Swinging Hard with Norman Mann and Rafiki at Clements Place Jazz for Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies

December 12, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Sunday, December 12, 2021

One of the many tasks I perform every year is producing and promoting live music events. Curating the right band relies a lot on the bandleader bringing out all the right musicians and getting them to perform in a synchronous manner. This season, Gregory Burrus Productions had a number of "Norman Mann and Rafiki" live music performances that stood out as outstanding. This was evidenced by sold out, very happy audiences enjoying themselves to the maximum. Let's listen to a few performances and then meet the band.

Norman Mann and Rafiki were live in South Orange Downtown Live Music Concerts in August, and it was started then eventually was rained out. The band was Norman Mann on Percussion/Vocals, Gene Ghee on Sax, Peter Lin on Trombone, Joy Topping Mann (aka Ife Basim) on Vocals, Christopher Dean Sullivan on Bass, Alvester Garnett on Drums with James Austin Jr. on Piano. For the time they performed, it was oh so sweet.

They came back together again, live at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies’ Clements Place Jazz in Newark, NJ. They all got together and produced a truly awesome live music concert. The band configuration was Norman Mann on Percussion, vocals, Gene Ghee on Sax, Peter Lin on Trombone, Joy Topping Mann (aka Ife Basim) on Vocals, Christopher Dean Sullivan on Bass, Sir G. Earl Grice on Drums, Tomoko Ohno on Piano.

As you can see and hear, Norman Mann curates a stellar list of musicians that perform some incredible sets. Part of this may be hinted at in the band name Rafiki. Norman has been quoted as saying, "Rafiki is a Swahili word that translates to English as ‘friend.’” So now, let's meet the friends in the band.

Norman Mann — Bandleader — Percussionist

Norman Mann, an alumni and Football Hall of Famer of Weequahic High School is widely respected within the community and was honored to perform at the East Orange Library’s tribute to Amiri Baraka.

Norman, along with Greg Salandis, are widely known for their past partnership at Skippers Plane Street Pub in November 2007. Skippers was a very popular spot in Newark located on University Ave and was a welcomed addition to Newark's nightlife. It was a place where music, food, drink, and conversation were the rage and occurred in a comfortable, friendly environment. Skippers featured many of the Tri-State’s musicians and singers. Norman Mann, as a musician, plays congas, percussion and also sings. He has appeared with drummers Greg Buford, Alvester Garnett, and singers Ty Stephens, Joy Topping Mann, Tomoko Ohno, and Dwight West along with one of Jersey's top organists and keyboardists, Mel Davis, to name a few.

Norman and his bands have performed in numerous venues around Northern New Jersey such as Montclair’s Trumpets Jazz Club, Newark’s Priory Jazz Club, City of Orange’s Mr. Jays, Jazz In Spiotta Park and Jazz On Sloan in South Orange, NJ. Norman is the CEO of G Mann Productions, has produced jazz shows at many of the Tri-State area clubs and lately has been producing events in Irvington’s Cricket Club.

Following are the bios of some truly cool members of the band.

Tomoko Ohno — Pianist

Tomoko Ohno, born in Tokyo, began piano studies at the age of 4. As a teenager, she began playing professionally in the Tokyo area jazz scene. After graduating from Rikkyo University in Law and Politics, Miss Ohno moved to the United States and entered the Jazz Studies Program at William Paterson University in New Jersey, where she studied with Harold Mabern and Rufus Reid. During this time she had the opportunity to perform with such artists as Jerome Richardson, Wynton Marsalis, Benny Golson and Joe Henderson. A recipient of the Student Award of Outstanding Performance and a member of the Dean’s List, Miss Ohno graduated with a B.A. in Jazz Studies.

She has performed at Lincoln Center, Weill Recital, Carnegie Hall, The Blue Note, Birdland , in addition to appearing on live radio broadcasts by WBGO and WNYC, and ABC TV's Good Morning America. She has performed and/or recorded with Slide Hampton, Claudio Roditi, James Spaulding, Rufus Reid, The John Lee Quartet, The Dizzy Gillespie Alumni Big Band and Sherry Maricle and the Diva Jazz Orchestra, as well as working as a side musician with such diverse musical ensembles as the Harlem Spiritual Ensemble and The Spirit of Life Ensemble.

Miss Ohno also leads her own group, and has released three CDs on the Japan-based Tokuma label. In 1997 her first album, “Powder Blue” was released, and in 1999 her second album, “Affirmation” was released, followed in 2000 by the album "Natural Woman." Her album "Shadows of Spring" (recorded in Argentina) was released by MDR Records in 2005. "Tomoko Ohno in Buenos Aires" was also released by MDR Records in 2007. The duet album with legendary Argentine guitarist Ricardo Lew " From Tokyo to Buenos Aires " was released in spring 2011. The duo added the cellist Nestor Tedesco from Teatro Colon and released the Tango/Jazz album " Tres Sabores " in 2016.

http://www.tomokoohno.com

Gene Ghee — Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

Gene Ghee - (saxophone, flute, clarinet) is a long-time performer and educator. He graduated from NYU with a music education undergrad degree, from the Manhattan School of Music with an MA for music performance and from Columbia University Teachers College with a Master of Education degree. He has appeared as a sideman with an array of performers from Art Blakey to Stevie Wonder and is also a recipient of the Daily News Music Teacher Recognition Award.

Gene Ghee is a highly in-demand saxophonist and has performed with numerous professionals such as Art Blakey Jr., Brother Jack McDuff, Jimmy McGriff, Teddy Pendergrass, Anita Baker, B.T.Express, Arthur Prysock, Little Anthony and The Imperials. Add to that Etta Jones, Bernard “Pretty” Purdie, Benny Powell, Eddie Palmieri, Machito, and Barry Harris plus the list goes on. He's a performer on recordings of Stevie Wonder (Do I Do), played tenor saxophone and contracted the horn section for the session which included Frank Wess, Virgil Jones, Ron Tooley, Britt Woodman, Clifton Anderson, Victor Paz and others. Recordings / performances with the likes of Evelyn “Champagne” King, The Village People, Candi Staton. T.S.Monk plus many more national and international performers.

Joy Topping Mann (aka Ife Basim)

Joy Topping Mann (aka Ife Basim) - In her early days as a Contemporary Christian artist, songwriter and arranger, Joy Topping-Mann co-produced three CD projects of original music which she performed nationally and internationally with her band ‘Gifts.’ She has opened for other well-known Christian artists, was signed with Jamm Records, a Los Angeles, California record company, and has had her music played on radio stations throughout the U.S.

As a producer and promoter of special events, Joy has received local acclaim for the Annual Women’s History Month Celebrations held each March at the St. Joseph’s Plaza (formerly known as the Priory) located in Newark, New Jersey. These uniquely memorable experiences have focused on honoring extraordinary women for their outstanding accomplishments, Audiences have been treated to virtuoso performances by the Tri-state’s most talented artists.

As a jazz vocalist, Joy’s rich melodic voice and unique phrasing take the listener back to the days of classic jazz, invoking shades of Sarah Vaughan and hints at the daring of Billie Holiday. Warmly embraced by enthusiastic audiences, she has appeared at several venues throughout the Tri-state area.

https://www.jerseyindie.com/blog/whm2021-womens-history-month-celebration-by-ife-basim-masterpieces

Christopher Dean Sullivan — Bass

Christopher Dean Sullivan - “a bassist who is authoritative and bluesy while bending notes that honor his affection for legends such as Slam Stewart as well as Ray Brown.” ~ Steve Monroe, Jazz Journalists Association

The critically acclaimed Chicago Ill born, Pittsburgh PA raised bassist Christopher Dean Sullivan is well traveled throughout the U.S. and abroad. Christopher started his career in Pittsburgh , PA. After a few years in Germany he returned to Pittsburgh and honed his craft as a bassist during his time with the Jazz Workshop Inc., located in the Homewood district, under the direction of Harold Young Sr, and the Archives, located in the Hill district, developed by Errol “Mobutu” Reynolds (Grant Green, Johnny Lytle), where Chris in his words stated …“I got the honor to perform with guitarist Grant Green on three different occasions, through my association with the Archives.”

Chris quickly became known for his own unique approach to playing the bass. He formed local commercial groups that would go on to open up concerts for such bands of notoriety as the Ohio Players, The Bar-Kays, New Birth, The Tavares, and others. Chris decided to expand his musical horizons and started performing with the jazz notables of the Pittsburgh, PA region; Joe Harris (Dizzy Gillespie), Roger Humphries (Horace Silver), Nathan Davis (Pitt University), arranger Arthur Powell, Pete Henderson, Larry Mcgee, Nelson Harrison (Count Basie), J. C. Moses (Eric Dolphy), Geri Allen, Carl Arter, Jothan Callins (Sun Rah), and others. Soon he achieved the opportunity to perform and travel with music notables Lou Soloff, Jimmy Owens, Johnny Lytle, and others for a number of years before locating to New York City.

While residing in the New York region Christopher Dean Sullivan has had the opportunity to share the stage in performance and/or record with Archie Shepp, Sheila Jordan, Carter Jefferson, Yusef Lateef, Odean Pope, Stanley Jordan, Freddie Hubbard, Billy Hart, Christian McBride, Stanley Jordan,

Sonny Fortune, Horace Parlan, Carl Grubbs, Irene Reid, Richie Cole, Jon Faddis, Vanessa Rubin, Eddie Henderson, Bob Gluck, Charli Persip, Henry Grimes, Pete Seeger, Roy Campbell, Della Griffin, Barbara Sfraga, Joe Lovano, Cotton Club All Star Band, Pucho and the Latin Soul Brothers, Israel “Cachao” Lopez, Stanley Turrentine, just to name a few.

http://www.christopherdeansullivan.com/

G. Earl Grice — Drums

G. Earl Grice - G. Earl has been playing music throughout the New York City area for the past three decades. His talents stretch from the piano to the drums. His favorite instrument is the drums. He currently plays with the Crown Heights Affair. He is affectionately known as 'Sir Earl' with his fellow musicians. Impressing everyone with his ability to text and drum at the same time.

G. Earl has shared the stage with artists such as Sonny Rollins, Clark Terry, Rhoda Scott, Stevie Wonder, George Benson and many others.

Earl was also the recipient of the 1997 Jazz Award from the Jamaica Development Corp. Other drummers who have received this award include Max Roach, Roy Haynes, and Charlie Persip.

In addition to his music background, G. Earl has worked on approximately fifty movies and television shows as an actor.

https://www.facebook.com/sir.g.earl

Peter Lin — Trombone

Peter Lin - Taiwanese-American trombonist Peter Lin is a young and creative musician active on the New Jersey and New York scene. A graduate of the jazz programs of William Paterson University (undergraduate) and the graduate program of Rutgers University, Peter studied with jazz trombone legends such as Slide Hampton, Steve Turre, Conrad Herwig, Robin Eubanks, Steve Davis, & Frank Lacy. He has performed with many notable artists including Slide Hampton, Winard Harper, Charli Persip, Valerie Ponomarev, JD Allen, & Radam Schwartz. Peter is also an established educator, holding a prestigious faculty position at Melissa Walker & Christian McBride’s non-profit organization, Jazz House Kids.

His first record, With Respect, featured arrangements of classic Chinese and Taiwanese songs, which peaked at #3 on the NACC Charts and #4 on the RMR Charts. His second album, New Age Old Ways, features eight of his original compositions along with an original comic book with illustrations by Kelly Lin.

https://www.yardbirdent.com
https://www.peterlinmusic.com

Norman Mann and Rafiki — South Orange Live Music Concerts

For me, booking this stellar cast of musicians every year means good times and great live music performances. Whether Norman Mann and Raiki are performing jazz originals and/or standards, you are guaranteed to be tapping your feet while dancing and swinging in your seat. These seasoned veterans combined have over 150 years in the entertainment business, creating a wealth of experience from numerous performances around the US and across the World. Hence, I invite you to check out the band Norman Mann and Rafiki and his other events currently at Irvington’s Cricket Club. I guarantee you a really great time.

About the Author

Gregory Burrus produces, promotes, curates and hosts numerous live music concerts. Gregory Burrus is also a supporter of local businesses and community events. On a regular basis he writes for various art and entertainment news sites, blogs while documenting community events. Just having fun, living life, while helping others.

Learn more at http://gregoryburrusproduction.com.

Discovering the Live Music of Alex Desrivieres aka AlleyCatSax and the Harmonic Convergence Band

December 12, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Sunday, December 12, 2021

One of the great things about being in the live music productions and promotions business is the ability to watch musicians create new or adapt a standard tune into something unique and wonderful. Having booked over 100 bands a year, I get to listen to many bands and many genres of music. When you are sitting in the back of an event, you start seeing the audience heads bopping, toes tapping and sometimes they singing along.

Luckily for me, I had an audience member converse with me about music genres and eventually recommend a band. Eventually I listened to Alex Desrivieres aka AlleyCatSax and his Harmonic Convergence Band. What a treat! I loved the sound and booked him / his band when I could throughout these pandemic times. He plays some pretty cool music. Take a listen.

Harmonic Convergence in Downtown South Orange Live Music Concerts

A number of folks started coming out whenever he performed and wanted to know more about Alex and his band. So, as the world inches toward our new normal, we caught up with Alex and asked a few questions about what’s happening in his musical life.

First off, love the name — AlleyCatSax! Where did that come from?

Well, it's a funny story. The name comes from a nickname I got by chance back in high school. My band director gave me a solo about 10 minutes before we went on stage and then forgot my name when announcing me on stage and introduced me as "alley-cat" and it just kind of stuck since then.

What is Harmonic Convergence?

Harmonic Convergence is a project I started after completing my last cruise ship contract. I had experienced so many new cultures and styles of music that I really wanted to have a group of people who shared a love of mixing genres, cultures, and pushing boundaries. As for the name, at the time I was watching a cartoon called "Avatar: Legend of Korra" and there was an episode where there was a phenomenon going on called "harmonic convergence" where the spirit realm and the earth realm were bridged. I couldn't help but think to myself "that's what it feels like when I play music. That's what I want it to feel like when others hear me play music." The fact that it has the musical term "Harmony" which embodies how things sound as one; and "converge" when things come together, be it through conflict and resolution, exchange, etc., the title expresses a lot of what I try to achieve in music. Who says you can't learn from cartoons hahaha

What makes up the band?

For this band, you need to have open ears, first and foremost. I like to take things into different directions often on a whim. I might hear something in the ride or an idea in the guitar and that will become the basis for a whole new direction for a tune. Every tune is a journey even if it has some clear basis to it. I don't like to be tethered to a preconceived idea. Everything is but a moment in time and goes just as quickly as it comes. Best to be present.

The guys I play with, Gordon, Ben, Ian, Ilan... they've been with me through the evolution of my philosophy and we've created some great music on a whim. Sometimes I just shout a progression and they are right there and it'll change and develop just like a baby into an adult all in the few minutes we play.

It makes it interesting when I play with new folks who have their own styles and approaches. I love playing with new people, that's how we learn, through sharing and interacting. But, we have to be open to conflicting ideas. Sometimes choosing to challenge to be flexible or to stand their ground. It's all a conversation in real time.

Where are you headed, musically, professionally, etc. in your live music journey?

That's a good question. I don't really know haha. I just want to create. Right now I'm getting an Artist Diploma in classical Oboe and English Horn. It's an opportunity to explore a new way of thinking in music while honing my craft on a secondary instrument.

I'd like to write and record more music and generally play more with people. Right now I'm exploring a lot of new territory between Jazz, western classical, and Indian classical music. Probably my dream job would be to write for video games while also performing. Video games exposed me to so many different instruments and styles of music. It's also a hobby of mine, so to combine the two would be great.

Has the pandemic affected your musical journey?

Definitely! I had originally planned to do a few more cruise ship contracts, but that was not possible due to the pandemic. I was also trying to make a few other moves to try my hand at booking a tour, something I still have yet to do. But, the pandemic gave me a new opportunity to sit still and try to figure things out here at home which has been a blessing. If that didn't happen I wouldn't be having this conversation with you. I wouldn't have had the opportunity to go back to school. I've made new connections and reconnected with others so there have been a lot of positive things that have happened which is what I choose to focus on rather than the losses I've taken and the changes I've had to make.

We are always learning. I'm only 28, so I'm still a baby in terms of life experience. I had other musical plans, too, in terms of other projects I wanted to record and other things I want to try, but they are not off the table, I'm just going with the flow.

What else are you working on?

Well, right now I'm working on a few different writing projects, a tribute to some of my favorite video game composers and another batch of original music, but I'll cross that when I come to it. I've recorded with a few different local artists in the last couple of months across a variety of genres and I'm looking forward to hearing how those come out.

While this interview is about the jazz band — are you into other musical genres or activities?

Too many to list haha. Like I mentioned, I love film and video game music. If I put my phone on random you'd hear music from all over the world in the first 30 min. Over the summer I went to an Arabic concert and started doing some research into their musical traditions. I also take private lessons on sitar to better understand Indian classical music. There is just so much out there and I'll never learn it all in my lifetime, but that doesn't mean I won't try haha.

Anything else you want your audience to know about your music?

Sometimes the music will be clear and easy to digest, sometimes it won't, but be open to feel whatever it is you feel as that is your human spirit connecting with something much bigger than yourself.

What's the best way to hear your music online?

You can find me on Spotify under "Alexandre Desrivieres" or on YouTube you can find some of my videos of fun projects I put together or clips from live shows.

What's the best way to contact or book you?

If you go to my website alleycatsax.com you can contact me there. All of my contact information is there!

Final Thoughts

While the busy summer season is over, and we start booking more live music, I am excited to state that we at Jazz973 have booked Harmonic Convergence into Clements Place Jazz this season and for the 2022 season, so please join us.

About the Author

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Are you ready for your interview? Let’s connect! http://gregoryburrusproductions.com.

Junior League Montclair-Newark, Inc. 2021 Annual Holiday Market Supporting Black-Owned Businesses

December 11, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Saturday, December 11, 2021

Every year, especially around the holidays, when people tend to reflect on life a lot, the JLMN membership gets creative in figuring out ways to help others, help themselves.

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark (JLMN), Inc. is a volunteer organization of women committed to Promoting Volunteerism, Developing the potential of women, and Improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable.

From addressing social issues, providing scholarships, to holiday redecorating to helping Covenant House with a Sleep Out benefit, they find a way to get it done and make a difference using the creative skillset of their membership. With us all experiencing loss of business due to the devastating effects of the pandemic and the fact that the year end holiday season is now upon us, these helpful initiatives can really make a big difference.

This year's JLMN Virtual Holiday Market is about bringing positive energy to elegant jewelry, developing and improving literacy skills of young readers, believing that everyone deserves to own real estate, and developing products that caress your hair and skin. We have businesses created because the owners were frustrated by the dearth of quality products, some owners are developing clean anti-aging skin and hair care products, and others want to uplift us via messages of peace, love & good vibes while others are building dreams and self-esteem of young girls via the arts.

When you explore the JLMN Virtual Holiday Market, you will encounter business owners that truly believe in their mission and their companies. We encourage you to contact and support them.

SteelMcLean

SteelMcLean - We worked closely with a hand-selected scientific team from inception to production for over two years before introducing our first product to the world. We were determined to get it right because we care about you and the value that we bring to your life.

Based on our salon clients' feedback, we had a very clear vision of the products that were needed. We understood what was missing in the marketplace both in terms of quality and effectiveness. We researched every ingredient. We studied how our skin and hair responded. The end result was Steel Mclean Products - products uniquely formulated to clean, correct and caress your hair and skin. Our products contain unique and very sophisticated ingredients that are naturally derived and incredibly effective. Our products are proven.

BUY HERE: www.steelmcleanbarbers.com | https://steelmclean.com

Styled Blu

Styled Blu is a lifestyle home décor accent line of eclectic pillows, textiles and high-quality African fabrics handpicked and sourced from the markets of Ghana. All pillows and textiles are handcrafted. Styled Blu's has married pillows and textiles with custom designed tealights; candle holders; vintage glassware; custom lit banners for mantels, mirrors & gallery walls.

Styled Blu's decor furnishes messages of peace, love & good vibes. Bring comfort & style home. Goods are handcrafted by Styled Blu with global artisans.

In 2018, Styled Blu launched it’s a lifestyle home décor accents line and is now currently being sold in pop shop locations in Montclair, NJ.

BUY HERE: https://styledblulife.com

Organic Cosmetica

Organic Cosmetica was founded by a regenerative medicine physician from New York, who has devoted much of her career to alternative orthopedic and anti-aging cosmetic treatments. Keenly aware of the painful and expensive nature of some cosmetic procedures and aware of the potential dangers of certain drugs and synthetic ingredients, she searched for alternative options for her patients and clientele and for herself. Frustrated by the dearth of quality, clean anti-aging skin and hair care products in an unregulated industry saturated with brands that lacked regard for sustainability, she founded Organic Cosmetica.

We create high quality, 100% natural, anti-aging skin and hair care products for men and women including those with allergies and sensitivities. Everything we make is gluten-nut-soy-free, certified vegan, certified animal test-free, made in the USA and contains at least 60% certified organic ingredients.

BUY HERE: https://www.organic-cosmetica.com

Cathleen McCoy Bristol

Cathleen McCoy Bristol is a former instructor at the Newark School of Fine and Industrial Art, the Junior Museum of the Newark Museum, Arts Unbound and Senior Studio. Cathy has freelanced as a fashion illustrator but her passion is as a painter, focusing mostly on portraits and figure work but also paints landscapes, still life's and animals. Cathy, a frequent exhibitor, often works on a commissioned basis and has numerous works in private collections.

Cathy co-curated the SOMA (South Orange Maplewood ) Artists Studio Tour at the Maplewood Memorial Library and Ugo Giannini's Exhibit at the Pierro Gallery, South Orange and was the curator of the 2014 SOMA Studio Tour Exhibit at the Maplewood Memorial Library.

Recently, she used her creativity and curated a well received exhibition where the Artists Creatively Used Art and Stories to Shine a Light On Domestic Violence. Contact Cathy and have commission a project or beautiful art piece for you.

CONTACT: https://cathymccoybristol.webstarts.com

Kemboocha™

Kemboocha™ was born out of my love of fermented foods and optimal health. We carefully utilize ingredients that are potent, powerful and will provide you with the freshest tasting kombucha. In addition to Kemboocha™ we also provide a fermented tonic called fire cider.

BUY HERE: https://kemboocha.store/

I Love Beautiful Spaces

I Love Beautiful Spaces is a boutique family-focused home relocation and renovation firm working across the US, believing that everyone deserves to own the real estate that they love. I Love Beautiful Spaces takes their clients’ needs, interest and lifestyle - combined with a network of professionals - and elevates their experience in achieving the lifestyle they desire through owning real estate. A firm believer in “creating active & passive income through real estate, I Love Beautiful Spaces is obsessed with risk-taking, grit and passion. Contact I Love Beautiful Spaces to meet your goal of owning a beautiful space regardless of your current location.

CONTACT: http://ilovebeautifulspaces.com/

Linoto

Linoto makes amazing real linen sheets that help you sleep better, linen napkins and tablecloths that enhance your dining and entertaining events, linen curtains that beautify your home, and linen spa towels that rejuvenate and refresh your bath and shower experience. Most importantly, we make beautiful, soft, artisanal quality products that feel special to us and to the people who enjoy them.

Linoto has fulfilled more than 10,000 orders to loyal Customers around the world and enjoys a fabulous reputation for quality, value, and style.

BUY HERE: www.linoto.com

Gracefully Yours

Gracefully Yours - Deserving Opportunities for Lovely Ladies - The mission of the D.O.L.L House is to embrace, nurture, build dreams, self-esteem, and cultivate young girls ages 10 and up through the arts to become balanced young women. We believe that this will prepare them for lives of service and leadership rooted in values of faith, hope, and love.

BUY HERE: https://www.dariajonesworld.com/gracefullyyours

RITTA BOOK

The RITTA BOOK organization was established to help develop and improve literacy skills of young readers grades, kindergarten through 5th grade. RITA BOOK offers innovative products, services and programs geared to enrich, empower, excite and inspire Children, their Parents and Educators to foster literacy and learning as a critical life skill. A life skill that's vital to offsetting the contrary effects of poor literacy skills among young scholars.

CONTACT: www.rittabook.com

Nitjuan Designs

Nitjuan Designs

Bringing positive energy and elegant jewelry together!.

Handcrafted Wearable Art for You and Your Home infused with loving Reiki energy.

I create wearable art for you and your home which includes everything from jewels to chandeliers. I specialize in custom orders and I work with gemstones, crystals, glass, metal and many other materials.

BUY HERE: https://nitjuandesigns.com/category/shop/crystals/

JAM Network TV

At JAM Network TV, we endeavor to produce educational, inspiring and empowering content, to share the rich history of talented black actors and actresses who have paved the way for many of the shining stars we see today. We are committed to providing a platform to showcase the work of emerging talented minority content creators. In addition to the latest content, JAM Network TV will make content available from the early years of Black cinema.

This network is committed to teaching the authentic history of Black people, and the strong legacy upon which we stand.

WATCH: https://www.jamnetworktv.com/

From real estate to TV to haircare, we got it all, so please join us and let's support the Black-Owned Businesses of the Junior League of Montclair Newark's 2021 Virtual Holiday Market.

About Junior League of Montclair Newark

The JLMN is a nonprofit organization of trained volunteers. Through hands-on projects and partnerships, our members build a better community by promoting education, health and wellness, literacy and the arts for children at risk each year.

Whether chairing a JLMN project or serving on a community board, JLMN members learn the skills to affect real change and improve our communities.

CONTACT: https://www.jlmn.org

About the Author

Gregory Burrus is a Passionate Community Advocate, Live Music Producer, Reporter, and Writer about local events and happenings In and Around Essex County, NJ. Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and creative people as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Are you ready for your interview? Let’s connect!

CONTACT: http://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Jazz973 Returns to Clements Place Jazz Honoring Generations of Jazz Musicians - Fall 2021 (RECAP)

December 8, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, December 8, 2021

As Melissa Hawkins says:
“vaccines will — literally — be the ticket”

After a long “pandemic” hiatus, Jazz973 live music has returned to Newark's Clements Place Jazz at Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies. Jazz973 debuted in the pre-COVID days, so we are back, but as you can see the curtains aren’t fully up quite yet on normal life. As reported by Melissa Hawkins, an epidemiologist who’s the director of undergraduate programs at American University’s Department of Health Studies: “We’re back to a lot of uncertainty, with the rise in cases and the variant being more transmissible. It’s all about balancing risk.” But “vaccines will — literally — be the ticket” to our sense of normalcy.

Thanks to the tenacity of Executive Director, Wayne Winborne, Clements Place Jazz is addressing the risks as we have reopened with new admission / attendance criteria. We have removed half the seats, one must have an Eventbrite registration, vaccine card, personal ID and we are all wearing masks. So far it's been working in bringing Jazz lovers back out to join in the fun. We opened the doors to our jazz-starved Jazz973 patrons and they were happy to be back. What has been really gratifying is the overwhelmingly positive feedback we’re getting from customers and from the artists. Hence, we invite folks to come on back.

To bring you all up to speed, here’s a video recap of the recent Clements Place Jazz live concerts that have been happening in the Jazz973 program:

Jazz973 Presents Leonieke Scheuble Quintet Jazz Across the Generations Quintet

Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 7 pm

The highlight of this fabulous opening event was watching 19-year-old rising star Leonieke Scheuble lead her band of seasoned veterans — Rick Savage - Trumpet, Adam Brenner - Tenor Sax, Nick Scheuble - Drums and 93-year-old Bassist Bill Crow. They performed music from some of our favorite quintet groups from the early 60’s, including Lee Morgan, Art Blakey, Clifford Brown and more! The night's music was jumping all night long. Read more.

Jazz973 Presents Mike Lee Family Band Introducing Jacquie Lee

Wednesday, October 13, 2021 at 7 pm

Jacquie Lee was being introduced to the Newark jazz scene in a big way. The Jazz973 program at Clements Place was proud to present the Mike Lee Family Band as they introduced violinist Jacqueline Lee at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies. In 2019 at Garfield Middle school, Jacquie, who has been playing Violin for 11 years, received the Jazz Soloist Downbeat Student Music Award for an Outstanding Performance. Jacquie has also been a member of the prestigious Jazz House Kids program in Montclair, NJ. Read More.

Jazz973 Presents Matt Chertkoff Trio with Houston Person

Wednesday, October 27, 2021 at 7 pm with

While all these cats are seasoned veterans — Matt Cherkoff, Vince Ector and Mike Karn, it was led by the awesome guitarist, Matt Chertkoff, and the special guest was the phenomenal saxophonist Houston Person. Person built his reputation as a leader with a series of soulful recordings for Prestige in the 1960s. For a large part of his career, he is best known for his partnership with vocalist Etta Jones, which lasted for 35 years. He has recorded with such luminaries as Charles Brown, Ron Carter, Bill Charlap, Charles Earland, Lena Horne, Etta Jones, Lou Rawls, Janis Siegel, Horace Silver, Dakota Staton, Cedar Walton, plus Billy Butler, Don Patterson, Grant Green, Sonny Phillips, Johnny "Hammond" Smith, Richard "Groove" Holmes and others. Read more.

Jazz973 Presents Radam Schwartz Quartet Set 1 at Clements Place Jazz

Wednesday, November 3, 2021 at 7 pm

Radam Schwartz, Hammond B3 Organist and Jazz pianist, built his reputation over the last 30 years playing with such great artists as Arthur and Red Prysock, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Al Hibler, David Fathead Newman, Russell Malone, Cecil Brooks III and Jimmy Ford. He has been featured on over 40 albums as a sideman and has recorded 9 albums as a leader. This Organ-led trio was something unique, special and swinging. Read more: https://patch.com/new-jersey/southorange/8-4-prolific-organist-radam-schwartz-presents-schwartz-sanity

Jazz973 Presents Charlie Apicella Quartet at Clements Place Jazz

Wednesday, November 13, 2021 at 7 pm

It's always very special to bring Charlie and his band through, as they always deliver a wonderful performance. "As a player, Apicella immediately brings to mind Grant Green. He's funky, he's bluesy, and he's not afraid to get dirty at times. Charlie Apicella and the Iron City band have that perfect jazz rapport that allows them to be tight as hell and play off each other beautifully." — VINTAGE GUITAR MAGAZINE. Read more.

Jazz973 Presents Meant To Be Jazz Quartet at Clements Place Jazz

Wednesday, December 1, 2021 at 7 pm

Bandleader Glenn Merritt, originally from New York City, has been playing music since he was a youngster. He studied classical piano and music theory at Manhattan College of Music. At 15, he was a percussionist for Willie Sossa’s Salsa band. He played electric bass in numerous R&B bands. His jazz chops have consistently improved since he first tickled the ivories nearly 40 years ago, and he has acquired a very tasteful style with lush chord voicing and a wonderful improvisational ability as a consequence of studying under his mentor, the late Morris Nanton of the famed Morris Nanton Trio. He is currently the pianist for the Meant To Be Jazz Quartet with Pete Omelio - Drums, Alan Hayes - Bass, and John Higgins - Trumpet. He co-teaches part time at the County College of Morris. Read More about Meant To Be Jazz Quartet.

Upcoming Jazz973 Events:

Tonight, Dec 8th, 2021, we have Jazz973 Presents Norman Mann and Rafiki at Clements Place Jazz at 7 pm & Dec 15th, 2021 we have Jazz973 Presents Alleycatsax and the Harmonic Convergence Band at Clements Place Jazz.

In the New Year some truly great performances are planned for 2022, such as vocalist Dara Jones, Drummer Matt King, Pianist Iyayo Ikawo, the James Moody Scholars, Lynette Sheard Entertainment, Pianist Dre Barnes, Bassist Kim Clarke, Pianist Champion Fulton and more...

Stay tuned.

Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event manager and community partner that develops, manages, promotes and documents local community events in the Northern New Jersey and New York area. Gregory Burrus sits on a number of local boards, nonprofit committees, curates and promotes Jazz973 at Clements Place Jazz live music events along with booking bands at several other local venues. For more information, visit http://gregoryburrusproductions.com.

CC Minton Interviews a Beautiful Person, Comedian, and Actor Kevin Hart on Financial Success

December 7, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, December 7, 2021

When it comes to creativity, some folks get creative, like driving fast within a lane. Others get creative driving fast down a 6-lane highway on the Autobahn, and they keep it moving fast, too. CC Minton is one of those people who runs hard and fast as the Founder of CC Minton’s I Love Beautiful Spaces. She is an award-winning lifestyle advocate, social impact-executive turned real estate pro and, oh yeah, she is also a book author. This former housewife that I profiled before, has secured a portfolio of homes, investment properties and recently purchased land in the hot Southwest Dallas market. As a celebrity interviewer, she has conducted interviews all over the New York, New Jersey Metropolitan area, sometimes on site and at other times from the comfort of her beautiful self-renovated 1889 historic Newark office studio. In general, she stays true to her mission of spending her time in beautiful spaces, beautiful places and with beautiful people. See CC Minton: Loving Beautiful Spaces And Making A Difference While Creatively Living Life.

*Chase Bank, 55 West 125th Street, on November 4, 2021*

This time, she happily traveled into Harlem, New York to a beautiful place to conduct an interview at a building that was chosen by former U.S. President William J. Clinton to house his personal offices after leaving the White House, in February 2001. Nowadays, the building houses various high-profile office and retail tenants, including The Clinton Foundation, and one of those high profile tenants is JP Morgan Chase Bank. CC Minton seems to be connected to the White House in more ways than some.

*Watch True Story | Netflix Official Site*

Her interview, as she found out, was with a well known, very creative, also fast moving multifaceted and beautiful person, Kevin Hart. Kevin Hart has won numerous awards like the People's Choice Award for Favorite Comedic Movie Actor, 2016, the Hollywood Award for Artist of the year in 2014, the 2012 BET Award for best actor (IMDB) amongst many other awards. And here, I am watching Kevin Hart in his latest Netflix series “True Story,” a seven-episode thriller starring Hart as a celebrity who is racing to cover up a death he may or may not be responsible for because of his brother Wesley Snipes.

Needless to say, Kevin is widely known as a Comedian and Actor, but he is also an Entrepreneur and Investor. The Financial Health and Leadership Forum: Hart of It All chat event is a part of the JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative. Kevin was there to share his financial tips and information surrounding his key message: Financial Knowledge.

Being selected by Harlem World Magazine, which has over 2.5 million influential fans around the world, to interview such a huge Hollywood personality is obviously a huge honor. We caught up with CC Minton and asked her how she felt about interviewing such a big celebrity.

1. Who contacted you to conduct the Kevin Hart interview?

Danny Tisdale, the Founder of Harlem World Magazine, contacted me regarding the Kevin Hart interview. I worked with Harlem World Magazine for a number of years. I had the position as an event ambassador, lifestyle editor and curated the Healthy Lifestyle initiative. We have a great relationship, so from time to time I handle special events and high-profile projects for them.

2. Did you do any type of preparation for the interview?

Absolutely! I did extensive research on Kevin Hart and the JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative. I used articles and other conversations to get a feel for Kevin's financial experiences and his desire to give back. With a better understanding of Kevin and JP Morgan Chase, I was extremely excited about the interview and the event. Through the partnership and on their own, both are doing great things in the community. As a servant leader, I currently serve on the Board of Governance with the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. and I am a trustee with Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park and the residence of Glenmont. I totally identify with supporting the community.

3. What did you like or find interesting about meeting a celebrity like Kevin Hart?

I've met and interviewed a number of celebrities and public figures. I knew it would be a little different because I've never had a conversation with a comedian so I wasn't sure what to expect. I thought to myself, God, what if he starts making jokes about me....ha ha ha, I'm just kidding. I felt comfortable being a little silly during the event and, of course, he was really funny.

I enjoyed meeting Kevin because he was authentic, down to earth, had a plan for himself that increased his net worth tremendously, and he didn't mind sharing. Of course, he was funny but his jokes were on a totally different level. In my prior interviews with Judge Mathis, Olympian Kristi Castlin, Chef Carla Hall, and Melvin Van Peebles, they were funny, too, but not like Kevin. Kevin's journey from his hometown of Philly to becoming the highest-paid comedian to entrepreneur to an investor is even more impressive to me.

4. Kevin Hart is one of the highest-paid comedians in the world. Aside from his celebrity, is there any commonality between his investor story and why you founded I Love Beautiful Spaces?

Yes, absolutely! I believe that by investing in real estate, you know where your money is. As Kevin says, "It's in the ground." The last time I checked, land is no longer being created so therefore land and what is built on it is like a commodity. He is spreading the message about building wealth with real estate on a larger scale. For me, I love spreading the same message to everyday people like me and you. I believe that everyone deserves to own real estate and that lifestyle begins at home.

5. What's your takeaway from Kevin's talk about finances?

Kevin shared his recipe for success and I believe it is a simple model to follow. Make sure you pay your taxes first. Invest and live on the rest. I believe his strategy not only works for celebrities, entertainers, or high-income earners. We live in a gig economy, so his words of wisdom can be applied to many other, too, including those with a side hustle.

6. Why do you believe that everyone deserves to own the real estate that they love?

Although I was a stay at home mom for many years, I have always been a free spirit and risk-taker. Due to a lifestyle change in status, I stepped out, downsized, and began creating a portfolio of my own. If I can do it, I believe that those who have the desire to do it can own the real estate that they love as well. It takes commitment and desire and taking some risks. I love sharing my experiences and knowledge with men and women and, to be transparent, I love empowering others to do the same.

7. Do you have any future interviews planned?

I do, but I'm unable to discuss the details at this time. I'll be traveling for the next one, so stay tuned.

In reading the interview, I found this advice from Kevin Hart poignant for entrepreneurs and, of course, all artists about building their business and their brand:

“When you’re investing in something (like your art or your live music business), the goal is to bring value, to raise awareness within a brand, and get the brand to a point where it is not only profitable but on the bigger stages around the globe.”

Read the full CC Minton Interview here on Harlem World Magazine and don’t forget to leave a comment.

About CC Minton

CC Minton is the Founder of I Love Beautiful Spaces. She is an award-winning lifestyle advocate, celebrity interviewer, social impact exec turned real estate pro. She began her journey in the kitchen of her home and created a path that led her to one of the most beautiful homes – The White House. It’s where she covered Former First Lady Michelle Obama’s White House Kids’ State Dinner. CC is a member of the Board of Trustees at Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park and residence Glenmont and the Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc. Board of Governance.

About the Organizations Mentioned in This Interview

Advancing Black Pathways

JP Morgan Chase Advancing Black Pathways initiative provides a mentoring program for undergraduate students. Selected students have been paired with mentors that are 3-5 years out of college and are currently working in the fields of finance, business development, marketing, public relations, and human resources. Many of the mentors and mentees identify as BIPOC and first-generation.

Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc.

The Junior League of Montclair-Newark (JLMN), Inc. is a volunteer organization of women committed to Promoting Volunteerism, Developing the potential of women, and Improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers. “Our purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. The Junior League welcomes all women who value our Mission. We are committed to inclusive environments of diverse individuals, organizations and communities.”

Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park

The Friends of Edison National Historical Park and the residence of Glenmont are a passionate group of creative, historically-minded and innovative folks dedicated to keeping generations loving the legacy of Thomas Edison. “Together, we help raise funds to preserve artifacts in his West Orange National Park and share his ideas.”

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus

Artists Creatively Using Art and Stories to Shine a Light On Domestic Violence (RECAP)

December 7, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, December 7, 2021

Trinity Presbyterian Church of Montclair recently presented a virtual art exhibit called “Behind Closed Doors Part 2: Reflections of Domestic Violence.” This project was curated by Deacon Cathleen McCoy Bristol and a huge thanks goes out to her for bringing everyone together. Raising awareness on domestic violence is always a touchy subject even amongst friends and family, so shining a light on a subject that occurs behind closed doors is very much needed in today’s society.

By shining a light on the subject of domestic violence, the goal is to help those in these situations, and others, recognize the signs of abuse, how to respond respectfully, and identify a few resources to use. An individual's safety should be everyone’s number one priority and this project is about moving folks to action and then moving the survivors on a path from crisis to safety, to stability and then into self-sufficiency.

What I loved about this “Behind Closed Doors” exhibit on Domestic Violence is that these artists expressed great creativity in the various ways they use their art as tools to mentally and physically help those who may currently be under the oppression of an abuser.

The exhibiting artists include: Trinity Member Simone Bailey Campbell, Anne Dushanko Dobek, Nette Forne Thomas, Mansa K. Mussa, and Ron EA Powell. Finally, an insightful Clinical presentation was also given by Kathlyn Battle, MSW, LCSW.

Everyone deserves healthy relationships and each artist displayed their art and related their story and described their art and how it related to the various stages of Domestic Violence. We opened with the project supporters and sponsors committed to helping solve the problems of domestic violence.

Rev. Dr. Anita Wright, Pastor of Trinity Presbyterian Church provided the Welcome Message.

Pastor Wright can be reached at Trinity Presbyterian Church or at pastor-trinitymtc@Comcast.net.

Family Support Organization of Essex County provided the Greeting. Their mission is to provide peer support, education and advocacy for parents at all stages so that children and families can thrive. www.fsoec.org.

The artists came together one morning under the direction of the event curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, an artist herself, and volunteered their time for this very important subject.

Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Curator, introduces Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors artists

The Artists, Their Art, Their Story

As you will see when they relate the story of their art, you will also see that they are very committed to helping those in need.

View and share with all

Since you never know what goes on Behind Closed Doors, please share this all inclusive, important and powerful artist exhibition. This video contains all the stories of “Behind Closed Doors: Domestic Violence Project Part 2”:

A Big Thank you to Curator Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Trinity Presbyterian Church Montclair, Deacon Deidra McLaughlin and the Sponsor, The Family Support Organization of Essex County, NJ.

Please recognize the symbol for help.

This is a very serious subject and I am very sad this occurs, however I was glad that Gregory Burrus Productions Videography was instrumental in helping get the word out through Art and Story. Remember to help those who need your help.

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus

My mission is to help people, live music bands and local nonprofits reach their goals and accomplish their missions while enjoying the day to day process of life. Learn more at http://gregoryburrusproductions.com

Making History: Linda Moody Honors James Moody Scholars at 100 Blanchard Rd in South Orange, NJ (RECAP)

November 24, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, November 24, 2021

Every year, the spectacular TD James Moody Jazz Festival comes to Newark, NJ — an absolutely fabulous jazz festival, in its 10th year, that is still sponsored by TD Bank. The TD James Moody Jazz Festival presents dozens of free and ticketed events at the beautiful New Jersey Performing Arts Center and selected locations around Downtown Newark. This year, the Godmother of the Festival, as NJPAC President John Schreiber referred to her, Linda Moody, widow of James Moody (RIP), came into town from San Diego and hosted a number of TD James Moody Jazz Festival events.

“I am honored and excited to come to the TD James Moody Jazz Festival every year. I have life long friends here and it feels like home. I know that my husband would be thrilled at this being the 10th anniversary of the festival. He would love the diversity of it because there is something for everyone. I especially love meeting with the James Moody Scholars from Purchase College and New Jersey. I thank Jazz House Kids for their hard work facilitating The James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey. Having the Scholars play together for the first time was heartwarming. I live in a constant state of gratitude and sometimes I just have to pinch myself.”

— Linda Moody

Our Host, Linda Moody represents the spirit of James Moody very well. She is very engaging and ensures everyone feels happy that they came out.

This year was special for us, as Linda Moody wanted to honor the James Moody Scholarship Scholars with a live music concert during her time here. There has been a recipient of the scholarship each year and now there are enough of them to have a band with a rhythm section.

Now for me, a person with a Jazz loving dad and mom, we grew up listening to the famous saxophonist James Moody. Then fast forward to the 1970s, when New York City radio DJ Frankie Crocker played the King Pleasure recording of “Moody's Mood for Love” every night at the end of his show on WBLS-FM. And, as one listener stated, “Frankie Crocker had the ENTIRE tri-state singing this song - word for word - every night at 8pm - genius.” To say I was ecstatic to find a location and host an event for the James Moody Scholars is an understatement. I was truly blown away and honored.

The James Moody Scholars

With band members coming from as far away as Trenton, NJ to perform, the James Moody Scholars Septet did James Moody proud, big time. Each band member came from a different year to play together for the first time. Bandleader Birsa Chatterjee (2015) Tenor Saxophone, Iyonna Herbert (2016) Drums, Andrew Wagner (2017) Trumpet, Caelan Cardello (2018) Piano, Jalin Shiver (2019) Alto Saxophone, Rayner Perez (2020) Trombone, and unable to attend was Paul Reinhold (2021). That night, Gervin Myles was on Bass, all under the direction of Saxophonist Birsa Chatterjee.

The James Moody Scholars Performances

Set 1:

The night opened with me, Gregory Burrus, being very happy to introduce the host, Linda Moody. Linda discussed the past scholarships, the meaning behind them and then introduced the band one by one. We proceeded to listen to the band swing and play on.

Set 2:

The power of jazz and improvisation was evident all night long as they also performed with the singers who came up to perform. The band continued swinging hard, playing the standards and continued playing beautiful and strong all night long. They were definitely in sync.

The Invited Vocalists

In addition, we wanted the night to be reflective of the real world, so selected local vocalists were invited to join in the fun. In attendance were: local entrepreneur, Blues and Jazz vocalist, East Orange’s Jacqueline Harmon Johnson; actor, producer, director and the unseated “West Orange Idol” Lynette Sheard, and the award-winning writer, playwright, and actor with the beautiful voice, Hillsdale’s Joy Topping-Mann.

I also should note that we had a wonderful introduction to freelance documentary filmmaker, pianist, singer, and songwriter Dara Tucker. Dara is the winner of the Nashville Industry Music Awards 2017 and 2020 Best Jazz Album and 2016 and 2017 Best Jazz Vocalist of the year.

Needless to say, all the vocal performances backed by the James Moody Scholars were simply fabulous.

The Jazz Supporters

A number of notable jazz supporters and special guests came out in support of the scholars. We were very honored to have the daughter of James Moody — Michelle Bagdanove — in attendance. That was just awesome. Also, special guests were: NEA Jazz Master Dorthaan Kirk and, as The New York Times, said “Dorthaan Kirk Is Newark's First Lady of Jazz”; Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies & Newark Archives Executive Director Wayne Winborne; Grammy award-winning record producer and audio engineer John Lee; SOMAtv Station Manager and Genealogist, Dustin Dumas, along with our local WBGO’s Jazz After Hours OnAir Personality Greg Bryant.

Also, thank you to New Jersey Jazz Society (NJJS) President Cydney Halpin, who commented, “I just wanted to thank you again for inviting me to last night's Moody Scholarship event. Those cats were wonderful!! And that house... heavenly!! Congratulations on a wonderful event!!”

The Historic Venue — 100 Blanchard Rd.

100 Blanchard Rd. is a gorgeous historic house in South Orange, NJ. Known as the "Blanchard Estate," this Georgian brick mansion has over 13,000 square feet of space and sits on 2 acres of private, stunning property with NYC skyline views. Built in 1924, this stately residence was designed in the style of the Gilded Age Mansions of Newport, well designed for entertaining friends with a grand foyer leading to the custom wood appointed ballroom with stylish coffered ceilings. It was a perfect location.

The Event Volunteers

None of this could have happened without support from our team of supporters and volunteers. A big thank you to:

GBP Volunteers that made the night run smoothly: James Pansulla, @DJ Roc M South Orange; Teresa Ware; Mary Collins and Donald; Barbara White; CC Minton; and we inducted Rayner Perez who helped us big time with the chairs.

Official Event Photographer All these creative folks documented the nights events with some truly beautiful photos: Albert Clarke, Allison V Brown and Patrick Hilaire.

Live Streamed Videographer We live streamed to Facebook, Youtube and TwitchTV, so thanks to our onsite Livestream and videographer Yardbird Entertainment - Peter Lin and our remote Livestreamer G2BProductions.

Also, Millie Austin’s Catering and Roxanne Burrus for supplies and delivery of light refreshments. A big huge thanks to our audience attendees who are helping keep live music alive. We thank you big time.

Patterson Foundation / Blanchard Conservatory — Our hats off to our venue host, Yvonne Patterson, for helping us make the night a huge success.

Final Words

Linda Moody, Nov 1, 2021:

"I am in complete awe of the James Moody Scholars and soooo proud of them!

All of the musicians, because they loved James Moody, were more than willing to help each year so that we could build a corpus large enough to award scholarships of $5,000 per year to each eligible student. Without the incredible musicians, none of this would be possible. But, one can't accomplish something of this magnitude alone. Jazz House Kids is the fabulous facilitator of this scholarship. I am forever grateful to all who have stepped up to help the James Moody Scholarship thrive. Honey and I wanted to create something that would continue long after we are gone and we have done just that. Keeping the music alive and helping young musicians grow is a dream come true. The love I feel for these kids grows with each meeting. It gave me a sense of pride and purpose watching them play together for the first time at Blanchard House.

Yvonne and John Patterson and Gregory Burrus Wow!

If anyone wishes to make a contribution please visit https://bit.ly/31i8bRT."

Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus is a Live Music Events Producer, Promoter, Curator and Community Partner. Gregory Burrus is writing about his first love: the creative people, towns, events involved in the arts and entertainment scene that is happening all around South Orange, Maplewood and the overall JerseyNYC area.

TD James Moody Jazz Festival is Explosive and a Jazz Lovers Delight (Nov. 19-21 at NJPAC)

November 17, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, November 17, 2021

If you are a true Jazz Fan around here then you know that every year for the last 10 years the magic of Jazz happens in an intense way in Newark, NJ, and this year the intense, vibrant magic returns again as the 10th annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival comes to town.

10th Annual TD James Moody Jazz Festival (Nov. 19-21, NJPAC)

*Source:* *www.njpac.org/series/james-moody-jazz-festival*

Started in 2012 as The TD James Moody Democracy of Jazz Festival, it was a weeklong celebration of jazz and the legacy of Newark's own music master, James Moody. This festival was presented by The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC), radio station WBGO Jazz 88.3FM 1 and was sponsored by TD Bank. NJPAC president and CEO John Schreiber said at the time, “TD Bank has become synonymous with the top international jazz festivals, and we are proud to be joining the TD jazz family in our inaugural year.”

Bringing it full circle 10 years later, John Schreiber walked on stage this week and said: “TD Bank is the Best Sponsor Ever”, and so true because in a time where a Pandemic is running havoc with the arts and entertainment industry, all the right supporting forces have come together this week for the 10th year to make a truly spectacular TD James Moody Jazz Festival happen again.

Saxophonist James Moody

James Moody, despite being born partially deaf, was an accomplished musician on the tenor and alto saxophones, as well as the flute. In addition to his instrumental prowess, Moody was an engaging entertainer, captivating audiences with his personal charm and wit. He was born in Georgia, raised in Newark, New Jersey and was beloved by all.

Christian McBride

This year, another brilliant musician Bassist, Christian McBride, took over and announced the festival. Always listed in The New York Times “Weekend Roundup: 5 Things to Do This Weekend”, the festival runs Nov. 5 through 21 at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center. Keeping in line with their mission of keeping great jazz alive and community outreach, the festival hosts, sponsors and presents dozens of free and ticketed events across Newark. Like prior years, this year’s presentation of a stellar musician lineup along with special and signature events was spectacular once again. This year’s lineup included the incomparable Chaka Khan and, if you were there you got to experience one of my favorites, the brilliant trumpeter Chris Botti.

Following is a walkthrough of a few events that occurred this opening week that I attended, with their details. I hope you enjoy the experience as we did and attend future shows listed at the end.

Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition

A very special, signature event is the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition or the Sassy. This is a prestigious talent contest that pays tribute to the titular singer who was born in New Jersey and whose career began when, on a Wednesday night in 1942, she herself won a talent contest at New York’s Apollo Theater. Her win helped launch a career that would transform America's original art form and an icon who elevated the craft of jazz vocal music and garnered the respect and adoration of millions. This contest is open to solo jazz vocalists of all nationalities who are 18 years or older and not currently signed to a major record label.

It’s an intense competition, as the 2021 finalists were culled from 160 submissions across 25 countries. Once again after a year-long search, the finalists of the Sassy Awards dazzled the audience with their vocal prowess. One of my favorite finalists took 2nd place, April May Webb of the Sounds of A&R. She said, “I truly sang from my soul and it was to date the most powerful performance OF MY LIFE!“ Folks reported there were some masterful performances by all the contestants.

NEA Jazz Master Vocalist Dianne Reeves

https://fb.watch/9l5cVfGYKl/

A five-time GRAMMY Award winner, Dianne Reeves is widely recognized as one of the premier vocalists on the worldwide music scene. “Reeves grew up in Denver and was introduced to the music of Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Sarah Vaughan by her uncle, who was a bassist in the Denver Symphony Orchestra” (hancockinstitute.org/meet/dianne-reeves). Dianne Reeves has released almost two dozen albums and been recognized as an NEA Jazz Master. Needless to say, it was a spectacular, powerful performance with Ben Williams on Bass, Terreon Gully on Drums, the Great Brazilian Guitarist Romero Lubambo and Peter Martin on Keys, all led by the powerhouse vocalist Dianne Reeves. I was there and what a really great show!!!

NJPAC Jazz Advisor Christian McBride’s The Movement Revisited

NJPAC Jazz Advisor, bassist, composer and bandleader Christian McBride has played everything from Monk to Funk. The Movement Revisited is a full-length work for jazz orchestra, vocalists and orators, celebrating the great leaders of The Civil Rights Movement — Rosa Parks, Malcolm X, Muhammad Ali, Martin Luther King, Jr. and President Barack Obama.

The evening began with a performance by The Last Poets: Abiodun Oyewole, Umar Bin Hassan and Baba Don Babatunde, joined by Newark’s Honorable Mayor Ras J. Baraka. The Last Poets laid the groundwork for the emergence of hip hop.

Also performing in an absolutely wonderful, strong, uplifting presence, the choir from the original recording, Voice of the Flame (VOTF) hit a homerun for sure.

Cyrus Chestnut at Dorthaan’s Place

Another absolutely always sold out event is the very special Dorthaan’s Place Nico’s legendary jazz brunch curated by NEA Jazz Master and Newark’s First Lady of Jazz Dorthaan Kirk. Ms. Kirk is the widow of Rahsaan Roland Kirk, the blind multi-instrumentalist with a reputation for fierce musicianship and daring improvisation.

This year the show featured the piano stylings of Cyrus Chestnut over brunch at the beautifully appointed Dorthaan’s Place. The Cyrus Chestnut trio included Lincoln Center emerging artist and Detroit native, Bassist Endea Owens and the hard-swinging, composer and powerhouse Drummer Chris Beck. Truly a beautiful performance. We were swinging and tapping the whole program.

James Moody Jazz Scholarship Winners

A special treat this year was that in attendance were the winners of the previous high school contest for the James Moody Jazz Scholarship minus Iyonna Herbert and Paul Reinhold. Pictured L-R Andrew Wagner, Jalin Shiver, Rayner Perez, Linda Moody, Birsa Chatterjee, and Caelan Cardello with local live music Producer/Promoter Gregory Burrus. These winners were front and center with the widow of James Moody and TD Moody JazzFestival First Lady Linda Moody enjoying the brunch and the music.

Artemis — All Female Jazz Supergroup

Jazz Journalists Association: Mid-Size Ensemble of the Year called them:

"A killer line-up of players, composers, and performers who hail from all over the world...they all converge on this extremely cosmopolitan, sleek, rhythm-forward, modern sound." - NPR MUSIC

The musicians of Artemis are Renee Rosnes, Piano & Musical Director, Anat Cohen, Clarinet & Soprano Saxophone, Ingrid Jensen, Trumpet, Nicole Glover, Tenor Saxophone, Noriko Ueda, Bass and Allison Miller, Drums. This supergroup first assembled as a band for a 13-city European Jazz Festival tour in summer 2017. Named “Artemis” after the Greek goddess who was the daughter of Zeus and Leto, the twin sister of Apollo, the patron and protector of young girls and the goddess of hunting, wild nature, and chastity, they released their debut album for famed Blue Note Records in September 2020. Their performance was absolutely superb.

More great performances to come...

That's just to start part 2 coming next....

Arturo O'Farrill & the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra (Friday, Nov. 19th)

Pianist, composer and six-time Grammy-Award winner Arturo O'Farrill presents Arturo O'Farrill & the Afro-Latin Jazz Orchestra.

Presented by NJPAC, the Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University-Newark and the Afro Latin Jazz Alliance, this concert is part of the TD James Moody Jazz Festival. Performance on Nov. 19

George Wein and the Newport All-Stars (Saturday, Nov. 20th)

“Pianist and bandleader George Wein, who founded the Newport Jazz Festival in 1954, is universally regarded as the single greatest producer and impresario jazz has ever known. (Music festivals like SxSW and Coachella owe him a great deal as well. Celebrate George, who recently passed at the age of 95. This all-star concert will feature contemporary swing saxophonist and clarinetist Anat Cohen, along with special guests including Christian McBride, Kenny Barron, Johnathan Blake, Randy Brecker, Lew Tabackin, Peter Washington, Duchess and more. This is sure to be one of the most memorable nights in the history of jazz at NJPAC, and a fitting tribute to the life and legacy of George Wein.” —NJPAC. Celebrating George Wein takes place on Nov. 20.

Maria Schneider Orchestra (Sunday, Nov. 21st)

“Composer, bandleader, and NEA Jazz Master Maria Schneider returns to NJPAC with her genre-defying orchestra. Her music has been hailed by critics as “evocative, majestic, magical, heart-stoppingly gorgeous, imaginative, revelatory, riveting, daring and beyond categorization.” Her 2020 album Data Lords was called “her magnum opus, a riveting, remarkably intense double album, as profound as modern-day instrumental music gets” (Minneapolis Star Tribune). Data Lords garnered two GRAMMY® Awards, was named a Pulitzer Prize finalist and won the Grand Prix De l’Académie du Jazz. You’re guaranteed to hear something thought-provoking and new every time Maria Schneider takes the stage.” — NJPAC. Performance Nov. 21.

NJPAC Community Engagement

Also know that having a great time and meeting up with friends at NJPAC is part of the experience during these COVID Pandemic times. With a motto of engage, connect, and celebrate, NJPAC states “We like to say that we’re more than a venue—we’re a community.” Living the motto in action is Eyesha Marable, Director of NJPAC Community Engagement. She said, “Thursday night of NJPAC's TD Moody Jazz Festival was outstanding. Friday was wonderful too. Tonight, we will enjoy Dianne Reeves. Treat yourself soon family, to some good music. Come home (to NJPAC) when you can.”

Here are some images to entice you to come on out and enjoy the show. Click to see more.

NJPAC states, “We like to say that we’re more than a venue—we’re a community. That’s why we’re one of the few performing arts centers in the country with an entire department dedicated to reaching out, building connections and just plain having fun with our neighbors in their own backyards.” That’s right, finally getting back outside and establishing these new times of togetherness becomes extremely important to help us. “Come home to NJPAC” and enjoy the community of fellow jazz lovers.

Come join us.

About the Author

*Gregory Burrus with Linda Moody at Bethany Baptist Jazz Vespers*

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event planner, live music ambassador and community partner that curates, manages and promotes live music events in the local SOMA (South Orange, Maplewood) community, Northern NJ and the New York Area.

Japan’s Kumiko Tanaka Trio Live in NJ - 5th Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree (RECAP)

November 15, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Monday, November 15, 2021

While I always thought of our 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree as a local event, live music is universal and musicians that have performed locally actually come from everywhere.

One of the performers that performed in person in the 2019 3rd Annual 24 Hours of Music Jamboree was Kumiko Tanaka during the Jazz Jam session. This was pre-pandemic, all live in-person events, and we didn't record a lot as we were in person. Then, the COVID Pandemic hit us all.

5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree

For 2021, we had to be cognizant of the pandemic that still exists while still addressing international travel band restrictions.

Our 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree (2021) ended up being a hybrid affair of live in-person performances in South Orange, NJ and a series of online performances on our 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree channel. One online broadcast was the Kumiko Tanaka Trio.

Kumiko Tanaka Trio Performance

The Kumiko Tanaka band members performing are:

Kumiko Tanaka
Yuma Kimura
Hironori Sato

As you can see, Kumiko Tanaka Trio’s performance was absolutely wonderful.

Loving this performance and knowing that folks in Japan faced a lot of the same pandemic challenges we do in performing live music, I requested some background. I asked about how they prepared, how they felt about their performance and how it was received by their audience in Japan. The following are a few observations by Kumiko Tanaka.

Question & Answer with Kumiko Tanaka

Describe the Planning / Preparation Process.

Scheduling

KT: When we decided to participate in the 2021 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree, our first decision was to schedule a performance date and it was June 12th. The venue contained very few customers due to the limited number of people because of social distancing. So I decided to call this year's session, Love, Peace & Soul, which we had a connection with as last year's session host. We also decided on this venue because Hironori wanted to play the drums.

Venue Selection

The state of (COVID Pandemic) emergency, which was originally supposed to be over by May 31st was postponed for two weeks. The live music venue which had been operated per the government's request, had to postpone our scheduled event. After careful examination and various adjustments, we decided on July 10th, but then the state of emergency was announced again from July 12th to the end of August. Now there was a possibility that it would not happen at all, but this time we were lucky.

Video Recording Software

For shooting this event, we used three cameras. There were two fixed angles that Yuma brought in and set up. The handheld camera was managed by my friend. When I told him that I would perform a live music performance and it would be delivered for the 24 Hours of Music Jamboree event in America, he offered to help with the videography. I was so happy with this unexpected help.

Video Editing

Since I had never produced a multi-angle video, it took a lot of time to learn how to use the application software. I'm the type who doesn't read the manual properly, so I asked Yuma to help me with learning how to use the software and camera. Now it became fun to think of camera placement and when to change capture angles while recording the session. The handheld camera captured the player's hands and facial expressions. My friend with handheld camera humbly states that he “only took video,” but he is "shadow actors" or "Behind-the-scenes supporter."

Video Recording Equipment

The equipment used was:
Front camera: Canon HF M52
Stage Left camera: Sony ZV-1
Handy camera: Sony α7III
Recorder: Roland R-26 created with DaVinci Resolve 16, Ableton Live Software.
These Japanese cameras performed very well.

Video Mixing and Editing

I edited the footage from the three cameras and Yuma mixed the sound of the camera and the recorder. As a result, I'm happy that it became an interesting video with movement and scene changes.

Describe the event and some thoughts about the performance.

Band Prep & Song Selection

Yuma and I chose selected songs so that the songs playing the melody would be halved. I wanted to stick to the arrangement, so I searched for various versions on Youtube and used what I found as a reference. I made a musical score and gave it to Yuma. However our drummer, Hironori, is totally blind so I explained it all during the rehearsal and he recorded it and remembered it. I think he had a hard time, but in the end all the songs were played according to the song's original score. I have to say, and I think you will agree, that our drummer, Hironori, is absolutely amazing.

July 10th Event Playlist

1st Set

Ribbon In The Sky
Street Life
Let's Stay Together
Creepin'
Armando's Rhumba

2nd Set

Kool
Lost Stars
Bright Size Life
Happy
Virtual Insanity
What You Won't Do For Love

Encore

Sunny

As background, the “Happy” (by Pharrell Williams) song was selected because when I went to NY in 2014, I was very impressed by the listeners at a jam in Robin's Nest in NJ who were singing the song "Happy." So I decided to play “Happy” and asked for audience participation with clapping and singing. The song “Happy” pleased our customers tremendously.

In developing this event for 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree, I am glad I asked about the beautiful blue garment Kumiko wore while performing.

On the Yukata

The blue kimono is a traditional Japanese garment worn in the summer and is called a "yukata.” Many people wear it at festivals such as summer fireworks festivals, but I rarely wear it, so I practiced how to wear it properly. Since the hem is long, I needed a place with a clean floor which took about 15 minutes to get ready, so I wore it at home and went to the live music venue. Even though it's summer clothes, it's not as cool as it looks, but much hotter than regular clothes, hence I was sweating all the time, and because it's squeezing my abdomen with strings and obi, it's much more painful than usual. There are many sacrifices made for the beauty of our appearances. I respect the ancestors who wore it every day.

Audience Response

During the actual live performance of “Ribbon in the Sky”, which was the first song we played, I read the lyrics in English and then translated them into Japanese. It's a very beautiful and moody song. However, when the performance of the song was over, it quietened down and no one applauded. We were shocked.

When I asked a listener later, she thought that they had to listen quietly like a classical concert. It was a phenomenon that clearly showed the politeness, quietness, and respect for the music by our Japanese people.

References

Kumiko Tanaka

YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/user/koominko/videos
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/kumiko.tanaka.3572

Yuma Kimura

Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/user/yumaguitar
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/yuma.guitar

Hironori Sato

Website https://hironorisato.com/
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/hironori.sato.5

Just like in person, nothing beats a live performance, and when it's a live performance, anything can happen and Kumiko should be applauded for the preparation issues and challenges the band faces to make these live performances happen. The adrenaline of a live performance is unlike anything else and, as musicians say, the real test of a musician is a live performance on stage. Kumiko’s 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree performances are always well-received by our listeners and it's good to know they are liked at home, also. We thank Kumiko Tanaka, Yuma Kimura and Hironori Sato for performing and delivering a wonderful performance each year.

About Gregory Burrus

Gregory Burrus, Founder of 24 Hours of Music Jamboree, is a local live music ambassador, event planner and community partner that develops, manages, promotes and documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area. Gregory Burrus loves helping people succeed by producing and promoting live music events all around our towns. For more information, visit gregoryburrusproductions.com.

Celebrating Black Lives Matter via Art and Live Music at BLM Artist Reception (RECAP)

November 11, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Thursday, November 11, 2021

Unfortunately, in today’s world we have to tell people that life matters. Hence, the Black Lives Matter Movement which is a decentralized political and social movement protesting against incidents of police brutality and all racially motivated violence against black people.

Being a Mahatma Gandhi fan, I share his quote, “The future depends on what we do in the present.” In recapping the Juneteenth celebration during the Artist Reception of “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”, it was wonderful to see and hear this very creative West Orange Art Council (WOAC) exhibition. To me, this exhibition was a celebration of life via two life-changing mediums — art and live music.

“Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”

The Curators

Designed to address the issues of today, the artists were encouraged to express their feelings about this subject in their art. As part of West Orange, NJ’s celebration and commemoration of Juneteenth, artists Maria Luis Estrela and Carol T. Jenkins of the West Orange Arts Council (WOAC) curated this exhibition. It was clear from meeting early on with Maria that she had a personal connection to this exhibition.

“I purposely utilize my skills to help Black Indigenous People of Color (BIPOC) artists, who are underrepresented in the arts scene,” Maria Estrela said. “I feel it’s important to raise awareness of the issues faced in their own communities including racism, discrimination, inequality and injustice.” (See For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning.)

Maria’s passion was also reflected in the article How Maria Estrela’s Passion for Arts and Travel Shapes RBNY Homegrown Player, Bento Estrela, where Maria clearly feels a close connection to singer/songwriter Nina Simone. “Nina Simone, she was an activist and through her music, she raised awareness about what was happening in America against Black people. So she was a very powerful woman, she used her music to say what was happening in America,” said Estrela. “So that inspired me to create first because she was a great musician and artist, and second because she was an activist, and she was fighting for equality and justice.”

The Artists

The exhibit debuted in person on June 5th and was open for in-person visits at the West Orange Arts Center (551 Valley Road) through July 31. As stated on the WOAC’s website:

“Over 40 artists, photographers and poets are participating in this art for social change. The participating artists are: Sarah Bass Aspe, Josephine Barreiro, Yuri Bisono, Carol Black-Lemon, Wendy Born, Syreeta Brooks, Marina Carreira, Patricia Croft, Antoinette Ellis-Williams, Maria Estrela, Mary Fordham, Karen Goldberg, Dino Gravato, Patricia Hutchinson, Queen Mother Imakhu, Carol T. Jenkins, Lizette Louis, Cathleen McCoy Bristol, Barbara Motley, Frank Niccoletti, Amelia Panico, Davynte “Red” Pannell, Sundra Parker, John Piccoli, Dayana Poulard, Ron Powell, Martryce Roach, Gale Sasson, Ameerah Shabazz, Ella Silivanch, Timothy Simmons, Elaine Tassy, Sheila R. Thompson, Denise Toney and Kelly D. Villalba.”

To see WOAC’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!”exhibition online, click here.

In addition, it was great to see that Estrela and Jenkins received support from Rey Arvelo, Carol Black-Lemon, Deneise Smith and Patricia Mitrano and also collaborated with the West Orange Human Relations Commission, NAACP Oranges Maplewood Branch, West Orange Public Library, West Orange Youth Caucus, Bloomfield College and the Office of the West Orange Mayor & Township Administration.

The Music

The Artist Reception featured art and a live music performance.

As Gregory Burrus Productions, I was very happy to be the curator of the live music for this reception. I selected the jazz genre, considering the fact that “Jazz is a music genre that originated in the African-American communities of New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, with its roots in blues and ragtime. (See Wikipedia.)

***UNPA.*** *UN stamps commemorating International Jazz Day. Source:* *https://news.un.org/en/story/2014/04/467252-world-day-un-celebrates-historic-influence-jazz-connect-people-ignite-social*

How does jazz connect to social change? According to this United Nations article:

“Jazz reinforces the role youth play for social change; Jazz encourages artistic innovation, improvisation, new forms of expression, and inclusion of traditional music forms into new ones; Jazz stimulates intercultural dialogue and empowers young people from marginalized societies.”

Jazz is about improvisation, a blend of different cultures and, like America, Jazz states that we all belong here, have value here and can get along here. So what better way to celebrate a Juneteenth Black Lives Matter event than with this “uniquely American” form of music. It takes from West African culture, the work songs and spirituals of black slaves in America, and European instruments like the piano and the trumpet.

Performing at this BLM Reception in the West Orange Art Center, located adjacent to Luna Stage, was a trio of heavy hitter professional jazz musicians

The artists performing were: Lynette Sheard – Vocals, Brandon McCune – Piano and Marshall McDonald – Saxophone. They performed a medley of jazz tunes from the Great American Songbook that make you smile and tap your feet while you celebrated and enjoyed America’s original art form called Jazz.

A little background on the musicians.

Lynette Sheard – Vocalist

Lynette is a multi-talented and versatile vocalist with a five octave range and perfect pitch. She acts, produces, directs and is a vocal coach. Performances have been acknowledged in numerous publications including, The NY Times, Broadway World, The Record, Hot House, The Patch and The Chronicle. The Star-Ledger proclaimed that “Her voice reaches deep into one’s soul and finds a soft spot.” Lynette is also a director of the Mental Health Association of New Jersey. (See https://www.lynetteentertainment.com)

Brandon McCune – Pianist

This Chicago native makes his home in Newark, NJ. His musical studies began at age three, when his parents enrolled him in the Suzuki Method of Classical Piano. Brandon McCune is an experienced Professional Musician (pianist, organist, drummer, trumpeter, bassist, vocalist, and choir director). Brandon was selected through a national audition as a 1998-1999 U.S. Jazz Ambassador to Africa, where he traveled abroad representing the United States performing public and private concerts, master classes and workshops. (See https://www.facebook.com/brandon.mccune)

Marshall McDonald – Saxophonist

Marshall McDonald was lead alto for 18 years with Count Basie Orchestra, played sax on Paquito D’Rivera’s Latin Grammy-winning album, sax with Abdullah Ibrahim, and clarinet with Duke Ellington Orchestra. This Pittsburgh native’s career had a 10-year stint with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra, and he performed at Carnegie Hall with Nancy Wilson, Tokyo Blue Note, Nice Jazz Festival, and with Illinois Jacquet, Tony Bennett, Bobby Caldwell, The Temptations, The Four Tops, Tony Bennett, Milt Jackson, Nina Simone, Rosemary Clooney and Aretha Franklin amongst others. (See https://marshallmcdonald.com)

Looking Back – Going Forward

Combining the normal in-person experience along with an online component was — and is — extremely important during these COVID times, especially since there was a tremendous amount of work put into this exhibition. It’s great to see and know that the results of these curators, Maria and Carol, will have an impact for some time to come. It’s great to know this legacy of art and music will last far into the future.

WOAC Reception: June 29, 2021

Please enjoy the following shots and subsequent press from this exhibit.

New 12 New Jersey

I’m excited to share that Della Crews of News 12 New Jersey gave a shout out to the artists and poets in the West Orange Arts Council’s “Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!” exhibit and shared some of the photos taken by Rich Silivanch at the #Juneteenth artist’s reception last weekend in West Orange, NJ.

Additional coverage links and sources:

NJ.com – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty

WO Patch – For These Artists, BLM Exhibit In West Orange Has Special Meaning

Essex News Daily – West Orange Arts Center presents hybrid ‘Black Lives Matter’ art experience

Facebook WOAC – Black Lives Matter: For Justice, For Equality, For Liberty!

TAPinto/West Orange – 22 Days Left to Visit West Orange Arts Council’s Black Lives Matter Exhibit

A truly beautiful event, gorgeous and inspiring artwork with some wonderful people. Read more here: https://essexnewsdaily.com/arts/98515

About Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus Productions produces and promotes local live music events and is also a social media manager, event developer and community partner that documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area. Gregory Burrus reports and blogs about the local arts and entertainment scene, showcasing, photographing, and videotaping events and happenings as they occur all around the towns.

Darryl Clark Tribute in the 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree

November 10, 2021 Sonia Schnee

*Darryl Clark Tribute in Spiotta Park, South Orange, NJ in the 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree*

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, November 10, 2021

On September 26th, the Live Music Community came together with friends, family and fellow musicians to celebrate the life of local West Orange resident Bass Man Darryl Clark. Folks came from as far as Massachusetts, New York and more to express their sentiments. Folks who could not make this event in person, joined in and viewed the livestream from New York, Florida, California and more.

We had tried this in July, but the 2nd time was a charm as on a perfect weather day the community came together for the 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree Sunday that celebrated the life of bass player, father and community member Darryl Clark. Darryl became a fixture on the live music scene as he performed in numerous live music events in and around South Orange NJ. Always friendly, always helpful, Darryl jammed with us, produced some truly swinging performances and enjoyed playing bass all over the area.

It was a beautiful day, the weather was great as we recreated a number of environments Darryl performed in.

The South Orange Farmers market where Darryl jammed numerous times.
His band DC Fusion with former band members Howard Hall and Alex DeLazzari.
The Nat Adderley Jr. Trio as Nat was one of his biggest supporters and played with Darryl Clark many times in Spiotta Park.

We also live streamed events overnight with submitted performances by his college buddy saxophonist Marshall McDonald and vocalist Lynette Sheard, amongst others, who performed with him in the past.

Below is a taste of each of the live music tribute events that reflected Darryl’s musical life in and around South Orange with friends and family.

Full events will be found at https://vimeo.com/gregoryburrus.

South Orange Farmers Market Jam led by Peter Lin

A taste of the Peter Lin Trio Tribute to Darryl Clark in the 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree in Spiotta Park, South Orange NJ.

A huge thank you to Peter Lin Trio with Gordon Kuba on Drums, Billy Smolen on Bass and led by Peter Lin on Trombone for leading off Day 2 of the 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree. It was a perfect and fitting tribute of live music for our buddy Bass man Darryl Clark as we recaptured the South Orange Farmers Market Jazz Jams.

Jazzy Nights DC Fusion Band led by Howard Hall

Here we have a little bit of Darryl’s original band, DC Fusion, in Tribute to Darryl Clark in 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree in Spiotta Park, South Orange NJ.

Thank you to DC Fusion Jazz, led by the Howard Hall Quartet, in celebration of the DC Fusion Band, Darryl Clark Rides Again on Day 2 of the 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree.

DC Fusion rode one more time in honor of Darryl Clark with Coo Moe Jhee on Bass, band member Alex De Lazzari on Sax, filling in Errold Lanier Jr. on Drums, and led by Howard Hall on Keys. Thank you all for replaying the tunes he loved and for recreating the Jazzy Nights scene. Especially nice was calling up the folks he loved to play with as they came through. Just fabulous live music all around, all day on a beautiful sunny day.

Family and Friends Tributes led by Gregory Burrus

Folks came from as far as Massachusetts to express their sentiments.

*Folks who could not make this event in person joined in and watched the livestream from New York, Florida, California and more.*

The tributes were amazing.

Fellow Musicians Led by Neighbor Nat Adderley Jr.

A taste of the Nat Adderley Jr. Tribute to Darryl Clark at the 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree with Chris Berger & Jerome Jennings.

A big thank you goes out to the Nat Adderley, Jr. Trio for headlining the day and closing out our 5th Annual 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree. From the 1st tune to the end, your trio with Bassist Chris Berger and Drummer Jerome Jennings was slamming.

A Great Tribute and Great Day of Live Music

The live music was smoking hot, made everyone feel welcome, and I know it made Darryl Clark proud as the music flowed hard, fast and friendly. Thank you for having fun with all of Darryl‘s Friends and Family and audience members who clearly enjoyed themselves while paying tribute to Darryl.

Darryl William Clark (1962 – 2020)

We commemorate our buddy Darryl Clark who now resides in musical heaven.

“A year ago today my world stopped and it felt like I’d never breathe again. But you, our amazing sons, the love that surrounds us and God, have been the source of my strength. You were and still are a blessing to me, and for that, I am thankful. I miss you everyday. Rest in peace my bass man, my captain, my love.” —Michele Clark

Thank you Good Buddy Darryl for being you. — Greg

James Moody Jazz Scholars Celebration at the Blanchard House in South Orange, NJ (Nov. 17, 2021, 6-9PM)

November 5, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Friday, November 5, 2021

Gregory Burrus Productions is extremely proud to produce the James Moody Jazz Scholars Celebration for The James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey. This event is for the Jazz Scholarship recipients that have been presented this award since 2015. This event is also supported by the Patterson Foundation / Blanchard Conservatory and will be hosted at their beautiful, historic Blanchard Mansion in South Orange, NJ.

About Saxophonist James Moody

(Bottom) Dizzy Gilespie, Hank Jones, Benny Carter, (top) John Lee, Charlie Fishman, Paquito D'Rivera, James Moody, and Arturo Sandoval. From johnleebass - Dizzy Gillespie's dinner the night before he received the Kennedy Center Honors. Great dinner with fascinating stories.

Saxophonist, Flutist, Vocalist, Educator James Moody was awarded the distinction of being an NEA Jazz Master in 1998 from the National Endowment for the Arts. The National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Masters Fellowships are the self-proclaimed highest honors that the United States bestows upon jazz musicians. In the jazz world, it just doesn't get better than that. Learn more: Wikipedia NEA JazzTimes James Moody.

James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey

James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey is an award that honors the life of Newark native and saxophone giant James Moody. The James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey is an award presented by Linda Moody that is offered annually to an outstanding high school senior. The recipient embodies the qualities expressed by the NEA Jazz Master throughout his life and works—musicianship, creativity, leadership and community involvement.

James Moody Jazz Scholars

In its 7th year, the winners of the James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey will consist of the James Moody Jazz Scholars led by bandleader Birsa Chatterjee. Past winners are:

Jazz Scholars Band

The band will come together performing a number of standards and some originals.

It includes Birsa Chatterjee – Tenor Saxophone, Iyonna Herbert – Drums, Andrew Wagner – Trumpet, Caelan Cardello – Piano, Jalin Shiver – Alto Saxophone, Rayner Perez – Trombone, and joining us in Paul Reinhold's absence will be Gervin Myles on Bass.

Jazz Scholars Jazzy Nights Agenda

6:00 - 6:15 PM Opening Remarks

6:15 - 6:45 PM The Jazzy Nights activities will be comprised of standards and originals performed by the musicians

6:45 - 7:30 Presenters and Invited Speakers

Linda Moody - James Moody Jazz Scholarship for New Jersey
Wayne Winborne - ED of Institute of Jazz Studies Rutgers-Newark
John Lee - Jazz Legacy Productions & The Dizzy Gillespie Big Band

7:30 - 9:00 Jazz Scholars band continues. During this set, an invited set of local Jazz vocalists from the community will perform with the Jazz Scholars band.

Venue/Location

The Blanchard Mansion - 100 Blanchard Rd., South Orange, NJ 07079 - is a 1920's Georgian Mansion in South Orange that transports visitors right back to the Gilded Age. The home draws inspiration in its design from the style of the Gilded Age Mansions of Newport, Rhode Island, perhaps the most famous one being The Breakers. At 11,000 square feet the house features an ostentatious custom wood appointed ballroom with coffered ceilings and New York City skyline views, accessed via a grand foyer lined with Corinthian columns. Situated on two acres of English style lush garden landscaping, with walking paths throughout, the land offers residents opportunities for quiet reflection and meditation.

Gregory Burrus Productions

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event planner and community partner that curates, manages and promotes live music events in the local SOMA/MAPSO (South Orange, Maplewood) community, Northern NJ and New York Area. Gregory Burrus currently writes as the South Orange Patch Mayor, the statewide Jersey Indie website and on Gregory Burrus Productions.

Patterson Foundation / Blanchard Conservatory

The Patterson Foundation strengthens the efforts of people, organizations, and communities by focusing on issues that address mutual aspirations, foster wide participation, and encourage learning and sharing. The Patterson Foundation's staff and consultants are ready to provide an engaging presentation about the foundation and its initiatives.

You are invited to the James Moody Jazz Scholars Celebration on Nov. 17, 2021, 6-9PM. This free event will have light refreshments, limited seating, and access will be provided via Facebook / Eventbrite Registration only. Please join us.

Bernie Williams-Gil Parris Quartet with Baker Street Trio Knock it Out of The Park at the Woodland in Maplewood

November 1, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Monday, November 1, 2021

Maplewood, NJ - The Woodland

A very special event took place in a historic, very beautiful and very spacious 1930 Georgian Revival-style mansion with an adjoining auditorium known now as The Woodland. It was completed in 1930 as an elegant home for the Maplewood Woman’s Club and has served as a hub for Maplewood Township's cultural and civic life for over eight decades.

The Great Hall at The Woodland

The Woodland was designated a local historic landmark in 2014 and this architectural jewel houses two unique spaces — The Parlor and The Great Hall. These venues are used frequently for public events. Tonight, the Woodland was beautifully decked out for this very important live music performance.

The Bernie Williams-Gil Parris Quartet Come To Town

On October 22, a unique and powerful set of live music performances added to The Woodland’s wonderful historical legacy. Four-time World Series Champion and five-time All Star New York Yankee Baseball legend Bernie Williams was coming to Maplewood-South Orange, NJ.

The excitement was in the air as Bernie Williams, the former Yankee Baseball player, now a guitar virtuoso/Latin Grammy Nominee, was coming to perform in the Great Hall at the Woodland. Teamed up with long-time friend and fellow musician, guitarist, Grammy Nominee and bandleader Gil Parris, the expectations were high and you could feel the music in the air.

Smooth Jazz Productions

Rich Engel is a New Jersey resident who has for decades been involved with Smooth Jazz in NY and “Smooth Cruises.'' For us local folks, Rich was the Owner of Live At Nite Sound, Producer of Smooth Cruise N.Y.C., created the Angela Bofill Experience stage show, and produced this event. He produced and released Angela Bofill "Live From Manila" CD on the independent Black Angel label. Also, he produced the German release Saundra Records "Bigfoot " featuring our local musicians Bassist John Lee and Drummer Jerry Brown along with Danny Toan. The night’s programming became my favorite theme of jazz across the generations with a fabulous opening act by local up and coming jazz group The Baker Street Trio.

Opening Act - The Baker Street Trio

This was a genius move, as the Baker Street Trio consists of 3 young teenagers ages 14, 15 and 16. They began playing together through Montclair's Jazz House Kids.

“The trio was formed in the Fall of 2020 out of these young musicians' love for jazz and the need to be able to play together -- safely, outdoors. They played a standing gig through the Fall and Winter of 2020 on a street corner on Baker Street in Maplewood Village, and in doing so during these tough times entertained and brought the joy of jazz to countless appreciative audiences.” - Lisa Mainardi

Quick Background - The Baker Street Trio

The Baker Street Trio with Bassist Ben Ruebens filling in at Jazz On Sloan, South Orange, NJ

I encountered the group during various events this year like the Maplewood Porchfest, the 24 Hours Of Music Jamboree, and the Baker Street Trio has also performed for me in South Orange. See Baker Street Trio Debuts in Summer Saturdays at Jazz On Sloan St.

My comments upon hearing them: “Baker Street Trio—3 teenagers (14, 15, and 17) will be making a serious mark on Jazz for a long time. These young cats were killing it... After listening to them perform a number of tunes — if you closed your eyes, you would've thought they had way more experience than their actual ages combined. These young folks were swinging hard. I highly recommend all jazz fans should check them out whenever, wherever you can."

Hence, I for one was very happy to see these young dedicated jazz musicians opening for the Bernie Williams-Gil Parris Quartet.

The Baker Street Trio with Ace Williams

Introduced by the guest MC, Maplewood Mayor Frank McGehee, The Baker Street Trio, Ben Collins-Siegal, Ben Schwartz and Ryoma Takenaga, came out strong and performed a thunderous tune “The End of a Love Affair” by Edward Redding. It was fast moving and grabbed the audience by the ears as it was a perfect engaging opening song that said there is nothing timid or young about us, we are here to play!

For a jazz lover, their next two tunes were a tribute to multiple Grammy winner Roy Hargrove and it was a perfect tribute. Roy was born Oct 16, 1969 and passed Nov 18, 2018 and will be loved and remembered by the Jazz community forever. Joining in this tribute was the very talented teenage trumpeter Ace Williams, son of a Maplewood resident, the award winning performer/composer Jazz tenor Saxophonist Willie Williams. They performed Roy’s tunes “Top of My Head” and “Strasbourg/St. Denis.” The tunes were played to perfection and the audience expressed their approval with long, loud cheering and clapping.

Bernie Williams-Gil Parris Quartet

Next up were the event headlinders, the Bernie Williams-Gil Parris Quartet, a true super group with the legendary “World’s Most Dangerous Bassist” Will Lee and the multitalented drummer and vocalist Josh Dion.

Bernie Williams - Guitar

Bernie Williams is a classically trained guitarist who plays and composes music with influences that include jazz, classical, pop, Brazilian, and Latin sounds. Bernie stated that he “became this musician in great part due training and mentorship of Gil Parris who let [him] sit in on jams all over town for the past 17 years.”

Gil Parris - Lead Guitar

Gil is an American Grammy-nominated rock, blues, jazz and pop guitarist. After briefly attending the Berklee School of Music because, as his Mother said in this New York Times article, “Mrs. Parris conceded she was '‘a little worried'‘ when her son returned home with photocopies of lecture notes and said he would ‘sit in his room’ and teach himself the school's jazz guitar curriculum.''

Parris then left to tour Europe as part of a musical troupe performing Jesus Christ Superstar before becoming a recording artist. Parris has released six solo albums and played collaboratively with over 20 other groups/artists. He has recorded and toured both as a solo artist and as a sideman with major artists including Dr. John, Blood, Sweat & Tears, Diane Schuur, David Mann, Billy Vera, Bobby Caldwell, Toni Braxton, Sonny Fortune and Kenny Barron, to name a few.

Will Lee - Bass

I was going to say “who’s Will Lee”, then my research showed that I heard Lee many times before. Trumpeter Randy Brecker called Lee out of a class one day and invited him to audition for Dreams. In New York, Lee's career as a session musician flourished, and he toured with many artists. In 1982, Lee became one of the original members of The World's Most Dangerous Band, the house band on NBC's Late Night with David Letterman. He holds the distinction of playing with Paul Shaffer, on both Late Night and The Late Show, longer than any other member of the CBS Orchestra. Highlights also include getting a lifetime achievement award from Bass Player magazine, playing with many luminaries such as all The Beatles -- George Harrison at Royal Albert Hall, Paul McCartney at The Concert For NYC, D’Angelo, Chaka Khan, Phoebe Snow, James Brown and more.

Josh Dion - Drums and Vocals

Josh Dion was born at the tail end of the disco funk era, when popular radio bore the sounds of Quincy Jones, Michael Jackson, and “four on the floor” drum beats! Raised in Storrs, CT, Josh started playing his father's drums before he even started kindergarten. Dion is a singing drummer who made his first impression in New York in February 2004 at Blue Note. Josh was noticed by jazz guitarist Chuck Loeb, who offered him an opportunity to be seen and heard by a whole new level of the music audience. From that platform, he has gone on to work with some of the major brand names of the music world: Candy Dulfer, Spyro Gyra, Will Lee, Pat Martino, Jeff Kashiwa, Jason Miles, Anthony Jackson, Edgar Winter, Randy Brecker, Bob James, Eric Marienthal, Til Bronner, Jim Beard, saxophonist Kim Waters and on and on.

This night, as was noted by a few attendees, was not just a smooth jazz concert, as the band played a mix of blues, funk, jazz, rock and even some New Orleans type jazz. They performed a mix of classic songs with creative arrangements that brought back many memories. One of my favorites was Rick James’s “Give It To Me Baby” that was innovative but right on point. They also performed some original material that was very entertaining and were instant hits with the very attentive and involved crowd.

The night in review was outstanding, Bernie was smooth and mellow, Gil Parris unbelievable on guitar, Will Lee was an absolute beast on bass and Josh Dion singing and drumming was simply off the chain. The singing and drumming was amazing. It was a fabulous performance. At the end of the night, the audience wanted more and they were called back for an encore tune that did not disappoint, and we clapped and enjoyed tremendously. Truly, it was a wonderful performance and a night to remember.

Mayor Frank McGehee

Closing the night, Mayor Frank McGehee thanked folks for coming out and reminded them they were just steps away from the most diverse choices in eating right here in Maplewood, so please enjoy the town on your way home.

Gregory Burrus with The Baker Street Trio and Ace Williams

Gregory Burrus is a local live music producer, promoter, event planner and community partner that curates, manages and promotes live music programs around Essex County.

Jazz973 Hosts Mike Lee Family Band and Friends introducing Violinist Jacquie Lee (Wed., Oct. 20, 7PM)

October 19, 2021 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Tuesday, October 19, 2021

One of the things I love about live music is the ability to create, and the creation takes place over years and truly over generations. Jazz across the generations is a process that I love to read about in a historical sense. It was the 1920's that saw the emergence of many famous women musicians including African-American blues singer Bessie Smith (1894–1937), who inspired singers from later eras, Billie Holiday (1915–1959) and Janis Joplin (1943–1970).

In our last Jazz973 event, we explored generations of Jazz as we went from a 19-year-old woman pianist leading a band that was anchored by a 94-year-old male bassist. Truly a night of Jazz Across the Generations, and what a swinging night of Jazz it was, which will be recapped in an upcoming article.

Next up at Jazz973 at Clements Place Jazz for the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies we present Generations Of Jazz in the making. It is a true family affair with help from a few friends when Jazz973 Presents “Mike Lee Family Band Introducing Violinist Jacquie Lee.” The result will be future musicians creating beautiful jazz music for many more generations. As history in the making, here' s a background of these wonderful stellar musicians making their mark on the jazz scene.

Jacquie Lee, Violin

Jazz973 at Clements Place Presents Mike Lee Family Band Introducing Jacquie Lee at Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies.

Jacquie Lee is being introduced to the jazz scene in a big way. The Jazz973 program at Clement’s Place is proud to present the Mike Lee Family Band as they introduce Jacquie Lee at the Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies. In 2019 at Garfield Middle school Jacquie, who has been playing Violin for 11 years, received Jazz Soloist Downbeat Student Music Award for an Outstanding Performance. Jacquie has also been a member of Jazz House Kids and is a member of a family of musicians which has truly helped her honed her musicianship. The following stellar list of musicians will perform in this wonderful event featuring Jacquie Lee on Violin.

Julian Lee, Sax

Julian Lee is quickly establishing himself as one of the most sought after and versatile saxophonists of his generation. He is the recipient of the 2017 Lincoln Center Emerging Artist Award from Jazz At Lincoln Center, and has performed both internationally and nationally with a wide array of critically acclaimed artists, including Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, and Jon Batiste.

Julian hosted the late night jam session at Dizzy’s Club in Jazz at Lincoln Center from 2015 until 2019, playing with countless of the finest musicians on the New York scene. In addition to headlining his own projects at Dizzy’s, he has played at the Blue Note, Jazz Standard, Birdland, Newport Jazz Festival, and Monterey Jazz Festival.

Julian handles the Alto, Tenor, and Soprano saxophones with equal prowess, along with doubling on clarinet and flute. This unique skill set, along with his sight-reading abilities, has allowed him to play in the world’s finest big bands. Along with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Julian has performed with the Christian McBride Big Band, Mingus Big Band, and the Dizzy Gillespie All-Star Big Band. Julian is a member of Mwenso and The Shakes, a multinational collective led by singer, dancer, composer and entertainer, Michael Mwenso.

Julian completed his undergraduate studies at the Juilliard School, where he had the honor of studying with a master saxophonist.

Matthew Lee, Drums

In 2015, Matthew Lee was a member of one of the premier young bands in the nation, the award-winning Jazz House Big Band directed by Julius Tolentino. The Big Band is composed of top high school jazz musicians from across New Jersey who are selected through competitive auditions. The pinnacle of Jazz House Kids ensemble programs, the Big Band participates in a number of high-profile performances, festivals, competitions and recording sessions throughout the year and most recently backed up the Christian McBride Trio and percussionist Sheila E.

In addition to performing at this event at the widely renown Blue Note Jazz Club, Matt at his young high school age has performed in the Giants of Jazz after party in the South Orange Performing Arts Center and during his budding career played alongside seasoned professional musicians such as Roy Hatgrove, Freddie Hendrix, John Lee and many more.

Rebecca Harris-Lee, Violin

Rebecca Harris-Lee has been a mainstay in the New York musical scene for several years. She has performed with orchestras and chamber ensembles across the region, ranging from the NJ Festival Orchestra, the Northeastern Pennsylvania Philharmonic, and the Brooklyn Philharmonic, to appearances on Broadway.

Ms. Harris-Lee began her studies with Linda Cerone at the Cleveland Institute of Music as a recipient of the Margaret Randall scholarship. She received degrees from the Oberlin Conservatory and the Cleveland Institute, studying under Stephen Clapp and Donald Weilerstein.

An active chamber musician throughout her career, Ms. Harris-Lee has appeared with members of the Cavani Quartet, Eunice Podis, as well as numerous performances with her father, cellist Alan Harris. She was principal second violin of the Ohio Chamber Orchestra and an active freelance performer in Cleveland prior to moving to the New York area.

In addition to her performance career, she maintains an active teaching studio in Montclair. Also an avid runner, Rebecca has participated in several marathons, including New York and Boston. She has three wonderful children with her husband, saxophonist Mike Lee.

Mike Lee, Sax

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, saxophonist Mike Lee has established himself in the New York City/Northern New Jersey area for many years. He balances a thriving performing career with a distinguished teaching resume. He performs regularly in New York City as a member of a wide array of jazz ensembles. His recent associations include The Jimmy Heath Orchestra, The Dizzy Gillespie Orchestra, Wallace Roney’s Universe Orchestra, The Oliver Lake Big Band, The Loston Harris Trio, The Nat Adderley Jr. Quartet, Josh Evans Big Band, Dave Stryker, Frank Lacy, TS Monk, and The Roy Hargrove Big Band. He performs regularly at venues such as The Bluenote, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola, Smalls, The Jazz Gallery, Fat Cat, and Bemelman’s Bar at the Carlyle Hotel.

Recent tours have taken him up and down the East Coast, to Italy, France, California and Beijing, China. Mike Lee is Professor of Jazz Saxophone at The John J. Cali School of Music at Montclair State University. In 2009, Lee helped found and develop Jazz House Kid’s in-house jazz education program. As the instructor of the first class (2009) at the Jazz House and Director of the JHK Summer Workshop (2010-2012) he oversaw the growth of the program from one class to a thriving jazz school. Mike’s private students have also excelled winning national awards from the Grammy Band, Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, Downbeat Magazine, and Young Arts. He has had several students go on to attend The Juilliard School, Berklee College of Music, Manhattan School of Music, William Paterson, Rutgers, Miami University, and Northwestern University. Lee has presented clinics and workshops throughout the country. Mr. Lee is endorsed by Conn-Selmer saxophones and Vandoren mouthpieces/reeds.

Lee’s musical accomplishments are shared and enjoyed by his musical family. Along with his wife, Violinist Rebecca Harris-Lee, they are raising three active young musicians. Their oldest son, saxophonist Julian, a graduate of The Juilliard School, has a thriving career in and around New York City having performed with ensembles including the Mingus Big Band, Wynton Marsalis Quintet, and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.

Liany Mateo, Bass

Liany Mateo, a 19-year-old jazz bassist from Jersey City, NJ, has already studied and performed with some of the country’s top names in jazz. While in high school, she studied under renowned bassist Ben Wolfe. Through her involvement with the New Jersey Performing Arts “Jazz for Teens” program, she has been able to work with vocalist Jazzmeia Horn, saxophonists Mark Gross and Wayne Escoffery, and drummer Alvester Garnett. Liany has received numerous honors as an aspiring jazz musician.

In 2016, she had the honor of performing with an all-star band that included drummer Jerome Jennings and pianist Benito Gonzalez in Newark, NJ, Sarah Vaughan’s hometown, during the U.S. Postal Service’s ceremony unveiling of the Sarah Vaughan Commemorative Stamp. Notably, in 2015, she received the New Jersey Governor’s Award in Arts Education and was awarded the First Place title in Hudson County, New Jersey’s Solo Strings Competition. Liany Mateo studied with the legendary bassist, Rodney Whitaker at Michigan State University where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Jazz Studies.

Nat Adderley Jr., Keys

Music arranger and pianist Nat Adderley, Jr. was born on May 23, 1955 to Nat Adderley, Sr. and Ann James in Quincy, Florida. Adderley attended the Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts in Manhattan, New York. In high school, he performed and wrote music for his father’s group, the Cannonball Adderley Quintet. Adderley also worked as a keyboardist for R&B singer Valerie Simpson. Adderley earned his B.A. degree in African American studies from Yale University in 1977.

In 1981, Adderley became the music director for Luther Vandross. Adderley arranged the music for Vandross’ 1981 album, Never Too Much on the songs “Never Too Much” and “Sugar and Spice (I Found Me a Girl).” He then co-wrote the song “Better Love” for Vandross’ 1982 album, Forever, for Always, for Love. In 1984, Adderley arranged “Superstar,” as well as “If Only for One Night” and “Creepin’” for Vandross’ album, The Night I Fell In Love. He co-wrote Vandross’ first top twenty hit, “Stop to Love” and arranged the songs “So Amazing” and “Give Me The Reason” from the album, Give Me The Reason. In 1988, Adderley arranged the songs “I Wonder” and “Love Won’t Let Me Wait” for Vandross’ album, Any Love. The album was nominated for a 1989 Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. Adderley also played keyboard for Vandross’ 1991 Grammy award winning album, Power of Love. He produced Vandross’ albums Your Secret Love, Luther Vandross, and the Grammy award winning album, Dance with My Father. Adderley arranged Vandross’ 2003 Grammy award-winning duet with Beyonce Knowles, “The Closer I Get to You,” which won for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. He then produced the live album, Luther’s Live 2003 at Radio City Music Hall.

In addition to his work with Vandross, Adderley has worked with several other musicians. He arranged the songs for Aretha Franklin’s 1983 album, Jump To It, the string section for Doc Powell’s Grammy nominated song “What’s Going On” and Natalie Cole’s song “When I Fall in Love.” Recordings of Adderley playing piano were used by playwright August Wilson for his play The Piano Lesson in 1990. Adderley later formed the Nat Adderley, Jr. Trio.

Wed. October 20, 2021 Please join us in this unique event as another generation of jazz musicians are coming out and making a serious impact on the jazz scene.

Tickets for Set 1, 7-8PM: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jazz973-presents-mike-lee-family-band-introducing-jacquie-lee-set-1-tickets-192955935397

Tickets for Set 2, 8:20-9:20PM: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/jazz973-presents-mike-lee-family-band-introducing-jacquie-lee-set-2-tickets-192957750827

This event will be live and also live streamed for Rutgers Institute of Jazz Studies and Gregory Burrus Productions.

South Orange, NJ October Live Music Fest Takes Over the Sounds In Spiotta Park and Jazz On Sloan Street

October 8, 2021 Sonia Schnee

October Live Music Fest South Orange NJ in Spoitta Park Every Saturday and Sunday.jpg

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Friday, October 8, 2021

As the 2021 Summer Saturdays season ended, audiences and a number of community members continually asked what's next in terms of live music. After much thought through September, the idea is to continue the music every Saturday and Sunday through the month of October, with a lot of help from a lot of our musician friends and a local live music production group.

This month, the October Live Music Fest is off and running. The newly formed October Live Music Fest aims to continue the Summertime live music weekend excitement and also produce some unique, lively and engaging performances at Sounds In Spiotta Park, Jazz On Sloan, and in South Orange, NJ.

We hope you can come join us every Saturday & Sunday in the month of October, as the following lineup contains some wonderful performers looking to entertain you.

Events - Every Sat. 3- 5 PM & 6:30-9:30 PM; Sun. 3-5 PM & 6:00-9:00 PM.

Sat 10/2 - 3-5 PM Tim Rodner / Bruce Tyler, Swing Jazz, Jazz On Sloan
Sat 10/2 - 6:30 - 9:30 PM Tara Layne Blues & Rock n Roll Band, Spiotta Park

Sun 10/3 - 3-5 PM Michele Fiorindo, Jazz Guitarist, Spiotta Park

Sat 10/9 - 3-5 PM Acute Inflections - Is This Love? Bob Marley Tribute, Spiotta Park
Sat 10/9 - 6:30 - 9:30 PM Andy Lackow & Mess Around, Blues, Rock, Spiotta Park

Sun 10/10 - 3-5 PM Kenita Alani Hopper, Opera In the Park, Spiotta Park
Sun 10/10 - 6:00 - 9:00 PM Jacqueline Harmon Johnson Quartet, Jazz on Sloan

Sat 10/16 - 3-5 PM Tim Rodner / Bruce Tyler, Swing Jazz, Jazz On Sloan
Sat 10/16 - 6:30 - 9:30 PM Los Traficantes del Amor, Latin Tribute, Spiotta Park

Sun 10/17 - 3-5 PM SPK Trio Salt, Pepper, Ketchup, Spiotta Park
Sun 10/17 - 6:00 - 9:00 PM Laredo, The Band, Rock Covers, Spiotta Park

Sat 10/23 - 3-5 PM Hal Keshner, Piano / Vocals, Jazz On Sloan
Sat 10/23 - 6:30 - 9:30 PM BlackWax, Original Funk and Soul, Spiotta Park

Sun 10/24 - 3-5 PM Michele Fiorindo, Jazz Guitarist, Spiotta Park
Sun 10/24 - 6:00 - 9:00 PM Jacqueline Harmon Johnson Quartet, Sing with Jacque, Spiotta Park

Schedule subject to change and updates, check for latest updates at https://gregoryburrusproductio...

We hope you continue to come on out, support the musicians and enjoy the October Live Music Fest while the weather is still nice. Remember, music is life so take it all in and feel the relief in these troubling times.

Tell a friend, grab a jacket, a lawn chair, a local meal, the kids and come join us. Don't forget to Mark Your Calendars & Save The Dates.

Hosted/supported by South Orange Downtown, South Orange Village and Gregory Burrus Productions.

Gregory Burrus Joins Nonprofit Board of Maplewood Community Music

November 14, 2018 Sonia Schnee

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, November 14, 2018

As some may know, I love finding musicians and helping them share their musical gifts with you, the listeners in South Orange, Maplewood, the Valley in Orange, Newark and other parts of Northern New Jersey and beyond.

Gregory Burrus Board Member Maplewood Community Music

Another live music gem in our towns is the Maplewood Community Music organization (MCM) and I, Gregory Burrus, am very happy and honored to announce that I have been chosen as a newly appointed Maplewood Community Music board member. I am thrilled at the opportunity to be part of such a vibrant, community-focused organization that is filled with truly dedicated musicians. This will allow me to continue to move forward my ongoing mission of supporting the arts and spreading the word of sharing their great gifts.

This dedicated group of volunteer musicians and conductors work towards MCM's major goals of giving hobbyist musicians the opportunity to perform and bring music to Maplewood, South Orange, and other nearby communities. Along with getting involved with strategy and direction; I will also be performing social media marketing services and other publicity related activities.

About Maplewood Community Music

Maplewood Community Music (MCM), a non-profit based in Maplewood, NJ, was founded in 2003 by Jim Buchanan and Susan Williams. Jim was the Cultural Affairs Supervisor for Maplewood and had over 34 years of experience in music education and conducting. Susan had played in the Rutgers Band and after a number of years without playing; she approached Jim Buchanan about starting a band. Jim suggested starting rehearsals for a concert band and a jazz band for which he became the musical director. It should be noted that the first rehearsal had only six musicians; the group now has grown to well over 50.

Maplewood Community Music Mission

Now in 2018 celebrating almost 16 years of making music, the mission has expanded to include the following:

bring various types of music to Maplewood and the surrounding areas,
provide local student and adult musicians with the opportunity to join a community ensemble and continue their love of playing and performing,
perform youth outreach that supports the student musicians and inspires our youth to enjoy and possibly play an instrument,
partner with other organizations to bring music-related events to the area,
provide resources including private lesson teachers and musicians for hire

Maplewood Community Music Performances In the Community

MCM is proud to support community events and community/youth music enrichment programs and has a number of ensembles.

Swing Town Big Band

One of the places Maplewood Community performs is in the South Orange annual Downtown After Sundown Live Music Concerts. Under the direction of Trombonist Ben Williams, the band consists of a Big Band-style jazz ensemble featuring Saxophones, Trumpets, Trombones, Rhythm Section, and Vocalists.

Over the last few years, these large ensembles have grown to consist of 19 pieces, when they perform in South Orange’s Spiotta Park. The crowds are always thoroughly entertained, and I love Jazz Big Bands that take you back in time so it’s awesome to me.

The Maplewood Concert Band

I was able to catch the Concert Band termed “Chestnuts in The Park.” They performed at the truly beautiful South Mountain Reservation Boat House this past summer. This band is a wind ensemble featuring woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments.

It was an absolutely wonderful performance against a gorgeous backdrop. Just listening is magic to the ears.

Maplewood Porch Fest

Another great event supported by Maplewood Community Music is the Maplewood Porchfest. Just imagine strolling the streets of Maplewood and stopping at one porch then another and another to enjoy music and entertainment all day long. That’s Porchfest!

A fun and free event every year in the Maplewood, Hilton neighborhood on Labor Day Sunday, rain date Monday. The event kicks off at noon in front of the community center at DeHart park with music, balloons, paper event schedules with maps, a fundraiser bake sale, and a rehearsal for the "honk parade" to start the event. Everyone in the family is welcome to make music and march!

Maple wood's first Porchfest featured 30+ bands performing at more than 20 porches around the Hilton neighborhood. Last year there were 40 plus porches and bands. Folks also got to enjoy a free jitney service running through the middle of the area, so there's a little less walking and a lot more enjoying the fun all over the Hilton neighborhood. And yes, I am very happy to find bands for this voluntary event.

Teachers Turn Concert

This community is great because money for a baby grand was available from an estate. Maplewood Community Music (MCM) facilitated the purchase of the piano and helped find a home with the town in DeHart Park Community center.

The piano teachers of South Orange, Maplewood (SOMA) were thrilled about the new concert grand piano and were grateful to Maplewood Community Music for making that whole endeavor possible. They then developed a benefit concert to celebrate the new piano. They called it "Teachers' Turn." It featured most of the piano teachers actually performing and not the students. It was an absolutely a wonderful afternoon of piano recitals to a packed house. All proceeds from the event were sent to a scholarship fund to help provide private lesson opportunities for kids in Maplewood/South Orange whose families don't have the means to do so themselves.

In Summary

The Maplewood Community Music ensembles consist of some very dedicated volunteer musicians who wish to practice and perform challenging music in a fun, low-key setting. They meet locally on a Wednesday evening, practice, have fun and enjoy themselves. The Maplewood Concert Band, Swing Band and various small ensembles offer free performances throughout the year. This group also thinks up new ideas and supports other endeavors like the Teachers’ Turn Piano Concerts and the awesome Maplewood Porchfest event.

With all that, I am very happy to have been selected to join the Board of the Maplewood Community Music (MCM) nonprofit. More to come and will definitely work hard to get the word out about this fabulous organization.

Check out calendar for upcoming events!

About the Author

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event developer and community partner that develops, manages, promotes and documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area.

Gregory Burrus sits on a number of local boards and committees and serves as the Board Member Maplewood Community Music, Manages, Vice President of the North Jersey Blues Alliance, Curates and Promotes the South Orange Downtown After Sundown Live Music Concerts, the South Orange 24 Hours of Music Festival, the SOPAC Playing Around South Orange Music Initiative, the Maplewood 4th of Music Live Music Events, Newark's Jazz973 at Clements Place Jazz Series, NYC John Jay College Myrna Bain Scholarship Fundraiser, the Orange NJ ValleyArts Music Programs, Creator of the South Orange Farmers Market Jazz Jam, along with booking bands at many other local venues.

Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest.

Meet the McClure Twins at ValleyArts Harvest Fest

October 31, 2018 Sonia Schnee

Harvest Fest — the time of year when all the crops have been harvested and we celebrate by singing, dancing, playing games and giving back to those in need.

By Gregory Burrus | Posted Wednesday, October 31, 2018

ValleyArts and CC Minton are asking the community to come together and celebrate with our Harvest Fest Ambassadors - Alexis and Ava McClure. This annual event will be hosted in the ValleyArts Courtyard for a Meet and Greet with the McClure Twins, enjoy harvest fest games, participate in a popular child-friendly live musical participatory performance led by Soul Xpressiion School of the Arts, take part in a history making Tile painting project, enjoy Mini Daddy Greek Potato Pie give-a-ways from Supreme Bakery, lots of photo opportunities and more.

This is a free event, open to the public and all we ask for is canned good donations that will be collected by representatives from our local food pantries. We invite you to stop by drop-off a donation, welcome bring your kids and have some fun with us in this season of giving.

McClure Twins

The McClure Twins’ parents began documenting the twins lives through pictures and videos and started "twin talks" with Ava and Alexis as their funny personalities were enjoyable. In one video, "Twins Realize They Look the Same", Alexis got upset because she was one minute younger than her identical twin Ava. As Alexis cooled down, she realized she was a little bit taller than Ava, which prompted Ava to meltdown. This feel-good moment went mega-viral, with millions of views around the world. In late October, 2016, the twins were on the Today Show and Good Morning America and have subsequently worked with Disney, Facebook and many other notable organizations. The rest is history. They set out to make positive high-quality content that represents their values of humor, compassion, empathy, & family values, while also being entertaining. With a focus on delivering positive content in an often negative world, the girls early viral success prompted them to produced more viral videos and use their influence for good.

CC Minton

Event Co-Sponsor CC Minton is an author, media contributor, and a lifestyle empowerment maven. A President's Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition Community Leadership Award recipient, CC works with adults, children and communities empowering them to embrace healthy living. Her various projects include working with the Office of First Lady Michelle Obama, Whole Foods Market, NY/NJ Superbowl organization, Apollo Theater, Olympic Day Committee and Harlem World Magazine. A community leader that has served on the Junior League Board of Directors and Wellness Council for the West Orange Board of Education and has tackled big business as a strategic partner for the New York/New Jersey NFL Super Bowl XLVIII where she and her team provided bits and bites, on game day, at the Official Super Bowl VIP Tailgate Party at New Jersey Metlife Stadium. Her love for community is at the center of what she does as a humanitarian. CC was Chairperson for the Junior League's Health and Nutrition Initiative, co-hosted the first Team USA Olympic Day sanctioned event in the City of Newark at B.R.I.C.K. Avon Academy honoring Hall of Fame boxing coach Wali Moses. She also served as a guest panelist at the Jack and Jill of America Childhood Obesity Forum in Washington, DC. More recently CC Minton is currently leading the advisory council for the former Olympian now Pro Boxer Shakur Stevenson and Olympic Coach Walli Moses NonProfit - Stevenson Moses Boxing for Life.

ValleyArts

Event Co-Sponsor — ValleyArts. With a key focus of community collaboration, ValleyArts produces free and fun events, offer donation-based and low cost workshops on topics relevant to the local residents. We work with local community partners; provide meeting space, creative space, and a gathering spot. We facilitate connections between community members who can help each other and we collaborate with community members to host creative events. When it comes to creative arts education our programs are not just about art, but about all things creative - including visual and performing arts, music, cooking, gardening, movement, and more. Providing creative opportunities for children and teens is important for developing confident and creative thinkers who do better in school and who grow into strong community members. On the economic opportunity front we provide exhibits and spaces for visual artists to display and sell art, host regular events to showcase local talent, and operate a boutique for local artists, makers, and businesses to sell their goods. Most of our boutique contributors are women- or minority-owned companies in the local community. Creating economic and business growth opportunities for our community members is good for the whole neighborhood and surrounding towns as well.

Soul Xpressiion

Contributing Partner Soul Xpressiion School of the Arts is winner of the 2017 "Best in Education" Award from NJ Black Businesses Organization aims to create a faith based environment for children and adults, with and without disabilities, to learn and develop their skills within the arts. Located On the border of Orange and West Orange and just a couple blocks from the Thomas Edison National Historical Park, Soul Xpressiion is a non-profit organization designed to educate students in the fine and performing arts, stage management, stage production management and to utilize their gifts to inspire others. Our school is a faith-friendly environment, ensuring our students receive a nurturing, fun and safe atmosphere for learning. We believe that every person has been blessed with a specific gift and purpose in life and it's essential to educate and develop ourselves within those gifts. We offer a diverse range for all ages and abilities and strive to target individual learning styles while enhancing creativity for children and adults.

Supreme Bakery

Contributing Partner Supreme Bakery is located on Main Street in West Orange, NJ, less than one mile from Thomas Edison's house and his invention factory. It is quite likely that the world's greatest inventor was eating a Supreme Bakery glazed donut when he invented the light bulb. For the past 35 years, Supreme Bakery has been owned and operated by the Stolz family. It has been our goal to serve our customers the freshest and the finest products possible. We have an experienced and dedicated staff that is anxious to provide outstanding service. It is also our goal to be a contributing member of the community. Supreme Bakery takes part in many charitable activities that benefits local organizations. We also provide food for three local soup kitchens. We are a kosher bakery under the supervision of Rabbi Isaiah Hertzberg. All of our baking is done on our premises and is under the close supervision of owner and certified Master Baker Richard Stolz.

About the Author

Gregory Burrus is a local live music ambassador, event developer an community partner that develops, manages, promotes and documents local community events in the Greater New Jersey and New York Area.

Gregory Burrus sits on a number of local boards and committees and serves as the Board Member Maplewood Community Music, Manages, Vice President of the North Jersey Blues Alliance, Curates and Promotes the South Orange Downtown After Sundown Live Music Concerts, the South Orange 24 Hours of Music Festival, the SOPAC Playing Around South Orange Music Initiative, the Maplewood 4th of Music Live Music Events, Newark’s Jazz973 at Clements Place Jazz Series, NYC John Jay College Myrna Bain Scholarship Fundraiser, the Orange NJ ValleyArts Music Programs, Creator of the South Orange Farmers Market Jazz Jam, along with booking bands at many other local venues.

Showcasing, photographing, videotaping events and happenings as they occur around town while living life every day to the fullest. Learn more at: Gregory Burrus - Gregory Burrus Live Music Ambassador.

Keywords: ValleyArts, live music, Gregory Burrus, McClure Twins

2021 Year In Review

Venues Around Our Towns

Videography. Livestream

In The News

Social Media

Stay Safe, Stay Healthy and Stay Connected.

About Gregory Burrus

Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon Together for Holidays at The Woodland

It Was An Explosive Performance!

Jacqueline Lee Quartet Opening for Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon

Artist Meet and Greet

About The Author

Making It All Happen

Set 1: Saturday, 10 AM - 10 PM

Baker Street Duo with Alex Desrivieres and Senia Raines

Matt Chertkoff Trio featuring Houston Person, Vince Ector, and Matthew Parish

Leonieke Scheuble Quartet

Kumiko Tanaka

MPack Music

New Jersey DJ Services LLC w DJ Jimmy

Set 2: Saturday, 11 PM to Sunday, 12 PM

Set 3: Sunday, 10 AM - 10 PM — Darryl Clark Tribute

About the Author

Norman Mann — Bandleader — Percussionist

Tomoko Ohno — Pianist

Gene Ghee — Saxophone, Flute, Clarinet

Joy Topping Mann (aka Ife Basim)

Christopher Dean Sullivan — Bass

G. Earl Grice — Drums

Peter Lin — Trombone

Norman Mann and Rafiki — South Orange Live Music Concerts

About the Author

First off, love the name — AlleyCatSax! Where did that come from?

What is Harmonic Convergence?

What makes up the band?

Where are you headed, musically, professionally, etc. in your live music journey?

Has the pandemic affected your musical journey?

What else are you working on?

While this interview is about the jazz band — are you into other musical genres or activities?

Anything else you want your audience to know about your music?

What's the best way to hear your music online?

What's the best way to contact or book you?

Final Thoughts

About the Author

SteelMcLean

Styled Blu

Organic Cosmetica

Cathleen McCoy Bristol

Kemboocha™

I Love Beautiful Spaces

Linoto

Gracefully Yours

RITTA BOOK

Nitjuan Designs

JAM Network TV

About Junior League of Montclair Newark

About the Author

Jazz973 Presents Leonieke Scheuble Quintet Jazz Across the Generations Quintet

Jazz973 Presents Meant To Be Jazz Quartet at Clements Place Jazz

Upcoming Jazz973 Events:

Gregory Burrus Productions

1. Who contacted you to conduct the Kevin Hart interview?

2. Did you do any type of preparation for the interview?

3. What did you like or find interesting about meeting a celebrity like Kevin Hart?

4. Kevin Hart is one of the highest-paid comedians in the world. Aside from his celebrity, is there any commonality between his investor story and why you founded I Love Beautiful Spaces?

5. What's your takeaway from Kevin's talk about finances?

6. Why do you believe that everyone deserves to own the real estate that they love?

7. Do you have any future interviews planned?

About CC Minton

About the Organizations Mentioned in This Interview

Advancing Black Pathways

Junior League of Montclair-Newark, Inc.

Friends of Thomas Edison National Historical Park

About the Writer, Gregory Burrus

The Artists, Their Art, Their Story

Simone Bailey Campbell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

Anne Dushanko Dobek, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

Nette Forne, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

Mansa K. Mussa, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors

Ron E.A. Powell, Artist. Domestic Violence Behind Closed Doors