Jazz is music that is also about community - and this week, there’s a convergence of community in jazz in Pittsburgh - something that happens on a regular basis. All around the country, the building, regaining and sustaining of jazz and community is a constant effort.
Of note, the visit this weekend by trumpeter Thomas Marriott of Seattle - a Maynard Ferguson band alum (like a number of Pittsburgh players - Paul Thompson, Reggie Watkins, David Throckmorton, Jeff Lashway and more). Thomas Marriott is also known for his “East West Trumpet Summit” recordings and concerts with the notable Ray Vega.
Marrott comes to town for two Friday shows at Con Alma that feature a tribute to Stanley Turrentine with Erik Lawrence and a sextet with Reggie Watkins, Jared Sims and Howie Alexander - both shows feature Pittsburgh jazz icon, drummer Roger Humphries.
Thomas Marriott with also play at a major jazz event in West Virginia at the Robinson Grand in Clarksburg on Saturday (that has sold out!).
We visited with Thomas Marriott about the upcoming shows - and also about a new residency in Seattle to help nurture more community among the jazz players, young and old, in the Emerald City. As we discussed in our chat, Seattle has been lacking regular places for locals to play, and the Seattle Jazz Fellowship will help address that.
We talk with Thomas about jazz, community, going on the road with Maynard - and how much he loves the Pittsburgh jazz scene.
Seeing that west coast jazz story, we came across an article this week in the LA Times - noting a seeming paucity of places to play in Los Angeles, too. It was a reminder that for all we talk about jazz as America’s musical gift to the world, the reality is that the music thrives in the creating and relationships of players, composers, venues and audiences that are often deeply personal.
They put together a list of 12 vibrant spots where jazz still reigns in L.A. The clubs typically host at least two performances a week and come in a wide variety of flavors, including the chatty lounge feel of the Dresden or the communal feel at the Lighthouse Cafe, where much of the music in “La La Land” was filmed.
We look to the Jazz Central Calendar - with legends in our midst. Every day. Tania Grubbs at Con Alma, Sunday, a Brazilian Festival at Pitt on Sunday, the Blue Note Quintet featuring Gerald Clayton (piano), Joel Ross (vibes) and Immanuel Wilkins (alto sax) at MCG Jazz for two shows Saturday night.
Also the annual Louisi-Ann Gumbo Fest Sunday from the Afro American Music Institute!
The Scene - Thursday at 6 - Friday and Saturday at noon - Sunday at 5 on WZUM
Seattle Jazz Fellowship opening new pop up jazz room - Thomas Marriott
