Since its inception in 2007, the Solvang Jazz Festival has grown to include world-class stars and bright new talent—and has expanded the musical education opportunities it offers. Stix Hooper—drummer, composer, vocalist, and president of the nonprofit Universal Guild for Jazz and Progressive Music that puts on the Solvang Jazz Festival—announced this year’s lineup, which includes the addition of a second “late show” to the popular Friday evening improv event.
On Sept. 25, hear a hip improvisational evening of jazz with a “Night Club Performance” by Eugene Maslov Trio with a special guest to be announced at Hotel Corque. Shows are at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. Maslov is a Russian pianist who has performed at Carnegie Hall with Al Jarreau, Joe Lovano, and other jazz greats. He’s jammed with jazz legends like Pearl Bailey, Louis Belson, Pat Metheny, and Dave Brubeck’s quintet.
On Sept. 26 from noon to 4 p.m., the Student Jazz Group performance will fill the Solvang Festival Theater with music. Then, at 7 p.m., hear an all-star jazz concert tribute to Freddie Hubbard from Take 6 and a tribute band under the leadership of Kamasi Washington, with more guests to be announced, at the Solvang Theater.
Take 6 is an a cappella jazz group that combines swing, gospel, and jazz influences. They’ve won 10 Grammies, 10 Dove Awards, one Soul Train Award, and two NAACP Image Award Nominations. The group has performed or recorded with top jazz luminaries including Quincy Jones, Ella Fitzgerald, and more.
For more information, visit solvangjazz.com.
This article appears in Jun 11-18, 2009.