The Firm is proud to be a sponsor of the inaugural Morristown Jazz & Blues Festival to be held on the Green on Saturday, August 20th, running from noon until 10:00 p.m., and featuring five top jazz and blues groups. Admission is free and many local restaurants will be offering specials for festival attendees.
The music begins at noon with two sets by the Rusty Paul Band, led by the son of the legendary guitarist Les Paul. With a special blend of jazz, blues and funk, the six musicians will pay tribute to the great Les Paul as well as feature other popular tunes.
At 2:00, the Duke Ellington Legacy Band, under the leadership of Duke’s grandson Edward Kennedy Ellington II, takes the stage. With fresh arrangements by pianist Norman Simmons and sax great Virginia Mayhew, this 9-piece ensemble is dedicated to keeping Duke’s music alive and current.
Following the Legacy Band will be the popular Winard Harper and his Sextet at 4:00. Regarded as one of the elite jazz drummers on the current scene, Harper has performed with many jazz legends including Dr. Billy Taylor, Betty Carter, Dexter Gordon and Ray Bryant.
At 6:00, five young musicians known as Baby Soda take the stage. On the forefront of a new movement known as street jazz, Baby Soda draws on an eclectic set of influences ranging from 30’s era swing, New Orleans jazz and gospel.
The festival closes with the Jerry Vezza Quartet performing at 8:00, featuring two of the region's most popular jazz musicians, pianist Jerry Vezza and singer/guitarist Grover Kemble. Joining Jerry and Grover will be Tom Sayek on drums and Rick Crane on bass.
For more information, visit www.TownofMorristown.org.
