Saxophonist and Bandleader Bob Mintzer was just in town with Yellowjackets at the Greer Cabaret Theater - and he was also in town with Germany’s WDR Big Band at MCG Jazz. He has two new records out with each band -and this time around, we chat with him about the new Big Band date called “Bluegrass.” With Mike Marshall and Darrell Anger, this is plowing a new field for big band sounds - and produced and released by MCG Jazz Records.
Salsamba springs up - Latin Jazz Sounds for the Washington Jazz Society, April 23rd at the Loft Conference Center in Southpointe (Canonsburg) - George Jones, Eric Susoeff, Thomas Wendt, Paul Thompson, Eric DeFade
Al Di Meola brings electric and acoustic guitar wizardry to the Oaks Theater, Oakmont - Apri 9th
Also on the docket - a Pittsburgh return for trumpeter Sean Jones with a collection of his Baltimore musical friends for Kente Arts at the New Hazlett, April 26th.
Pianist Craig Davis has an outing at the Stifel in Wheeling, April 12th. That same night, Howie Alexander brings his trio to the Indiana Theater - in a show that will also feature the Community Youth Choir - plus Stefon Harris visits the Greer Cabaret with his band Blackout.
Also in April, Don Aliquo plays at Con Alma, VOMA in Johnstown April 19 and a pairing with is son, Saxophonist Don Aliquo, Jr at the Greer Cabaret Lounge - Tuesday April 15th - that gig will NOT be taxing!
And, after an unexpected cancellation last year, Pittsburgh finally gets to hear guitarist, singer and songwriter Raul Midon - Monday April 14th at City Winery in the Strip.
There’s much more to see life in Pittsburgh during April, Jazz Appreciation Month - find it at the Jazz Central Calendar at WZUM dot org!
The Scene - Thursday night at 6, Friday and Saturday at noon, Sunday at 5 on WZUM.
WDR Big Band
Salsamba
Al Di Meola