Jazz

Boston-based African style band Air Congo play music from the 1960’s-70’s Kinshasa/Brazzaville scene–the music of Docteur Nico, Tabu Ley, Les Bantous De La Capitale, Franco et l’Orch TPOK Jazz, and more!  Drawing inspiration from the instrumental sessions that Tabu Ley’s band Afrisa recorded to be played on the jets of the Congolese airline, our instrumental readings of this amazing music are upbeat dance ravers of another age.

Henry Acker is a thirteen-year-old gypsy jazz guitarist with abilities far beyond his years. After playing for only four years, he has already shared the stage with jazz greats Bucky Pizzarelli, Frank Vignola, Julian Lage, Andreas Oberg, Vinny Raniolo, Olli Soikkeli, Nicki Parrot and Jason Anick.

Boston-based African style band Air Congo play music from the 1960’s-70’s Kinshasa/Brazzaville scene–the music of Docteur Nico, Tabu Ley, Les Bantous De La Capitale, Franco et l’Orch TPOK Jazz, and more!  Drawing inspiration from the instrumental sessions that Tabu Ley’s band Afrisa recorded to be played on the jets of the Congolese airline, our instrumental readings of this amazing music are upbeat dance ravers of another age.

 
The SHS Jazz Band is an eclectic group of high school students and teachers who perform American Jazz from Big Band to Contemporary. Directed by Charles McLaren, this distinguished group often has special guests from the community sit in as featured soloists. You can find the SHS Jazz Band at local art openings, area schools, and other community events. 

This year, the SHS Jazz Band has been growing more than ever and has performed for the first time at the Burren Pub in Somerville on Saturday afternoons.

 
Sara Bielanski is an American vocalist whose repertoire encompasses everything from jazz to opera.  Her contemporary interpretations have been described as "unforgettable" and "mystifying and beautiful"(artfuse.org), and critics have described her voice as "exceptional" (newburyportnews.com).
 

As saxophonists we are sure that we’re not alone in thinking that there’s something really special about playing in the quartet setting.  We experience it to a certain extent playing as one of a group of five saxes in a big band.  But playing just with other saxes without a rhythm section is like nothing else.  You can hear everyone’s sound so clearly and the nuances are not missed.