Event Calendar
The Dave Leonhardt Jazz Group
Friday, November 18, 2016, 7:30 pm
An Evening of Cole Porter
This internationally acclaimed jazz pianist and his band takes an exciting new look at the music of one of America’s most popular song writers. Cole Porter’s music has been a favorite of jazz musicians for over half a century and with this fresh vivid interpretation David Leonhardt brings together all his formidable talents as arranger, improviser, and band leader to fashion a memorable musical experience. This band will have fingers snapping and toes tapping as they present a concert of cool jazz and hot rhythms playing such favorites as ”Night And Day”, “Love For Sale”, and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”. Always lyrical and creative these veteran performers will embark on a musical journey that enraptures and excites. Come along for the ride!
“Oscillating between peaceful and joyful, David Leonhardt shows a visceral understanding of Cole Porter's mindset. Refined and relaxing, Leonhardt's new recording has a loving touch..” ~ Susan Frances on Yahoo
"David Leonhardt, an intense and swinging artist alert to every mood." ~ Los Angeles Times
“Porter fans will be more than satisfied with Leonhardt’s selection and arrangements ....Leonhardt’s well constructed improvisations...” ~ Wilbert Sostre, Jazz Times
With over forty years of experience as a professional pianist David Leonhardt is a true veteran of the music world. A road warrior he has played across the world with some of the greatest jazz musicians around. The group has appeared at Arts Festival of Shenzen in China, Winnipeg Jazz Festival, French Maison de Dance in Lyon, as well festivals and concerts throughout the United States. Matthew Parrish is a virtuoso acoustic bassist with a growing international reputation. Pittsburg drummer Paul Wells has toured with Debbie Harry of Blondie fame as well as a host of jazz legends. Truly this is a group of some the top jazz musicians on the planet!
What the Critics say about The David Leonhardt Jazz Group’s CD “Plays Cole Porter”
“Leonhardt’s playing ... is exemplary as he covers the keyboard with devilish fashion and flair.” ~ Pierre Giroux Audiophile Audition
“What Leonhardt brings to the offering is his formidable talents as arranger, improviser, and band leader. Leonhardt truly has given these well traversed tunes a new sound. “ ~ Geannine Reid, ejazz news.com
“The David Leonhardt Jazz Group has been gaining notoriety in New York for the pianist’s swift hands and the way he draws the music out of the instrument” ~ Stephanie Trottier, celebritycafe.com
“this gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from me, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of 4.97 out of 5”. ~ Rotcod Zzaj, Improvijazzation Nation
“Leonhardt and company still find a way to keep Porter's music fresh” ~ Martin Z. Kasdan Jr., Louisville Music News
“A top notch listening jazz date for those times you just need to mellow out with something comfy that gives more than it demands. Well done.” ~ Chris Spector, Midwest Record
“Pianist DAVID LEONHARDT is a man with a commitment to good music. I never tire of hearing the music of Cole Porter, especially when it is given the kind of ride given to it by Leonhardt and company.” ~ Joe Lang, Jersey Jazz
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