Marina Albero - A Mirror and Focus for the Jazz Community - Marina Albero photo by Daniel Sheehan - Earshot Jazz
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Earshot Jazz is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
A Mirror and Focus for the Jazz Community September 2021
Volume 37, No. 09
Seattle, Washington
Marina Albero
Marina Albero photo by Daniel Sheehan
Letter from the Director
Tomorrow Never
Knows
I wish the future would settle down. We EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
John Gilbreath
hope that you’re healthy and safely navi-
MANAG I NG DI RECTOR
gating these trying times. Karen Caropepe
With the ongoing global pandemic, natu-
M A R K E T I N G & D E V E L O P M E N T A S S O C I AT E
ral and unnatural disasters, wars, horrific Lucienne Aggarwal
human rights abuses, and the prophetic EARSHOT JAZZ E DITOR
effects of climate change, our world seems Rayna Mathis
to be in some seriously perilous times right CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
now, and the light at the end of the tunnel Paul de Barros, Grace Kaste, Dennis Moran, Alexa
Peters, Paul Rauch, Jonathan Shipley
is diffuse with smoke. As Ray Charles once
CALE N DAR E DITO RS
sang, “The world is in an uproar / Danger John Gilbreath photo by Bill Uznay
Jane Emerson and Carol Levin
zone is everywhere.”
PHOTOGRAPHY
We’ve resigned ourselves to not being able Daniel Sheehan
to see around the next corner, but the news is rarely good. The wound of what’s L AY O U T
happening in the world is going to take a long time to heal. Meanwhile, we can Karen Caropepe
hope for the best, count our blessings and recognize our privilege, and do just a DISTRIBUTION
little bit more to help the human condition. Karen Caropepe, Dan Dubie, and Earshot Jazz
In that light, we’re unveiling the Earshot Jazz Festival for 2021. Luckily, the volunteers
environment around jazz has always been about reacting creatively to events S E N D C A L E N D A R I N F O R M AT I O N T O :
jazzcalendar@earshot.org
popping up all around us. We’ve adjusted the festival in response to the changing
BOAR D OF DI R EC TORS
times and we can’t wait to dig in!
Chris Icasiano (President), Sheila Hughes
We are enormously proud to be able to present the star-studded, soul-satisfying (Vice President), Augusto Cardoso, John W.
Duets with Dianne Reeves, Chucho Valdés, and Joe Lovano. Masters all, these Comerford, Maurice James, Danielle Leigh, Ruby
Smith Love, Diane Wah
artists will be here for an October 21 concert in the intimacy of Town Hall’s
Great Hall. E M E R ITU S BOAR D M E M B E RS
Clarence Acox, Sue Coliton, Taina Honkalehto,
Our exciting creative collaboration with this year’s Featured Resident Artist, Hideo Makihara, Kenneth W. Masters, Peter
Marina Albero, has grown steadily into a series of fascinating events throughout Monaghan, Lola Pedrini, Richard Thurston, Paul
the festival schedule. You can read more about Marina and the planned concerts Toliver, Cuong Vu
in these pages. Founded in 1984 by Paul de Barros, Gary
We are also proud to partner with LANGSTON in presenting concerts from Bannister, and Allen Youngblood. Earshot Jazz
is published monthly and is available online at
several of the brilliant young artists now emerging on the national jazz scene, earshot.org.
with bands fronted by trumpeter Theo Croker, saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins,
Subscription (with membership): $35
trumpeter Giveton Gelin, and the astounding vocalist Samara Joy, who performs in 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221
duo with the pianist Sullivan Fortner. Also at LANGSTON, the stunning vocalist Seattle, WA 98103
Dee Daniels will perform a tribute to John Lewis. Following that, a continuum (206) 547-6763
of jazz in Seattle’s Central District will flow through vocalist Darelle Holden, Earshot Jazz ISSN 1077-0984
the granddaughter of Seattle jazz legend Oscar Holden. Printed by Wenatchee World
©2021 Earshot Jazz Society of Seattle
It wouldn’t be an Earshot Jazz Festival without celebrating Seattle’s place in the
world of jazz with a full roster of local artists. We’ll also welcome back Seattle
artists like Dawn Clement, Jay Clayton, and the Tiptons, each with their own M I S S I O N S TAT E M E N T
ensembles. And, of course, many more. To ensure the legacy and progression
We’ll present all of these events in safe environments for live, limited, in-person of the art form, Earshot Jazz cultivates
audiences. We’ll have plenty of shows that will also be available to stream directly a vibrant jazz community by engaging
to your homes! Tickets go on sale in early September at earshot.org. audiences, celebrating artists, and
Please join us!! supporting arts education.
–John Gilbreath, Executive Director
2 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021
IN MEMORIAM
Support for Earshot Jazz
Heather Hammond
provided by:
(1945-2021)
BY PAUL DE BARROS AND PETE LEINONEN
Seattle jazz musicians of a certain age
cherish memories of the Llahngaelhyn,
an old coffeehouse with a certain magical
vibe that in the late ‘60s filled the fairy-
tale-towered building at the foot of the
University Bridge with visionary sounds.
Among the fondest memories for many are
of the dulcet soprano and creatively open
guitarist Heather Hammond. In April,
at the age of 75 Hammond passed away.
“She was a great talent,” observed Portland
bassist David Friesen who heard Hammond
regularly play at the Llahngaelhyn, where
she often played with the owner and her
good friend, Jerry Heldman. “She had a
very unusual voice. [It was] very soft and
introspective.” Heather Hammond photo courtesy of the family
Hammond sang with a high, vibrato-less,
Joan Baez-like purity. Though she could on material things. She was always art for
also “sing jazz standards and make them art’s sake.”
sound great,” said Friesen. Though she played music all of her life,
Hammond was born in 1945 in Silverdale, performing and composing on guitar, piano
Washington. At just five years old, Ham- and bass, as well as writing big-band jazz
mond started to sing in her family’s vocal arrangements of hymns—in later life she
quarter, which became rather well-known became deeply religious. Hammond also
on the Kitsap Peninsula. Hammond’s fa- had the distinction of parenting children
ther, Harry Hammond accompanied her with two of Seattle’s most celebrated bohe-
on the piano. When the folk music boom mians; reed man Ronnie Pierce and poet
hit Seattle in the early ‘60s, Hammond Jesse Bernstein.
started self-teaching and performing at “I spent most of my early life going to
local folk meccas like Pamir House in sleep with her singing beautiful ballads
the University District, the Triple Door on guitar,” recalls Seattle singer-songwriter
in Downtown Seattle, and 92 Yesler in Harry Edward Pierce, son of Hammond and
Pioneer Square. Hammond also played in the elder Pierce. “She had such a beautiful
the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood during voice. She was just this crazy natural. She
the psychedelic era, as well as in Spain. could make a room cry.”
“We all considered her quite brave for In addition to Harry, Hammond is survived
traveling solo—rare and daring for a pretty by her daughter Loa Obligato Allebach; sons
woman, alone, in those days,” recalls bassist Daemon Aaron Bernstein, Dylan Vader,
Pete Leinonen who was also part of the Isaiah Sweeney, and Roc Solomon Valen-
Llahngaelhyn scene. tine Pierce, Phoenix Pierce; and siblings
Hammond never recorded commercially. Eugene Harry Hammond, Pamela Kather-
“Heather was an esthete,” recalls her life- ine Hammond, and Margaret Hammond.
long friend, Jeanne Mahan. “You know, Hammond requested that no service
somebody who doesn’t put a lot of value be held.
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 3
NOTES
HONK! Fest West Topics presented through the lens of racial, their classes will also continue to be accessible
After a 2020 pause due to the pandemic, social, and gender justice are particularly en- online over Zoom. Registration for the fall
HONK! Fest West is returning for a free, all day couraged. Submissions will be reviewed by session will be announced in early September.
celebration of activating public spaces with live, Earshot Jazz’s internal Community Engagement Any new Jazz Night School students have a
energetic music on September 18 in Columbia Committee, which includes members of the couple short, simple tasks to complete before
Park. Since its beginning in 2008, HONK! has Board of Directors and Earshot staff. Select- registering. Please email info@jazznightschool.
been a “community-supported festival devoted ed proposals will be compensated for their org for more details.
presentation $125 per panelist/moderator. All
to marching bands, drum corps, samba lines,
panels will be digital and should run between
4Culture Arc Artist Fellowship
and anything acoustic and mobile that makes
60–90 minutes (including Q&A time). The Applications for 4Culture’s Arc Artist Fel-
a ruckus.” Everyone is welcome at HONK!
deadline to submit is Sunday, September 12. lowship are now open til December 15 by 5pm.
in whatever capacity feels most comfortable
To submit a proposal, please visit forms.gle/ The Arc Artist Fellowship provides $12,000
to you. Maybe that’s watching from the side
oa3vrzXPj8Weoud59. awards and modest promotional support through
and dancing along, or maybe it’s picking up
the 4Culture website. This grant is intended
an instrument and joining in! This festival is Earshot Jazz Festival Update to offer individual artists operational support
all about deepening community relationships
Drummer and 2020 NEA Jazz Master Terri (such as rent or mortgage payments, childcare,
so whatever feels right, is right! Typically
Lyne Carrington was announced in last month’s legal support, materials, etc.) as they pursue
celebrated over three days in June, this year’s
issue as part of the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival their creative work. Though it is a competitive
festival was rescheduled to the fall and will only
lineup, set to perform alongside her dynamic process, they are offering multiple supportive
be one day. If you can’t make the festival but
sextet Social Science. Carrington recently resources such as free informational workshops
still want to support their work, the organizers
announced the cancellation of their tour and and sample documents to help applicants submit
are looking for year-round volunteer support.
will no longer be participating in this year’s strong applications. For more details about
Visit honkfestwest.org for more information.
festival. the grant process and eligibility please visit
Earshot Jazz Festival: Call for Jazz Night School
4culture.org/grants/arc-fellowship.
Community Panels Day of Caring Legal Clinic
Jazz Night School is thrilled to announce that
Here in 2021 there is a unique opportunity their in-person combos will be back in session Communities Rise is partnering with United
to examine the structures in place within our beginning September 18. Fully vaccinated Way of King County and Ventures to offer
jazz community—from education spaces, to individuals who are willing to wear masks as free, online business law consultations on
jam session culture, to the performance stage, needed are allowed physically in the space. September 23 for small businesses. Sign up
and beyond—through thoughtful community Online combos will continue to be accessible for quick as the slots are going fast! For more
dialogue. Earshot is inviting community members unvaccinated individuals or simply those who information visit communities-rise.org/event/
to submit panel proposals for consideration. prefer the online experience! The majority of day-of-caring-free-legal-consultations/.
Available for download on
CD Baby, iTunes, Amazon,
Google Play and Gracenote
4 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021
EARSHOT JAZZ FESTIVAL
2021 Schedule Announced
This year’s edition of our annual festival is tailored for the times. The satisfying line up of brilliant artists—both established and
emerging, from Seattle and around the world—is brought to you in a setting that fits your preference. Whether that be the excitement
of live, in-person attendance or through the comfort of video media streamed into your homes, we have something for everyone!
The health and safety of our artists, audiences, staff, and volunteers are of paramount importance. At all in-person shows we’re
requiring that all ticket holders show proof of full vaccination at least two week prior or a negative test result within 48 hours. As
always, face coverings of the nose and mouth must be worn by all for indoor events. Those viewing at home can dress as they please.
So pull up your face mask and fasten your seatbelt as we swing this new hybrid festival out of the garage and onto the 32-year
legacy of home-grown and world-class Earshot Jazz Festivals.
Oct 13 Theo Croker: BKL2LIFE Oct 22-23 The Tiptons: Mujer o Bruja? Oct 29 Darelle Holden
Oct 14 Eugenie Jones Oct 22 Immanuel Wilkins Quartet Oct 30 Dee Daniels: Tribute to John
Oct 15 Marina Albero Lewis
Oct 23 Giveton Gelin Quintet
Oct 15 Meridian Odyssey Oct 30 Chava Mirel
Oct 23 Marina Albero w/ Roosevelt
Oct 16 Kareem Kandi World High School Jazz Band Nov 3 George Colligan Quartet
Orchestra Oct 24 Seattle Jazz Offering w/ Nov 3 Mark Lewis Quartet
Oct 17 Jamie Baum Septet Reggie Goings & Friends Nov 4 Benny Green - solo
Oct 18 William Parker, Hamid Drake Oct 24 Samara Joy w/ Sullivan Nov 4 Ann Reynolds: Celebrating
& Patricia Nicholson Fortner Women Composers
Oct 19 Jazz: The Second Century– Oct 26 Dawn Clement Trio w/ Matt Nov 4 Elnah Jordan & Eric Verlinde
Watch Party #1 Wilson
Nov 5 Marina Albero
Oct 20 Jazz: The Second Century– Oct 27 Francesco Crosara Trio
Watch Party #2 Nov 6-7 SRJO Plays Horace Silver
Oct 28 Alex Dugdale CD Release
Oct 21 Duets: Dianne Reeves, Nov 6 Jay Clayton, Gary Versace &
Chucho Valdés & Joe Lovano Oct 29 Scenes Ed Neumeister
Tickets go on sale in early September. Schedule subject to change. Go to earshot.org for updates.
Earshot Jazz’s COVID-19 Health and Safety policy is available at earshot.org.
Friends of Waterfront Seattle and Earshot Jazz present:
Pier Sounds
featuring D’Vonne Lewis and Friendz
October 9, 1-4pm w/ Joe Doria on organ, Cole Schuster on guitar
and special guest Tiffany Wilson on vocals
Pier 62
Downtown
Seattle Waterfront
Free Afternoon Concert
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 5
PROFILE
Marina Albero: 2021 Festival Resident
Artist
Marina Albero photo by Daniel Sheehan
BY JONATHAN SHIPLEY Then, one day, she sat down to a piano. “I improvisational music is a pathway of yes.
It was right after the Spanish dictatorship found it so easy. It felt right.” Her mother It’s nothing but yes.”
ended that pianist Marina Albero was born. took her little child along for her own lessons Albero’s been a Seattleite since 2015. She
Her parents were musicians touring the when she realized, as did her instructor, has been a piano chair at Teatro Zinzanni
Iberian countryside with their baby. “They that the child could pick it up faster than and has performed at Earshot Jazz Festi-
were the most wonderful hippies,” she says. she could and play better. The daughter was val, KNKX Live, Jazz Northwest, Ballard
They travelled the one-lane roads listening learning the piano faster than her mother Jazz Festival, and elsewhere. She’s played
to mixtapes—world and Indian music; was. While her mother eventually quit, alongside such Seattle notables as Hans
flamenco and African—and performed Albero didn’t and doesn’t plan to anytime Teuber, Evan Flory-Barnes, Eric Eagle,
on stages small and large. soon. “A piano is an orchestra and I can D’Vonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, and many oth-
For the first time since the regime end- pour myself onto its strings.” ers. In 2018, she was awarded the Golden
ed, they could play traditional Spanish In her early years she studied at Barcelona’s Ear Award for Emerging Artist and won
music; songs sung in their mother tongue, Conservatory and later at La Havana, where two more Golden Ear Awards in 2019 for
playing traditional (and not so traditional) she finished her classical piano degree. She Best Instrumentalist and Best Record
instruments alongside the glorious strains. played the standard fare—composers like of the Year. That very recording, A Life
“I played bagpipes,” says Albero. “I played Frederic Chopin and Johann Sebastian Soundtrack, is set to have a digital release
anything my parents needed me to play.” As Bach—but it was, and always has been for this year on September 16.
a child of touring musicians, she was often her, the more colorful music (jazz, Indian, This star is continuing to rise and shine,
put on stage playing the instruments that African) that has struck the deepest chord though for a moment, the pandemic dimmed
needed to be played and singing the songs for her. Albero’s light mightily. “I started doubt-
that needed to be sung. “I was dancing. I “I don’t like saying that I’m a jazz mu- ing my craft,” she says plainly. “I had an
was in costumes…My parents would say, sician,” she notes matter-of-factly. “I’m an existential crisis. We already have so much
‘I need you to play that now,’ and I would improviser. I like to have fun.” She contin- music. I should do something real. It was
play it. ‘Now we need you to play that.’ And ues, “Classical music is a pathway of no’s. so sad.” She started studying other things,
I’d play that, too,” recalls Albero. You have to do it like this. It has to sound grappling with the question of where we
like that. I don’t like no’s. Jazz music and were all headed. She started wondering
what she should do with the rest of her life.
6 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021
It was her son that showed her that Albero is honored to be this year’s Earshot Albero says. “The music is bigger than me.
“something real” can be music. “He played Jazz Festival Resident Artist. “It’s a perfect I’m just a vessel.”
so much music during COVID and it kept opportunity for me to get into the flow,” Within that vessel is the power of music;
him mentally healthy. It was his passion she said. She’s eager to invite others into a power she continues to find ways of shar-
and that ignited something in me.” the flow, as well. “To have a spotlight is a ing. In September, she’ll begin teaching at
Being with like-minded musicians in responsibility. It is my responsibility to give Cornish College of the Arts. “I love being
Seattle helped. “I’m still in awe of Seattle’s others a voice. I would like to showcase the around young people.” She’s also curating
music scene. There’s still so much out there music of others.” three concerts at the Chapel Performance
that I don’t know of. I’m still discovering. This she plans to do with an eclectic mix, Space at the Good Shepherd Center as part
What is Seattle’s rock scene like? What is reminiscent of the old tapes her parents’ of the long-running Wayward Music Series.
Seattle’s Indian scene like? I’ve been here listened to on the road. She’ll be playing big “Jazz has let me be myself,” Albero says.
seven years and I’m playing with new people band music with Roosevelt High School’s “Jazz allows everyone to contribute. It
all the time. It’s such a good vibe here.” jazz band, showcasing as many other women welcomes everyone with a story to tell.”
Playing with all stripes of musicians, from musicians as she can, and continuing her Albero’s story began at the fall of Spanish
teenagers to octogenarians, only improves exploration of Indian music. “The stage dictator Francisco Franco and continues
and inspires Albero’s own playing. Albero is a democratic space. The music speaks now at the rise of the Delta variant. Through
readily accepts it all. for itself and to us all. I’m not important,” it all, she marches forward; experiencing
life and doing something real.
Open to All - Free
s on
th Sea
20
Sunday, Oct 3, 6pm
Jacqueline Tabor’s
Tribute to
Nancy Wilson
SAVE THE DATE: Nov 5
Max Hatt and Edda Glass
100 Minutes of professional jazz
Family friendly concert
Distance seating, masks required
Free parking Polyclinic Garage
Seattle First Baptist Church
1111 Harvard Avenue
(Seneca and Harvard on First Hill)
Seattle, WA (206) 325-6051
SeattleJazzVespers.org
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 7
PREVIEW Jazz Opera Sanctuaries Tells Stories of Black Erasure in Portland and Beyond SEPTEMBER 7-9, 8:30PM VETERAN’S MEMORIAL COLISEUM 300 N. WINNING WAY, PORTLAND, OR $5-35 BY ALEXA PETERS In 1960, the Albina district on the north- east side of Portland, Oregon was home to eighty percent of the city’s Black residents, lively with Black-owned businesses, church- es, and stately homes. Decades later, the community of color that once thrived along the east banks of the Willamette River is long gone, replaced by the elaborate 30-acre sports and entertainment Rose district and a predominantly white residential area which is more expensive than 88.9% of the neighborhoods in Oregon. From September 7-9 at the Veteran’s Darrell Grant by Intisar Abioto Memorial Coliseum, jazz pianist, com- poser, and Origin Records artist Darrell of the rich history and contemporary to light. When I started writing this opera, Grant will speak to the erasure of the tradition of Black opera and enlisting the these stories were unknown to a lot of the Black community from Portland’s Albina talents of Los Angeles-based opera stage white people around,” remarks Grant. “A district and the gentrification overtaking director Alexander Gedeon and librettist deliberate process defines the displace- most American cities today, through a and two-time National Poetry Slam Indi- ment, dispersal, and destruction of what site-specific, interdisciplinary jazz opera, vidual Champion Anis Mojgani. The three was once a vibrant Black community, so Sanctuaries, presented by Portland’s Third of them, in collaboration with the local that...seemed like a story worth telling.” Angle Music. artists and community members, worked Sanctuaries has significance beyond Sanctuaries is the largest project Third to tell this story in a way that addresses and Portland, too. Systemic racism persists Angle has taken on in their thirty-year reinvents opera’s historically white lens. throughout the United States, as evidenced history, and it was no small feat for the “I think as a vehicle...[opera] is really pow- by the murder of George Floyd, the hundred composer, either. Grant, a Portland-based erful, but the lens was never turned on the days of protests, and the pandemic, which and internationally-recognized jazz pianist lives and stories of people of color except has disproportionately impacted people who’s worked with legends like Betty Carter, in a really exoticized way,” said Grant. “I of color. Hence, the last 18 months only says the very idea of creating a jazz opera wanted to use this vernacular sound and adds to the heft of Sanctuaries, which was challenged him. So much so that he almost [jazz] expression...to tell the story. Not to originally set to debut in April 2020 but refused Third Angle’s 2017 offer to do it. be instructional to white folks. The point of postponed due to the pandemic. “I just remember my disbelief, like, why this opera was to speak to our community “The opera is even more resonant [now],” would I do that?” said Grant. “But, then and our people about ourselves.” said Grant. “It’s not something that’s in- the reverse question kept coming up, The history of redlining in Portland, forming people of something they don’t like, why wouldn’t I do that? What is it specifically in the Albina district, has been know. It’s reflecting on the history that that makes me, as a jazz composer, as a told to Grant by Black residents since he we all have to face because we do know it. Black artist, feel like this is not for me?” moved to Portland in 1997. That said, it’s And that feels different.” he asked himself. only just becoming widely-known to the For more information and to purchase Intrigued by this inner turmoil, Grant city’s majority white population. tickets visit rosequarter.com/event/sanc- began conceiving of and composing Sanc- “This city is still grappling with this legacy tuaries. tuaries, meanwhile becoming more aware of injustice that’s really now just coming 8 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021
PREVIEW
DjangoFest Northwest
SEPTEMBER 22-26, TIMES VARY Club of Troy, Chapman also plays modern
WHIDBEY ISLAND CENTER FOR THE ARTS jazz with The Troy Chapman Group and
565 CAMANO AVE the baroque guitar (a precursor of the
$40-290 modern guitar) with The Island Consort.
Fusing folk, swing, classical, and jazz
BY DENNIS MORAN
music into its own style is Trio Dinicu,
To welcome the fall on an upbeat note, featuring Luanne Homzy, a virtuoso vio-
DjangoFest Northwest returns to live per- linist from Montréal with a long list of elite
formances to celebrate the wide-ranging collaborations. She is very much influenced
legacy of legendary Roma jazz guitarist by Stéphane Grappelli, co-founder of the
Django Reinhardt. After a virtual festi- Quintette du Hot Club de France and con-
val in 2020, DjangoFest NW once again sidered one of the best-ever jazz violinists.
welcomes visitors to the Whidbey Island Also carrying the legacy of Grappelli is
Center for the Arts in Langley September Tim Kliphuis, a classically trained violinist
22-26. For five days, an international lineup from Utrecht who learned his craft working
of performers will offer music inspired by with the Dutch Sinti community. His style
hot club jazz, a style born in 1930s Paris mixes hot club jazz with classical and folk.
with Reinhardt’s group Quintette du Hot Samuel Farthing photo courtesy of DjangoFest Northwest
He will be appearing as Tim Kliphuis and
Club de France, mixing American swing Friends. the Nick Lehr Festival Djam on Sunday,
with eclectic European influences. The festival is also famous for its presen- September 26.
That seductive fusion has inspired musi- tation of workshops with eight on tap this Together the performance lineup and
cians ever since, and DjangoFest, now in year including “Django Ornaments” and workshops make DjangoFest a magnet
its 21st year, is North America’s leading others. One of the most promising young for not only aficionados of the genre, but
festival of the genre. Reinhardt has long lights in Django guitar stylings is 18-year- students and practitioners who come for
been regarded as one of the greatest jazz old Maryland-born Samuel Farthing, set top-notch instruction, said Simon Planting,
guitar virtuosos of all time and remains an to appear with the Samuel Farthing Sextet the festival’s Artistic Director. “There will
important influence on many of the best which also includes Chapman. Additionally, be music everywhere,” says Planting.
jazz, classical, country, and rock guitarists the festival welcomes back the 32nd year For information on purchasing tickets
to this day. return of The Hot Club of San Francisco. and a complete festival schedule visit
That certainly includes DjangoFest head- The week-long festivities concludes with djangofest.com.
liner John Jorgenson, a Grammy Awards
winner once described by the New York
Times as “perhaps the best jazz guitarist
alive.” Since it’s formation in 2004, the
John Jorgenson Quintet has been one
of the leading exponents of the genre’s
revival on this continent and returns to
the festival with a performance on Sunday,
September 26.
The festival also welcomes Seattle-based
favorite Pearl Django, a group formed in
1994 that, with some lineup changes, has
played in nearly every DjangoFest including
the first one.
The festival opens with the Hot Club
of Troy, led by Montréal native and now
Whidbey Island resident Troy Chapman, a
versatile jazz guitarist and a former member
of Pearl Django. When not with The Hot
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 9
CATCHING UP WITH
The Royal Room
BY PAUL RAUCH worldwide pandemic brought to the music we have all come to know, featuring such
The Royal Room has always been a business in March of 2020. area stalwarts as McTuff, Thadeus Turner’s
hybrid of sorts; transforming itself from “Our first concern was our staff,” recalls Thaddillac, Elnah Jordan, and a free Friday
a nightclub to a project room in the blink Horvitz, reciting a common concern of the night dance. Appropriately, opening night
of an eye. It could resemble a dance hall gig economy in general. A GoFundMe page will feature the club’s well received Piano
one evening and a traditional jazz club was created to help those employees not Starts Here series, with a cadre of Seattle
the next. That creative vision for the room eligible for unemployment benefits. The pianists channeling the music of Duke
has always included a broad spectrum of Royal Room’s landlord, the Royal Esquire Ellington, Carla Bley, Teddy Wilson, Cole
musical genres represented onstage since Club, provided avenues of support to see Porter, and Horvitz himself.Also featured
it’s opening in 2011. Such was the precept them through the shutdown. “The Royal are Ann Reynolds, Jose Gonzalez, Darrius
that accompanied pianist, composer, and Esquires were really generous in terms of Willrich, and Alex Guilbert, the event’s host.
Royal Room club owner Wayne Horvitz rent abatement,” says Horvitz. Monday nights will find two jam sessions
into his partnership with well established With the club eyeing a reopening date bookending the weekly performance of The
Seattle bar, restaurant, and venue owners, of September 15, various renovations are Royal Room Collective Music Ensemble
Tia Matthies and Steve Freeborn. in the process of getting done, right down (RRCME). Saxophonist Stuart MacDon-
In 2016, they launched the South Hud- to re-stringing the prized Steinway grand ald will host a late afternoon jam session
son Music Project, a 501(c)(3) non-profit, piano that waits patiently atop the iconic for younger players, featuring musicians
to create a new path of sustainability for starlit stage. In hopes that the most diffi- from the area’s celebrated school music
music presentation at the club. This model cult times are behind us, Horvitz is keenly programs. Trumpeter Thomas Marriott
allows for projects to be less dependent on aware of the value the venue provides the will follow RRCME in the evening with
ticket receipts, and instead on building creative music community in Seattle. The an open jam session that will begin with
a more reliable pay structure for artists. pandemic, and the eighteen-month shutdown a short set from host musicians. Horvitz
“All along, having a non-profit and trying that has so far accompanied it, perhaps is considering closing on Tuesday nights.
to raise money separately through dona- validates that premise. “In a lot of ways it With the uncertainty brought on by the
tions is not just to make the whole idea of reinforced the value of the Royal Room. It pandemic, the subsequent loss of venues
a club self-sustainable, but to eventually is a place where we do really look for great such as Tula’s, and a sizable portion of
pay musicians better,” says Horvitz. art, but also a place where the community Seattle’s jazz audience still reluctant to
Over the course of the COVID-19 shutdown, can play,” states Horvitz. venture out, The Royal Room may be more
The Royal Room has had to shapeshift even The first week of programming for the important than ever. It provides a quality
more to survive the financial onslaught the reopening is emblematic of the Royal Room performance space for resident artists with
an excellent backline. While Marriott’s
Seattle Jazz Fellowship slowly takes form,
and increased opportunities for local artists
from Earshot Jazz and Jazz Alley rise in
support of Seattle’s traditionally vibrant
jazz scene, the Columbia City nightspot
stands firm in its commitment to creating
a space that will be increasingly beneficial
to Seattle musicians and the patrons that
find their work essential. With Downtown
Seattle in a state of serious transition, it
stands to reason more music fans will
look to neighborhood venues to provide
the music they have sorely missed this
past year and a half, including Columbia
City. The Royal Room may yet see its best
days ahead.
10 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021FEATURE
Jazz For All Ages
BY GRACE KASTE best kept secrets. The two-story space is Children under 12 often get in for free, and
As Seattle’s jazz scene begins to come back the former fourth floor chapel in the Good students can get half price admission at the
to life, musicians of any age and level can Shepherd Center in Wallingford, featuring 7:30pm sets on Wednesdays and 9:30pm
find opportunities to get involved. Concerts, columns and stained glass. Each month the sets on Thursdays. Just don’t forget to make
masterclasses, ensembles, jam sessions, non-profit, Nonsequitur, and a community a reservation at 206.441.9729 and bring
and much more await anyone who wants of like-minded organizations and artists your student ID to receive the discount!
to dive further into this dynamic genre. present several concerts of adventurous and JazzClubsNW at Boxley’s
Whether you are looking for West Coast experimental music as part of the Wayward 228 W. North Bend Way Suite A
Swing Dance lessons or the perfect all-ages Music Series. Everything from post-classical jazzclubsnw.org
jazz club, there’s something for everyone! composition to the outer limits of jazz can
After a year of virtual performances, this
be found at these all-ages concerts, where
North Bend jazz club has reopened to the
Note: Please look up each listing’s specific tickets are often by suggested donation of
public. No reservation is required to see
COVID protocols at the websites provided $5-15. Come enjoy beautiful architecture
performances by jazz stars from around
below. and incredible acoustics while exploring
the Pacific Northwest, and the cover charge
the world of experimental music.
ranges from $5 for local acts to $25 for
VENUES Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley national ones. You can hear a live show
2033 6th Ave every Friday and Saturday, starting at 8pm.
Experiencing live jazz is one of the best jazzalley.com
ways to fall in love with the music, and The Royal Room
Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley reopened its classic 5000 Rainier Ave S.
luckily, Seattle offers some of the very best. and intimate club setting in June of this year,
As jazz clubs and concert halls reopen, theroyalroomseattle.com
continuing to bring some of the greatest
you’ll find everything from experimental to Starting on September 15, The Royal
names in jazz to Seattle audiences. Local
traditional jazz being performed at all-ages Room will once again open its doors to
and national talent, including Grammy
venues throughout the city. Seattle jazz fans. The venue is a fun and
Award winners can be seen performing
informal place to get to know some of the
Chapel Performance Space here at this adored jazz club. While most
city’s best musicians up close, and welcomes
4649 Sunnyside Ave N. acts are jazz, a mix of funk, blues, and
all ages until 10pm. Located in historic
waywardmusic.org soul can also be found in their listings.
Columbia City, the space also includes a
Designated as a historic Seattle Landmark The venue is all-ages, all of the time with
restaurant and bar. Though performances
in 1984, this unique venue is one of the city’s prices ranging between $15-40, with both
center around jazz, The Royal Room often
dinner and non-dinner tables available.
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 11mixes it up with anything from blues to O’Brien on bass, and Lance Lu on drums. Seattle JazzEd
classical. Ticket prices are usually around Come enjoy live music, a cup of coffee, and 3201 E Republican St
$15, and increase for purchases on the a good book. To RSVP call 206.436.2960. www.seattlejazzed.org
day of the show. Be sure to reserve a table Owl ’n Thistle Jam Session An organization devoted to making jazz
through their website to get a good seat. 808 Post Ave accessible to any student in grades 4-12,
The Triple Door facebook.com/ Seattle JazzEd offers an extensive variety
216 Union St tuesdaynightowljamsession of online jazz education opportunities.
thetripledoor.net Located in a building that dates back to Ensembles, private online music lessons,
A favorite among local concert goers, the the 1800s, the Owl ’n Thistle Irish Pub and free programs including masterclasses
Triple Door is a dinner theatre venue in hosts lively sessions every Tuesday night. and daily guided practice videos are just a
Downtown Seattle whose architecture and Each week, a different house band of Se- few of their offerings. Private lessons for any
setting make the experience even more attle-area professionals plays a short set at jazz instrument are taught by top music
memorable. Their programming features 9pm and then the jam takes off from there. educators from around the PNW and are
noteworthy local and touring artists per- There’s no cover charge required to hear offered in four packs, with the option of
forming jazz, funk, blues, and even the amazing music from some of your favorite doing a 30-minute trial lesson. Masterclass-
occassional stand up comedy. While the local musicians, and even play with them es, free with a suggested donation, allow
venue’s Musiquarium Stage and Lounge yourself if you’re feeling up to it. All ages musicians to dive into a specialized music
is strictly 21+, their mainstage is all-ages until around 10pm (after the house set). topic in one-hour video classes. Their Online
for shows starting at 8pm or earlier. The This session is one you can’t miss! Guided Listening to Great Albums in jazz
mainstage is returning to live music be- history is a free opportunity for anyone to
develop as a jazz musician. Partial and full
ginning with concerts on weekends, with INSTRUCTION
tickets ranging from around $20-40. tuition waivers are available.
Private suites around the mainstage are For jazz musicians of all experience levels, Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra
also available and are perfect for families there is an opportunity for you to learn from Multiple locations
with their customizable volume and lighting the best. Seattle-area organizations offer srjo.org
control. All theatre seats receive full food lessons, masterclasses, and more, taught Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra’s program
and drink service throughout the show, by local professionals in both virtual and Jazz4Kids gives children and youth the
which you won’t want to miss since the in-person settings. Check out these offerings rare opportunity to see live jazz up close in
Triple Door’s menu features award-win- to get started. an intimate and interactive performance.
ning dishes from their sister restaurant, Jazz Night School Jazz4Kids concerts include instrument
Wild Ginger. 5415 Rainier Ave S. demonstrations by members of the Or-
jazznightschool.org/ chestra, Q&A, and instrument displays
JA M S E S S I O N S before and after the concert where kids
With an emphasis on welcoming all ages
and levels, there is truly something for can try out musical instruments. These
As jazz greats throughout history have kid-oriented events take place at both the
everyone at Jazz Night School. Musical
shown us, the best way for a musician of Nordstrom Recital Hall in Downtown
development is fostered through group and
any level to improve is to jump right in. Seattle and Kirkland Performance Center.
individual instruction, all taught by some
Sessions are open to all skill levels and are Tickets are free.
of the finest musicians and educators on
sure to offer a supportive and welcoming
Seattle’s jazz scene. A broad range of styles The Vera Project
environment. If you’re looking to develop
are represented in the music taught, from 305 Harrison St
your musicianship, try out a jam session!
Trad jazz to Brazilian jazz. Their fall session theveraproject.org/audio-stage
Couth Buzzard Jazz Sessions will begin on September 18, with classes, As a non-profit space dedicated to serv-
8310 Greenwood Ave N. lessons, and combos, all taught online and ing community members of all ages, the
buonobuzzard.com/calendar culminating in a virtual end of session Vera Project offers a variety of educational
This Greenwood neighborhood favorite performance. If you are looking for less of programs for aspiring artists of any kind,
wears many hats as a bookstore, cafe, and a commitment, the school also offers single including an audio and stage oriented
music venue. Couth Buzzard hosts a variety session interactive workshops focusing on technical program. The course will be
of jam sessions on Sunday afternoons, open a specific subject. Participation in combos returning in-person and online this fall,
to all ages and levels, including Choro jam and classes costs between $335-375, with taught by professionals from the Seattle
sessions, free improvisation sessions, and partial and full tuition waivers available. community. During workshops, participants
jazz jams. Saxophonist Kenny Mandell receive instruction on running live sound,
hosts the Free Improvisation Sessions and recording audio, stage and show manage-
Jazz Jams, with a house band featuring Al
Pignataro on guitar and keyboard, Dan
CONTINUED ON PAGE 15
12 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 13
JAZZ AROUND THE SOUND
SEPTEMBER09
Wednesday, September 1 KZ Jim O’Halloran Trio, 6pm
Calendar Venue Key
NC Marc Willett & Deanne Bracamonte, 8pm
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm Saturday, September 11 AB The Angry Beaver
JA Grace Kelly, 7:30pm AU Aurora Borealis
CH Peter Nelson-King – Feldman, 8pm
CA Casa Mexico Keyport
Thursday, September 2 EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
CH Chapel Performance Space
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm CM Crossroads Bellevue
JA Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm DT Darrell’s Tavern
JA Spyro Gyra, 9:30pm
JA Danny Seraphine, 7:30pm JA Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley
NP Frank LoCrasto, 8pm
EB El Gaucho Bellevue
Friday, September 3 Sunday, September 12 EC Edmonds Center for the Arts
CA Crosara - Afifi - Young Jazz Trio, 6pm ES El Gaucho Seattle
AB Beaver Sessions, 9pm
CM Marianna, 7pm KZ Kezira Cafe
DT Jazz Jam, 6pm
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm NC North City Bistro & Wine Shop
JA Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm NL Nectar Lounge
JA Danny Seraphine, 7:30pm Tuesday, September 14 NP Neptune Theatre
JA Danny Seraphine, 9:30pm NU Neumos
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
NC Sing Low Indigo, 8pm OW Owl ‘n Thistle
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
PT Paramount Theatre
Saturday, September 4 JA Vieux Farka Touré, 7:30pm
RR The Royal Room
OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm
CM Brazz, 7pm TD The Triple Door
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm Wednesday, September 15
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
JA Danny Seraphine, 7:30pm DT Jazz Jam, 6pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
JA Danny Seraphine, 9:30pm JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 7:30pm
JA Vieux Farka Touré, 7:30pm
NC Eric & Encarnación, 8pm JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 9:30pm
RR Piano Starts Here, 7:30pm
Sunday, September 5 Monday, September 20
Thursday, September 16
AB Beaver Sessions, 9pm RR Royal Room Collective Music Ensemble,
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm 7:30pm
DT Jazz Jam, 6pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm RR New Jazz Jam Session, 9pm
JA Danny Seraphine, 7:30pm
JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 7:30pm
Tuesday, September 7 JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 9:30pm Tuesday, September 21
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm Friday, September 17
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
CA Crosara - Afifi - Young Jazz Trio, 6pm JA The Cookers, 7:30pm
JA Davina & the Vagabonds, 7:30pm
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm
OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm PT Herbie Hancock, 7:30pm
Wednesday, September 8 JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 7:30pm
JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 9:30pm Wednesday, September 22
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
NC EntreMundos Quarteto w/ Adriana EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm Giordano, 8pm
JA Davina & the Vagabonds, 7:30pm ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
Saturday, September 18 JA The Cookers, 7:30pm
Thursday, September 9
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm Thursday, September 23
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm EC Elvin Bishop & Charlie Musselwhite, 7:30pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm
JA Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 7:30pm
JA Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm
Friday, September 10 JA Pat Metheny Side-Eye, 9:30pm
TD Duffy Bishop, 6pm Friday, September 24
EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm TD Duffy Bishop, 8:30pm
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm CH Tamara Zenobia, 8pm
JA Spyro Gyra, 7:30pm Sunday, September 19 EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
JA Spyro Gyra, 9:30pm ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm
AB Beaver Sessions, 9pm
JA Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm
14 EARSHOTJAZZ September 2021JA Peabo Bryson, 9:30pm 7:30pm
NC Jovino Santos Neto Quinteto, 8pm RR New Jazz Jam Session, 9pm
TD
TD
Brian Nova Big Band, 6pm
Brian Nova Big Band, 8:30pm
TD Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra, 7:30pm
WEEKLY
Tuesday, September 28
Saturday, September 25 EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
JAMS &
AU Lane James Band, 8:30pm ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm SESSIONS
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm JA Paquito D’Rivera, 7:30pm
SUNDAYS
ES Daniel Davison, 5:30pm OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm
JA Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm DT 6PM, DARRELL’S TAVERN
JA Peabo Bryson, 9:30pm Wednesday, September 29 AB 9PM, BEAVER SESSIONS
TD Ottmar Liebert & Luna Negra, 7:30pm EB Tom Kellock, 5:30pm
ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm MONDAYS
Sunday, September 26 JA Paquito D’Rivera, 7:30pm RR 7:30PM, NEW JAZZ JAM SESSION
AB Beaver Sessions, 9pm NU Julian Lage (Concert & Master Class), 8pm NL 8PM, MO’ JAM MONDAYS
DT Jazz Jam, 6pm
JA Peabo Bryson, 7:30pm Thursday, September 30 TUESDAYS
EB Eric Verlinde, 5:30pm
Monday, September 27 ES Paul Richardson, 5:30pm
OW 9:30PM, OWL ‘N THISTLE
RR Royal Room Collective Music Ensemble, JA Gerald Albright, 7:30pm
JAZZ FOR ALL AGES, FROM PAGE 12 Savoy Swing Club
Multiple locations
ment, event planning, and concert lighting. savoyswing.org
Their talented teaching staff is happy to
Swinging since 1992, the Savoy Swing
tailor a class to an individual’s needs, and
Club is a member-supported non-profit
you’ll get hands-on experience at shows put
that continues to teach and dance
on at the Vera Project. Private classes cost
various kinds of partner swing dancing.
$30 per attendee, with a minimum of six
Events include Monday Swing sessions
participants required. Scholarships for the
and Savoy Practice Space on Tuesday
workshops are also available by application.
evenings. Those with a membership,
which starts at $10 a month, receive
DA N C E O P P O R T U N I T I E S free admission to weekly dances, along
with free lessons on Monday nights.
For novices and experts alike, swing dancing
The Club’s dances are hosted at various
is sure to be an exciting and memorable
dance halls around Capitol Hill, and
way to enjoy jazz music. Seattle’s ballroom
include just about every possible form of
dance scene has something for every genre
partner dance, from the Balboa to the
and level, from beginner salsa lessons to tap
Foxtrot.
dances. Enjoy incredible music and iconic
Seattle venues at these events. T-Town Swing
Century Ballroom 902 Market St
915 E. Pine St syncopationfoundation.org
centuryballroom.com The swing dancing scene doesn’t end in
This iconic Seattle dance hall checks every Seattle, because Tacoma’s premier swing
box with its private lessons, classes, and dance club, T-Town Swing, offers popular
workshops in Lindy Hop and West Coast weekly social dances for both swing and
Swing, as well as salsa, tap, and more. There Lindy Hop. Admission is just $10 or $7 with
are offerings for all experience levels, with a valid student ID! Dancers of all levels
both one-off classes and ongoing series are welcome! A free beginner’s lesson is
offered. See the full schedule, ticket prices, offered a half hour before the social, with
and register at their website. Although paid admission. You can register online
most dances at Century Ballroom are 21+ or pay at the door, no partner required.
(for now), their classes are always all-ages!
September 2021 EARSHOTJAZZ 15Earshot Jazz
PRSRT MKT
3417 Fremont Ave N #221
Earshot Jazz is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization
Seattle, WA 98103 3417 Fremont Ave N #221 US Postage
Seattle, WA 98103 PAID
Permit #241
Wenatchee, WA 98801
A Mirror and Focus for the Jazz Community September 2021
Volume 37, No. 09
Change Service Requested
Seattle, Washington
Marina Albero
Marina Albero photo by Daniel Sheehan
Marina Albero photo by Daniel Sheehan
Membership
IN THIS ISSUE
Letter from the Director:
Your membership helps support all our community programs and
Tomorrow Never Knows 2 concert presentations. It also brings the magazine to your door and
entitles you to discounts at Earshot events.
In Memoriam: Become a member today!
Heather Hammond (1945-2021) 3 q Individual Membership $60/yr
q Household Membership $96/yr
Notes 4 q Patron Membership $150/yr
q Sustaining Membership $300/yr
2021 Earshot Jazz Festival Announcement 5
q Discounted Membership $36/yr available for
___ Senior Citizens ___ Students ___ Veterans
Profile: Marina Albero
Other
2021 Festival Resident Artist 6
q To receive this magazine First Class mail add $10
Preview: Jazz Opera Sanctuaries q Additional Donation included for $___________
Tells Stories of Black Erasure NAME
in Portland and Beyond 8 ADDRESS
Preview: DjangoFest Northwest 9
CITY/STATE/ZIP
Catching up with: The Royal Room 10
PHONE # EMAIL
Feature: Jazz For All Ages 11 Earshot Jazz is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization. Ask your employer if they have a
matching gift program. It can easily double the value of your membership or donation.
Mail: Earshot Jazz, 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221, Seattle, WA 98103
Jazz Around the Sound 14 Online: earshot.org/membershipYou can also read
