http://www.rochesterjazz.com/ Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival - June 21-29, 2013 en-us Thu, 21 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT Thu, 21 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT Get ready for another British invasion - of the spectacular musical kind!

Made in the UK, which was launched at XRIJF, has now become the largest presentation of British jazz outside of the United Kingdom.

See the full schedule and read more about these talented artists.

June 21 Cleveland Watkiss - hailed by Time Out as 'the Sonny Rollins of the human voice' and as the "best jazz singer in Britain" (Evening Standard). With his Quartet, he brings together three of the foremost musicians on the British jazz scene - Mark Hodgson on bass, Shaney Forbes on drums and Jonathan Gee on piano.

June 22 YolanDa Brown - The award-winning female saxophonist's new album, April Showers, May Flowers is a beautifully sculpted record that touches lightly on jazz and soul and R&B, each track bestowed with the kind of lyrical insight - on love, on life - that suggests its author is something of a poet, too.

June 23 Christine Tobin - this Irish-born singer will perform her celebrated album 'Sailing to Byzantium.' Her style, although rooted in jazz, is steeped in the singer-songwriter tradition and draws on a broad range of influences from her own Irish background to West Africa and Brazil.

June 24 Michael Mwenso - The singer also hosts Dizzy's Club at Jazz Lincoln Center's late night jazz sessions, a role he previously held at London's Ronnie Scott's before being head-hunted by Wynton Marsalis. As a child, after meeting James Brown when he would perform in London, Brown often allowed Michael to sing with him when on tour in Europe.

June 25 Julian Arguelles Quartet - 2012 'Scottish Jazz Musician of the Year' saxophonist will make a rare performance on this side of the Atlantic. These world class musicians explore the relationship between composition and improvisation, trying to blur the lines, using aesthetics derived from classical, folk and pop music within the freedom provided by a jazz sensibility.

June 26 Soweto Kinch - The saxophonist/rapper made enough waves at XRIJF in 2011 and after putting together a full Canadian tour this year, did not want to miss dropping into the Christ Church again. He is one of the most exciting and versatile young musicians in both the British jazz and hip hop scenes.

June 27 Zoe Rahman - The British-Bengali pianist is taking a break from the bands of Courtney Pine, Jerry Dammers and George Mraz to bring her own quartet to USA for the first time. A vibrant and highly individual pianist/composer, her style is deeply rooted in jazz yet it reflects her classical background, heritage and very broad musical taste.

June 28 Phronesis - Jazzwise Magazine called Phronesis 'one of the most exciting bands on the planet,' and 'the most exciting and imaginative piano trio since EST.' The Scandinavian/British jazz trio has the ability to excite, inspire and move people in a way that few bands are able to do. They return to XRIJF after a great reception here in 2011.

June 29 Gwilym Simcock - One of the most gifted pianists and imaginative composers on the British scene, he called "an original. A creative genius" by Chick Corea. He is fresh from touring alongside Adam Nussbaum and Steve Swallow with the Impossible Gentleman, Gwilym will be performing a solo piano concert.

Made in the UK Is made possible by the generous support of: Arts Council England, Creative Scotland, and in association with ESIP and Jazz Services UK.

Link: http://www.rochesterjazz.com/venues/?venue_id=33]]> Fri, 17 May 2013 07:00:00 GMT
The XRIJF headliner show at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre starts at 7:30PM. Tickets are on sale now at rochesterjazz.com.

Peter Frampton, the English multi-instrumentalist, singer, musician and producer remains one of the most celebrated artists and guitarists in rock history. At 16, he was lead singer and guitarist for British teen band the Herd. At 18, he co-founded one of the first super groups, seminal rock act Humble Pie. He is best known for some of his classic hit singles such as I'm in You, Do You Feel Like We Do, Baby, I Love Your Way and Show Me the Way and his use of the guitar effect known as talk box. These songs remain classic rock radio staples.His fifth solo album, the electrifying Frampton Comes Alive!, is one of the top-selling live records of all time.

Robert Cray With 5 Grammy Awards, 15 nominations, millions of record sales worldwide, and thousands of sold out performances, rock blues icon Robert Cray is considered "one of the greatest guitarists of his generation." Rolling Stone Magazine in their April 2011 issue credits Cray with reinventing the blues with his "distinct razor sharp guitar playing" that "introduced a new generation of mainstream rock fans to the language and form of the blues" with the release of his Strong Persuader album in 1986.

Don Felder is the former lead guitarist of The Eagles, one of the most popular and influential rock groups of our time. A member of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame since 1998, Felder served as a key member of The Eagles for 27 years, putting his mark on numerous Eagles milestones. Felder originated and co-wrote The Eagles' biggest hit - the iconic, Grammy-studded smash "Hotel California" - along with fan favorites like "Victim of Love" and "Those Shoes." He became immediately celebrated for his lyrical, signature guitar work on legendary songs like "Life in the Fast Lane," "One of These Nights," "New Kid In Town," and numerous more.

http://rochesterjazz.com/artist_lineup/?artist_id=936]]> Thu, 16 May 2013 07:00:00 GMT
The XRIJF app makes it easy for festival fans to get the latest news, schedule, artist information, photos, maps, venues, travel information and buy tickets. There are also options to:

- Select favorite artists.
- Share information on Facebook and Twitter or email.
- Create a personal festival agenda.
- Use the search tool for easy browsing through concert files and artist profiles.
- Find your way! Click on any venue or artist and get a quick map of how to get there from where you are.
- Get a concert reminder alert for to shows about to start.

How to Download

For iPhone: download now free from iTunes.com at http://www.oneevent-oneapp.com/rochesterjazzfestival-2013/

For Android download now free from googleplay.com at http://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.greencopper.android.rochesterjazzfestival

About XRIJF
The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 2012 Festival drew more than 187,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform.

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The exhibit features almost 200 select works of 13 photographers who have covered the festival from 2002 to 2012.

The show runs though June 30, 2013 and is free and open to the public. It includes the work of Frank DeBlase, Jim Dolan, Mark Druziak, Tom Flint, Tom Frizelle, Tim Fuss, Garry Geer, Kelli Marsh, Peter Parts, Michael Riebesehl, Fred SanFilipo, Don Ver Ploeg and Kelley Yost.

Sally Wood Winslow, Director of the High Falls Fine Art Gallery, invited the festival to exhibit at the gallery.

Garry Geer, who produced the show, has been an official festival photographer for the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival (XRIJF) since 2004. Geer said, "The show is a tribute to all of the photographers and the festival producers, John Nugent and Marc Iacona, whose efforts enrich our lives every year."

Tim Fuss, also an XRIJF official photographer, helped hang the show.

"Each year we are privileged to have an exceptional team of photographers document the festival, providing their unique perspectives on the many facets of the festival from performances to audiences," said John Nugent, Festival Producer and Artistic Director. "This exhibit will provide a fascinating glimpse of highlights of the festival over the past 11 years that we know the public will enjoy."

The High Falls Gallery located at 60 Brown's Race in Rochester, NY is open Wednesday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Saturday from 12 noon to 5:30 p.m. and Sunday 1-5 p.m. It is closed Monday and Tuesday.

About XRIJF
The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 2012 Festival drew more than 187,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform. This year's festival, June 21-29, will present more than 1200 artists over nine days at 19 venues.

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]]> Tue, 07 May 2013 07:00:00 GMT
The XRIJF 12th Edition will feature Bob James & David Sanborn with Special Guest Steve Gadd, David Byrne and St. Vincent, Roger Hodgson, Pink Martini, Willie Nelson & Family (SOLD OUT), Frampton's Guitar Circus, Trombone Shorty (his fourth appearance at XRIJF), Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Dr. John, Christian McBride's Inside Straight, Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio, Louis Armstrong Society Jazz Band, Alfredo Rodriguez Trio, John Patitucci Trio, Gretchen Parlato, Gregory Porter, Kurt Elling, New York Voices, Eric Alexander & Harold Mabern, Kurt Rosenwinkel, Anat Cohen, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Youn Sun Nah & Ulf Wakenius, Larry Goldings-Peter Bernstein-Bill Stewart, Matt Herskowitz Bach to Brubeck, Ravi Coltrane Quartet, Ben Taylor, Gregoire Maret, Terell Stafford, Hilario Duran Trio and many more!

More than 1200 artists from around the world will perform in 280 concerts including more than 75 free shows at 19 venues and outdoor stages. Last year's festival drew more than 187,000 people from around the world and across the U.S. XRIJF has grown to become one of the world's largest jazz festivals with one of the nation's most extensive international lineups. With bands coming to XRIJF from more than 15 countries, the festival will offer something musically exciting for everyone.

"I am very excited and am looking forward to year 12," said Marc Iacona, Producer and Executive Director. "The festival has fast become a best-in-class event for culture and music for Rochester, New York State and the world. Local businesses will benefit from the economic impact from almost two hundred thousand attendees. This year we are pleased to add the Little Theatre as a new Club Pass venue. We are welcoming four new sponsors, Wegmans, Unity Health System, Delta Air Lines, LiDestri Spirits and CMI Communications. And with the support of Wegmans, we will be expanding our jazz improv educational program for youth with a new five-day jazz workshop series."

"As we prepare to welcome the world to the 12th edition of the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival, the concept we have created - 'it's not who you know, it's who you don't know' - has once again proven true," said John Nugent, Producer and Artistic Director. "We have had strong advance sales for Club Pass before any artists were announced. Our headliners this year are also either sold out or near capacity and we expect the free shows to attract tens of thousands to downtown Rochester."

"We've learned that music lovers truly enjoy artistic discovery and our nine-day voyage into the musical unknown," added Nugent. "We salute our incredible patrons and sponsors for their belief in the power of great music and the amazing artists who bring their creativity to us at the highest level."

Headliner Series Tickets on Sale Now at rochesterjazz.com.
June 21 - An Evening with Pink Martini, $105/$85/$70/$55 + service charges
June 22 - An Evening with Willie Nelson & Family - SOLD OUT
June 25 - David Byrne & St. Vincent, $105/$95/$85/$70 + service charges
June 26 - Roger Hodgson The Legendary Voice of Supertramp, $125/$105/$85/$70 + service charges
June 27 - Bob James and David Sanborn with Special Guest Steve Gadd, $85/$70/$55/$40 + service charges
June 28 - Frampton's Guitars Circus, featuring Peter Frampton and Robert Cray, $125/$105/$85/$70 + service charges

Free Shows - All shows FREE! No tickets required. Shows go on rain or shine.

City of Rochester Jazz Street Stage Presented by The Community Foundation
June 21-29, all nine days on Gibbs Street (Jazz Street), concerts starting from 3:45pm and 4:15pm daily until 11. See full schedule at rochesterjazz.com.

City of Rochester East Avenue & Chestnut Street Stage Presented by Wegmans
June 21: 7pm, Joshua Panda & The Hot Damned / 9pm, Dr. John

City of Rochester East Avenue & Chestnut Street Stage Presented by Rochester General Health System
June 22: 7pm, Coupe De Villes / 9pm, Delbert McClinton
June 28: 7pm, The James Hunter Six / 9pm, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings
June 29: 7pm, Thunder Body / 9pm, Monty Alexander's Harlem-Kingston Express

City of Rochester East Avenue & Alexander Street Stage Presented by Rochester General Health System
June 29: 7pm, Mingo Fishtrap / 9pm, Trombone Shorty

2013 marks the sixth year for the 'Made in the UK' concert series, part of the Club Pass Series and held at Christ Church. Made in the UK has grown to become the largest presentation of British jazz outside of the United Kingdom.

This year's free scholarship concert on Monday June 24 will feature Mike Brignola with the Eastman Jazz Ensemble directed by Bill Dobbins. The winner(s) of the 2013 Scholarship will be announced at the concert. The festival has awarded more than $120,000 in scholarships to almost 30 Eastman School of Music students since 2002.

Twenty-one high school jazz bands, a record number, will perform this year on the City of Rochester Jazz Street Stage presented by The Community Foundation. See rochesterjazz.com for the schedule.

In 2013 XRIJF will one again partner with WXXI to produce televised concerts for distribution nationwide on PBS stations. Details will be announced in June.

What's New in 2013!

Jazz Workshops for Aspiring Music Students - This new series of five structured jazz workshops will be hosted by Bob Sneider, Eastman School of Music Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and Contemporary Media and Senior Instructor of Jazz Guitar, and led by five visiting international musicians performing at XRIJF. Aspiring students will have an opportunity to meet, listen to and learn from professional jazz musicians from overseas, and also play. Sponsored by Wegmans, the new series will be held in room 120, the Ray Wright Room, at Eastman School of Music from 1:00-2:30 p.m. Workshops are open to all aspiring grade school and high school music students, no registration is required.

- Saturday, June 22 Cleveland Watkiss, Voice
- Sunday, June 23 Yolanda Brown, Saxophone
- Thursday, June 27 Ryan Quigley, Trumpet
- Friday, June 28 Jasper Hoiby, Acoustic Bass
- Saturday, June 29 Gwylim Simcock, piano

Free Shuttle Service Added - For all nine days of the festival a new free shuttle service will be available connecting festival fans with City parking, garages making it easier to get to venues. The route will include multiple stops. The free service is being sponsored by AAA Horizon Club Tours and Simcona Electronics. The route and schedule will be announced in June.

Big Free Concert Added on First Friday on East Ave & Chestnut Stage Featuring Dr. John - Dr. John, the universally celebrated living embodiment of the rich musical heritage exclusive to New Orleans will perform on June 21 at 9 p.m. in a free concert sponsored by Wegmans. Joshua Panda & The Hot Damned, a rising star in the music world from Vermont will open at 7.

Festival App for Android to be Launched - In addition to the iPhone app introduced last year, this year the Festival will launch an app for Android users, which will be available for download in April.

New Venue - The Little Theatre 1 is being added as a new Club Pass Venue with 18 concerts over nine days.

Free Library Series is Back - Monday June 24 - Friday June 28 with Mike Kaupa, Nick Finzer, Ted Nicolosi and Shared Jenes, Herb Smith, and Karl Stabnau.

New Venue Name - The RGE-LiDestri Spirit Stage at the corner of Chestnut Street and East Ave will feature free concerts June 23 - 27 including the Bill Tiberio Band, Violet Mary, Calle Uno, Jimmie Highsmith Jr. Experience, and Customer Service & The Gem City Horns.

Full Schedule of Concerts - See http://rochesterjazz.com/artist_lineup/ for the complete lineup.

2013 Artists (in alphabetical order) - 78 RPM Big Band, Aaron Goldberg Trio, Al Chez & The Brothers of Funk Big Band, Alfredo Rodriguez, Alfredo Rodriguez Trio, Amherst HS Jazz Band, Amy Lynn & The Gunshow, Anat Cohen, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Ben Taylor, Bill Dobbins, Bill Tiberio Band, Blaggards, Bob James & David Sanborn with Steve Gadd, Brad Turner Quartet, Brighton HS Jazz Band, Brockport Community Big Band, Brockport HS Jazz Band, Bruce Barth & Steve Nelson, Calle Uno, Canandaigua HS Jazz Band. Carmen Souza, Chris O'Leary Band, Christian McBride's Inside Straight, Christian Wallumrod Ensemble, Christine Tobin, Cleveland Watkiss, CNY Jazz Orchestra, Courtney Pine House of Legends, Culture Clash with Carl Atkins, Curley Taylor & Zydeco Trouble, Customer City & The Gem City Horns, Cyrus Chestnut, Dave Rivello Ensemble, Dave Spinner B3 Band, David Byrne & St. Vincent, Delbert McClinton, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Djabe, Dr. John Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio, Dwayne Dopsie & The Zydeco Hellraisers, Eastman Youth Jazz Orchestra, Eastman Youth Jazz Orchestra Senior Combo, Eastridge HS Jazz Band, ECMS Jazz Combo led by Bob Sneider, ECMS Jazz Combos led by Mike Kaupa & Paul Hofmann, ECMS Latin Jazz Ensemble, ECMS Saxology, Eero Koivistoinen Quartet, Eric Alexander - Harold Mabern Quartet, ESM Jazz Honors Unit, ESM-XRIJF Gerry Niewood Jazz Scholarships Performance, ESM-XRIJF Jazz Scholarships Alumni Combo, Fairport HS Jazz Band, Five Play, Frampton's Guitar Circus, Gap Mangione Big Band, Garland Jeffreys Band, Gas House Gorillas, Gates HS Jazz Band, Geoffrey Keezer, Giacomo Gates & Friends, Goldings-Stewart-Bernstein, Greater Rochester Jazz Orchestra, Greece Jazz Band, Greece- Athena HS Jazz Band, Greece- Olympia HS Jazz Band, Greece-Arcadia HS Jazz Band, Greenfield-Rosenberg Quartet, Gregoire Maret, Gregory Porter, Gretchen Parlato, Gwilym Simcock, Hackensaw Boys, Halie Loren Trio, Harold Danko, Herb Smith, Hilario Duran Trio, Hilton HS Jazz Band, Hiroya Tsukamoto & Satoshi Takeishi, Honeoye Falls HS Jazz Band, Howard Levy, Jack Allen Big Band, Jacob Karlzon & Viktoria Tolstoy, Jacob Karlzon 3, Jaimoe's Jasssz Band, Jimmie Highsmith Jr. Experience, John Mooney Band, John Nyerges Quartet, John Patitucci Trio, Josh Panda & The Hot Damned, Julian Arguelles Quartet, Karl Stabnau, Kurt Elling, Kurt Rosenwinkel Trio, Lee Fields & The Expressions, Lina Nyberg, Loren and Mark, Louis Armstrong Society Jazz Band, Marianne Trudel, Mario Romano Quartet, Marti Brom Band, Matt Herskowitz Bach to Brubeck!, MCC Jazz Band, Michael Mwenso, Michael Wollny, Mike Brignola and Friends, Mike Cottone Quartet, Mike Kaupa Quartet, Mingo Fishtrap, Monty Alexander's Harlem-Kingston Express, Music Educators Big Band Directed by Bill Tiberio, New Energy Jazz Orchestra, New Horizons Dance Band, New Horizons Vintage Jazz Band, New York Voices, Newark HS Jazz Band, Nick Finzer, Quincy Jones Presents: Nikki Yanofsky, Noah Preminger Quartet with Ben Monder, Patricia Barber, Paul Hofmann, Penfield HS Jazz Band, Phronesis, PINK MARTINI, Pittsford-Mendon HS Jazz Band, Pittsford-Sutherland HS Jazz Band, Prime Time Brass, Rafael Zaldivar, Ravi Coltrane Quartet, Ritmo Seis, Roberto Occhipinti Group, Robin McKelle & The Flytones, Rochester Metro Jazz Orchestra, Rocky Lawrence plays Robert Johnson, Roger Hodgson: The Legendary Voice of Supertramp, Rudresh Mahanthappa's Gamak, School of The Arts HS Jazz Band, Scottish National Jazz Orchestra, Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings, Shine On - The Universe of John Lennon, Shuffle Demons, Sicilian Jazz Project, Sienna Dahlen, Soul Stew, Soweto Kinch, Spencerport HS Jazz Band, Stretch Orchestra, Student Jazz Workshops at ESM Presented by Wegmans, Terell Stafford Quartet, Ted Nicolosi and Shared Genes, The Black Lillies, The Coupe De Villes, The James Hunter Six, The Sneider Brothers, Thiefs, Thunder Body, Tim Berne SnakeOil, Torben Waldorff's Wah Wah, Trio Globo with Howard Levy, Trombone Shorty, Trondheim Jazz Orchestra, Two Siberians, Tyson Naylor Trio, US Jazz Ambassadors, Vince Ercolamento & Sidesteppin, Violet Mary, Webster Schroeder HS Jazz Band, Webster-Thomas HS Jazz Band, West Irondequoit HS Jazz Band, Willie Nelson & Family, XRIJF Nightly Jazz Session with The Bob Sneider Trio, Yellowjackets, YolanDa Brown, Youn Sun-Nah & Ulf Wakenius, Zoe Rahman

Tickets & Admission
- Club Pass Series: Entry is first-come, first-served cash only, at the door for $20/ $25 per show or with the Club Pass, on sale at rochesterjazz.com for $194 plus service charge ($6 if purchased online, $8 if mailed) until sold out. Club show tickets are not available in advance.
- Headliner Shows: Tickets available at rochesterjazz.com.
- Jam Sessions at the Rochester Plaza Hotel State St. Bar & Grill: free admission, nightly from 10:30 p.m.
- Outdoor Stages: free, no tickets required, all shows rain or shine.

Information - Download the official XRIJF App for iPhones from iTunes. New this year, the festival will also offer an app for Android devices. Visit rochesterjazz.com for the full schedule, map, venue information, artist bios & photos.

About XRIJF - The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 2012 Festival drew more than 187,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform. It is sponsored by Xerox, the City of Rochester, M&T Bank, Monroe County, the Democrat and Chronicle, Wegmans, Rochester Plaza Hotel, Eastman School of Music, Brooklyn Brewery, Michelob, Stella Artois, Unity Health System, Rochester General Health System, The Community Foundation, 13WHAM TV & The CW Rochester, Parrone Engineering, M/E Engineering, SWBR Architects, Delta Air Lines, CMI Communications, VisitRochester, Mercury Print Productions, Lidestri Spirits, RG&E, SUNY College at Brockport, Constellation Brands, DownBeat Magazine, MidTown Athletic Club, Admar, Max of Eastman Place, and House of Guitars.
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]]> Tue, 26 Mar 2013 07:00:00 GMT Full Lineup to Be Announced March 26

Rochester, NY March 19, 2013 Frampton's Guitar's Circus, featuring Grammy Award winners Peter Frampton along with Robert Cray, will perform on the last Friday June 28 of the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival at 7:30 p.m. at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. The festival's 12th Edition is June 21-29. The full 2013 artist lineup will be announced on Tuesday March 26.

Frampton remains one of the most celebrated artists and guitarists in rock history. At 16, he was the lead singer and guitarist for British band the Herd. At 18, he co-founded one of the first super groups, seminal rock act Humble Pie. His session work includes such legendary artists as George Harrison, Harry Nilsson, David Bowie, Jerry Lee Lewis, Ringo Starr, John Entwistle and many others. His fifth solo album, the electrifying Frampton Comes Alive! is one of the top-selling live records of all time. Cray, an American blues musician, guitarist and singer, is a five-time Grammy Award winner. For more information on the artists see rochesterjazz.com.

Frampton and Cray join previously announced headliners Willie Nelson and Family, Pink Martini, David Byrne & St. Vincent, Roger Hodgson The Legendary Voice of Supertramp, Bob James and David Sanborn with Special Guest Steve Gadd.

Tickets for Frampton's Guitar's Circus are $125/$105/$85/$70 + service charges. They go on sale Friday March 22 at 10 a.m. at rochesterjazz.com and from 10-2 p.m. Friday March 22 only at the Kodak Hall Oval Lobby Box Office, located at the corner of Gibbs and Main Streets in Rochester. There is a $7 service charge for all headliner tickets. To have printed tickets mailed to you, the service charge is $9.
Tickets for Willie Nelson and Family are sold out. Tickets are available for all other concerts at rochesterjazz.com.

The fastest way to order tickets is online at rochesterjazz.com with the festival's e-ticketing system. Customers who don't have computer access may order by calling 585-454-2060.

Club Pass Also on Sale
The ever-popular Club Pass, the exceptional value pass that provides entry to 221 shows at 12 venues in the festival's Club Pass Series, is still available for $194 plus service charge until sold out. The service charge is $6, $8 if mailed. Buy online only at rochesterjazz.com. Supply is limited.
Note to Editors: High-resolution photos of the artists are available at http://www.rochesterjazz.com/php/press_room.php

About XRIJF
The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 2012 Festival drew more than 187,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform. It is sponsored by Xerox, the City of Rochester, M&T Bank, Monroe County, the Democrat and Chronicle, Wegmans, Eastman School of Music, Rochester Plaza Hotel, Brooklyn Brewery, Michelob, Stella Artois, Unity Health System, Rochester General Health System, The Community Foundation, 13WHAM TV & The CW Rochester, Parrone Engineering, M/E Engineering, SWBR Architects, Delta Air Lines, Visit Rochester, Mercury Print Productions, LiDestri, RG&E, SUNY College at Brockport, Constellation Brands, DownBeat Magazine, MidTown Athletic Club, Admar, Max of Eastman Place, and House of Guitars.
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]]> Tue, 19 Mar 2013 07:00:00 GMT
Rochester, NY January 22, 2013 Producers John Nugent and Marc Iacona today announced five headliners for the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival 12th Edition, which will be held June 21-29. Tickets go on sale Friday January 25 at 10 a.m. at rochesterjazz.com.

An Evening with Pink Martini, Friday June 21, Tickets are $105/$85/$70/$55 + service charges.
An Evening with Willie Nelson & Family, Saturday June 22. Tickets are $105/$95/$85/$70 + service charges.
David Byrne & St. Vincent, Tuesday June 25. Tickets are $105/$95/$85/$70 + service charges.
Roger Hodgson The Legendary Voice of Supertramp, Wednesday June 26, Tickets are $125/$105/$85/$70 + service charges.
Bob James and David Sanborn with Special Guest Steve Gadd, Thursday June 27. Tickets are $85/$70/$55/$40 + service charges.

All performances will be at 8 p.m. at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre.

"We are excited to bring a diverse lineup of legendary headliners to our 12th edition celebrating many styles of creative improvised music," said John Nugent, Co-producer and Artistic Director. "This headliner series has a very high level of musicianship, second to none. There are also many very strong songwriters this year, and they have been around for decades, including our legendary hometown drummer Steve Gadd, who will make his premiere appearance at XRIJF with his long-time colleagues."

Nugent said one additional headliner will be announced.

Tickets
Tickets are from $40 to $125 and go on sale Friday January 25 at 10 a.m. at rochesterjazz.com. Tickets will also be on sale for one day only at the Kodak Hall Oval Lobby Box Office, located at the corner of Gibbs and Main Streets in Rochester, on Friday January 25 from 10 a.m. 5 p.m. John Nugent will be overseeing box office operations. There is a $7 service charge for all headliner tickets. To have printed tickets mailed to you, the service charge is $9.
The fastest way to order tickets is online at rochesterjazz.com with the festival's e-ticketing system. Customers who don't have computer access may order by calling 585-454-2060.

Club Pass Also on Sale
The ever-popular Club Pass, the exceptional value pass that provides entry to 221 shows at 12 venues in the festival's Club Pass Series, is still available for $194 plus service until sold out. The service charge is $6, $8 if mailed. Buy online only at rochesterjazz.com. Supply is limited. The Club Series and free show lineup will be announced on March 26.
About the 2013 Headliner Artists:

Willie Nelson - The iconic Texan is the creative genius behind historic recordings like "Crazy," "Hello Walls," "Red Headed Stranger" and "Stardust." With a career spanning six decades, and more than 200 albums, he's earned every conceivable award and honor for his profession and has amassed reputable credentials as an author, actor and activist. Born in April 1933 in Abbott, Texas, Nelson began writing songs in elementary school and played in bands as a teenager. His stardom translated to roles in feature films including The Electric Horseman, Honeysuckle Rose, Stagecoach and many more. He tours tirelessly, climbing aboard Honeysuckle Rose III, taking his music and fans on a seemingly endless journey to places that were well worth the ride. In the last five years alone Nelson delivered 10 new releases, two of which received Grammy nominations, released his debut novel and again headlined Farm Aid, an event he co-founded in 1985, all the while continuing to lobby against horse slaughter and produce his own blend of biodiesel fuel. His latest album Heroes, was released in 2012.

David Byrne & St. Vincent - Known as the force behind Talking Heads and the creator of the record-label Luaka Bop, David Byrne is also a photographer, film director, author, and solo artist. He has published and exhibited visual art for more than a decade. Among his works are Playing the Building, an interactive sound installation at NY's Battery Maritime Building and London's Roundhouse; Everything That Happens Will Happen Today, My Life in the Bush of Ghosts; and a series of unique bike racks installed throughout New York City in conjunction with the New York City Department of Transportation. Bicycle Diaries, a chronicle of his bicycle travels features narration and original music by Byrne; Talking Heads: Chronology, a DVD featuring live performances from 1976-1983; a soundwork created while in residence at Living Architecture and Artangel's A Room for London installation; and a collaboration with Will Oldham for the soundtrack of This Must be the Place. Love This Giant, Byrne's collaboration with St. Vincent and his latest book How Music Works was released in 2012. Here Lies Love, his 22-song cycle about the life of Imelda Marcos in collaboration with Fatboy Slim, will make its theatrical debut in NYC in 2013.

Roger Hodgson is recognized as one of the most gifted composers, songwriters and lyricists of our time. As the legendary voice, writer and arranger of most of Supertramp's greatest hits that led to more than 60 million record sales, his enduring songs include: "Give a Little Bit," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rx_7_BrR3Bc "Dreamer," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z2NVlpmoAVc "It's Raining Again," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yXP4zkr8GIo "Take the Long Way Home," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HfApBz4_XQk&feature=relmfu "The Logical Song," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MDiuQCz46dw "Breakfast In America," http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2iVv5tiimkg "Fool's Overture" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9LoFLS4wnKE and others. Hodgson co-founded the progressive rock band Supertramp in 1969 and was with them for 14 years. He wrote and sang most of the classic hits that brought Supertramp worldwide acclaim. Roger recently received two awards from ASCAP for his songs being in the top played songs in their repertory, proving that they have indeed stood the test of time. Hodgson left the band in 1983 to spend more time with his family and raise his small children. His songs are still played on the radio around the world, and his unforgettable voice, trademark lyrics, innovative keyboard sounds, masterful 12 string guitar and piano skills, and repertoire of non-stop hits continue to touch the hearts of three generations. All his gifts continue to shine through - in every concert he takes people on a musical journey that is both powerfully moving and intimate. Don't miss the incredible Roger Hodgson and his band at XRIJF 2013!

David Sanborn first headlined at XRIJF in 2004. This time he will be joined by the incomparable pianist, Bob James and Steve Gadd, Rochester's own world-renowned drummer. Sanborn is one of the most commercially successful American saxophonists to earn prominence since the 1980s. He has released 24 albums, won six Grammy Awards, and has had eight Gold albums and one Platinum album. Having inspired countless other musicians, Dave has worked in many genres that typically blend instrumental pop, R&B and lately, more and more traditional jazz. He released his first solo album Taking Off in 1975, but has been playing the saxophone since before he was in high school when he was inspired by the great Chicago blues artists near his hometown of St. Louis. He continues to be one of the most highly active musicians of his genre, with 2010 tour dates exceeding 150. Considered as a whole, Dave is an artist who pushes the limits and continues to make music that challenges the mind and goes Straight to The Heart.

Bob James - In a career spanning five decades, Bob James has produced an impressive body of work - more 58 albums, innumerable awards, and 15 Grammy nominations. Add to that Jazz Artist of the Year, Jazz Producer of the Decade, #1 Jazz radio hits and five #1 tracks on Billboard Jazz Charts. From his first days in Marshall, Missouri, his music has captivated audiences. James was discovered by Quincy Jones at the Notre Dame Jazz Festival in 1963, the year he recorded his first solo album. His collaboration in 1985 with David Sanborn, Double Vision, was a Grammy winner, selling over a million albums. He composed the theme song for the television series 'Taxi' as well as all original music for the show's entire run. He founded the group Fourplay in 1991, which has recorded ten albums and toured the world. Recognized as one of the progenitors of smooth jazz, his music has also had a profound effect on the history of hip-hop music and he demonstrated a different aspect of his musical on the three classical albums he has recorded. His long and varied career continues to evolve.

Steve Gadd - born in Irondequoit, NY, is an American session and studio drummer, who has worked with popular musicians from a wide range of genres. When he was seven years old, his uncle encouraged him to take drum lessons. By age eleven he had sat in with Dizzy Gillespie. By the late 1970s, Gadd was an accomplished drummer. A short list of musicians with whom Gadd has worked includes Paul McCartney, Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Al Jarreau, Joe Cocker, Bob James, Chick Corea, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, Jim Croce, Eddie Gomez, The Manhattan Transfer, Steps Ahead, Al Di Meola, Carly Simon, Jon Bon Jovi, Chet Baker, Paul Desmond, The Bee Gees, Michael McDonald, Kate Bush, and David Sanborn.

Pink Martini - Thomas Lauderdale, who was working in politics, was dismayed to find the music at many live events to be underwhelming, lackluster, loud and un-neighborly. So drawing inspiration from music from all over the world crossing genres of classical, jazz and old- fashioned pop and hoping to appeal to conservatives and liberals alike, he founded the "little orchestra" Pink Martini in 1994 to provide more beautiful and inclusive musical soundtracks for political fundraisers for causes such as civil rights, affordable housing, the environment, libraries, public broadcasting, education and parks. Featuring 10-12 musicians, Pink Martini has performed its multilingual repertoire on concert stages and with more than 50 orchestras around the world throughout the world. Pink Martini's debut album Sympathique was released independently in 1997 on the band's own label, Heinz Records. In 2011 the band released two albums A Retrospective, a collection of the band's most beloved songs spanning its 18-year career, and 1969.

Note to Editors: High-resolution photos of the artists are available at http://www.rochesterjazz.com/php/press_room.php

About XRIJF
The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 2012 Festival drew more than 187,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform. It is sponsored by Xerox, the City of Rochester, M&T Bank, Monroe County, the Democrat and Chronicle, Eastman School of Music, Rochester Plaza Hotel, Brooklyn Brewery, Michelob, Stella Artois, The Community Foundation, Rochester General Health System, 13WHAM TV & The CW Rochester, Parrone Engineering, M/E Engineering, SWBR Architects, RG&E, Visit Rochester, Mercury Print Productions, Constellation Wines, SUNY College at Brockport, AirTran, DownBeat Magazine, MidTown Athletic Club, Max of Eastman Place, and House of Guitars.

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Rochester, NY-October 22, 2012-The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival's (XRIJF) 12th Edition Club Pass goes on sale this Friday October 26 at 10 a.m. at the special holiday price of $174 plus $6 service charge, a $20 savings off the regular price.

The special price is good until 12 midnight December 31, 2012. If passes are still available, the price increases to $194 plus service charge January 1 until sold out. The service charge is $6, $8 if mailed.

Club Passes may be purchased exclusively online at rochesterjazz.com, via the Festival's state-of-the-art online E-ticketing system rolled out last year.

"We are pleased to announce that we are adding a new venue, The Little Theatre, to the 2013 Club Pass Series. That will add 18 concerts, making the 2013 Club Pass good at 221 Club Pass shows over nine days, 18 more shows than last year," said John Nugent, Artistic Director and Producer.

More than half of all Club Passes available last year were sold before the end of December, and the Club Pass sold out February 6, more than a month before the lineup was announced. The 2013 full festival lineup will be announced in March 2013.

The Club Pass is an exceptional value pass, so only a limited number of passes is available for sale. The Club Pass offers a significant savings over individual concert tickets, which will be available at the door for $20 and $25 per show. Individual Club Pass show tickets are not available in advance. Entry to all Club Pass shows is first-come, first-served with the Pass or tickets purchased at the door.

12 Club Pass Series Venues in 2013!

1. Abilene Bar and Lounge (153 Liberty Pole Way)

2. Christ Church (141 East Ave)

3. Harro East Ballroom (155 North Chestnut Street)

4. Hatch Recital Hall, Eastman East Wing (433 E. Main Street)

5. Kilbourn Hall, Eastman School of Music (26 Gibbs Street)

6. Little Theatre (240 East Avenue)

7. Max of Eastman Place (Gibbs St.)

8. Montage Grille (50 Chestnut Plaza)

9. Reformation Lutheran Church (111 North Chestnut Street)

10. Rochester Club Ballroom (120 East Ave)

11. Festival Club Pass Big Tent (Main St. & Gibbs St.)

12. Xerox Auditorium at Xerox Plaza (100 S. Clinton Ave) entrance on Broad Street)

About XRIJF

The Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by M&T Bank was founded in 2002 and is produced by John Nugent, Artistic Director and Marc Iacona, Executive Director. The 11th Edition 2012 Festival drew more than 185,000 music lovers to hear some of the finest artists in the world perform. Nugent, a noted tenor sax player, has traveled the world with many jazz artists including Tony Bennett, Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, Clark Terry, The Woody Herman Orchestra and The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Iacona, a Rochester native, business and community leader, avid trumpeter and supporter of the arts, is President of Simcona Electronics.

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Rochester NY -- July 2, 2012--The record number of fast headliner sell-outs and an earlier than ever sell-out of the Club Pass, were the first signs that the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival 11th Edition (XRIJF) was headed toward another amazing musical journey. The nine-day Festival, held June 22-30, presented more than 300 concerts at 18 venues, and drew more than 187,000 people from 30-plus states and 15 countries.

Jazz Street was a sea of smiles as people made it their destination night after night. Venues filled on weekdays and weekends with people anxious to explore the diverse menu of some of the world's best creative improvised music.

Next year's festival will be held June 21-29, 2013, the last week in June.

"I am overjoyed and overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and love from the audience," said John Nugent, Producer and Artistic Director. "Music lifts people up. Our goal was to deliver people to the heights of aural ecstasy and we provided a platform for the artists to do that. The weather was spectacular, and the attendance was what we had expected. It was a huge success and we are so grateful for the outpouring of support."

"Each year we are humbled by the reception that we receive from our community," said Producer and Executive Director Marc Iacona. "This year's festival hit another high note due to the tireless efforts of our team. We are proud that each year the festival creates a $10 million-plus economic impact on the region. That's a cumulative impact of over $100 million since the festival began. The support of our enthusiastic sponsors - government and corporate - has enabled us to deliver programming of a level that Festival Club Pass patrons and attendees have come to expect. This combination is the fuel that will drive our passion to plan, prepare and produce this festival for many years to come. 'Jazz in June' is now synonymous with Rochester, NY. We thank everyone for helping XRIJF 2012 welcome the world to our town!"

Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers, Esperanza Spalding, Zappa Plays Zappa, and Daryl Hall "Live From Daryl's House" with special guest Keb' Mo' headlined this year.

Some Highlights of Festival
At the final headliner concert featuring Norah Jones on Friday June 29, Xerox President and CEO Ursula Burns announced that the company would sign on for another three-year term as title sponsor.

The return of Norah Jones and Esperanza Spalding, both of whom made their XRIJF debuts at Max in the Club Series, this year took the stage as headliners.

Just five years ago the Made in the UK Series was launched in Rochester. Now, it is the largest annual festival of UK jazz anywhere in the world.

The addition of Hatch Recital Hall brought another popular new venue to the Club Pass series. The intimate hall became a fast favorite, filling to capacity daily.

In the festival's continuous quest to enhance the patron experience, the introduction of a new e-ticketing system and app for IPhone, were instant successes.

In its fourth year as title sponsor, Xerox offered a number of extremely popular activities for patrons including a Find Your Jazz scavenger hunt, free photo opportunity, complimentary listening stations and an augmented reality app.

Artists traveled from 14 countries including Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Scotland, Ireland, England, Norway, Sierra Leone, Hungary, Cuba, France, Italy and Russia. For many, it was their first visit to the United States.

2012 marked the Festival's 10th consecutive attendance record. In the first year, 2002, attendance was 15,000.

The closing of Main Street each evening made it easier for people spread out and move to and from venues on both sides of the street.

Three shows were filmed at Kilbourn Hall by WXXI TV for national distribution on PBS - Terrence Blanchard, Eliane Elias and Raul Midon. Previous WXXI Productions from the festival are airing nationally in more than 95% of US markets.

This year's XRIJF/Eastman School of Music Scholarship was awarded to tenor saxophonist Matthew Sieber-Ford, a senior at School of the Arts and student at the Eastman Community Music School. Since the scholarship was established in 2002, more than $100,000 has been awarded.

Fifteen regional high school jazz bands performed at the festival.

Nightly Jam Sessions at the Rochester Plaza were more popular than ever, drawing many artists, Eastman students and faculty, festival patrons and of course John Nugent. See Jam leader Bob Sneider's daily blogs on who played at http://rochesterjazz.com/php/press_room.php?id=345&option=view_entry

The annual Kids Jam attracted a record 30 kids from Washington DC, Madison, WI; Atlanta, GA; Pittsburgh, PA; New Hope, PA; Austin, TX and Rochester. Eastman faculty Bob Sneider, Jeff Campbell, Rich Thompson, and graduate student Reuben Allen provided instruction. Sneider, who directed the Jam said, "They played mostly traditional jazz instruments, except for a young ukulele player. Some had no jazz experience, and others had vast experience. It was a nice mix."

Rochester Education Foundation's (REF) musical instrument collection also set a record, receiving 22 instruments and many accessories donated during the festival with the promise of more to be delivered afterward. M&T Bank once again donated its booth to REF. "The winner of the survey of Worst of the Worst villains in children's literature was Harry Potter's Voldemort," said Pat Braus. REF Executive Director. "REF will purchase additional Harry Potter books to distribute to city kids as a result. The winning school in the poll was School of the Arts, so its library will receive a book collection for students to enjoy." Instruments donations can be made throughout the year by contacting REF at (585) 271-5790 or info@rochestereducation.org.

Official Festival merchandise and posters from this year will be added to the online store at rochesterjazz.com in a couple weeks.

Check out festival photos at http://rochesterjazz.com/php/festival_photos.php and on Facebook, where we will be adding several themed albums.

Until next year...

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Also for the 11th straight year, the incomparable Bob Sneider (hardest working guitarist in western, NY!) leads our festival nightly jam session. Join Bob, Phil Flanigan and Mike Melito as they burn through all the classics. You never know who will show up!

Here are Bob's jam blogs.

Jam Session Blog #9 - June 30:

Last night lived up to the billing. Mordecai Lipshutz did not disappoint. He brought the goods on We'll Be Together Again and In A Mellowtone. His heartfelt tribute to the festival and this Community was special. Just before Mordecai's finale was Mederic Collignon -- that was a lot different than anything I've ever heard. Two of the girls from Chic Gamine sat in, as did Canadian buddies Mark Kelso, Roberto Occhipinti, a trumpet player I'm spacing on. Joe Kozlowski and Mike Cottone burned on Cherokee. John Nugent and Pat LaBarbera tore it up on "Song is You" -- fast tempo! Beautiful vocal rendition and fancy guitar work by Dawn Thomson on "How Deep is The Ocean". Set one was an inspired trio set. Set two began with Bill Dobbins on piano for a couple of amazing tunes (Bouncin' With Bud and If I should Lose You). Great reminder of how much amazing talent we have right here in ROCH! Madeline Forster had a nice vocal on "Sometimes I'm Happy"....oh yeah and Charles Pryor -- trumpet in Big James and the Chicago Playboys played Harmon muted trumpet on 'Round Midnight'...brothers Nelsen Campbell and Westin Campbell trombone and bass respectively played "Night in Tunisia"......Bed.....see you on the scene.

Jam Session Blog #8 - June 29:

Trio set with Mike Melito and Phil Flanigan -- A Beautiful Friendship, West Coast Blues, Witchcraft and Soon. Great crowd!

Set two started with a young pianist from CA who's attending the Eastman Summer Session, followed by Robbie Botos (piano)...wow! Also had 2 trumpet players from Big James and the Chicago Players (Charles Pryor and Ephraim Owens). Canadian all star rhythm ...section of Robbie Botos, Mark Kelso, and Mike Down backed up a spirited father and son tenor fest (CJ Zarniak and Conrad Zarniak) -- never heard those guys play better! Roy Haynes' pianist (Martin Bejerano) and Bassist (David Wong) joined in for a few tunes -- including Old Milestones with John Nugent. They had just played that tune with Roy in Kilbourn. Katie Ernst(bass / voice) and her entire band from Chicago played + Reuben Allen. So many other sit-ins hard to remember them all! Finished the evening with a killer version of Bag's Groove featuring Mike Cottone, Ephraim Owens, Robbie Botos, Roberto Ochipinti and Mark Kelso. Crowd was very receptive tonight! Tomorrow night is last night of the fest. Be advised: sitting in is not a 100% guarantee you'll play if you sign up. Tonight we ran out of time. If you've played a bunch this week, remember to leave room for others. We don't always go in exact order of the sign-up sheet. Apologies to those we could not fit in. Bed! Kids Jam Session Room 120 Eastman School of Music at 2PM!!!! Saturday. Ages 14-19 (younger upon teacher recommendation).

Jam Session Blog #7 - June 28: The biggest ovation of the night went to Aidan Sciortino (an 11 or 12 year old trumpet player) playing "Don't Get Around Much Anymore" with his teacher -- Herb Smith. Lots of great sit-ins: local talent (Adrian Adrian Justin DiMatteo and Matthew Sieber-Ford got to play a tune with John Nugent and the trio), Ian Richard Schaefer and Sam Kastner, Nick Brust, Oliver Haynes, Chet Catallo amd Mark Cassara, CJ Zarniak, Matthew Smith, Jr from Dwayne Doopsie Zydeco...Mario Abiney(and a few of his bandmates from New Orleans), bassists: Essiet Essiet, Barry Stephenson, Roberto Ochipinti. A big hit of the night was Dominick Farinacci sitting in on Flugelhorn. I'm probably leaving some people out....off to bed...

Jam Session Blog #6 - June 27, 2012: First time I ever went through the jam without a break...not recommended...but so worth it last night. The evening started out with Tom Lange - violin and Mario Abney - trumpet...followed by Andrew Baham from Big Sam's Funky Nation....then the Nuge...followed by Steve Fischwick / Osian Roberts / Mike Karn for 'Woody'n You'. Benny Green joined in for Sonny Rollins' "Solid" -- Benny was off the hook. For those of you that don't know of Fischwick and Roberts, they are the real deal. So many great groupings with Shirantha Beddage, Mike Down, Mike Cottone, Joe Butts (from Evette Landry's band), Ethan Helm, Wils McKenna....somehow we completely ran out of time. Bobby Henry joined in on Bird's 'Bloomdido'....left handed upside down guitar....what? It's getting very difficult to fit people in every night. Repeat players might not be able to play every day. Off to bed....noontime gig at the Rochester Public Library -- some special guests from the UK will be joining my trio!

Jam Session Blog #5 - June 26, 2012: Was an epic night with Benny Green sitting in! Wow! the second set was almost two hours -- yikes! Set two started with Mark Zeger on trumpet. A bunch of Eastman Youth Jazz Orchestra members followed -- including Ian Richard Schaefer, CJ Zarniak, Evan Lane, Andy Narotsky and Joey Van Leuwen...they played Wes Montgomery's "Road Song" with me. John Nugent came up for a couple of tunes "Giant Steps" and "Doxy". Scotland's Tommy Smith followed on tenor. Doug Stone, Nelsen Campbell and Jeff Campbell joined in on "Broadway" -- brisk tempo and swinging! Then Benny Green! Benny played Unit 7 (Sam Jones) and Ow! (Dizzy Gillespie). On Ow! Essiet Essiet played bass. Lots more in set three...friends from Scotland, Toronto, Kentucky and Rochester joined in -- including Mike Cottone. Great night. My Bed is calling....!

Jam Session Blog #4, June 25
Another amazing night of music making at the Rochester Plaza. We had the young guns of the Eastman Youth Jazz orchestra, a bunch of Eastman students....some Eastman grads -- notably Mike Cottone, Jesse Breheney and Nick Brust. Dawn Thomson (guitar and voice) joined her husband John Nugent and the Trio for "Corocvado". We had a bunch of other vocalists Al Foreman, Vanes...sa Mangione, and a gentleman....I've forgotten his name. After Mike Cottone and Alexa Tarrantino tore it up on "Confirmation", I brought up Alistair Duncan and Gabe Condon for a tune and much to everyone's delight Nicholas Payton joined us on trumpet. That gentleman can play the trumpet -- UNREAL. Clarity, tone, inventive ideas -- inspiring.

Jam Session Blog #3, Sunday June 24
Lots of great playing on Sunday. John Nugent jumped up and played a few tunes...even a rare ballad 'My One and Only Love'. Stefon Harris played some mean blues on the piano (no vibes @ the Plaza) with Henry Cole(Drums), Luques Curtis(bass), Marc Schwartz (sax) and yours truly (guitar). It was a walk down memory lane -- Stefan and I last played twenty years ago! Excellent performances by the Jazz FM91 Youth All Stars -- so young but crazy talented. Three saxophones: Wils McKenna, Ethan Helm and Jonathan Parker had a tour de force on "It's you or no one". Other notable sit-ins were a contingent of Scottish musicians who closed the night out. Graham Stephen - guitar...and some other great guys. The surprise of the night was VINCE ABBRACCIANTE accordion. First accordionist in 11 years of the jam session. He was all over that thing. The sound of guitar trio + accordion brought me back to some great recordings of Art Van Damme with either Joe Pass or Jimmy Raney...neat sound. Gabe Condon, Mike Conrad and Alexa Tarantino from Eastman were superb as well. I probably left out a few...I'll check the sheet tomorrow!"

Jam Session Blog #2, Saturday June 23
Wild night for sure. Had some great players up there tonight especially Pat LaBarbera/Jonas Kulhammer/John Nugent/ Bill Cunliffe / Neil Swainson sitting in for "Blues Up and Down"....whoa. Lots of great young players home from college for the summer. Eastman School of Music Professor - Sylvie Beaudette had a lovely version of Corcovad. Aaron? Saxophonist from Esperanza Spalding's band was hanging out for a while..as did drummer - Linden Rochelle. Matthias Eich's band played with me. Pianist - Danny Grissett, Jonathan Richards - bass, Joe Labarbera - drums, Justin Brown - drums all played. Nelsen Campbell and Will Zimmer -- trombones wailed on "Sugar". Bumped into friends: Stefan Harris and Wayne Escoffery. Mike Cottone and Herb Smith -- trumpets went upstairs and crazy on Caravan. Bye -- off to bed!"

Jam Session Blog #1 Friday June 22
Since the tireless Anna Reguero / Jazz fest blogoholic is not here...I'll try to give some spotty reporting from the jams. Set one house trio -- Alex Cot (drums) and Jeff Campbell(bass) and yours truly Bob Sneider on Guitar. Notable performers from day 1: Mike Cottone (trumpet), Jonas Kulhammer(sax), Joe LaBarbera(drums), Pat LaBarbera(sax), John Nugent(sax), Neils Swainson(bass), Jonathan Richards(bassist with Joe LaBarbera), Rosie Flores(vocals), Dylan Howe(drummer from Get the Blessing)....probably forgetting a few! Some really great performances from Eastman students/recent grads: Marc Schwartz,Ben Bishop, Wil McKenna, Ethan Helm,Adrian Justin DiMatteo, Gabe Condon, Allister Duncan....I'm probably leaving a few out...Oliver, Candice...will bring list home next time!
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Also for the 11th straight year, the incomparable Bob Sneider (hardest working guitarist in western, NY!) leads our festival nightly jam session. Join Bob, Phil Flanigan and Mike Melito as they burn through all the classics. You never know who will show up!

Here are Bob's jam blogs for the first four nights. 5 nights to go!

Friday June 22
Since the tireless Anna Reguero / Jazz fest blogoholic is not here...I'll try to give some spotty reporting from the jams. Set one house trio -- Alex Cot (drums) and Jeff Campbell(bass) and yours truly Bob Sneider on Guitar. Notable performers from day 1: Mike Cottone (trumpet), Jonas Kulhammer(sax), Joe LaBarbera(drums), Pat LaBarbera(sax), John Nugent(sax), Neils Swainson(bass), Jonathan Richards(bassist with Joe LaBarbera), Rosie Flores(vocals), Dylan Howe(drummer from Get the Blessing)....probably forgetting a few! Some really great performances from Eastman students/recent grads: Marc Schwartz,Ben Bishop, Wil McKenna, Ethan Helm,Adrian Justin DiMatteo, Gabe Condon, Allister Duncan....I'm probably leaving a few out...Oliver, Candice...will bring list home next time!

Saturday June 23
Wild night for sure. Had some great players up there tonight especially Pat LaBarbera/Jonas Kulhammer/John Nugent/ Bill Cunliffe / Neil Swainson sitting in for "Blues Up and Down"....whoa. Lots of great young players home from college for the summer. Eastman School of Music Professor - Sylvie Beaudette had a lovely version of Corcovad. Aaron? Saxophonist from Esperanza Spalding's band was hanging out for a while..as did drummer - Linden Rochelle. Matthias Eich's band played with me. Pianist - Danny Grissett, Jonathan Richards - bass, Joe Labarbera - drums, Justin Brown - drums all played. Nelsen Campbell and Will Zimmer -- trombones wailed on "Sugar". Bumped into friends: Stefan Harris and Wayne Escoffery. Mike Cottone and Herb Smith -- trumpets went upstairs and crazy on Caravan. Bye -- off to bed!"

Sunday June 24
Lots of great playing on Sunday. John Nugent jumped up and played a few tunes...even a rare ballad 'My One and Only Love'. Stefon Harris played some mean blues on the piano (no vibes @ the Plaza) with Henry Cole(Drums), Luques Curtis(bass), Marc Schwartz (sax) and yours truly (guitar). It was a walk down memory lane -- Stefan and I last played twenty years ago! Excellent performances by the Jazz FM91 Youth All Stars -- so young but crazy talented. Three saxophones: Wils McKenna, Ethan Helm and Jonathan Parker had a tour de force on "It's you or no one". Other notable sit-ins were a contingent of Scottish musicians who closed the night out. Graham Stephen - guitar...and some other great guys. The surprise of the night was VINCE ABBRACCIANTE accordion. First accordionist in 11 years of the jam session. He was all over that thing. The sound of guitar trio + accordion brought me back to some great recordings of Art Van Damme with either Joe Pass or Jimmy Raney...neat sound. Gabe Condon, Mike Conrad and Alexa Tarantino from Eastman were superb as well. I probably left out a few...I'll check the sheet tomorrow!"

Monday June 25
Another amazing night of music making at the Rochester Plaza. We had the young guns of the Eastman Youth Jazz orchestra, a bunch of Eastman students....some Eastman grads -- notably Mike Cottone, Jesse Breheney and Nick Brust. Dawn Thomson (guitar and voice) joined her husband John Nugent and the Trio for "Corocvado". We had a bunch of other vocalists Al Foreman, Vanes...sa Mangione, and a gentleman....I've forgotten his name. After Mike Cottone and Alexa Tarrantino tore it up on "Confirmation", I brought up Alistair Duncan and Gabe Condon for a tune and much to everyone's delight Nicholas Payton joined us on trumpet. That gentleman can play the trumpet -- UNREAL. Clarity, tone, inventive ideas -- inspiring.]]> Tue, 26 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT Fri, 22 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT
Rochester, NY--June 22, 2012--The 11th Edition of the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival Presented by M&T Bank (rochesterjazz.com) starts today!

The nine-day festival has set attendance records for the past 10 years, drawing more than 182,000 in 2011. It has pioneered the introduction of international series including Made in the UK and Nordic Jazz Now. This year's festival will deliver more than 300 concerts at 18 venues including 70 free events. Three concerts will be filmed to air nationwide on PBS stations. Another street will be closed to accommodate crowds and a new venue, Hatch Recital Hall at Eastman School has been added.

With one of the nation's most extensive international lineups, artists will travel from 14 countries including Canada, Sweden, Denmark, Faroe Islands, Scotland, Ireland, England, Norway, Sierra Leone, Hungary, Cuba, France, Italy and Russia.

Norah Jones, Diana Krall, Steve Martin & The Steep Canyon Rangers, Esperanza Spalding, Zappa Plays Zappa, and Daryl Hall "Live From Daryl's House" with special guest Keb' Mo', will headline this year. Concerts for Krall, Jones and Martin (two shows) are sold out. Tickets for Esperanza Spalding, Daryl Hall and Zappa Plays Zappa are on sale now at rochesterjazz.com.

Diana Krall headlines tonight at 8 p.m. The sold-out show at Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre was one of several record sell-outs for this year's festival. Krall for the few still unknowing is the 41-year old sensation whose cool, heavy-lidded vocals and strikingly sensitive piano-playing has helped her transcend barriers of genre to become a popular artist of the first order who has carved herself a permanent position at the top of the jazz charts.
Exchange e-ticket for Club Pass - get your Pass before your first show at the Merchandise Tent, ticket Shop or the kiosks on Jazz St. and Main St.

Headliner Tickets - available for Zappa Plays Zappa, Esperanza Spalding and Daryl Hall with Special Guest Keb' Mo'. Buy online at rochesterjazz.com or at the Ticket Shop, corner of Jazz St. & East Ave 10 am - 11 p.m.

Club Shows - $20 or $25 (Kilbourn Hall) at the door, cash only, no advance sales, or access with a Club Pass (sold out). First-come first served.

Free Shows - on Jazz Street and in the RG&E Fusion Tent starting at 4:30 today, no tickets required, rain or shine
Main Street will close Friday, June 22 to Saturday June 30 from 5 p.m. to midnight from Gibbs to Chestnut - not to include Gibbs or Chestnut.

Food and beverages - on Jazz street, outside the Verizon Big Tent, at most venues

IPhone users, get the free XRIJF App. http://itunes.apple.com/app/id524715474

It's the 5th Anniversary of Made in the UK - we welcome all these exceptional artists to the U.S. for this milestone year.
Official Festival Gear - check out our new line of gear (and old favorites) and 24 different posters! Stop and shop at the Merchandise Tent on Jazz St.

CD's - Many artists are bringing their latest CDs, which will be available for sale at the venues following the concerts.

What Type of Jazz are You? Find out at the Xerox House of Grooves on Jazz Street. Xerox, our title sponsor, will connect you with the music you love via their Find Your Jazz scavenger hunt, a free photo opportunity and complimentary listening stations. http://www.findyourjazz.com/

Learn More about the Music at the Eastman School of Music's daily pre-concert discussion/ demonstration called Legacy of the Masters of Jazz and three jazz-related classes. June 25-30. http://www.esm.rochester.edu/summer/

Bring Your Unused Musical Instruments & Accessories to Help Kids - Donate them at the Rochester Education Foundation booth,donated by M&T Bank, in the Merchandise Tent, 5-8 p.m. daily

"A Little Taste of Jazz" Visit the Little Theatre and Little Cafe for 9 days of free films and musics, brought to you by WXXI and The Little. http://interactive.wxxi.org/jazzfest

Stop and enjoy the garden outside the Verizon Big Tent. This is part of Project Scion, which will turn City vacant lots into resident inclusive green spaces.

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Rochester, NY--June 20, 2012--Starting in just two days, more than 1000 of the finest musicians in the world from 14 countries, will perform in 300+ concerts creating another nine days of memories for Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival fans. Here's more to watch for on your journey through this year's Festival June 22-30.

Its the 5th Anniversary of Made in the UK!
John Ellson, UK coordinator of this popular series at XRIJF says, "This relationship has developed into the biggest annual festival of UK jazz anywhere in the world. It has been an exciting journey and we are proud to have brought UK jazz legends like Stan Tracey, Peter King and Norma Winstone to the festival as well as relative newcomers like Gwyneth Herbert, Neil Cowley Trio and Soweto Kinch. This wonderful opportunity has only been possible due to the generous support of producers John Nugent, Marc Iacona and all the festival staff, as well as our UK funders, particularly the British Council, Jazz Services and Creative Scotland." The 2012 lineup at the spectacular Christ Church sees the return of previous success stories Liane Carroll and Get the Blessing, and cutting edge bands including NeWt and Arun Ghosh.

Explore Hatch Hall, New Club Pass Venue
Hatch Recital Hall seats 222 people and is the latest jewel among Eastman's concert venues. Acoustically and aesthetically, this beautiful space is ideal for the acoustic solo concerts including Eldar, Bill Cunliffe, Jean Michel Pilc, Benny Green, Joanne Brackeen, Kristian Blak and more.

Project Scion: Starting today, see the formation of a garden being built outside the Verizon Big Tent using 20 tons of concrete, huge trees and decking. It's all part of Project Scion, which will turn vacant lots in Rochester into resident inclusive green spaces. The collaboration of Zaretsky & Associates and Waterford Tilling uses the healing and inspirational attributes of gardens and art to reclaim the vitality of our city's neighborhoods. What you see at the Festival will be transplanted on the corner of Jay and Child streets immediately following the festival.

What Type of Jazz are You? Find Out at the Xerox House of Grooves on Jazz Street
In its fourth year as title sponsor, Xerox works behind the scenes with producers to enhance the attendee experience. Xerox is printing passes, with built-in, state-of-the-art security features, posters, banners and other signage. They will connect you with the music you love via their Find Your Jazz scavenger hunt, a free photo opportunity and complimentary listening stations. And Xerox has created an augmented reality app that allows you to learn more about some of the popular jazz genres and choose your favorite. Browse artists by genre, listen to music samples, sync calendars with show times and locations and more-all with the free JazzFinder app available at the App Store and Google Play.

Meet Me on Main Street
Now there's more room to meet your friends! Main Street will close Friday, June 22 to Saturday June 30 from 5 p.m. to midnight from Gibbs to Chestnut-not to include Gibbs or Chestnut.

Learn More about the Music
The Eastman School of Music will offer a daily pre-concert discussion/demonstration called Legacy of the Masters of Jazz and three jazz-related classes
June 25-30 during the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival. See www.esm.rochester.edu/summer for information and to register.

WXXI/Little Theatre - Free Music, Films & Fun for Kids
The Little Theatre and WXXI are presenting "A Little Taste of Jazz" at the Little Theatre. Enjoy nine days of free jazz films including a Steve Martin marathon, the 10th Anniversary WXXI/XRIJF series of shows, and free music at the Little Cafe. Plus bring the kids to The Little on Saturday, June 30, from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. for fun free activities at Hep Kids: The Family Spot at the Jazz Fest.

Donate Your Unused Musical Instruments & Accessories to Help Kids
Donate your new or used musical instruments and musical instrument accessories to help City of Rochester kids who are interested in studying music. Bring them to the festival to the Rochester Education Foundation booth, generously donated by M&T Bank, and located in the Merchandise Tent. Volunteers will be there from 5-8 p.m. daily to take your donations. For more information: 585-271-5790 or info@rochestereducation.org.

See Press Room for artist photos, all news releases, festival background and more.

Media Contacts
Jean Dalmath | jdalmath@dalmath.com | 585-755-6911
Amanda Antinore | aantinore@dalmath.com | 585-729-7533
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A big thanks to Bill Tiberio, music educator at Fairport High School, and Alan Tirre, arts coordinator for School of the Arts for coordinating this year's performance schedule!

Here's the the schedule:

June 22
4:30 PM - Fairport HS Jazz Band -
5:15 PM - Hilton HS Jazz Band

June 23
4:30 PM - Pittsford-Sutherland HS Jazz Band
5:15 PM - Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts HS Jazz Band

June 24
4:30 PM - Brockport HS Jazz Band
5:15 PM - Spencerport HS Jazz Band

June 25
4:30 PM - Webster-Thomas HS Jazz Band

June 26
4:30 PM - Greece-Athena HS Jazz Band
5:15 PM - Gates HS Jazz Band

June 27
4:30 PM - Webster Schroeder HS Jazz Band
5:15 PM - School of The Arts HS Jazz Band

June 28
5:15 PM - Eastridge HS Jazz Band

June 29
4:30 PM - Greece- Olympia HS Jazz Band
5:15 PM - Newark HS Jazz Band

June 30
4:30 PM - West Irondequoit HS Band

http://www.rochesterjazz.com/venues/?venue_id=22]]> Thu, 21 Jun 2012 07:00:00 GMT