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| Woody Allen to Open Rochester International Jazz Festival  Woody Allen and his New Orleans Jazz Band will open the fifth annual Rochester International Jazz Festival in an exclusive benefit concert June 9th at the Eastman Theatre. "This historic performance on opening night is a celebration of Woody's love for American jazz and of where this art form was born and that's New Orleans, " said John Nugent, Producer and Artistic Director for the Rochester International Jazz Festival. "We feel very fortunate to have been selected as the festival at which he has chosen to appear."The Rochester International Jazz Festival presented by Heluva Good Quality Foods runs June 9-17 and will feature more than 100 concerts and 500 musicians at multiple venues. The full artist lineup and schedule for the Club Pass Series, Senator Jim Alesi Eastman Theatre series, and free concerts on outdoor stages will be announced April 6. "As a fan of Woody Allen films for many years I have always admired the soundtracks, which have always featured jazz. After seeing "Wild Man Blues" (1998), I knew I had to do something to present this legendary filmmaker and musician, " noted Nugent. "The past year has dealt devastation to New Orleans. In addition to this spectacular opening night concert with Woody Allen, this year's Festival will feature many New Orleans groups, which we hope will be a fitting tribute to the musical gifts of that great city." Woody Allen and his New Orleans Jazz Band has been performing for almost25 years. Usually playing in Europe and at the Cafe Carlyle in New York City, this concert marks a rare performance in a large U.S. venue. In addition to Allen on clarinet, band members include Simon Wettenhall (trumpet), Jerry Zigmont (trombone), Cynthia Sayer (piano), Director - Eddy Davis (banjo), Conal Fowlkes (string bass), and Rob Garcia (drums). write your comments about the article :: © 2006 Jazz News :: home page |