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| Edmonton's Yardbird Suite Celebrates 50th Anniversary The Edmonton Jazz Society, the force behind the Yardbird Jazz Suite, is proud to announce that the venerable jazz club is celebrating its 50th Anniversary this year with a special series of great jazz programming. The original Yardbird Suite opened its doors on March 23, 1957, and has gone on to become the longest-running jazz club in the nation, presenting the finest in local and international jazz and establishing itself as one of Canada's premiere venues for live music. Many of Edmonton's finest musicians are included in the 50th Anniversary celebration lineup, including pianist George Blondheim, vocalist Rhonda Withnell, saxophonist Dave Babcock, and Latin master Tilo Paiz. Of special note are two performances by the Edmonton Jazz Orchestra. Led by Kent Sangster, the E.J.O. will be playing Dale Hillary's Van Gogh Suite, arranged for large orchestra by saxophonist Bill Jamieson (Edmonton) and supported by a grant from the Edmonton Community Foundation. Hammond B3 Master Doug Riley (Prince Edward Island) and Edmonton drummer Sandro Dominelli will also be featured in the all-star lineup, presenting music they've co-composed for the event that was commissioned especially for the 50th anniversary by CBC Radio. International artists include New York tenor saxophonist Lew Tabackin, and the great jazz vocalist Mark Murphy. From Chicago is Ken Chaney, who played in the original Yardbird Suite and shared the piano duties with the pride of Edmonton, Senator Tommy Banks. write your comments about the article :: © 2007 Jazz News :: home page |