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| SFJAZZ 2009 Gala Celebration: "The Real McCoy" As America fully enters the 21st Century, jazz continues to sing its eclectic, democratic, improvisational song. More than any other art form, in the words of Dr. Martin Luther King "...(jazz) has strengthened us with its sweet rhythms when courage began to fail" and "...calmed us with its rich harmonies when spirits were down." Join today's vanguard of musicians, artists, humanitarians, and jazz hipsters at the annual SFJAZZ Gala on April 25 honoring one of the greatest jazz composers and pianists of all time, McCoy Tyner. The only living member of the John Coltrane Quartet who created such landmark recordings as "A Love Supreme, " Tyner released more than 60 albums as a bandleader, including The Real McCoy. and has won five Grammy Awards. Tyner will give a once-in-a-lifetime performance at the event, jamming with the critically acclaimed SFJAZZ Collective, and master of the vibraphone Bobby Hutcherson. "If there were a secret society of hipsters and humanitarians in San Francisco, this would be it, " says SFJAZZ Trustee and Event Chairman Robert Mailer Anderson. "We're an eclectic crew. Folks come from all corners of the Bay Area to celebrate what jazz was, is, and will be. Through the annual gala, our concert schedules, and school programs we keep the art form vibrant and alive - with unparalleled spirit, musicianship, and intellect. "We feel particularly inspired by this year's honoree, " he continues. "McCoy Tyner is a national treasure, one of America's most inventive and influential musicians. I can't wait to hear him play in person on April 25." The SFJAZZ Gala, to be held at the Four Seasons Hotel, will feature a cocktails and hors d'oeuvres reception and silent auction, followed by a seated dinner. Named "the leading jazz institution on the West Coast" by the Chicago Tribune, SFJAZZ is a nonprofit that leads the world music scene in its jazz creation, presentation and education. Founded in 1983, SFJAZZ presents year-round programs including the internationally acclaimed San Francisco Jazz Festival and award-winning education and community outreach programs. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Jazz News :: home page |