Jazz in the Meadow 2013 – Update #2

Things are getting ready for the grand day on July 13, 2013. We are expecting a record crowd. All preparations are made – but, as Robert Burns said “the best laid plans of mice and men often so astray”.

Our late afternoon featured guest performer, Joe Negri, has health issues. He, regretfully, had to cancel his appearance with us. His rhythm group remains the same with Max, Tom and Tony. At Joe’s suggestion, the group will be fronted by a dear friend and extraordinary musician and arranger, Mike Tomaro. Mike is the head of Jazz Studies at Duquesne University. He had played with the greatest names in jazz and has arranged for Grammy Award winners. Mike joins the pantheon of great arrangers from Pittsburgh such as John Wilson, Billy Strayhorn, Billy May, and Sam Nestico. While many of us were looking forward to seeing and hearing “Handy Man Negri” – believe me, there is no dropping off of musical talent or skill. Mike and the group will dazzle you with their music and virtuosity.

One other change – Lenny Rogers, renowned Pittsburgh jazz drummer, will be performing with Frank Cunimondo. Patty Skala will also provide vocals with that group.

Jazz in the Meadow seems to grow with each event and the talent remains top caliber.

We hope you can join us in the Laurel Highlands for the day of “friendship and jazz” – July 13.

5 thoughts to “Jazz in the Meadow 2013 – Update #2”

  1. It is with the deepest regret that I will have to miss this years Jazz in the Meadow … I was so looking forward to it …
    I’m sure you will all love Mike Tomaro and the trio.

    Regretfully, Joe Negri

  2. Brooks

    It’s getting exciting, anticipating…..Talked to Joe Negri. We go back to the late Fifties; my brother in law Jim Gillespie played bass with Joe while getting a ph.d in Psych at Pitt.

    Could you send me directions? We found it last year but now…..a little washed out.
    Thanks, Don Manges

  3. WOW, our heartfelt thanks to Brooks, Helen, Benny,the trove of amazing musicians, and the “support” team that made this year’s event an overwhelming success! While good fortune was smiling on the event as far as the weather, thoughtful planning and hard work made this year’s JITM the best ever! And what a treat to be in the company of so many friendly, knowlegeable jazz lovers. Thanks, again, for the opportunity to participate in such a wonderful tradition!

  4. Our sincere appreciation to the Bartlett/Benedum families for a beautiful event this past Saturday. The weather gods smiled upon us all as the musical notes soared to the heavens to pay tribute to the jazz masters of past and present. Thank you for your passion of the arts and keeping it alive for generations to come.

    Karen and Bob Peters

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