The 2016 Branford Jazz Series came to a close on Thursday evening when “Saxtet” under the direction of Darren Litzie played on the Green before another enthusiastic and loyal jazz crowd estimated at approximately 600.
The concert was rescheduled after the group was rained out on Aug. 11.
The group consisted of Litzie on keys, Bob Sabin on bass, Jon Wikan on drums and five saxophone players including New York legend Andrew Beals along with Tom Imre on alto sax, Martin Sather and George Prieto on tenor sax and Frank Basile, director of the Stamford High School Marching Band, on the baritone sax.
Saxtet was formed in 2012 by a group of friends who were studying music at Western Connecticut State University. They were inspired by the Grammy-winning eight-piece jazz ensemble “Supersax,” formed in 1972 by saxophonist Med Flory and bassist Buddy Clark in tribute to iconic bebop saxophonist Charlie Parker. The audience loved them.
Food is a part of the evening ritual. “A sandwich, anyone?”
Some folks like the back of the Green to be with friends.
Some like to be on the Green. Everyone seems to have found a perfect spot.
Regulars at the jazz concerts are RTM member Bob Imperato and his wife, Teryl.
The Monument gang is always at the concerts.
A comfortable blanket works for this couple.
According to the press release provided by Saxtet, their goal was, “to hold true to the large jazz ensemble tradition of swing, but also move it forward by performing fresh, bold arrangements that have an eye firmly pointed toward the future.” Who knows, the group may have a new member playing guitar one of these years.
Saxtet opened with “Manteca,” a lively hit made popular by the renowned Dizzy Gillespie and added such classics as “How Little We Know” and “Time After Time” during the two-hour performance. These kids had a good time with each other.
Litzie, who himself was part of the “Dr. Joe (Cardinale) and Friends” group performance on Aug. 4, thanked the audience for being there and showing their appreciation for the music. “Thanks, Branford, for supporting jazz with the Branford Jazz Series. We enjoyed playing for you,” Litzie said at the conclusion of the concert.
“It was my kind of music, ” said Ron Mortali a regular at all the concerts for the past several years. “I enjoy coming here (to the Green) every Thursday and hearing great jazz like this with my friends. I’m going to miss it now that it’s over.”
Here’s to next year!
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