Happy Birthday, Sonny Rollins
posted by Brian Nation
| Living jazz legend Sonny Rollins turned 77 on Friday. Sorry I missed the actual date but I only just now discovered this great birthday present to all of us on Sonny's website, thanks to Doug Ramsey. From 1968, Newk on tenor with Kenny Drew on piano, bassist Niels Henning Orsted-Pedersen and drummer Tootie Heath performing Four. Also, a new previously unreleased track can be heard every day till September 18. To listen click here. More videos are here. On a sad note, as Melody Diachun reports in the jazz forum, Calgary musician Bob Day, master flugelhorn player and composer, passed away on Sunday, Sept. 9 at the age of 61 years. Born on August 27, 1946 in Toronto, Bob moved West in the late 1960’s where he pursued a successful music career. Known for his masterful technique, lyrical approach and gifted harmonic sensibility, Bob was regarded a top player, composer and educator in his field. As a section player, Bob played with various bands over the past 40 years, including the Rob McConnell Boss Brass, Paul Anka and Frank Sinatra Jr., to name a few. He was a gifted jazz musician, frequently leading his own groups and performing his original composition at various venues throughout the city. Bob was also an in-demand sideman, appearing on numerous recordings. A respected educator, Bob spent the last several years teaching at Mount Royal College as part of the Jazz Faculty. Bob is survived by his daughter and son-in-law Johanna and Brent Buckingham. He will also be forever remembered by his many friends whom he considered part of his family. A Gathering to celebrate Bob’s life will be held in the Reception Centre at McInnis & Holloway’s, Park Memorial Chapel (5008 Elbow Drive S.W.) on Friday, September 14, 2007 at 2:30 p.m. Forward condolences through www.mcinnisandholloway.com. If friends so desire, Memorial Tributes may be made directly to the Bob Day Memorial Scholarship Fund c/o the Mount Royal College Foundation Office, 4825 Mount Royal Gate S.W., Calgary, AB T3E 6K6 Telephone: (403) 440-7700. Source: Jazz Elements |
