Enough talk about the dismissal of the west.
posted by Cory Weeds
| There is a lot of talk every year when the NJA's come around criticizing them for many different things. Some justified and some not. I have been one of those who has criticize but what has come from my criticism is a greater respect for and a great understanding of Bill King and what goes into producing the NJA's every year. A huge congratulations to Bill King, his staff and everyone involved with putting on such a wonderful event. It was first class all the way and it was such a huge pleasure to be a part of an event that celebrates this music that does not ever get the credit it deserves. All a pat on the back to the West Coast media and the jazz loving public for finally getting serious about making sure the West Coast gets represented. Last night is a perfect example of getting involved and excited about his event can make a huge difference. TRUMPTER and PRODUCER OF THE YEAR: BRAD TURNER, SAXOPHONIST OF THE YEAR: PHIL DWYER, TROMBONIST OF THE YEAR: HUGH FRASER, BASSIST OF THE YEAR, ALBUM OF THE YEAR, ACOUSTIC GROUP OF THE YEAR: JODI PROZNICK, MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR: JOE COUGHLIN, FESTIVAL OF THE YEAR: VANCOUVER JAZZ FESTIVAL, VIOLINIST: JESSE ZUBOT, CBC GALAXIE RISING STAR: CHRIS ANDREW and last but not least (in my humble opinion) LABEL OF THE YEAR: CELLAR LIVE. I would say the West was represented just fine and hopefully this will show people that if you get involved you can make a difference and that the NJA's are not some evil entity out to dismiss the great jazz being made around the country outside of Toronto. All of the performances were good but some highlights were: THE BRANDI DISTERHEFT SEXTET, and three solo performanes: pianist DAVE RESTIVO paying hommage to Doug Riley with SINGLE PEDAL OF A ROSE, guitarist REG SCHWAGER paying hommage to JEFF HEALY and ROBI BOTOS paying hommage to OSCAR PETERSON. The one that stole the show however was 14 year old singer NIKKI YANOFSKY. Yes thats right 14 years old. She came up and sang WHEN YOU WISH UPON A STAR and an absolutely blistering fast and amazing version of OLD MACDONALD HAD A FARM. It was really something. She really charmed the audience and has a very beautiful and powerful voice. It will be interesting to see how she stands the test of time and where her career will bring her. One again an amazing evening and congratualations once again to Bill King for doing such a wonderful job. Post comments in the Jazz Forum |
