The Road

Later in the week, I’ll be posting from Rochester, New York, and the ninth annual Swing ‘n Jazz, an event supporting The Commission Project’s music education of young people. In this context, “Swing” refers to both music and golf. A tournament on Sunday raises money for the education. Workshops accomplish the learning during a three-day event, and throughout the year by way of commissioned works that provide educational opportunities for children of all ages. Trumpeter Marvin Stamm is the musical director of this year’s Swing ‘n Jazz. His faculty comes from the Eastman School, other educational institutions and the New York City jazz scene. Reversing the old axiom, this is a case in which those who can, do, and teach.
Last year’s faculty stayed over for two days and recorded a CD, The Swing ‘n Jazz All-Stars, under the direction of the trombonist Fred Wesley. It was just released. I can’t offer a full-fledged review, but I liked what I heard the first time through. Stamm is impressive throughout, and there’s a nifty bass duet by Jay Leonhart and Keter Betts. Sadly, Betts died not long after the session.