Drummer DENNIS MACKREL joined the Count Basie Orchestra on the recommendation of singer Joe Williams. After Basie’s death in 1984, Dennis continued for several years while becoming the drummer of choice for other large ensembles as he transitioned from sideman to leader to international conductor, arranger and/or soloist. Dennis’s works have been commissioned by many groups, most notably McCoy Tyner’s Big Band whose Grammy winning CDs "The Turning Point" and "Journey" include four of his arrangements. Dennis teaches globally and is a Professor at Queens College.

For over forty years, pianist/composer and Fulbright Scholar ARMEN DONELIAN has distinguished himself in 25 countries as a performer, recording artist, educator and author. Armen’s music reflects a distinctive blend of influences including his Armenian origin, his Classical technique and his association with some of the biggest names in Jazz including Sonny Rollins. And, according to Metronom Magazine (1986), he achieves this fusion “In such a natural way that one can tell it’s a master’s work.” Co-founder of Hudson Jazzworks and Professor at New School Jazz.

Bassist/composer JAY ANDERSON is among the most versatile and respected musicians performing today. He has performed/recorded with a wide range of Jazz artists and featured on over 400 recordings, seven of which have received the Grammy Award. He conducts clinics around the world and is a Professor of Jazz Bass Studies at the Manhattan School of Music in New York City. Jay currently co-leads the acclaimed group BANN featuring Seamus Blake, Oz Noy and Adam Nussbaum.

KIRK MacDONALD cut his first record at the age of thirteen and for over thirty years has established a reputation as one of Canada’s leading saxophonist/composers. He has received many awards and worked with leading musicians in a variety of musical genres both throughout Canada and internationally, appearing on over fifty CDs as both leader and sideman and often in national broadcast recordings for CBC Radio. Kirk is one of Canada’s most respected and in demand educators at The University of Toronto, Humber College, McGill University and internationally.

DENNIS MACKREL JAZZ TRIO with ARMEN DONELIAN & JAY ANDERSON
Guest KIRK MacDONALD

Dennis Mackrel, drums
Armen Donelian, piano
Jay Anderson, bass
Kirk MacDonald, tenor saxophone

SUNDAY, MAY 12, 2019, 3:00 PM

SAUGERTIES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
67 Washington Avenue (at Post Street)
Saugerties, NY 12477
(845) 679-5733
www.saugertiespromusica.org

Admission $15 - Seniors $12 - Students Free

CD sales to follow

SAUGERTIES PRO MUSICA IS A 501(C)3 NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION.