WE ARE PROUD TO PRESENT OUR 2012 PERFORMERS
We could not be more delighted than to present Pieces of a Dream. This band has 30 plus years as solid mainstays in the world of jazz with 18 HOT Albums to their credit, renown international tours and were handpicked by the late and still incredible Grover Washington, Jr as his first production unit while still in their early teens.
Keyboardist James Lloyd has been a member of the Youngstown Community for the past 13 years and we could think of no greater act to represent the height and variety of jazz in this area but the One & Only Pieces of a Dream.
Keyboardist James Lloyd has been a member of the Youngstown Community for the past 13 years and we could think of no greater act to represent the height and variety of jazz in this area but the One & Only Pieces of a Dream.
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The John Reese ProjectSuper Trombonist John Reese is a musical staple in the Youngstown area. A regular at Avalon Gardens and regional venues, the John Reese Project consistently delight audiences weekly with their unique blend of Motown,Soul, Funk and Jazz Standards. JRP frequently features saxophonist Tim Harker, pianist Jim Gerlach, drummer Tom Ruggieri and legendary bassist Wilbur Krebs. The band has performed with and opened for a Who's Who of Artists. Reese is highly regarded as a stellar musician and entertainer and we are delighted to welcome him to this year's fest.
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Alton Merrell
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Alton Merrell is a highly sought after pianist, Hammond B-3 organist, music educator, composer, and speaker. He is currently an instructor and PhD candidate at the University of Pittsburgh with an anticipated graduation date of September 2012. Alton also holds a Master of Music Degree in jazz piano performance, as well as a Bachelor of Music Degree in Music Education/Classical Piano Performance from Youngstown State University graduating Cum Laude. His extensive resume includes performances with Wynton Marsalis, Benny Golson, Conrad Herwig, Sean Jones, Kim Burrell, Martha Munizzi, Donnie McClurkin among many others. Alton is currently a member of the Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra and has performed with, the Cleveland Jazz Orchestra, Cleveland State Jazz Heritage Orchestra, Pittsburgh Concert Chorale, YSU All-Star Alumni Jazz Ensemble, Warren Philharmonic Orchestra, and the OMEA Intercollegiate All-Star Jazz Ensemble. Learn More about this dynamic pianist at altonmerrell.com and prepare yourself for an incredible show. |
Laura VarchoThe Lovely Miss Laura Varcho has opened for Boney James and Kim Waters. A dynamic, accomplished vocalist and entertainer, Laura's repertoire consists of carefully selected jazz, pop and blues tunes, which she delivers with her trademark interpretive brilliance. Known for her high energy shows whether performing with her acclaimed trio or larger ensembles, Laura captivates her audience with her charismatic stage presence and intriguing voice. If you enjoy the finest in jazz vocalists, you are in for a wonderful treat! Visit Laura's site at lauravarcho.com
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SoundoctrineReturning for a cameo appearance, SounDoctrine wowed the 2011 YJF Audience as Headliners. Committed to performing the finest in Fusion Jazz and rolling in a few of their own hit tunes, the "Originalternativefunkjazzfusion" gurus will make you Feel What You Hear! Don't know SounDoctrine, visit soundoctrine.com to learn more!
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