Trumpeter John Vanore told us about his FONT experience…
John Vanore: The Festival of New Trumpet Music (FONT) honored legendary Canadian jazz trumpeter, flugelhornist, and composer in 2011, for his immense contributions to post-bop and avant-garde jazz. Known for his unique harmonic language, Wheeler created over 100 compositions.
FONT was a yearly celebration developed by noted New York trumpeter, Dave Douglas. The event was held at the Jazz Standard. One of New York’s famous jazz venues, a wonderful place to experience jazz. Small and intimate with excellent acoustics and good sound, the” Standard”, was a place I visited many times.
Being a trumpet player, the weekend featuring Kenny Wheeler was special. His famous recording, Music for Large and Small Ensembles, is a treasure.
On Friday and Saturday nights, October 21st and 22nd, in 2011 the music from this legendary album, was to be performed by the John Hollenbach Orchestra and featuring Kenny himself.
I was there both nights. A must see and HEAR ! The Ensemble began playing a couple Kenny’s well known pieces. Gentle Piece was especially haunting in its beauty and simplicity. Then they escorted Kenny Wheeler to the stage. Now 81 years old and not in the best of health, they helped him onto the bandstand. As Kenny soloed with the Orchestra, the power of his youth was obviously diminished, but his sound and inventiveness was as ever present . His command as a master improviser was on full display as he weaved his solos.
An exhilarating, emotional, and unforgettable experience.
John Vanore’s “Easter Island Suite” is out now.
Photo © J Paul Simeone
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