Event will open strong, keep steam

By JOHN PATRICK GATTA
VINDICATOR CORRESPONDENT
With the opening of this year's Tri-C JazzFest approaching, its organizers must be unable to sleep, a result of giddiness because of the array of talent at this year's lineup or paralyzing terror at coordinating dozens of musicians at multiple venues.
The annual festival celebrates its 25th anniversary with two star-studded events, yet doesn't lose any steam over the next nine days when veteran artists as well as the next generation of jazz display their creative gifts at concerts, workshops and clinics. Altogether, JazzFest presents opportunities for fans to catch some of the top musicians perform as well as discover the intricacies of the material.
On April 16, the Allen Theatre stage in Cleveland will be filled with a who's who of contemporary artists. They take part in "Silver On Silver," a tribute to hardbop pioneer pianist Horace Silver, whose work with the Jazz Messengers back in the 1950s influenced scores of musicians and whose compositions such as "Opus De Funk" and "Doodlin'" remain classics of the genre.
Those participating in the program include Al Jarreau, David Sanborn, Joe Sample, the Brecker Brothers, Christian McBride and former Cleveland resident Joe Lovano.
LiPuma
The next night will feature "The Art of LiPuma." The title refers to Cleveland native Tommy LiPuma, who is the chairman of the well-respected jazz label Verve records. As a producer of jazz and pop albums, his work has received 21 gold and platinum awards, 30 Grammy nominations and three Grammy awards.
Honoring LiPuma on this night is a cast of musical heavyweights including Diana Krall, George Benson, Dr. John, Christian McBride, David Newman, Joe Lovano and Cleveland's critically acclaimed jazz vocalist, Jimmy Scott.
LiPuma also contributes selected pieces from his private collection of American modernism art from the first half of the 20th century for an exhibition that runs through July 18 at the Cleveland Museum of Art. In conjunction with this, there will be a performance by Regina Carter Quintet. The violinist recently topped the jazz and classical charts with an album that features her playing a violin used by the legendary 19th century player Nicolo Paganini.
Like Carter's work, the crossing of musical boundaries becomes a major theme at this year's Tri-C JazzFest:
Opening night
A program on opening night Wednesday highlights instrumental works by Broadway legend Stephen Sondheim and conductor/composer Leonard Bernstein. The Zawinul Syndicate's music offers listeners a global vision. Hip hop jazz artists focus on the jazz fusion style in a show that mixes live playing, a DJ and a vocalist. The 12-piece Spanish Harlem Orchestra features alumni from some of the world's great salsa bands. Brian Auger's Oblivion Express returns to Northeast Ohio with his blend of rock and funk that has influenced the acid jazz scene.
With its typical nod to the genre's past and a boost to the future of jazz, the 25th Anniversary edition of the Tri-C JazzFest once again will strike a balance to satisfy purists and those who see the need for the genre to expand and mutate into new forms.