The United Nations is recognizing Jazz!  So, I know you are listening every day but on April 30, listen more, share with friends/family, play and support musicians by buying their music!

Just arrived in Paris to get ready for the inaugural gala concert to launch World Jazz Day!   have been arranging the music for the program with a great lineup:  See UNESCO announcement. And, if you are in Paris, New York or New Orleans…go to the venues as there are lots of FREE activities:  films, photos, workshops, concerts!!!

UNESCO – Announcement – World Jazz Day

The celebration will kick-off on April 27 at UNESCO Headquarters in Paris with a daylong series of jazz education programs and performances. An evening concert will feature Herbie Hancock, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Marcus Miller, Hugh Masekela, Lionel Loueke, Tania Maria, Barbara Hendricks, Gerald Clayton, Terri Lyne Carrington, China Moses, Ben Williams, Antonio Hart, and others. John Beasley will serve as Musical Director. The daytime events will include master classes, photo exhibitions, film screenings, roundtable discussions, improvisational workshops, and live performances.

International Jazz Day will be celebrated by millions worldwide on Monday, April 30 and will begin with a sunrise concert in New Orleans’ Congo Square, the birthplace of jazz. The event will feature a number of jazz luminaries along with Hancock including Dianne Reeves, Jeff ‘Tain’ Watts, New Orleans natives Terence Blanchard, Ellis Marsalis, Kermit Ruffins, Bill Summers, Treme Brass Band, Dr. Michael White, Luther Gray, and Roland Guerin.

The worldwide programs and events will conclude in New York City at the United Nations General Assembly Hall with an historic sunset concert certain to be one of the most heralded jazz celebrations of all time, with confirmed artists including Tony Bennett, Terence Blanchard, Richard Bona (Cameroon), Dee Dee Bridgewater, Candido, Ron Carter, Vinnie Colaiuta, Robert Cray, Eli Degibri, Jack DeJohnette, Sheila E., Herbie Hancock, Jimmy Heath, Zakir Hussain (India), Chaka Khan, Angelique Kidjo (Benin), Lang Lang (China), Joe Lovano, Romero Lubambo (Brazil), Shankar Mahadevan (India), Wynton Marsalis, Hugh Masekela (South Africa), Christian McBride, Danilo Perez, Dianne Reeves, Bobby Sanabria, Wayne Shorter, Esperanza Spalding, Susan Tedeschi, Derek Trucks, Hiromi Uehara (Japan) and Tarek Yamani (Lebanon). George Duke will serve as Musical Director. Co-Hosts include Robert DeNiro, Michael Douglas, Morgan Freeman and Quincy Jones.

Who are your favorite jazz greats?

I admire the musicians who dare to be original.  Those who expanded the jazz horizon and allowed us to swim further such as Herbie Hancock, Ouincy Jones, Thad Jones and Miles Davis, my idols when I was growing up.

Why is it important for young people today to learn about jazz?

Jazz is such free music, so if young people learn jazz they can write/arrange/play without feeling they need to follow a structure.  Classic jazz is a bridge to the new, so have courage to discover the unfamiliar.

What is your most memorable jazz ‘moment’?

Every rehearsal and concert with Miles and Freddie Hubbard are engrained in my memory.  I learned so much from them.  Also, performing with James Brown in front of 12,000 fans at the Hollywood Bowl is seared in memory.  I also played a piano concerto for 4 hands with my dad and my mom conducting the orchestra with my two-month old daughter in the audience.

Do you think that music (and jazz in particular) can promote peace and tolerance?

My wife works for Doctors Without Borders and I hear stories about war and intolerance in the Congo, Syria, Myanmar and many parts of the world where the group works.  She always reminds me how important music is for the doctors and nurses who work in refugee camps and remote hospitals.  They come home from a long hard day and listen to music to wind down.  So, music promotes peace of mind for them.  I can only imagine that they take the benefits from this good feeling and extend this to their patients.

Why do you think a day like International Jazz Day is important?

Jazz got a World Day! Now that’s a big achievement, because this genre of music needs and deserves more attention, more celebration, more devotion.  We need more jazz ambassadors to bring this music to the next generation from Nigeria to Nepal and see how it transforms and transcends people.

What is one action the public could do to promote Jazz Day or the values of jazz?

Discover at least one new song that day, listen, play, go to a concert, and buy music.

Do you think jazz brings together people from different cultures? Can you give examples from your personal experience?  

I started my touring career with Sergio Mendes learning from Brazilian masters like Ivan Lins.  Had a once-in-a lifetime chance to work with James Brown playing his 1965 jazz vocal jazz record with Oliver Nelson arrangements @ the Hollywood Bowl – soulful jazz!

I will never forget the time working with the spirited Baaba Maal from Senegal.  And, a year ago, my mind was truly broaden when I worked with the Indian guru, A.R. Rahman (Slumdog Millionaire)  as MD for his world tour.   We shared our love of jazz and talked about how it has influenced our own music.   And then there’s the audience – I’ve seen people from Amsterdam to South Africa to Japan swinging along.  Jazz does bring people together.

http://www.unesco.org/new/en/unesco/events/prizes-and-celebrations/celebrations/international-days/international-jazz-day/single-view/news/john_beasley/

Just finished mixing my new record with my new band “3 Brave Souls”  Very happy to be reuniting with fellow Miles Davis alums bassist Darryl Jones (Michael Jackson, Rolling Stones) and master drummer Ndugu Chancler (“Billie Jean”) for a rousing brand of jazz inspired by funk, soul and their shared Louisiana roots.   Will tease you soon with snippets of the music and have an album release with a tour coming.

Went straight from mixing to writing for an upcoming feature documentary “Patrolman P” about the NYC police corruption investigation in the 70′s…remember Serpico?”   I can’t grow my 70-s hair back, so I’ll just have to find some striped brown threads and my flowered shirt with big collars!

Next up will be 2 exciting projects with The one and only Thomas Newman:  new Aaron Sorkin TV series and the new James Bond film.

Will join my friend drummer Robby Ameen in Regensberg, Germany to do some workshops and gigs.  Sausages, jazz and beer!

From the Barvarian part of Germany, I will head to Amsterdam to visit Lorna who’s been working tirelessly with Doctors Without Borders.  I’ll be doing masterclasses at the Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Zwolle Conservatories, including a gig at Bird, Rotterdam.

International Jazz Day – April 30

YES, jazz musicians get their own day!!!
The Monk Institute has asked me to help produce the inaugural concert on April 27th and be the music director.  I’m humbled, as always.  Will let you know about the list of performers.

DETAILS:

International Jazz Day
The First Annual International Jazz Day will feature jazz luminary and UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock. 

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 Jan 21, Saturday                          8pm                      Los Angeles, CA

Luckman Jazz Orchestra:  Tribute to Hank Mobley - Guest Arranger John Beasley “Coolin It”

Hank Mobley stands out as one of the most revered tenor saxophonist and composers of the hard-bop era in jazz. Mobley’s style was laid-back, subtle, and melodic, especially in contrast to players like Sonny Rollins and John Coltrane. The outstanding musicians of the Luckman Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Charles Owens, will honor Hank Mobley’s great contributions to jazz by playing newly arranged renditions of his music.

Luckman Fine Arts Complex, 5151 State University Drive, Los Angeles, CA, 90032

Tickets: $25/$35 – http://bit.ly/yrNZdF

Jan 28, Saturday        9pm + 11:30pm                      Los Angeles, CA

Simplexity: Extreme Measures
A postdigital electronic jazz project that combines electronic ambient sounds and textures, contemporary dance beats and the soul of jazz improvisation with John von Seggern (bass) Steve Tavaglione (sax/EWI) John Beasley (piano), Gary Novak (drums), Walt Fowler (trumpet) and Judd Miller (clarinetist/EVI) and Jon Margulies (beats and sounds)

Blue Whale Bar, 123 Astronaut E S Onizuka St, suite 301, Los Angeles, CA

2 sets: 9 pm and 11:30pm / tickets: http://bit.ly/zFap6v

Listen:  http://bit.ly/AufskG

Feb 03, Friday                     7-11pm                          Los Angeles, CA

Joe’s Restaurant, Monthly Jazz Series on First Friday’s in Venice

Dwight Trible sings + John Beasley swings on new album Duality:

A live duet album with two master improvisational musicians pianist John Beasley and vocalist Dwight Trible re-imagining, re-interpreting and re-inventing eight jazz standards.

Joe’s Restaurant – 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd in Venice, CA 90291

Dinner reservations: 310-399-5811 or limited patio seating is limited

No cover charge  - http://joesrestaurant.com/

Feb 04, Saturday                7:30pm                          Los Angeles, CA

Vocalist Perla Batalla, featuring John Beasley and Eclipse String Quartet

First known to music fans through her work with Leonard Cohen, Ms. Batalla has garnered an international following with her acclaimed recordings, world tours, and collaborations.

LACMA, Bing Theater | $5-25 | Tickets 323 857-6010 – http://bit.ly/ws4c0X

Feb 22, Wednesday           8pm + 9:30pm               Los Angeles, CA

Mona Lisa Trio, playing the music of Nat King Cole
Ed Neumeister, John Beasley, Edwin Livingston

Vitellos Jazz, 4349 Tujunga Avenue, Studio City, CA 91604, 818.769.0905

$15 – http://www.vitellosjazz.com/

UPCOMING RELEASE: 3 Brave Souls

 John Beasley re-unites with fellow Miles Davis alums bassist Darryl Jones (Sting, Rolling Stones) & master drummer Ndugu Chanceler (“Billie Jean”) for a rousing brand of jazz inspired by funk, soul and their shared Louisiana roots.  MIXING record now…more soon!

MUSIC COMPETITION
I’m on the advisory board for this competition. Circulate widely to young hopefuls.  No emails please.  Contact gmail to 6String below.

Lee Ritenour’s 3rd Annual Yamaha Six String Theory Guitar Competition

and the

Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin Rhythm Section Competition

2012 CONTEST REGISTRATION begins Jan. 21 & ends May 1, 2012

4 Instruments / 4 Contests / Apply in:

Guitar, Piano/Keyboards, Electric & Acoustic Bass, and Drums

Register Now for your Chance to Win and Live the Dream!

Total of 4 Prize Packages Value is over $600,000 + Priceless Opportunities in the Music Biz!

AMAZING GUITAR PRIZES include Yamaha instruments, Berklee College of Music scholarship plus world-renowned guitar scholarships at National Guitar Workshop & Crown of the Continents Guitar Workshop, endorsements, professional mentoring, cash, Monster prizes, D’Addario prizes and record deal opportunities! Entries will be accepted in the genres of Rock, Blues, Jazz/Fusion, Acoustic, Classical/Flamenco and Country.

*To Register for Guitar Competition, Click Here

INCREDIBLE RHYTHM SECTION PRIZES include Yamaha instruments, Berklee College of Music scholarships, an opportunity to record on Lee Ritenour’s 2012 CD, professional mentoring, an opportunity to attend and perform at the esteemed Crown of the Continents Guitar Workshop and Festival in Montana, Monster prizes and record deal opportunities! Entries will be accepted in the genres of Jazz, Fusion, Rock, Blues or Contemporary.

*To Register for Piano, Bass or Drums, Click Here

“Supporting Aspiring Musicians towards a Professional Music Career through Education, Recording, Performing, Mentoring, Label Access and Prizes”

6stringtheory@gmail.com

www.sixstringtheory.com

www.facebook.com/globalmusiccontest

John Beasley Management: Karen Kennedy

24 Seven Artist Development – Moving Jazz Forward

www.karenkennedy.net

S P R E A D   THE   W O R D!

Facebook: johnbeasleymusicfans Twitter: johnbeasley

www.johnbeasleymusic.com

To listen, go to my player on the right.

25:25 – 25 Years of the Monk Institute and 25 years of Catalinas Jazz Bar

Here’s another freaky coincidence, I wrote in my last blog about my over excitement on my role as Music Director of the Monk Institute’s 25^th Anniversary Gala Concert – that was before the show.  Here are some of the highlights:

Jaw-dropping performances

First off, congrats to 22-year old pianist Kris Bowers for winning this year’s piano competition.  Take your Monk Institute’s wings and soar as former Monksters proved on stage that night in various ensembles: Joshua Redman, Ambrose Akinmusire, Jane Monheit, Joey DeFrancesco, Gerald Clayton, Ted Rosenthal, Jacky Terrason, Bill Cunliff and Gretchen Parlato. Just to name a few.

Who’s Who

I didn’t want the night to finish because it was so satisfying to see the ensembles of musical icons that I put together just flowed and the performances were heart-stopping with Wayne Shorter, Joe Lovano, Kevin Eubanks, Kurt Elling, Thelonious Monk Jr, Kevin Eubanks, Jimmy Heath, Ellis Marsalis, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Diane Reeves, Ron Carter, John Patitucci, Terri Lynne Carrington, Terrence Blanchard, Chaka Khan, Christian McBride, Jennifer Hudson and Herbie Hancock, with the WOW moment reserved for our  one and only Aretha Franklin.

Monk you keep giving and giving.

Catalina Jazz Bar’s 25^th birthday
So many of us grew in Catalina Popescu’s club.  I think I played in the first week she opened on Cahuenga  with a band called Theolonoius and many times with Freddie Hubbard and Patitucci.  So, it was an honor when Catalina asked me to music direct her celebration event.  We pulled together a stunning list of talent in LA who showed us how to have fun, including Alex Acuna, David Benoit, Brian Bromberg, Justo Almario, Otmario Ruiz, Bobby Rodriguez, Abe Laboriel, Marcus Miller, Ndugu Chancler, Peter Erskine, Patrice Rushen, George Kahn, Lainie Kazan, Mike Lange, Hubert Laws, Barbara Morrison, Lee Ritenour, Tierney Sutton, and The Yellow Jackets.

Read about the concert on LA Weekly: http://bit.ly/ooVStg and view the photos on YouTube: http://bit.ly/uAuTWj.  We’ll have a film soon.

Catalina P, to 25 more years!

WHAT’S ON with JOHN BEASLEY

 This Weekend

SUPPORT LIVE MUSIC!

November 11.11 (Friday)   8 and 10pm                 Los Angeles

Bernie Dresel’s 50th Birthday & Buddy Rich Big Band Tribute

Trumpet: Wayne Bergeron, Larry Hall, Carl Saunders, Bob Summers

Trombone: Alan Kaplan, Andy Martin, Bill Reichenbach,

Sax: Brian Scanlon, Dan Higgins, Pete Christlieb, Gordon Goodwin, Sal Lozano

Piano: John Beasley

Bass: Rick Shaw

Birthday boy on drums –  Bernie Dresel

Vitellos

4349 Tujunga Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 91604 – 818.769.0905

$25 – http://www.vitellosjazz.com

November 12 (Saturday)     9:30pm                      Los Angeles

Saturday in LA – I’m MD and playing this cool concert to celebrate the 65th anniversary of the first Jazz at the Philharmonic concert with Jeff Clayton, Ernie Andrews, Marvin “Smitty” Smith, Bennie Maupin, Jacques Lesure, Edwin Livingston, Nolan Shaheed, Richard Grant, and many more….

Nate Holden Performing Arts Center – http://www.laco.org/venues/20/

4718 W. Washington Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016-1516

323 964 9768

Be nostalgic: http://bit.ly/rZ6rxn

Tokyo Jazz Festival
To Japan, I admire your resilience.  While I was there over the last weekend, you dealt with a 5+ earthquake and a terrible typhoon. Sigh!  My Japanese friends, you were as generous as ever.

The Freeway Jam Band (Mike Stern, Lee Ritenour, Simon Phillips, John Beasley & Melvin Davis) that I was playing in fed off your energy and strength when we were on stage to launch the band’s LIVE concert DVD featuring music by Jeff Beck, Mike Stern and Lee Ritenour. Thanks for your enthusiasm.

I saw the great Kenny Barron Trio. I’m always amazed at how Kenny plays with such fluidity.  How does he swing so hard with such a light touch?  I was lucky to be able to speak with him.  I had to tell him how I wore down his record “Sunset to Dawn.”  He’s full of humanity and such a very encouraging person.

I also heard the George Duke/Marcus Miller/Dave Sanborn group.  Marcus is always inspiring. Speaking of Duke, if you are in LA Sep 24, I’m playing in this 67-piece orchestra which is going to premiere a new work composed by Duke  for Christian McBride who will be soloing with the orchestra.

And, then I ran into Sergio Mendes, my first mentor.  I was about 20 when I joined his band and went on my first world tour and made my first single “Confetti” with him.  We were overdue for a long catch up – after all, I played with him for 5 years.  We talked about the first task he asked me to do, which was to transcribe Ivan Lins piano voicings, which Sergio had taped on a cassette player when Ivan was visiting him at his house in Brazil.  I didn’t know who Ivan Lins was and was new to Brazilian music. Sergio was clever.  This was his way of introducing me to the harmonies and, of course, I fell in love with Ivan Lins  immediately.

Sunday with the Stars @ Theolonius Monk Institute Gala Concert
Speaking about masters and their gifts, this Sunday, I will be surrounded by incredible talent at the all-star 25^th anniversary event, which will honor Aretha Franklin with the Founder’s Award.

As MD, all summer I’ve been working on the music program, which will include an Aretha Franklin medley performed by Dianne Reeves, Chaka Khan, Dee Dee Bridgewater and Kurt Elling.  Aretha will sing some tunes.  Chaka will perform her legendary funky version of A Night in Tunisia. There will be an electrifying duet with Herbie and Wayne.

I still have to finish arranging a 14-min Monk medley of 7 Monk songs with 7 bands performed by previous Monk Institute winners, Joshua Redman, Gretchen Parlato, Jacky Terrasson, Joey De Francesco, Gerald Clayton, Ben Williams, Seamus Blake, Jane Monheit and others.  The rest of the program will feature Terrence Blanchard, Ron Carter and an incredible house rhythm section with John Pattituci, Christian McBride, Kevin Eubanks, Terri Lyne Carrington and me.

As this concert is the day after the 10^th anniversary of the gut-wrenching 9/11 tragedy, I am hoping that music will help ease some of the heaviness in our hearts.

Here’s my gig calendar for September/October – see you LIVE:
WHAT’S ON with JOHN BEASLEY – September-October 2011
SUPPORT LIVE MUSIC!

September 12 (Monday)                                     Washington, DC
Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz
25^th Anniversary Gala Concert @ Kennedy Center
John Beasley – Music Director

All-Star Gala Concert will honor Aretha Franklin with the Founder’s Award. Performers include:

Herbie Hancock,
Ellis Marsalis,
Jason Moran
Danilo Perez,
Marcus Roberts, Jacky Terrasson, Ron Carter, Christian McBride,
John Patitucci,
Carl Allen,
Terri Lyne Carrington,
TS Monk,
Jimmy Heath,
Joe Lovano,
Wayne Shorter,
Ambrose Akinmusire,
Terence Blanchard,
Joshua Redman, Kevin Eubanks,
Lionel Loueke,
Dee Dee Bridgewater,
Kurt Elling,
Roberta Gambarini, Jane Monheit,
Gretchen Parlato,
Dianne Reeves, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin and others.

Co-chaired by Madeleine Albright, Quincy Jones, Debra Lee and Colin Powell.

Full list of musicians and tickets: http://monkinstitute.org

September 16 +17 (Friday/Saturday)                                Napa, CA
Lee Ritenour featuring John Beasley, Melvin Davis, Chris Coleman
Sep 16     Bankhead Theater @ 9pm - 2400 First Street, Livermore – 925-373-6800
Sep 17 Napa Valley Opera House @ 8:30pm - 1030 Main Street, Napa 707-226-7372

September 24 (Saturday)                  2-3pm                                        Los Angeles
The 67-member Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Christian McBride and Mitch Glickman (John Beasley on piano).  The program features the world premiere of a new work composed by SJO co-music Director George Duke for McBride and the orchestra, along with other specially commissioned works.
Free event - UCLA, Royce Hall Tickets in person – UCLA Ticket Office: M-F 10am-4pm

October 2         (Sunday)                           7-9pm                                      Boise, Idaho
Boise Jazz Society Concert
John Beasley Circle
featuring Bennie Maupin (sax), Kevin Brandon (bass), Marvin (Smitty) Smith (drums)
Esther Simplot Performing Arts Academy – 516 S. 9th Street, Boise

October 7         (Saturday)                       6-11pm                           Venice Beach, LA
First Friday’s Music @ Joe’s Restaurant
John Beasley Circle
featuring Kevin Brandon (bass), Marvin (Smitty) Smith (drums)

Make early reservations for jazz and fine dining at 4-star legendary Joe’s Restaurant in my hood or come to the last set and get drinks at the bar and walk in to hear the music.

Joe’s Restaurant – 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd – 310-399-5811

CD/DVD RELEASES
Freeway Jam Band
Mike Stern, Lee Ritenour, Simon Phillips, John Beasley & Melvin Davis
Live at Blue Note Tokyo (Ward Records)
If you like jazz fusion, check this new LIVE concert DVD with the Freeway Jam Band, featuring music by Jeff Beck, Mike Stern and Lee Ritenour.  DVD includes interviews with each.  YouTube

Extreme Measures:  Simplexity
Re-release by BFM Digital (October 2011)
Simplexity is a hyper-dimensional electronic jazz project recorded over a couple days of jam sessions and overdubs.  John von Seggern brought together some of the most innovative and respected jazz players:  LA sound designer/top studio musician Steve Tavaglione, keys player John Beasley, drummer Gary Novak, trumpeter Walt Fowler, and clarinetist/EVI player Judd Miller, featuring the last recordings of bassist Dave Carpenter. Concert schedule in the works

Duality
Dwight Trible sings, John Beasley swings
Release by BFM Digital (November 2011)
Launch CD concert to be announced.

S P R E A D   THE   W O R D!

Related show

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Monday, September 12th 2011
• Time: 7:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Washington, DC
• Venue: Kennedy Center
• Address: 2700 F St. NW Washington, DC 20566
• Venue phone: (202) 467-4600
• Country: United States
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: Thelonius Monk Institute of Jazz 25th Anniversary Gala Concert @ Kennedy Center John Beasley – Music Director All-Star Gala Concert will honor Aretha Franklin with the Founder’s Award. Performers include: Herbie Hancock,
Ellis Marsalis,
Jason Moran
Danilo Perez,
Marcus Roberts, Jacky Terrasson, Ron Carter, Christian McBride,
John Patitucci,
Carl Allen,
Terri Lyne Carrington,
TS Monk,
Jimmy Heath,
Joe Lovano,
Wayne Shorter,
Ambrose Akinmusire,
Terence Blanchard,
Joshua Redman, Kevin Eubanks,
Lionel Loueke,
Dee Dee Bridgewater,
Kurt Elling,
Roberta Gambarini, Jane Monheit,
Gretchen Parlato,
Dianne Reeves, Chaka Khan, Jennifer Hudson, Aretha Franklin and others. Co-chaired by Madeleine Albright, Quincy Jones, Debra Lee and Colin Powell. Full list of musicians and tickets: http://monkinstitute.org
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Friday, September 16th 2011
• Time: 8:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Livermore, CA
• Venue: Bankhead Theater
• Address: 2400 First Street
• Venue phone: 925-373-6800
• Country: United States
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: Lee Ritenour featuring John Beasley, Melvin Davis, Chris Coleman
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Saturday, September 17th 2011
• Time: 7:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Napa, CA
• Venue: Napa Valley Opera House
• Address: 1030 Main Street, Napa
• Venue phone: 707-226-7372
• Country: United States
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: Lee Ritenour featuring John Beasley, Melvin Davis, Chris Coleman
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Saturday, September 24th 2011
• Time: 2:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Los Angeles, CA
• Venue: UCLA, Royce Hall
• Country: United States
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: The 67-member Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Christian McBride and Mitch Glickman. (John Beasley on piano) The program features the world premiere of a new work composed by SJO co-music Director George Duke for McBride and the orchestra, along with other specially commissioned works.
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Sunday, October 2nd 2011
• Time: 7:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Boise, ID
• Venue: Esther Simplot Performing Arts Academy
• Address: 516 S. 9th Street
• Country: United States
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: John Beasley Circle featuring Bennie Maupin (sax), Kevin Brandon (bass), Marvin (Smitty) Smith (drums)
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Friday, October 7th 2011
• Time: 7:00pm
• City: John Beasley in Venice, CA
• Venue: Joe’s Restaurant
• Address: 1023 Abbot Kinney Blvd
• Venue phone: 310-399-5811
• Country: United States
• Admission: FREE
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Notes: First Friday’s Music @ Joe’s Restaurant John Beasley Circle featuring Kevin Brandon (bass), Marvin (Smitty) Smith (drums) Make early reservations for jazz and fine dining at 4-star legendary Joe’s Restaurant in my hood or come to the last set and get drinks at the bar and walk in to hear the music.
• Add to Google Calendar | Download iCal

Interview with Pianist John Beasley on playing with
Freddie Hubbard (8 years) and Miles Davis (1989)

Jazz Inside: What kinds of conversations did you have with Freddie Hubbard?

2 sets: 7:30p + 9:30p – $20
Jazz Standard (116 East 27th Street @ Park Ave – Subway 4, 6 – 28th St Stop)
212-576-2232

DON’T MISS THIS KILLA! BAND

Related show

• Artist: John Beasley
• Date: Wednesday, July 27th 2011
• Time: 7:30pm
• City: John Beasley in New York, NY
• Venue: The Jazz Standard
• Address: 116 East 27th Street
• Venue phone: (212) 576-2322
• Country: United States
• Admission: $20
• Age restrictions: All Ages
• Box office: 212-576-2232
• Notes: 2 sets: 7:30pm and 9:30pm Featuring music from 2010 Grammy-nominated Positootly! album which showcases Beasley’s original, propulsive, multi-layered compositions from funk and soul to bop, bossa nova, and nuevo tango along with three choice covers. Jazz Times on Positootly! “a good example of what happens when masters instrumentalists get together. This is what Jazz is all about… creative, virtuosic musicians with a high level of technique and artistry. John is truly an amazing pianist, imaginative composer, creative improviser and arranger. And with Positootly he created an album that people will look back as one of the first Jazz classic albums of the 21th century.”
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Divorce, New York and Love Letter to Aretha and Monk!

Getting ready for a Divorce Party
The world will be getting a new country!!! On Saturday, July 9, The Republic of South Sudan will be officially the 193rd country and 54th country in Africa. I found this incredible photo of a Sudanese playing a trumpet, getting ready for a divorce party parade. Lorna, my wife, who had the fortune to visit South Sudan in 1998 to work for Doctors Without Borders during a terrible famine said that the rejoicing will be tempered because last month, 100,000 people had to flee their homes due to new violence. Read more: http://bit.ly/qD25eq

NEW YORK, Empire State of Mind with
Jeff Tain Watts, James Genus, Antonio Hart, Rashawn Ross
This is it! So psyched about reuniting with my rhythm section “Tain” and Genus to play Positootly! at the JAZZ STANDARD, Wed July 27 – 2 sets. And, can’t wait to hear Antonio Hart’s chops esp. since he’ll be coming back from some karate camp in China (!!!) and Rashawn Ross who will be in between gigs with Dave Matthews. One Night Only so help me spread the word and get your tix early.

Aretha Franklin and Monk – An unlikely pair?
Fitting in my Artistic Director duties for the upcoming Monk Institute’s 25th Anniversary Gala Event Sept 12 @ the Kennedy Center. Aretha is being featured, so I did this 7-song medley that I really grooved on. Thanks FaceBook friends for your suggested songs. The Monk medley put me in another familiar and unfamiliar world. Thelonious, YOU modernist genius!

Jazz Inside magazine – July 2011 issue – Interview about me playing with Freddie Hubbard and Miles Davis – www.johnbeasleymusic.com

Here’s the listing of my current projects and upcoming gigs. Hope to see you at a gig!

WHAT’S ON with JOHN BEASLEY July-Sep 2011
SUPPORT LIVE MUSIC!

July in the Hive, Los Angeles
Working on a movie score with the ever brilliant Thomas Newman on The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel by Oscar-nominated Director John Madden staring Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Slumdog Millionaire’s Dev Patel.

Saturday, July 16,8pm,Thousand Oaks, CA
Lee Ritenour featuring John Beasley, Melvin Davis and Ronald Bruner, Jr.
Open Borders – 125 West Thousand Oaks Blvd.
805-497-7691, www.openborders2011.com

Friday, July 22, 6-9pm, Los Angeles
John Beasley Positootly! Jazz Circle:Kevin Brandon (bass), Oscar Seaton (drums), Dwight Trible (vocals)
Los Angeles County Museum (LACMA)

http://www.lacma.org/event/john-beasley

Sunday, July 24, 7pm, Los Angeles
Global Soul with Rickey Minor and Stevie Wonder @ Hollywood Bowl
Arranged music for this concert of soul sounds across cultures, genres and generations with final stop a 40th-annv tribute to Marvin Gaye’s classic album, What’s Going On with guests:.Sharon Jones, Janelle Monae

Wednesday, July 27, 7:30p and 9:30p,New York
John Beasley Positootly! Quintet
Featuring music from Grammy-nominated Positootly! album with
Jeff “Tain” Watts, James Genus, Antonio Hart, Rashawn Ross
Jazz Standard, 116 East 27th St, NY ¬www.jazzstandard.net 212 576 2322
2 sets: 7:30p / 9:30p, $20

AUGUST, Bordeaux, Marciac in France
Roger Biwandu Trio, featuring John Beasley and Nolwenn Leizour
Aug 3
L’Apollo Bar – Place Fernand Lafargue, 33000 Bordeaux – http://www.apollobar.fr/
Aug 5, 6 and 7
Jazz Club L’Atelier – 6, rue de Juillac, 32230 Marciac – http://www.atelier-marciac.fr/atelier.html
Aug 9
Les Colonnes – 36bis, Place Darnichw, Monségur – http://www.restaurant-lescolonnes.com/accueil.html

September 3/4, Tokyo, Japan
Lee Ritenour & Mike Stern featuring John Beasley, Dave Weckl, Melvin Davis
Tokyo Jazz Festival
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IpxViCob5g
Lee Ritenour, Mike Stern, John Beasley, Simon Phillips, Melvin Davis @ Blue Note, Tokyo-Feb 2011

Monday, Sep 12, Washington, D.C.
Thelonius Monk Institute 25th Anniversary Gala Concert @ Kennedy Center
John Beasley Artistic Director
Performing: Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Dianne Reeves, Ron Carter, Esperanza Spaulding, George Duke, Jimmy Heath, Christian McBride, John Patitucci, Danilo Perez, Joe Lovano, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Terri Lyne Carrington, Arturo Sandoval, Terrence Blanchard, Jason Moran, Ambrose Akinmusire, Ellis Marsalis, Ben Williams, Jane Monheit, Kevin Eubanks, with special tribute to Aretha Franklin.

Saturday, Sep 24, 2-3pm, Los Angeles
The 67-member Symphonic Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Christian McBride and Mitch Glickman. (John Beasley on piano) The program features the world premiere of a new work composed by SJO co-music Director George Duke for McBride and the orchestra, along with other specially commissioned works.
UCLA, Royce Hall – http://www.uclalive.org/calendar/event_detail.asp?id=159

S P R E A D THE W O R D!

Thanks for supporting LIVE music!

Facebook: johnbeasleymusicfans
Twitter: johnbeasley
Myspace.com/johnbeasleymusic

Performance Links
Positootly! – http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o1h8LWQReiE

NEW WEBSITE: www.johnbeasleymusic.com

I’ve now a stack of big band charts I’ve arranged for a few orchestras over the years. And on Sunday I’ll be in a dream when at the Playboy Jazz Festival I’ll be conducting the Resonance Big Band for an Oscar Peterson arrangement I wrote @ the Hollywood Bowl. Get thee one of those 17,000 seats, pack a picnic and enjoy being outdoors.

New York: July 27 @ the JAZZ STANDARD
This is one of the most anticipated concerts for me this year. Reconvening with the rhythm section from my Grammy-nominated Positootly! CD: Jeff “Tain” Watts and James Genus. I’m psyched about Antonio Hart joining the quintet and on a break from the Dave Matthews band will be Rashawn Ross blowing up the trumpet. Save the date, New Yorkers!

Going Indian with Thomas Newman
After working and touring with AR Rahman for the past year, I got the raga in me. I’m humbled that Tom is bringing me in to work on the movie score for Oscar-nominated Director John Madden’s next film, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel staring Judi Dench, Maggie Smith, and Slumdog Millionaire’s Dev Patel. Will import some of the mesmerizing Indian musicians I’ve met and add their stunning talent to the score. And, bought a new toy called the Maschine and making some beats.

Sip of Bordeaux and a Mouthful of Marciac
Joining up with my friend Roger in his hometown of Bordeaux to drink good wine and play, play play. Then, a road trip to Marciac where the annual jazz festival will be going on, so we’ll bust up the town at the local bars.

Serious in September
Right up there with my NY gig is this DREAM concert. Suiting up as Artistic Director for The Thelonius Monk Institute’s 25th Anniversary Gala @ the Kennedy Center in D.C. I’ve got really big shoes to fill as I will be stepping up onto George Duke’s podium. Pinch me, well, if you are not a hotel cleaner!
Confirmed talent so far is Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Joe Lovana, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Aretha Franklin, Dianne Reeves, George Duke, Terri Lyne Carrington, Arturo Sandoval, Terrence Blanchard, Jimmy Heath, Christian McBride, Ron Carter, John Patitucci, Danilo Perez, Jason Moran, Ellis Marsalis, Ben Williams, Jane Monheit, Kevin Eubanks…and more to come.

HAVE A RESTFUL AND FUN SUMMER!
SEE YOU AT A GIG!

JOHN BEASLEY CALENDAR:
Sunday, June 12 3pm-10:30pm Los Angeles
Tribute to Oscar Peterson: Bill Cunliffe + Resonance Big Band @ Hollywood Bowl
featuring Marian Petrescu and John Beasley (Guest Conductor/Arranger)

Saturday, July 16 8pm Thousand Oaks, CA
Lee Ritenour + John Beasley, Melvin Davis, Ronald Bruner, Jr. @ Open Borders

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1IpxViCob5g
Lee Ritenour, Mike Stern, John Beasley, Simon Phillips, Melvin Davis @ Blue Note, Tokyo-Feb 2011

Wednesday, July 27 7:30 and 9:30p New York
John Beasley Positootly! Jazz Circle
Featuring Jeff “Tain” Watts, James Genus, Antonio Hart, Rashawn Ross playing music from Grammy-nominated Positootly!
Jazz Standard – 2 sets: 7:30 and 9:30p – $20

AUGUST Bordeaux, Marciac in France
Roger Biwandu Trio, featuring John Beasley and Nolwenn Leizour
Aug 3 – L’Apollo Bar / Aug 5, 6 and 7 – Jazz Club L’Atelier / Aug 9 – Les Colonnes

Monday, Sep 12 Washington, D.C.
The Thelonius Monk Institute 25th Anniversary Gala @ Kennedy Center
Artistic Director, John Beasley

Saturday, Sep 24 2-3pm Los Angeles
Conductor: Christian McBride featuring John Beasley on piano @ UCLA, Royce Hall

S P R E A D THE W O R D!

Thanks for supporting LIVE music!

Facebook: johnbeasleymusicfans
Twitter: johnbeasley
Myspace.com/johnbeasleymusic

YouTube: Positootly!

www.johnbeasleymusic.com

My new web-HOME. Hope you come back often to listen, read, contact me.
Audio Player - I’ve uploaded 11 tracks: songs from my first album Cauldron to my 2010 Grammy-nominated CD Positootly!.  (More tracks to be added.)

Interactivity – Added LIKE and COMMENT buttons. I look forward to learning + hearing from you and knowing what you LIKE.

Store – Selling autographed physical CDs for nostalgia/keepsake reasons or buy my music digitally on iTunes or Amazon.  My charts will be on sale soon.  Email me if you can’t wait.

FREE downloads and FREE charts will be offered from time to time – SIGN UP to my EMAIL LIST now and you will get 3 FREE songs from Mix Messages – my rap/remix-jazz songs.

GIGS - Music is always better LIVE. New listings all the time so come back and see you there in person.

SHARING – YOU are the catalyst for indy musicians.  YOU help us get our music heard – thank you for using the SHARE buttons to circulate my blogs, music, gig info, photos, video, etc.  I trust the power of the exponential!

THANK YOU for listening, knowing and loving!
-Beas in the Hive