Forbidden Jazz Trio returns to Zocalo Café for a Friday evening performance. Consisting of Ralph Barrat on keyboard and vocals, Jim Chew on guitar and Grahame Edwards on bass, the trio strives to reach audiences of all ages through a variety of timeless jazz standards. Representing more than four decades of experience, their blend of voice, piano and strings will weave their collective magic through two sets of music.
Joining the trio on lead guitar is Chew, who over the past 35 years has explored all areas of music, from trios to show bands, both live and in studio. During his teens, Chew was inspired by Django Reinhardt, and studied classical guitar for three years. He discovered a passion for jazz which led him on a path of playing and teaching in the jazz program at Mount Royal College in Calgary. He supplemented his income as a commercial freelance musician. This experience left the Campbell River resident with a broad base of influences which he applies to his playing style.
Multi-instrumentalist Edwards studied music at UBC and holds a diploma in fine arts from the University of Calgary. Aside from acoustic and electric bass, Edwards plays percussion and trumpet. He has appeared with countless local ensembles and productions in various genres but his first musical love lies with improvised music. He also enjoys playing and composing his own jazz tunes. Edwards has taught privately and in the Campbell River School District, and shares his music by conducting workshops and clinics. Over the years, he has studied with respected Jazz musicians including Don Clarke, Phil Nimmons, Chris Nelson and Paul Horn.
Replacing Jake Masri for this week’s performance is local favourite Barrat, whose mentors include Harry Connick Jr., Nat King Cole and Mose Allison. His voice is warm and resonant with the timbre of a Bobby Darin or Sinatra, earning Barrat praise as one of the Valley’s hardest working musicians. He has appeared with the Georgia Straight Big Band, Jazztet, Deja Blue, Sax & Violins and RNR Trio. This special collaboration with Chew and Edwards promises a magical journey you won’t want to miss.
Music begins at 7:30 p.m. Admission is by donation. The cafe is at the corner of Fifth and Cliffe in downtown Courtenay.
•The cafe hosts the CYMC Island jazz students for a jam July 16 and 18 from 6-9 p.m.
