Thursday Night Jazz, presented by Georgia Straight Jazz Society at The Avalanche Bar & Grill, introduces a new lineup to the schedule when Centerpiece Jazz Quartet takes the stage on Jan. 21.
It’s always a pleasure to feature new acts, especially when it includes a mix of young, up-and-coming performers and seasoned jazz artists.
Centerpiece Jazz will be presenting a variety of jazz genres.
You will hear memorable melodies in swing, ballads, Latin and fusion. The group brings its own distinct interpretation as soloists explore their repertoire.
The band features highly talented up-and-comer, Evie Kenny. Evie has been playing music for 13 years and studying the saxophone for seven years under well-known Valley musician Rachel Fuller.
Evie intends to study medicine and music after finishing high school, but since she has had so much fun playing and singing with Centerpiece, she hopes to continue working with them in the future.
Dave Stevenson, bassist, has recently moved to the Comox Valley and brought with him a vast experience of performing music.
His range of experience spans from jazz trios to big bands.
Playing in both Vancouver and Victoria, he has performed with jazz greats: PJ. Perry, Louis Rose, and Phil Dwyer.
Dave has settled in Courtenay and performs with a variety of local musicians.
Brian McNiff has been playing percussion and drums for over 40 years. Born and raised in B.C., Brian’s earlier career involved performing in many bands and ensembles. He studied music in the U.S. before travelling to Central and South America. He moved to Vancouver Island a few years ago and has recently established himself in the local music community.
Larry Ayre is an accomplished guitarist and music teacher who has been performing in the Comox Valley for about 25 years. He plays many styles and several instruments.
Show time is 7:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for members and $12 for non-members. For more information about forthcoming shows, please visit georgiastraightjazz.com or join us on Facebook.
