Four jazz musicians, all great in their own name, return to Thursday Night Jazz at the Elks, when the Georgia Straight Jazz Society presents the Anderson Jazz Syndicate for its first performance of 2011.
The added bonus to the usual lineup will be noted saxophonist Dan Craven. This ensemble is developing a reputation for its dynamic and interactive approach to the music.
The group’s strength is in its sometimes powerful, sometimes delicate interplay during performance. The band has formed a cohesive and energetic approach to both jazz standards and original compositions. This performance will feature tunes by Miles Davis as well as originals by group members.
Saxophonist Dan Craven teaches music in Qualicum Beach, and has shared the stage with top musicians including Phil Dwyer, Ian McDougall and Campbell Ryga.
A regular performer, Craven leads an octet, and is a member of Oceanside’s Arrowsmith Big Band. He is a fearless soloist who generates great excitement with his expressive playing.
Leading the Syndicate is Comox guitar player Doug Anderson, who will bring original compositions to the performance. Dragonfly Trail is a new tune written for a favourite Gulf Island location.
Standup bass player Grahame Edwards is known for his reliable yet creative grounding of the music’s form. Edwards is also known as the heart of the Wire Choir, which performs locally on a regular basis.
Aaron Amar will once again be on the drum kit. He brings professional jazz experience from Toronto where he was on the jazz scene for several years. His rhythmic talents are much sought after and he has performed with numerous local groups. His strong musicality and polyrhythmic mastery put him in a class all his own, propelling this group to new musical heights.
The music begins at 7:30 p.m. at the Elks Home on 6th Street. Great music, great Mediterranean food, great venue, a social atmosphere second to none: what lovelier way could there be to spend an evening and start your weekend a day early?
For more information on this, and other Jazz Society events, visit www.georgiastraightjazz.com.
— Georgia Straight Jazz Society
