This is not an article I expected to write, but given that the events I’m relating occur on a regular or seasonal basis, I felt it would be useful to you readers to know about them in case you’re near or planning a trip to New York City.
On Wednesday, August 25, I made my first music pilgrimage to the City since February, 2020. I originally had only planned to see David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Eternity Band at Birdland. With Birdland’s 99-cent cover charge in effect for a limited time to celebrate its re-opening after a COVID shutdown, I could not pass up such a bargain. The band’s set was from 7 to 8:30. Come September, they will be back to their traditional slot of 5:30 to 7.
I’ve learned, when going to New York by bus, to allow plenty of extra time for traffic delays. I also make an allowance if I go by train, but not as much as for buses.
The day before, on Facebook, I saw an announcement that Terry Waldo’s Gotham Band had was playing at 33rd Street and 7th Avenue from 4:30 to 6, so my early arrival allowed me to go there, too.
This outdoor “concert” was an eye-opening experience, but not because of the music. The band was lined up alongside the storied but now-closed Hotel Pennsylvania. Fortunately, nearby tall buildings provided shade on this oppressively hot and humid day. For street concerts, you either bring a chair or you stand. Bringing a chair on a
Trumpeter James O’Donnell: The Motor City Jazz Maestro
Brian Sheridan
