The 30th Annual Arizona Classic Jazz Festival was held the first weekend in November at the always welcoming Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort in Chandler, Arizona. This is a perfect setting with four venues for music performances including the outside patio used during the day. I always enjoy sending photos to friends and relatives in the colder climates while emphasizing the lack of coats and scarves on both the musicians and the avid listeners!
Helen Daley is the Board President of the Arizona Classic Jazz Society and is truly a hands-on Director. If she isn’t arranging transportation for a musician from the Phoenix airport, she might be coordinating the logistics for a missing performer, or dancing with her ever present husband Bill or even polishing the piano after its move from one venue to another. She does not sit still for the entire weekend and she makes it look easy.
The lineup this year was full of talented individuals and groups. Howard Alden on guitar and banjo sat in with several different bands and is the ever consummate professional. “Big” B.A.D. Rhythm with Brian Holland (p), Andy Reiss (gtr), Danny Coots (dr), Pat Bergeson (gtr, harmonica) and Sam Rocha (bs) incorporates both mainstream and traditional jazz while including the audience in their conversations. It is like being in your living room with family and friends who just happen to be on a stage
