Columbus Jazz Society & The CJS Annual Jazz Soiree at The Loft – Giant Steps on Giant Shoulders
The notion of standing on the shoulders of giants feels especially true when discussing music and the arts. In jazz, as Louis led to Dizzy, and from Dizzy we got Miles, we can often directly attribute our successes to our mentors and heroes. From my father, my first guitar teacher Crisanto Bautista, my jazz teacher Paulo Siqueira, to David Morgan and through Dr. David Banks who invited me to the Columbus Jazz Society in the first place, my journey with jazz has always been about the hands reaching down to help me up.
On January 20th, the CJS will hold their annual Jazz Soiree, where seven musicians from the tri-city will be honored for their contributions to music, art, and community. They are: Dr. David Banks (piano), Mitch Barron (guitar), Dr. George Corradino (saxophone), Elwood Madeo (guitar), Jan Hyatt (vocals), David Morgan (drums), and Stan Murray (saxophone).
The event will be held in The Loft’s Green Room (1032 Broadway). Ticket bearers will enjoy a night filled with live music, food, camaraderie and a whole lot of fun, with music from the majestic 17-piece “Cavaliers Orchestra” led by Jim Evans.
General Admission is only $50 and includes dinner and the raffle. VIP tables for up to 8 are also available, which include a complimentary bottle of wine or champagne. Standing Room Only tickets are also available for those who just want to groove the night away. Dinner will be curated by the amazing team at The Loft, and raffle tickets will be given to everyone who holds a general admission ticket or above.Tickets can be found on the CJS website at columbusjazzsociety.com, through their Facebook event page @The Annual CJS Soiree 2024, the CJS Instagram @columbusjazzsociety and our ticketing site getlocaltix.com as well as thelocalcolumbus.com/getlocaltix.
Admission also grants you a one-year membership to the Columbus Jazz Society. Benefits include discounts on events and merchandise, a contact list for other members and musicians, and (for musicians) leads and priority calls during gigs.
Serving as president of the CJS, my aim is to focus on those positive experiences and attempt to reciprocate that feeling to others by facilitating more opportunities to perform, jam, learn, and network amongst musicians and our community.
We are always seeking community-minded individuals who will help foster growth in jazz and the arts in our area. In a recent discussion with one of our partners, Arreasha “Z” Lawrence of Music Entertainment Council, we realized that the only difference between “major cities” and other places with big populations is the level of philanthropy and desire to give back. We hope this work will continue to spark something in people’s hearts to maybe push a little bit as well.
It is because of our community that we will have a chance to come together in recognizing these amazing legendary musicians. Because it’s not just about the cultural importance of music and the arts, it’s about the positive impacts that a healthy music scene can provide.
The CJS is entirely dependent on the donations and generosity of those who support us.
We thank our partners and sponsors, people like Peter Bowden of The Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance and VisitColumbusGa, Buddy Nelms of The Loft, Monica Jones of The Local, Kanise Wiggins of The Liberty Theater, as well as local business owners and entrepreneurs such as Jason Keaton of Jiujitsu Columbus and Sydney Helms of Sydney’s on 1st.
We cannot thank them enough for their support.
Columbus has an abundance of talented artists, supportive patrons, and historical venues. It just takes some connectivity to make it all work together. Hopefully the CJS can serve as a conduit for these parties to be able to provide the best education and culture to our community in the years to come.
The Annual Columbus Jazz Society Soiree 2024 is fast approaching, and we cannot wait to celebrate our city’s very own “Giants of Jazz” with all of you.
The CJS Musician of the Month: Luther Smalls
TL: What got you into jazz music?
LS: Jazz music has always been an integral part of my life, thanks to my father, who also played my primary instrument, the saxophone. His love for the instrument and vast collection of records introduced me to the world of jazz. Growing up, the sounds of the Jazz Crusaders, Grover Washington Jr., and Herbie Hancock resonated deeply within me, influencing my musical path.
TL: What makes you excited about playing jazz in Columbus?
LS: Transitioning to Columbus, I bring over 30 years of musical experience, [and] 18 years of that experience was acquired during my service in the United States Army across various stations and abroad. As I embark on this new chapter after the Army in a couple of years, I anticipate retiring within this community. My enthusiasm to play here stems from experiencing the culture and the prospect of forging new connections with local musicians. I aspire to contribute by fostering musical opportunities for others and creating educational programs for students exploring the realms of jazz improvisation.
TL: Favorite local musician and why?
LS: Reflecting on the area’s local music scene, one artist that stands out for me is Peggy Jenkins. Witnessing her captivating performance this summer left a lasting impression. Her song choices and vocal prowess delivered an exceptional show, solidifying her place as one of my favorite local musicians today.
TL: Where can people hear you play?
LS: Curious to experience my jazz renditions, with the incorporation of a little funk? Stay updated on my performances by following my journey and liking my pages on Facebook and Instagram @luthersmallsmusic. You can also view my endeavors on my website at luthersmallsmusic.com.
For more information or to discuss a contribution in any way, you can always reach out to me directly at president@columbusjazzsociety.com or give me a call (or text) 818-515-4228.
By Miguel Juarez