A Night of Jazz Excellence: Celebrating Gary Smulyan and the Legacy of Tadd Dameron
In the world of jazz, there are musicians, and then there are legends. Baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan undoubtedly falls into the latter category. If you’re a fan of jazz or simply appreciate extraordinary musical talent, you should make it a point not to miss Gary Smulyan and his special Tadd’s All, Folks program featuring Anaïs Reno on Friday, November 10 at the Art of Jazz Series.
Gary Smulyan’s musical journey started on the alto saxophone during his teenage years on Long Island, New York. Little did anyone know that this young saxophonist would go on to become a force to be reckoned with in the world of jazz. His roots in Long Island laid the foundation for a career that would transcend boundaries and captivate audiences worldwide.
Today, Gary Smulyan is not just a baritone saxophonist; he is the major voice of this instrument in the jazz world and beyond. His command over the baritone saxophone is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Known for his aggressive rhythmic sense, intelligent and creative harmonic approach, and sharp and incisive wit, Smulyan’s music is a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication to his craft.
Even during his high school years, Gary Smulyan displayed remarkable musical prowess. He had the rare opportunity to share the stage with jazz legends such as Chet Baker, Lee Konitz, Jimmy Knepper, and Ray Nance. These early encounters with jazz royalty were a glimpse into the exceptional career that lay ahead.
After high school, Smulyan continued his musical education at Hofstra University. His time there marked the beginning of a journey that would see him working alongside jazz greats like Woody Herman. He leads a formidable trio with bassist Ray Drummond and drummer Kenny Washington, a testament to his ability to assemble top-tier ensembles.
Gary Smulyan’s talent has not gone unnoticed. He is a multiple-time winner of the DownBeat Critic’s and Reader’s Polls and has earned accolades from numerous other official polls, including the prestigious Jazz Journalists Award for Baritone Saxophonist of the Year. His incredible contributions have also earned him six Grammy® Awards. His collaborations have included B.B. King, Joe Lovano, Dave Holland, Pete Malinverni, and the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra.
Smulyan’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. He has recorded and performed with jazz icons like Freddie Hubbard, Dizzy Gillespie, Stan Getz, Ray Charles, B.B. King, and Tom Harrell, to name just a few. His versatility and virtuosity have allowed him to seamlessly navigate through various jazz styles and collaborate with a who’s who of the jazz world.
In addition to his extraordinary achievements, Gary Smulyan has spearheaded the acclaimed project “Tadd’s All, Folks,” featuring the remarkable Anais Reno. This project pays homage to the lyrics and music of the legendary jazz composer, Tadd Dameron. It’s a musical journey that brings out the lyrical brilliance of Dameron’s legacy, with Anais Reno’s captivating vocals breathing new life into his compositions.
Gary Smulyan’s upcoming concert is not just a musical event; it’s a journey into the heart of jazz itself. With a career that began on Long Island and has spanned the globe, he brings a wealth of experience, passion, and unparalleled talent to the stage. Attending his concert is a chance to witness a living legend breathe life into the baritone saxophone, create jazz magic, and pay tribute to the genius of Tadd Dameron through “Tadd’s All, Folks.” If you have the opportunity to see Gary Smulyan in concert, consider it an invitation to experience jazz at its finest, celebrate a true legend of the genre, and savor the lyrical brilliance of Tadd Dameron’s music.
For a truly incredible evening at the Buffalo AKG Art Museum not only featuring 6-time Grammy® winner Gary Smulyan but also the award-winning all-star gathering of Pete Malinverni, piano, Ugonna Ukegwo, bass, Matt Wilson, drums, and Anaïs Reno, vocals, get your season pass to the Art of Jazz Series and tickets for this special show. This show will be a rare live performance presentation of one of the most acclaimed studio projects of 2022.
For more details about this special concert, go here: Gary Smulyan, “Tadd’s All, Folks” ft. Anaïs Reno
Get your Art of Jazz Series season pass here: Art of Jazz Series Season Subscription
Get individual tickets for just this show here: Art of Jazz I Gary Smulyan, “Tadd’s All, Folks”
