A Tribute to Jazz Organ Greats Dr. Lonnie Smith and Joey DeFrancesco
Jazz enthusiasts and music lovers, mark your calendars for an extraordinary community event! On Sunday, August 11th, at 4:30 pm, JazzBuffalo proudly presents the next installment of Jazz at Richardson, featuring the internationally acclaimed jazz organist Tony Monaco. This special tribute to Buffalo native Dr. Lonnie Smith and the late Joey DeFrancesco promises to be an unforgettable experience.
Tony Monaco’s journey into jazz began at the age of eight with the accordion. His path was set at twelve when he first heard the legendary Jimmy Smith. Guided by local organ masters Hank Marr and Don Patterson, Tony honed his craft in Columbus, Ohio, and absorbed the influences of greats like Jimmy McGriff, Richard “Groove” Holmes, Charles Earland, Jack McDuff, and Dr. Lonnie Smith. A pivotal moment came on Tony’s sixteenth birthday when Jimmy Smith, who would become his mentor, invited him to play at his club in California.
Tony balanced his musical passion with family and business responsibilities throughout his career. From running Monaco’s Palace Italian restaurant to a successful stint in the food brokerage industry, Tony’s dedication to his craft never waned. In April 2000, a collaboration with Joey DeFrancesco resulted in the critically acclaimed debut CD, “Burnin’ Grooves,” catapulting Tony into the jazz spotlight and leading to regional and national tours.
Tony’s talent and reputation have earned him opportunities to play with some of the greatest musicians in jazz, including Mel Lewis, Lewis Nash, Red Holloway, Sonny Fortune, Jon Faddis, and George Benson. An ardent student and teacher of the Hammond B3 organ, Tony has produced a series of instructional DVDs and teaches lessons online, sharing his knowledge with students worldwide.
At Jazz at Richardson, Tony Monaco will pay tribute to two iconic figures in jazz organ history: Dr. Lonnie Smith, a Buffalo native whose soulful and innovative style left an indelible mark on the genre, and Joey DeFrancesco, whose virtuosity and passion inspired a new generation of jazz organists. Tony’s performance will feature his real Hammond B3 organ in an Organ, Guitar, and Drums Jazz Trio, celebrating Buffalo’s rich history in Rust Belt organ jazz. Joining Monaco will be acclaimed jazz guitarist Josh Hill and Bufalo’s own Abdul-Rahman Qadir on drums.
This event is a unique opportunity to witness one of the world’s premier Hammond B3 jazz organists today, performing in an intimate setting at the Richardson-Olmsted Campus. As Tony Monaco continues his mission to raise awareness and appreciation of jazz organ, his performance will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on all who attend.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a community united by the power of music. Join us for a time of exceptional jazz and a tribute to the legacy of Dr. Lonnie Smith and Joey DeFrancesco.
Event Details:
- Date: Sunday, August 11th
- Time: 4:30 pm
- Location: Richardson-Olmsted Campus, Buffalo, NY
Tony Monaco’s appearance at Jazz at Richardson is not to be missed. Experience the magic of jazz organ and honor the legacy of two jazz legends with a performance that promises to uplift and inspire.
Please make plans to join us for unforgettable music and community spirit!
