The Russ Kassoff Big Band at Gillespie Auditorium, tonight, Feb. 5

Join us for another spectacular evening of swinging jazz you’ll never forget tonight, February 5 at the John Birks Gillespie Auditorium in the New York City Baha'i Center at 53 East 11th Street (between University Place & Broadway). Dedicated to the late great Dizzy Gillespie, this magnificent, yet cozy theater with its glorious acoustics is fast becoming the favorite venue of the world class musicians who play there, as well as jazz fans who return week after week to enjoy this comfortable and exhilarating experience, soaking up great sounds in the warm and welcoming environment of this beautiful theater. There will be two shows: 8:00 and 9:30 pm.

The Russ Kassoff Big Band was formed in 2003 after a successful run of concerts featuring Russ as featured composer, arranger/orchestrator, and piano soloist. The band is comprised of top NY recording and Broadway musicians who all contribute to the new fresh sound of these hard-swinging original charts. Russ's repertoire is eclectic and diverse, including such classics as Ellington's Perdido, Fats Waller's The Joint Is Jumpin', Tori Amos' Winter in addition to many new and innovative arrangements of his original compositions. As a writer, Russ counts among his major influences Rob McConnell, Thad Jones, Nelson Riddle, Don Costa and Don Sebesky to name a few. As a pianist - his influences include Art Tatum, Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea and Keith Jarrett.

All members of the band, including Russ, are among a small group of the best free lance musicians in the world. Together, they form a vast bio of many worlds of performing experience. Russ - with Frank Sinatra, Liza Minnelli, Rita Moreno, Rod Stewart, Carly Simon, Chris Connor, Bucky Pizzarelli, and countless others - is joined by his band members who also bring their experience - with Count Basie, Woody Herman, Buddy Rich, Lionel Hampton, Thad Jones & Mel Lewis, Gerry Mulligan, Sting, Natalie Cole - just about everyone in the traditions of American Jazz and show business. Not to mention the broadway shows that are currently being played by these magnificent players.

Vocalist Catherine Dupuis has been the regular featured vocalist with the RKBB since its inception. Her style is soulful, innovative, and fresh and she is a consummate artist. She will be performing several RK original charts comprised of a repertoire that she and Russ have worked on as musical partners for many years. Her "Rules of the Road" CD was also written and co-produced by Russ and has been most critically acclaimed.

Copies of Russ's newly released trio/solo CD "Somewhere", already reviewed on this blog, will be available at this concert. "Somewhere" is also available at www.cdbaby.com/kassoff.
Admission is 15.00, $10.00 for students.
Tickets will be sold at the door, or call 212-222-5159 for reservations and information.

Jazz Tuesdays
in the John Birks Gillespie Auditorium
The New York Baha'i Center
53 East 11th Street (between University Place & Broadway)
Two shows: 8:00 and 9:30 p.m