It’s an exciting week for Sarasota Jazz enthusiasts, as the Jazz Club of Sarasota – now in its 45th year – celebrates their annual Jazz Festival week.
If you haven’t had a chance to participate in any one of their awesome performances this week, it’s not too late as the festival ends Sunday, with tomorrow night (March 22) closing performance.
The festival will conclude with Marcus Miller and his band headlining the Saturday evening finale on March 22. Buy Tickets here. As a former board member of the Jazz Club of Sarasota for three years, I attend every year with enthusiasm, having grown up listening to jazz in Harlem since my high school days. Last night was a highlight for me as I listened for the first time to one of the feature headliners, the Emmet Cohen Trio.
Absolutely blown away!
The Emmet Cohen Jazz Trio delivered a captivating performance that seamlessly blended tradition with modern flair. Cohen’s mastery of the piano was evident as he effortlessly navigated through a diverse repertoire, paying homage to jazz legends like Fats Waller and Duke Ellington. The trio’s cohesion was impressive, with each member contributing virtuosic solos that highlighted their technical prowess and musical chemistry.
Cohen’s approach to jazz is often described as neo-traditional, blending elements of stride piano with swing, be-bop, and post-bop to create a dynamic and engaging sound. The audience was transported on a musical journey through the ages, with the trio’s passion and commitment to their craft palpable throughout the performance.
The concert was a testament to Cohen’s ability to connect older generations of jazz with younger audiences, ensuring the genre’s legacy continues to thrive. With their energetic yet refined performance, the Emmet Cohen Trio left a lasting impression, reaffirming their position as one of the most exciting acts in contemporary jazz. Whether interpreting classic tunes or exploring new musical landscapes, the trio’s dedication to jazz excellence was undeniable.
See brief video performance here
~ Andrea Martone
