[Dixielandjazz] Jonathan Russell at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Fest

[Stephen Barbone]

List mates:

Did anyone see 8 year old Jazz Violinist Jonathan Russell perform at
N.O. Jazz & Heritage Festival the first weekend in May? From the reports
I received, he was truly wonderful. (And why shouldn't he be, having
played with the likes of Ed Polcer, Dan Levinson, Paris Washboard, Bob
Finch, et al in previous performances here in the Eastern USA.)

On Thursday night, he sat in on Bourbon Street and performed with the
Hot Club Of New Orleans.

On Friday he jammed with guitarist (Django type) Tony Green. (Storms
canceled outside events)

On Saturday, he played in the "Kids" venue (with Hot Club of N.O.). (He
was immediately invited back for next year)

Saturday Night, back to Bourbon Street to play with the "Jazz Vipers".

There were about 80,000 people at the festival Saturday. One needed to
get a venue seat well in advance to see the main acts. (Like Dave
Brubeck, Santanna, or the Alabama Blind Boys). Unfortunately, Harry
Connick's performance on Friday was a casualty of the storm
cancellations.

Best of all was the terrific reception young Jonathan received. He got
"star" treatment. Limo door to door from the hotel to the venue
Saturday, etc., Those who heard him were absolutely blown away by his
obvious talent and joy of playing. Loud, prolonged applause and cheers.
Hopefully, some band leaders on this list will figure out how to present
Jonathan Russell with their performances, at OKOM festivals and/or other
events. It is a mutually beneficial happening.

If close by Philadelphia, come see Jonathan playing paying gigs with
Barbone Street, here in Pennsylvania on the following dates. Contact me
for specific information, directions, etc. Each event will have in
excess of 5000 attendees.

June 6 (Sat) Super Sunday in West Chester. Gay & Darlington Street
Stage. 1 to 2:45 PM.

July 18 (Sun) Turk's Head Music Festival, Everhart Park, West Chester, 1
set. (time to be announced)

Sept. 12 (Sun) Laurels Equestrian CDE. (horse & carriage) Festival in
the country. West Grove, Restaurant Tent, Noon to 3 PM.

How about the rest of the bands out there? Pass the baton while you
still can. How about the jazz / music promoters / impresarios out there?
Why not book him?

See his web site, link below, for specific information.

http://www.jonathanjazz.com.

Cheers,
Steve