[Dixielandjazz] A Jazzy State Dinner for the Chinese leader

[Stephen G Barbone]

What was missing in the politicized reports about the US State Dinner  
from Chinese Premier Hu, was the musical entertainment portion. JAZZ.

The performers included; Herbie Hancock, Dianne Reeves, Peter Martin  
(pno), Randy Brecker(tp) , Dee Dee Bridgewater, Chris Botti, Antonio  
Hart (alto sax), James Genus (bs), Matt Wilson (dms). The Thelonious  
Monk Institute of Jazz helped put the program together.

There was even a duet by Hancock and Chinese pianist, Lang Lang with a  
4 hand rendition of a Ravel piece. If you dig Ravel, you can see it at:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a51YSljGbvg&feature=player_embedded

They have played together before as you can see on the site.

As an aside, Bill Clinton who attended, was seen tapping his foot with  
the best of them during the jazz performances. And some say that  
Chinese Premier Hu was doing likewise.

Other musical guests included Barbra Streisnad and Yo Yo Ma,

The Chinese had requested an "American-style evening" and so they got  
Jazz, with a dinner of Maine Lobster, Rib Eye Steaks, Potatoes,  
Creamed Spinach and Apple Pie and Ice Cream.

Cheers,
Steve Barbone
www.myspace.com/barbonestreetjazzband