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The Jazz Loft

Renee Fondacaro of Old Field Apothecary and Tom Manuel, founder of the Jazz Loft in Stony Brook, showcase the new jazz-inspired candles. Photo from the Jazz Loft

There is a scent of excitement in the air at The Jazz Loft, which has partnered with local small business owner of Old Field Apothecary, Renee Fondacaro, to offer three original jazz-inspired scented candles available for purchase at The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook for the holidays.

Renee worked alongside Founder Tom Manuel and The Jazz Loft team to create scents that spark the same thrill as Jazz music. The “Lady Day” candle has notes of rose, green leaf, powder, musk, and white gardenia inspired by Billie Holiday’s signature flower that she wore in her hair. “Mood Indigo,” inspired by Duke Ellington, has notes of leather, smoke, tobacco, sandalwood, musk, and amber to bring the feeling of an elegant jazz club to your home. There is also a holiday-inspired Jingle Jazz candle that spikes up the traditional Christmas tree scent with notes of gin, red currant, oak, juniper, and cypress, which is a delight any time of year!

Old Field Apothecary candles are both gluten- and paraben-free and made with clean burning vegan coconut apricot creme wax. Each candle is hand-poured and contains a crackling wooden wick to create a cozy, by-the-fireside experience.

“It’s always wonderful when we can work with local businesses,” says Manuel. “I’m quite excited that we created these unique signature candles that bring together the atmosphere of The Jazz Loft and a wonderful local business such as Old Field Apothecary. Renee’s creativity in designing the scents is inspirational.”

“I’m so excited to collaborate with the Jazz Loft,” said Fondacaro. “The scents we have created reflect the jazz artists and the beautiful Stony Brook Village community. Old Field Apothecary is proud to be able to offer our natural products that are toxin-free, phthalate-free and made from vegan waxes for this local and special venue. These scents make great gifts for your favorite music lover.”

These exclusive candles can only be purchased in person at the Jazz Loft for $28 each, two for $50, or all three for $75.

For more information, call 631-751-1895.

Louis Jordan

By John Broven 

The Jazz Loft at Stony Brook will be presenting an illuminating doubleheader on Friday, Nov. 15.

The main event will be the “Louis Jordan Tribute” starting at 7 p.m. Danny Bacher, also a soprano saxophonist, will be singing many of Jordan’s hits of the 1940s including “Caledonia,” “Choo Choo Ch’Boogie,” “G.I. Jive” and “Let The Good Times Roll,” accompanied by an all-star group of musicians.

In effect, Jordan introduced the small swing combos which took over from the big bands, popularized the saxophone as a lead instrument and made music fun.

Initially, at 6 p.m., music author John Broven of East Setauket will give a presentation entitled “Who Is Louis Jordan?” Included will be a video outlining Jordan’s impactful history, featuring film clips and excerpts from the artist’s key recordings, prepared by Debbi Scott of Stony Brook.

The evening will bring into focus the influential music of Louis Jordan, an all-time American great and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Tickets to the 6 p.m. event are $10 per person. Tickets to the 7 p.m. event are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, and $15 children ages 6 and up at www.thejazzloft.org.

The Jazz Loft, which features a Louis Jordan exhibit in its museum, is located at 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook. For more information, call 631-751-1895.

Pete Caldera

With Special Appearances by Nicole Zuraitis & Rahsaan Cruse, Jr. on Nov. 23!

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Ave., Stony Brook will pay tribute to the Rat Pack with a series of eight special concerts from Nov. 7 to Nov. 23.

Frank Sinatra once said, “I think my real ambition is to pass on to others what I know. It took me a long, long time to learn what I now know, and I don’t want to die with me.” 

Danny Bacher

Enter vocalists Pete Caldera and Danny Bacher to grab the “Sinatra baton” with their perfectly nuanced interpretations of Frank’s catalog. Caldera and Bacher will be joined by the Jazz Loft’s 17-piece big band directed by Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel for eight shows filled with Sinatra classics, called “The Rat Pack Review,” Thursday, November 7 at 7 p.m.; Friday, November 8 at 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. and Thursday, Nov. 21 at 7 p.m., Friday, November 22 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, November 23 at 2 p.m., 7 p.m. and a special late night show at 10 p.m. which will also feature Grammy winner Nicole Zuraitis and Rahsaan Cruse. 

Sinatra was one of the most important entertainers of the 20th Century,” said Manuel.  “Just as Frank never did anything in a small way, we will be devoting three nights to Ol’ Blue Eyes, with a stellar list of vocalists.” 

Danny Bacher is an award-winning singer, saxophonist, songwriter and entertainer in the fullest sense of the term. He’s not only a master of the demanding soprano sax but combines his virtuosity on the instrument with a talent for comedy and narrative storytelling. He’s a smooth and cool individual who makes hot jazz and pop, cut from the cloth of the great Louis Prima and Mel Torme. Bacher swings with pizzazz, scats and sings with a smoky voice, all adding to his compelling stage presence. 

Nicole Zuraitis

This is Pete Caldera’s third year performing at The Jazz Loft’s tributes to Frank Sinatra.  Away from performing, Caldera is a reporter for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees. He is a past chairman of the New York Chapter of the Baseball Writers’ Association of America for the Bergen Record and the USA Today network, covering the Yankees. Caldera has a residency at NYC’s Carnegie Club, he has appeared on the Stephen Colbert Show.

Nicole Zuraitis is a frequent performer at TJL She is a GRAMMY winning and 2X GRAMMY-nominated jazz singer-songwriter, pianist and arranger, New York-based bandleader and winner of the prestigious 2021 American Traditions Vocal Competition Gold Medal. With a “heart as big as her remarkable voice,” (Jazz Police), Nicole is a trailblazing artist who is redefining vocal jazz, earning her a place as one of the top artists and “prolific songwriters” (Broadway World) to watch in jazz and beyond.

Rahsaan Cruse, Jr.

Rahsaan Cruse, Jr is a rising star in the jazz scene who stands and delivers jazz repertoire in an evolutionary line straight from jazz greats who came before him. Rahsaan Cruse, Jr. demonstrates his mastery of the jazz idiom, nuanced and expressive, harkening listeners to another time and place.

All vocalists will be backed by The Jazz Loft’s 17-piece Big Band, under the direction of Manuel. The Big Band is New York’s top call for jazz musicians and performs regularly throughout New York and England. The band, and has backed notable artists such as: Marilyn Maye, The Four Freshman, Ken Peplowski, Warren Vache, Houston Person, Bob Anderson, and many others.

Tickets are available on website www.thejazzloft.org for $40 Adult, $35 Senior, $30 Student, $25 Children or available to purchase at the door. 

Photo from The Jazz Loft

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue, in Stony Brook, is offering a November line-up of concerts that should “fall” onto your autumn calendar! 

 

Friday, November 1 at 7 p.m.

Ray Anderson & Tom Manuel Present Chatter Jazz!

Quintet featuring Tom Manuel, cornet, Ray Anderson, trombone, Dario Chiazzolino, guitar, Andrea Veneziani, bass and drums soon TBD

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

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Radam Schwartz

Saturday, Nov. 2 at 7 p.m.

Radam Schwartz on organ; David F. Gibson, drums; Bryan Carrot, vibraphone; Mike Lee, tenor sax. Hammond B3 Organist and Jazz pianist, has built his reputation over the last 35 years playing with such great musicians as Arthur and Red Prysock, Eddie Lockjaw Davis, Al Hibler, David Fathead Newman, Russell Malone, Cecil Brooks III and Jimmy Ford. He continues to make music history today playing with renowned artists, Bill Saxton, Iron City, The Spirit of Life Ensemble and many others.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

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Jerry Costanzo

Thursday, Nov. 14

Jerry Costanzo & The Gotham Swingers

Costanzo performs music from the Swing Era, to the Rat Pack Stylings of the 1950’s and 60’s, with a smattering of tunes from classic TV and film, to create a unique, fun experience for our dedicated fans.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Friday, November 15 at 6-6:45 p.m.

Jazz 101: Who Is Louis Jordan? $10 ALL, no discounts. Tix limit 20. Noted author John Broven will be the speaker. 

 

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Danny Bacher

Friday, November 15 at 7 p.m.

Louis Jordan Tribute

Danny Bacher, Vocal & Alto Sax; Tom Manuel, Trumpet; Rich Iacona, Piano; Eric Kay, Tenor Sax; Jon Mele, Drums; Steve Salerno, Guitar

Tickets: $30, $25, $20

 

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Champian Fulton

Saturday, Nov. 16 at 7 p.m.

Champian Fulton Trio

A Jazz pianist and vocalist for more than 20 years, she has released 18 albums as a leader and has performed in more than 25 countries, both in concert and on TV. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including Album of the Year in the NYC Jazz Record (2018, 2020, 2023) and Pianist and Vocalist of the Year (2019) by Hot House Magazine. She regularly appears in both the Jazz Journalist Awards and Downbeats Rising Star Critics Poll.

Tickets: $30, $25, $20

 

For tickets and more information visit https://www.thejazzloft.org or call 631-751-1895.

Dave Douglas September 27, 2017www.johnabbottphoto.com212-765-2342

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, offers something for every jazz fan this October, from its weekly jam sessions on Wednesday nights; the Dave Douglas Gifts Quartet playing Billy Strayhorn; and the Willie Steele Quintet for a night of Blues, BBQ and Beer. In addition, The Jazz Loft also presents several nights of its Bright Moments Series, which showcase some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene. 

Jam sessions and Bright Moments series shows are priced at only $10!

Wednesday, October 16 at 7 p.m.

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, October 17

The Bad Little Big Band at 7 p.m.

The 12-member Bad Little Big Band led by pianist Rich Iacona, and vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Friday, October 18 at 7 p.m.

Dave Douglas Gifts Quartet plays Strayhorn

Dave Douglas, trumpet; Goeffrey Keezer, piano; Kate Pass, bass; Ryan Sands, drums.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Saturday, October 19, at. 2 p.m.

BB&B (Blues, BBQ and Beer) Willie Steele Quintet

Includes food, beer section, and music in the Count Basie Garden and front lawn.

$50 all

 

Tuesday, October 22 at 7 p.m.

Bright Moments Series

Alfonso Lama, guitar; Luca Rosenfeld, bass; Zan Teti Kovi, drums

Presenting some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene

Tickets: $10, $5 for seniors

 

Wednesday, October 23

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, October 24

Interplay Jazz Orchestra at 7 p.m. 

The 17-piece Interplay Jazz Orchestra performs original compositions and arrangements written by band members.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Tuesday, October 29 at 7 p.m.

Bright Moments Series

Zan Tetickovic DMA recital; drums

Presenting some of the brightest upcoming talents on the jazz scene

Tickets: $10, $5 for seniors

 

Wednesday, October 30 at 7 p.m.

Jam Session at 7 p.m.    

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

For tickets and more information visit https://www.thejazzloft.org or call 631-751-1895.

The opening date for these exhibits has been moved from August to October 8.

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook, will be celebrating the First Lady of Song Ella Fitzgerald and legend Tony Bennett with exhibits of hundreds of items of memorabilia and archival materials. 

Fitzgerald will be celebrated not only with her music, but also with an exhibit of six of her spectacular gowns recently procured by The Jazz Loft Founder Tom Manuel. Other items in the Fitzgerald exhibit will include items spanning the mid 1930s to the end of her life in the 1990s, including letters, personal objects, awards and more.

The Tony Bennett exhibit will feature over 100 items, including several awards and Grammy nominations; letters from presidents, Louis Armstrong and Fred Astaire; and the Gold Records from his signature hit I Left my Heart in San Francisco.

The Fitzgerald exhibit of six Don Loper custom-designed gowns came to The Jazz Loft serendipitously. Manuel received a phone call one day from a young man in California stating that he had a collection of gowns from “someone named Ella Fitzgerald.”

“Ella Fitzgerald and Tony Bennett were without question two of the greatest entertainers of the 20th century,” says The Jazz Loft Founder Tom Manuel. “To welcome such an extensive collection of their personal items to have on display in the museum and to celebrate their story at The Jazz Loft is amazing. I am so grateful to all who supported these two important acquisitions financially and I just know that everyone is going to be blown away by these exhibits.

The opening of the gown exhibit and the Tony Bennett exhibit is on October 8 at 6:30 p.m., with $25 for general admission tickets available here: https://www.thejazzloft.org/calendar

“Ella Fitzgerald is the reason I fell in love with jazz,” says Nicole Zuraitis. “Her voice, her phrasing, her personality and musicality all defined the genre for me and continues to do so.”

The Gowns

The Loper gowns include: A straight long-sleeved navy gown with a see-through fabric on the arms with wrist shapers. A high neckline with a grey bejeweled center piece of silvers and different blue tones with a shape wear belt; A flowing pacific blue long sleeved gown with a lower v-neckline with vertical sequined stripes from the waist and a wraparound belt; A short length and short sleeve turquoise double patterned dress with a u neckline having a silver overlap of x patterns and waves behind; A brown elegant gown with a long sheer skirt making a two piece illusion with the flower printed pattern from the waist up with brims of gold and a flattering neckline and shoulder cut off; A loose fitting long sleeve ocean blue gown with golden flower accents varied around the dress to highlight the cross fabric v neckline; and a midnight black ankle gown with a detailed trail of golden beaded buttons and a sleek bow tie around the waist highlighting the mesh black sleeves and silky texture. 

Loper was a famous American costume designer, as well as a screenwriter, producer, actor and choreographer. He designed for Lucille Ball, as well as Ella Fitzgerald and some of his pieces are featured in the Los Angeles County Museum of Art and the California African American Museum. 

Pete Caldera

The Jazz Loft, located along the charming Stony Brook waterfront and nearby historic village, presents the 9th annual Harbor Jazz Festival from Sept. 18 to 21. The four celebratory days of Jazz will feature  internationally-known acts, including vocalist Pete Caldera and the Sinatra Project Sextet; the Ray Anderson Group; Akiko Tsuruga Organ Quartet; Carlos Jimenez Mambo Dulcet; Bill Crow Trio and Mala Waldron Quartet along with a parade with the Equity Brass band through Stony Brook Village. 

“The year’s 9th Annual Harbor Jazz Festival line-up promises to deliver an extraordinary experience and unique opportunity to hear performances from some of the finest Jazz artists in the world,” said Tom Manuel, founder and president of The Jazz Loft.  “Many of the acts booked for this year’s festival perform at some of New York’s top venues and clubs. It’s amazing for our Long Island community that this years’ festival brings them all right here in our own backyard.” 

Much of the festival will take place outdoors on two stages overlooking Stony Brook Harbor, as well inside The Jazz Loft at 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook.

This year’s outdoor concerts on September 21 will take place throughout the day on two stages: one on the Jazz Loft’s front lawn, and the second location across the street on the Stony Brook Village Green. All concerts on Saturday are free to the public. Just bring a lawn chair or blanket. Shows for Sept. 18 through Sept. 20 are ticketed events.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

The Jazz Loft

Sept. 18  at 7 p.m. — Opening reception & jam session with the Keenan Zach Trio. All tickets are $10.

Sept. 19 at 7 p.m. — The Bad Little Big Band, featuring guest artist trumpeter Joe Magnarelli. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students, $15 children ages 5 and up.

Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. — The Sinatra Project with vocalist Pete Caldera backed by The Sinatra Sextet. Tickets are $40.

Sept. 21 from noon to 8 p.m.  

Village Green Stage

Traditional Jazz Parade with Equity Brass Band at noon; Ray Anderson Group at 1 p.m.; Akiko Tsuruga Organ Quartet  at 4 p.m.; and Carlos Jimenez Mambo Dulcet at 7 p.m. Free.

Jazz Loft Lawn Stage

Bill Crow Trio at 3 p.m.; Mala Waldron Quartet at 6 p.m. Free.

In the case of rain, all events will be held inside The Jazz Loft.

For more information, call 631-751-1895 or visit www.thejazzloft.org.

This article originally appeared in TBR News Media’s Harvest Times supplement on Sept. 12. 

The Jazz Loft Founder Tom Manuel and Hofstra intern Rachael Hajec stand in front of the new Ella Fitzgerald exhibit. Courtesy The Jazz Loft

Rachael Hajec, a Hofstra University journalism student, just completed a summer internship at Stony Brook’s famed Jazz Loft. There, she delved into marketing, media relations and all things journalism.

During her internship, Hajec worked on a range of projects, including creating documentaries for The Loft’s social media and website, managing event promotions and producing video and audio packages for the John Monteleone: Art of the Guitar Festival, as well as the Loft School of Jazz Summer Camp. She, also, developed graphics for event promotion, conducted interviews and maintained connections with local businesses and officials for future collaborations.

“There are students who are hard workers and dedicated professionals, and then there are those who embody the intangible,” said The Jazz Loft founder Tom Manuel. “Rachel has that intangible quality. It was a joy to work with her, and I’m confident she’s destined for great things.”

Hajec hails from Spartansburg, Pennsylvania, and has been residing in Hempstead for the past four years. She is set to be a senior at Hofstra, this fall, where she has been serving as the Program Director of Music at award-winning radio station 88.7FM WRHU, as a passionate student of The Lawrence Herbert School of Communication.

“Working at The Jazz Loft was one of the most beneficial experiences of my early journalism career,” Hajec said.

Hajec worked under the supervision of The Jazz Loft’s media director Carole Trottere — a woman who served as a mentor to the aspiring journalist.

“Rachael is one of the most creative and enthusiastic interns I’ve ever worked with,” Trottere said. “She brought such energy to her role, and offered many new ideas for marketing our events.”

The Jazz Loft offers internships in public relations, marketing, archival research and stage production. Interested candidates can view opportunities on Handshake.com.

“When I saw the Jazz Loft’s internship listing, I knew I had to apply,” Hajec said.

“The work was rewarding, and the relationships I built…made it even more special. I highly recommend The Jazz Loft to anyone who loves jazz and values a sense of community, and I hope other eager journalists will enjoy their time there as much as I did.”

The Jazz Loft. Photo by Heidi Sutton

The Jazz Loft, 275 Christian Avenue, in Stony Brook, is offering a September calendar of concerts that will revive your spirits.

Wednesday, September 4

Young at Heart: Salute to Bobby Darin at 1 p.m.

Tom Manuel & the Young at Heart Trio: Tom Manuel, cornet, Steve Salerno, guitar, Keenan Zach, bass performs songs from the Big Band era

Tickets: $15 General Admission

 

Wednesday, September 4

Jam Session at 7 p.m.

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, September 5

The Jazz Loft Big Band at 7 p.m.

17-piece big band directed by Tom Manuel

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Friday, September 6 

David Berkman Quartet at 7 p.m.

David Berkman on piano and compositions by Berkman; David Stephens on saxophones; Joe Martin on bass; Ferenc Nemeth on drums.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Saturday, September 7

Larry Fuller Trio at 7 p.m.

Larry Fuller on piano

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Wednesday, September 11

Jam Session at 7 p.m.           

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m. 

Thursday, September 12 

Russell Hall Quintet

Russell Hall on bass; Leo Larratt, guitar; Mike Troy, saxophone; Matt Lee on drums.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Monday, September 16

Bright Moments Series

The Bad Little Big Band at 7 p.m.  

Livio Almeida, tenor; Moshe Elmakias, piano; Bam Bam Rodriguez on bass; and Zack O’Farrill on drums

Tickets: Adults $10, seniors $5.

Wednesday, September 18

The Harbor Jazz Festival

Jam Session at 7 p.m.           

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach and Jazz musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

Thursday, September 19

The Harbor Jazz Festival

The Bad Little Big Band at 7 p.m.

The 12-member Bad Little Big Band led by pianist Rich Iacona, and vocalist Madeline Kole accompanies the band.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

Friday, September 20

The Harbor Jazz Festival

The Sinatra Project at 7 p.m.

Vocalist Pete Caldera, backed by the Tom Manuel-led Sinatra Project Sextet. 

Tom Manuel, cornet; Steve Salerno, guitar; Jon Mele, drums; Frank Hansen, bass; Rod Borrie, trombone.

Tickets: $40 general admission

 

Saturday, September 21

The Harbor Jazz Festival

ALL Concerts are FREE

Village Green Stage:

1 p.m. to 3 p.m.

Ray Anderson Group

4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Akiko Tsuruga Organ Quartet

7 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Carlos Jimenez Mambo Dulcet

Jazz Loft Lawn Stage:

3 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Bill Crow Trio

6 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Mala Waldron Quartet

 

Monday, September 24

Bright Moments Series

Zan Tetickovic, drums

Tickets: Adults $10, seniors $5.

 

Wednesday, September 25

Jam Session at 7 p.m.

Jam Sessions are led by Keenan Zach Jazz and musicians of all ages are invited to play on stage along with fellow Jazz enthusiasts.

Tickets: $10, $5 after 8 p.m.

 

Thursday, September 26

Interplay Jazz Orchestra at 7 p.m. 

The 17-piece Interplay Jazz Orchestra performs original compositions and arrangements written by band members.

Tickets: $30 Adult, $25 Senior, $20 Student, $15 Child, FREE Child (5 and under)

 

For tickets and more information visit https://www.thejazzloft.org or call 631-751-1895.

Ray Anderson. Photo courtesy of The Jazz Loft

Internationally known and beloved trombonist Ray Anderson will be taking the stage at The Jazz Loft on August 9 at 7 p.m. with a solo concert that he describes as “both a daunting and exhilarating undertaking, like climbing a mountain or running a marathon.”

The solo concert is based on his CD Marching On.

“In 2016 I played solo at the Le Mans Jazz Festival in France,” Anderson recalls, “and that concert began the journey that produced my solo CD. Virtually unchanged since the 13th century, the trombone is simply a tube of brass one can slide to make it longer or shorter. Every sound must come from the player’s lips. For Felix Mendelsohn the trombone was the voice of God, and in America there are many trombone gospel choirs worshipping in African-American churches. The trombone is also used by circus clowns and any composer seeking absurd, humorous, or outrageous sounds. I will endeavor to use it in all these ways, and maybe some new ones, to entertain you.”

Anyone who has ever experienced Ray Anderson and his music artistry, knows that Ray’s humor and joy are as much a part of the show as the music. Anderson is formerly the Director of Jazz Studies at Stony Brook University, and still maintains a thriving performance and recording career that has spanned more than three decades. He is co-founder and vice president of The Jazz Loft.

The French newspaper Le Monde, said this in 2016 about the solo show… “Bent over his instrument from which he draws the most powerful sounds or the chords (yes, chords by harmonics) pianissimo, the eternal young man from Chicago with the booming laugh (1952) delivers a stunning “performance.”

Michael Bourne of Downbeat Magazine stated: “Ray’s chops are phenomenal – from swooping legato to breakneck staccato, from the nastiest growls to the sweetest whimpers – but it’s evident that he’s not about technique, that he’ll sometimes altogether forget technique. It’s the feeling he’s playing,…”

“The compositional prowess and unbridled creativity of Ray Anderson is hard to capture with mere words,” said Tom Manuel, president of The JazzLoft. “His spirit, ability to connect with his audience, and especially his genuine and authentic way of communicating his music is absolutely magical.”

The Jazz Loft is located at 275 Christian Avenue in Stony Brook. Tickets are $30 adults, $25 seniors, $20 students and $15 for children.