What an incredible event! This was my first experience enjoying this celebration of jazz, and it blew me away. Not only was it a collection of truly phenomenal world-class musicians, but the constant air of excitement and enjoyment (as well as the friendliness of everyone) absolutely thrilled me.
Jeff & Joel's House Party is a little different from other house parties - for one, it's not in a house! This year, it was held at the Branford Elk's Club, in Branford CT.
Second, it's a multi-day event.
Third, it's not just one or two or three bands - a number of musicians are hired, and a careful schedule of who will play when is crafted, constantly adjusting the ensemble on stage, leaping between a solo performance, quartets, trios, quintets, and the entire complement of players. I've never seen an event done like this - and it's fantastic!
We were so fortunate to have the following players:
Jeff Barnhart (piano) and Joel Schiavone (banjo) of course, with Eli Newberger (tuba and piano), Tom Palinko (drums), Fred Vigorito (cornet), Noel Kaletsky (clarinet), Danny Tobias (trumpet), Jane Campedelli (vocals), Lou Bocciarelli (bass), Craig Grant (trombone), Lew Green (trumpet), and the Paris Washboard from France: Daniel Barda (trombone), Alain Marquet (clarinet), Louis Mazetier (piano), and Stéphane Séva (washboard).
If you've never been to Jeff & Joel's House Party, be sure to go to the next one: visit
jeffandjoelshouseparty.com for more info!
