Bermuda To Celebrate International Jazz Day

April 28, 2015

Bermuda is getting set to take part in International Jazz Day, held on April 30 and designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization [UNESCO] “in order to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe.”

Bermuda’s celebrations have taken place over the course of April, recognized as Jazz Appreciation Month [JAM], finishing with the International Jazz Day Proclamation on the steps of City Hall and a Jazz Supper in the evening honouring Bermuda’s Clarence “Tootsie” Bean.

Organizer and Bermuda’s musician Wendell “Shine” Hayward said, “Over the past month, we wanted to celebrate and highlight the impact of jazz throughout history, by offering Jazz Suppers in various locations across the island. Our chosen venues have been Paradise Lounge, Bootsies at The Grand, Sandys Secondary Middle School, R.A.A Club and the Spinning Wheel.

“Much of the music we listen to today was influenced by jazz, the artists and the musicians. Hence, our objective was not to convert the listening ears but to raise their level of appreciation for this revered art form. During the Jazz Suppers, we showcased all local musicians.”

Internation Jazz Day Poster

“Attendees were serenaded by The Other Band, Randy Lambert, Keible Hart, The Stephan Furbert Trio, young saxophonist Aaron Spencer and Shine Hayward, complimented by a 4-course meal prepared by chef Ramon from Quality Catering. The event was hosted by Ms. Darlene Hartley. We finished the evenings with a video presentation of international jazz legends hosted by Ramsey Lewis.

Jazz Appreciation Month [JAM] will culminate with International Jazz Day on April 30, when Bermuda will be participating with a Proclamation on the steps of City Hall at 12.15pm, with music by Tony Bari’s Trio and saxophonist Desmond Smith. The day will end with the celebration of Clarence “Tootsie” Bean.

Music will be performed by guitarist Dayton Wharton, Shine Hayward and The Bermuda School of Music Jazz Ensemble.

Mr. Hayward said, Tootsie has been a major influence in my own musical journey. He is world renowned, having performed with many other legends home and abroad. Apart from his amazing talent, I most admire Tootsie for realizing the need for him to leave Bermuda in pursuit of his dream but for also returning to Bermuda to enjoy his home, family and friends.

“To have such a phenomenal talent from our shores still actively with us is definitely worth celebrating.”

The dinner and show package for the event costs $75, while general admission is $30.

The International Jazz Day celebration of Mr. Bean will be held at the Spinning Wheel Night club. Doors will open at 6.30pm, with dinner being served at 7.30pm. Tickets can be purchased online at bdatix.bm and at Pianos Plus.

For more information, visit the Jazz Appreciation Day website.

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