Review: Rosalie Gardens Honours Ahknaton

[Written by Dale Butler]

I have said this before: Tony Bari was born with a baby piano in his brain. At every concert he plays with great enthusiasm, boundless energy, and charisma that becomes infectious as he combines his talents with the legendary Derek Francis, Derek Simmons, Earl Leader, and special guest Jade Minors.

Regulars at Hubie’s Bar – a mere step away from Rosalie Gardens – brought back memories for those in attendance, and neighbours who heard them every Friday evening until its closure in 2010. There wasn’t any rust in these musicians, who barely took a break and played as though they had written all songs like:

• “Killer Joe”
• “Let’s Groove Tonight”
• “Just The Two of Us”

In addition to this night of jazz was an historic tour, three-course meal, a new poem by Persis Butler which was read by June Caisey entitled ‘An Ode to Rosalie Gardens,’ a photo shoot, and an international fashion show, all of which were a tribute to pianist Stephan Shein Taw Ahknaton.

A special biography by Maurita André was shared: “Stephan has been performing throughout the United States and Bermuda as a dynamic Jazz and Fusion Pianist. He began his professional career as a musician at the bright and promising age of 16.

“As a classically trained pianist, Stephan studied grades 1 through 8 at the Royal School of Music and The Berklee Piano Series. He has opened for a number of well-known artists and groups, including Will Downing, Gerald Albright, Fugees, Isaac Hayes, and Jimmy McGriff.”

It was a beautiful evening, with all proceeds from the gift draw going to assist local entertainer Mitchell “Live Wires” Trott, who hopes to perform at a special event abroad.

The events on Wednesday, August 9th, 6:30pm at Rosalie Gardens – House of Music concluded as preparations are now underway for the Jamaican Coffee, Plant and Book Sale, which is slated for Saturday, September 2nd from 9:00am to 3:00pm.

The jazz series comes under the banner of Rosalie Gardens – House of Music, who will shortly release information on the following:

• The Vinyl Record Collective [Bermuda]
• A new musical
• A documentary highlighting the life of a great Bermudian musician

- Dale Butler writes regular reviews for Bernews and can be contacted at 595-9841 or daledbutler@gmail.com.

#DaleButler #Music

Category: All, Entertainment, Music