The Arts and Community Center Show Descriptions

Show Descriptions

Due to our ongoing renovation please note that the Sept, Oct, Nov and Dec Jazz shows will be performed at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library

MidWeek Jazz

MidWeek Jazz brings acclaimed artists playing classical jazz and swing to the Mancini Hall at the Toms River Branch of the Ocean County Library. (101 Washington Street ) Low prices, easy parking and a single 90 minute set on a weeknight make this popular music accessible to all.
**Special Discount Price for Arts and Community Center Family members

All shows are at 8:00 p.m.

$15.00 At the Door

$13.00 Advance

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Wednesday September 22-8:00 p.m.

Allan Vaché Returns!

Acclaimed clarinetist Allan Vaché sold out the room last year for a spirited Benny Goodman centennial concert! This year, he's preparing a more general program that captures the same intensity. Once again, he'll be joined by guitarist Vinnie Corrao, bassist Brian Nalepka, and drummer Kevin Dorn, all seasoned veterans of this series.

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Wednesday October 20-8:00 p.m.

Frank Vignola Trio

Master guitarist Frank Vignola's new trio earns rave reviews wherever they play. "For me the standout musician in the ensemble was guitarist Frank Vignola, who can play more musically at ridiculous tempos than just about anyone I've heard," writes Jason Crane of the Tanglewood Jazz Festival. Vinnie Raniolo keeps paces as a second (rhythm) guitarist, while Gary Mazzaroppi, a noted bassist, "played some incredible solos that had the audience cheering for more," observes a Toronto reviewer. "It was also great to see Vinny given several solos where his blistering speed and impeccable technique were displayed for a very appreciative audience." Their first appearance for MidWeek Jazz but surely not their last!

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Wednesday November 17-8:00 p.m.

Jeff Bernhart At The Piano

Jeff Barnhart is considered to be this nation's premier stride pianist as evidenced by his popularity and appearance at nearly every jazz festival. Avid fans are impressed with the exuberance he brings to each performance, playing with such force and blinding speed that there is a certain sympathy for the piano! This will be especially obvious on his first solo visit to MidWeek Jazz, since he has agreed to play in-the-round, so that his audience can be close to the intense action. His performances bring out his sense of humor and merriment, yet the Victor Borge of Jazz piano has the rapid fingering demanded of a world-class stride player. He logs over 100,000 miles each year to display his virtuosity for his many fans.

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Wednesday December 15-8:00 p.m.

Mona's Hot Four

Traditional Jazz is regaining a foothold in lower Manhattan and Brooklyn, with clubs there presenting hot bands composed of twenty-somethings, catering to audiences of similar age. The top pros stop in and jam with them until the wee hours--they're that good. Mona's Hot Four is one of the leaders in this new trend, with outstanding musicians who play in other venues with more established bands. Bassist Cassidy Holden appeared with Fete Manouche, but clarinetist Dennis Lichtman, pianist Gordon Webster and banjo/guitar player Nick Russo will be new to MidWeek Jazz regulars. Discover them for yourself on their first downstate NJ visit. They have an amazingly fresh, energetic sound.