Dave Brubeck, who died December 5, 2012, one day short of his 92nd birthday, was the paradigmatic “good guy” of post-World War II jazz. But he was, of course, much more than that.
He was one of the rare jazz musicians whose name and face were easily recognized by those who don’t know much about jazz. The Dave Brubeck Quartet, which featured Brubeck on piano and Paul Desmond on alto saxophone, was one of the iconic jazz ensembles of the 1950s and ’60s, making its reputation with college campus recitals, playing in festivals and concert halls all over the world and releasing albums that went platinum.
From day one of his career, Brubeck inspired music lovers across the globe. In a statement read at Brubeck’s funeral, Former President Bill Clinton recalled being “utterly captivated” at age 15 after hearing Brubeck’s quartet in concert and then going home to play “Take Five” until his lips gave out. “I consider myself lucky to have known Dave and to have experienced his music in such a profound way,” Clinton said.
Now, our very own jazz masters here at Capilano University have created a night to be remembered, honouring Brubeck and his remarkable canon of works.
“A” Band- Led by Brad Turner, the “A” Band is the premiere large instrumental ensemble of the Capilano University Jazz Studies program. The “A” band has performed with jazz artists such as Bob Mintzer, Cedar Walton, Ed Thigpen, Jason Marsalis, Mike Murley, Kevin Turcotte, Seamus Blake, Hugh Fraser, Phil Nimmons, Rob McConnell, Kristin Korb, Nnenna Freelon, Denzal Sinclaire, Ernie Watts and Dee Daniels.
NiteCap- Led by Réjean Marois,NiteCap is the premier Vocal Jazz Ensemble of Capilano University’s Jazz Studies degree program. It is an innovative ensemble with an eclectic approach to musical style that includes material from Renaissance madrigals through contemporary jazz. NiteCap has developed the reputation and level of professionalism that has allowed it to share the stage and garner accolades from such top jazz artists as Ed Thigpen, Kenny Werner, Hugh Fraser, Regina Carter, Kurt Elling and Jane Bunnett.
