My favorite four-letter word
It's been called America's own classical music, even though its roots come from Africa and the Caribbean, with some key stops in New Orleans and New York. It has become popular worldwide, especially in Europe and Japan. It's not for the masses, but those who like it are passionate about it.
JAZZ is truly America's great music and April is Jazz Appreciation Month.
So go buy a jazz CD or download some jazz. Listen to a jazz radio station, or check out some jazz at a club in your area. If you're in the New York area, here are two suggestions for next week. Monday night, April 23, at Dizzy's Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center, the Manhattan School of Music Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra will be playing two shows at 7:30 and 9. It's a chance to hear some of the music stars of tomorrow in a fantastic club setting overlooking Central Park South. The band is led by Latin Grammy winner Bobby Sanabria, and the show will include a special salute to legendary conga player Candido, who will be celebrating his 91st birthday.
Also on Monday at 8 is a fundraiser to help trumpet master Clark Terry, who just had both legs amputated (I think due to diabetes). A who's who of jazz trumpeters will be at St. Peter's Church on Lexington Ave. for the salute to Clark.
So if you're not a jazz lover, give it a try this month. I'm willing to bet you'll begin appreciating jazz every month.