Trombonist Chris Smith played in Marcus Belgrave's Tribute to Louis Armstrong band and also in James Dapogny's Chicago Jazz Band.

Trumpeter and singer Marcus Belgrave staged a tribute to Louis Armstrong on March 7. It has been performed over 100 times in 35 states in the past six years. Banjoist Hugh Leal manages this show. Others in the band were reedmen Charlie Gabriel and Dave Flanigan, trombonist Chris Smith, pianist Bill Meyer, bassist Marion Hayden and drummer Pete Siers. Marcus' wife, Joan Belgrave, sang dynamically on several tunes.

Some Armstrong favorites heard were "Blueberry Hill," "Hello Dolly," "Mack, the Knife" and "What a Wonderful World." The band paraded in the hall for its closing "Saints." Belgrave and Gabriel also exchanged raspy-voice vocal duets. Candidly, I think Louis was never that raspy and had better enunciation. Sound system problems also marred the concert.

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Saxophonist Charlie Gabriel was featured often in Marcus Belgrave's Tribute to Louis Armstrong concert. He's also a vocalist and one of the Detroit area's best-known bandleaders and players.

The Chenille Sisters did a wonderful show for kids in the morning on March 8. It was the first time I saw this show which they have performed often for about two decades. Their props, skits and animation were as delightful as their close-harmony vocals. The "sisters," who came together in 1985, are Grace Morand, Cheryl Dawdy and Connie Huber, who also plays guitar. In the afternoon they sang with Jim Dapogny's Chicago Jazz Band and did their trio specialties.

Vocal and band jazz tunes included "I Want To Be Happy,""Dinah," "Sentimental Journey", "At the Codfish Ball" and "A Hot Time in the Old Town Tonight." Some band tunes were "Swing Mr. Charlie" and "California, Here I Come." The sisters amused fans with "Chocolate is Love" and satires on the state of Michigan and current events to the melody of "Blowing in the Wind." I plan an article on this innovative trio.

SJC President Gordon Garrett reported total festival attendance of 8,000 for its 14 events in seven days. A new workshop featured pianist Billy Taylor, who also led his trio in a concert. At the final concert, saxophonist Branford Marsalis and the Marsalis family received the club's Satchmo Award for their performing and work in the reconstruction of New Orleans. Many jazz greats have received this award in the past 20 years.

Bob Byler has been photographing jazz events for many years. More of his photos can be viewed at http://www.pbase.com/bobbylerphotos

April 2008 issue | © 2008 The Mississippi Rag

P.O. Box 19068, Minneapolis, MN 55419.