Austin Jazz Society Pays Tribute... February 17, 2008

The Austin Jazz Society pays tribute to four of Austin’s finest musicians – Martin Allen, Gene Ramey, Martin Banks and A.D. Mannion – Sunday, February 17, 2008, 8:30 PM at the Elephant Room, 315 Congress Ave. Four bands will fill the evening with outstanding jazz representative of these great musicians. Hosted by Pamela Hart, this musical tribute is filled with great musicians of today. Toni Campise will lead the first set followed by James Polk and Pamela Hart, and Rich Harney. Other guests include Saxophonist Alex Coke, drummers Brannen Temple and Kevin Scott, trumpet player Ephraim Owens, and bassists Chris Maresh. Other masterful musicians will join these groups as they jam through the evening.

The program also includes an awards ceremony with a presentation to family members and friends of Gene Ramey, Marty Allen, Martin Banks and A.D. Mannion:

• Gene Ramey was a great bassist from Austin who played with such greats as Ben Webster, Charlie Parker, Miles Davis and Dizzie Gillespie.

• Marty Allen graced Austin with his fine piano playing. He played with such jazz greats as Lionel Hampton, Pee Wee Ellis and Bobby McFerrin. He also worked with the Austin Jazz Workshop.

• Martin Banks played his trumpet for many renowned jazz and pop musicians including the Count Basie Orchestra, Dizzy Gillespie and the Creative Opportunity Orchestra. He was also a member of Austin’s JAMAD band, whose remaining members will be playing at this tribute.

• A.D. Mannion was known as “one of the most reliable timekeepers of modern civilization.” He has played with Austin’s best bandleaders, including Tony Campise, Martin Banks, James Polk and others.

These players embodied the spirit and legacy of jazz. This evening is guaranteed to be swinging, groovy and jazzy!

Official Website: http://www.natespace.com/elephant