Brubeck quartet brings jazzy flavors to Chinook

Published 9:00 am Monday, October 14, 2024

Dan Brubeck’s quartet will play pieces from his father’s 1959 album, “Time Out,” at the Saturday show.

Dan Brubeck didn’t rest on anyone else’s reputation.

The son of American jazz legend Dave Brubeck, he performed with his father around the world — but has also carved out a significant musical career of his own.

The Dan Brubeck Quartet will perform at the Water Music Society’s annual concert Oct. 19. The Saturday matinee at the Chinook School Event Center starts with a social hour at 3 p.m. with the concert at 4 p.m.

Brubeck said he was excited to perform.

“Over the years, I’ve gotten used to playing in very stressful, pressurized situations,” he said. “For example, I’ve played world-renowned jazz festivals and concert halls like Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall and have been on television in front of live audiences at the Kennedy Honors and the Grammy Awards.

“But quite often, the most rewarding music I have taken part in has happened when there’s very little stress and the musicians are in a relaxed environment. These situations allow for exploration and for the true artistry of a musician to manifest.”

He said the Chinook “gig” fits that description perfectly.

“Some of the most memorable concerts I have played have been in small towns with an appreciative and enthusiastic audience,” he added. “I’m looking forward to performing in your community.”

Brubeck is a drummer. His quartet features Miles Black on piano, Mark Taylor on alto and tenor saxophones, and Michael Glenn on bass.

Brubeck’s group will play some pieces from his father’s 1959 album, “Time Out.”

His own musical credentials are rich. Born in Oakland, California, in 1955, Brubeck was an energetic child who found his calling at the trap set, one of four of his parents’ six children who became musicians.

He was featured on nearly a dozen albums with his father and toured with the Dave Brubeck Quartet around the world. He has been part of various Brubeck bands, including the Darius Brubeck Ensemble, Two Generations of Brubeck, and the New Brubeck Quartet. Dave Brubeck died in 2012.

Dan Brubeck has toured internationally and recorded three albums with his electric jazz group, The Dolphins, and co-led the Brubeck LaVerne Trio with his brother Chris and pianist Andy LaVerne. He has played with The Band and recorded with jazz guitarist Larry Coryell and blues exponent Roy Buchanan.

The Ilwaco High School jazz band, under director Rachel Lake, will also perform, and student musicians will also help with serving appetizers and cleaning up afterward; savory treats, beverages and a no-host wine bar will be available.

Tickets are $35, online at watermusicsociety.com or at the door if tickets remain. CDs will be available for purchase at $20.

Diane Marshall, organizer for the Water Music Society, is among those involved with the Long Beach Peninsula group, whose leaders work year-round raising funds for the concerts. These events include the summer Music in the Gardens Tour.

Marshall noted that critics have called Brubeck’s drumming style “both mesmerizing and unparalleled.” She hopes concertgoers will attend to applaud both musical groups. “Come and support the jazz band and then listen to classics performed by the Dan Brubeck Quartet,” she said.

The Dan Brubeck Quartet

The Dan Brubeck Quartet

Presented by the Water Music Society

4 p.m. Saturday at the Chinook School Event Center, 810 U.S. Highway 101, Chinook. A social hour ahead of the concert at 3 p.m. will feature music from the Ilwaco High School jazz band.

Tickets are $35, online or at the door. Refreshments will be offered and CDs available.

Next for the Water Music Society

A Christmas matinee concert on Dec. 8, featuring vocalist Halie Loren and her instrumental ensemble. Details at www.watermusicsociety.com.

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