ERMA — Jon Faddis headlined the Friday night, Nov. 7 opening concert of the 30th Cape May Jazz Festival at Lower Cape May Regional High School Auditorium. He was backed by Atlantic City’s Ed Vezinho/Jim Ward Big Band.
The set list was heavy on tunes made famous by the late Maynard Ferguson. The festival is a tribute to Ferguson.
Faddis thrilled the audience by hitting amazingly high notes on his trumpet. He played seated as a member of the 16-piece big band for much of the set.
Faddis was mentored by Dizzy Gillespie and played with Lionel Hampton and became lead trumpeter for the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Big Band. He also toured with the Duke Ellington and Count Basie orchestras and played on over 500 albums.
The Ed Vezinho/Jim Ward Big Band played a rousing version of Ferguson’s hit “Birdland” featuring Demetrios Pappas on keyboards and Jack Hegyi on bass.
The jazz festival continues through Sunday afternoon.
Saturday night’s headliner concert features Pieces of a Dream performing at 8 p.m. at the high school auditorium. Free shuttle bus service is provided from Cape May where jam sessions begin at noon.
Cape May County – Cape May County Freeholders….you will not stop us drone flyers! Some of us could be people who visit your towns and keep your revenue afloat! You wouldn't survive if it wasn't for us…
