A celebration of the life and legacy of jazz guitarist Jack Wilkins. Featuring guitarists Richard Boukas, Jeff Barone, Roni Ben-Hur, Steve Cardenas, Sheryl Bailey, Peter Bernstein, Paul Bollenback, Mark Whitfield, Carl Barry, and Peter Rubie among other guest musicians and speakers. A native of New York City, Jack Wilkins grew up listening to his parents' music, such as Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Billie Holiday. Jack worked with Dan Armstrong, Lew Soloff, Lew Tabackin, and Lloyd Wells. He formed the band The Jazz Partners and played vibes with pianist Barry Manilow, who admired the work of Bill Evans, Oscar Peterson, and Barney Kessel. Wilkins and Manilow arranged songs from Kessel's albums for their group. A copy of his first solo album, Windows (Mainstream, 1973), found its way into the hands of Buddy Rich's manager. Jack then became a member of the Buddy Rich septet. Jack died on May 5, 2023, at the age of 78. There will be a reception with light refreshments from 8:30 to 9:30 p.m.
New York City, NY; NYC