"Tremendous," "Exciting," "Amazing" Say the Reviewers

"John hit me the same way as when I first heard Teddy Wilson," writes jazz legend Lionel Hampton in the liner notes for one of John Colianni's CDs. "He has his command of the instrument and a feel for swing and jazz that not too many young piano 
players have. I looked forward to playing with John every night... we were able to make great music together."

John Colianni will return to the Watchung Arts Center on Friday evening, February 9 for a solo piano performance with something for every jazz fan. His repertoire is that broad. The music starts at 8 PM, and tickets are only $12, including light 
intermission refreshments.

You've never heard John Colianni? Then you've missed his previous near-sellout at Watchung and a couple of the invitation-
al Piano Spectaculars by the New Jersey Jazz Society, where only a handful of the top jazz pianists are featured. And you've also missed his recent performances with the Midiri Brothers, both well attended. A real shame, since critics have loved him.

"His nimble fingers move with the grace of Art Tatum and the speed of Oscar Peterson," lauds Downbeat magazine. "John Colianni is the essence of a swing pianist," echoes The New York Times, "much as Earl Hines was, giving everything a strong, swinging pulse." 

Other performers are as effusive as the reviewers. Mel Torme called him "the best pianist I have ever worked with." 
"John is destined for greatness," according to jazz legend Milt Hinton. Liza Minnelli sums him up in one word: "Tremendous."

He's toured and recorded with Lionel Hampton, Mel Torme and others, winning the Smithsonian's International Thelonious Monk Competition along the way. In addition to appearances at the most prestigious clubs in major cities here and abroad, John Colianni has made three appearances at NYC's JVC/Newport Jazz Festival, and played for Marian McPartland's NPR radio show.

This concert is a special opportunity to enjoy John Colianni's playing. It will be in an intimate gallery setting, surrounded by the monthly art exhibit. All seats are within five rows of the piano, with most having an unobstructed view of the keyboard action. Superb acoustics provide the only amplification needed.

Reservations are encouraged because of the limited seating. They may be made by phone, calling (908) 753-0190 and leaving a 
message outside of the 1 to 4 PM office hours. Tickets are held for pickup and payment at the door.

The Watchung Arts Center serves all of Central New Jersey from its convenient Watchung Circle location. It is just a mile 
from either Route 22 (Plainfield overpass) or Interstate 78 (exit 40). Parking is free in the newly-paved lot adjacent to the 
building or at nearby municipal lots.