Allan Vaché Brings Trio to Watchung Singer Terry Blaine Pianist Mark Shane Join Reed Star

CONCERT: Friday, August 23, 2002 8pm  $12

 Rahway native Allan Vaché was a regional favorite for years, playing local clubs and New Jersey Jazz Society events since he was a boy wonder with a clarinet.  But he's been away a long time, first achieving national exposure with the acclaimed Jim Cullum Jazz Band in Texas, then making Florida his base as he formed his own groups and freelanced with others who were assembling all-star aggregations for tours or recordings.

Clarinetist Allan Vaché comes home to New Jersey on Friday evening, August 23 to perform for devoted fans at the intimate Watchung Arts Center.  Their Jazz Series has for years featured top names at budget prices, and this visit will continue that tradition.  Seats are only $12, and that price includes light intermission refreshments.  The music starts at 8 PM.

Vaché's many recordings sell well because he always surrounds himself with superior players.  This time he's outdone himself, inviting singer Terry Blaine and pianist Mark Shane to share the stage with him.  The pair have toured extensively and have a growing series of recordings as a duo and with band accompaniment.  Her "fine voice" has contributed to "one of the most delicious hot jazz cocktails on record today."

"Terry Blaine and Mark Shane are completely in tune with each other and stick together like glue," writes a reviewer.  "I think if Terry were to sneeze in mid-vocal, Mark would anticipate it and cover with a Jelly Roll Morton style "elbow smash." 

Mark Shane is more than a mere accompanist, being a major force in what he terms "classic jazz."  "He is a fascinating player," continues the reviewer, "with touches of the venerable Ralph Sutton and Joe Sullivan.  Mark Shane is a fabulous pianist in the vintage genres and excels at the stride style."

     Allan Vaché has played Watchung before, most recently as part of an invitational all-star sellout with the odd moniker Chickenfat Ball.  He was featured at the New Jersey Jazz Society's JazzFest this year, along with other major festivals and prestigious jazz parties across the country and abroad.  And no wonder.  Both Jazzology and Mississippi Rag surveys place him among the top three clarinetists in the jazz world today.

     Reservations are encouraged because of the limited seating.  They may be made by phone, calling (908) 753-0190 and leaving a message outside of 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.