Concert: Friday, August 21, 1998 at 8pm

Jazz Stars Johnny Varro, Kenny Davern
Trio Closes Jazz Series Summer Season

Johnny Varro's infrequent visits to this area are eagerly awaited by fans of jazz piano, given the expertise he exhibits on that instrument. Often he shares the spotlight with a guest, and since Kenny Davern has an equally strong following, the result is likely to be a very full room. As it should be.

Jazz pianist Johnny Varro will return to the Watchung Center's Jazz Series on Friday evening, August 21, this time with an all-star trio. Hall of Fame clarinetist Kenny Davern and popular drummer Tony DeNicola fill out the card for the concert.

Tickets for the 8 PM show are only $10, including intermission refreshments. Recently based on the West Coast but now operating out of Florida, pianist Johnny Varro has played and recorded with the finest jazz musicians on both coasts. Honing his skills in New York, he hung around the Lower East Side, learning piano technique from Willie "The Lion" Smith, James P. Johnson, Joe Sullivan and others greats who played there.

He toured with Bobby Hackett, then took over the keyboard at Eddie Condon's famed club, first as intermission pianist, then as part of the house band. Varro worked New York's other prestigious jazz rooms too, before settling in Miami to work for Jackie Gleason and others. These days he tours the festival circuit whenever possible, as well as flying off to please his European fans and keeping up with numerous recording sessions.

Kenny Davern is perhaps the most sought-after clarinetist playing today. His aggressive improvisational style is immediately recognizable on the many recordings he has made as leader and sideman alike. As co-leader of the esteemed group Soprano Summit, he produced some of the most original jazz recordings of the decade, exploring and expanding the bounds of the smaller reed instruments.

Drummer Tony DeNicola is more than just a timekeeper. He is supportive of the more delicate instruments in the band, yet asserts himself in solos and breaks, always with a deft touch. Drummers are not often included in Jazz Series concerts due to the intimacy of the space, but Tony DeNicola is a welcome rhythmic exception.

Given the limited seating and the popularity of the players, reservations are strongly suggested. They may be easily made by calling (908) 753-0190, leaving a message after office hours

Tickets are held at the door to be claimed at the performance. The Watchung Arts Center is centrally located on the Watchung Circle. It is a short distance from Route 22 (Plainfield overpass) or Interstate 78 (exit 40). There is ample parking at the Center or at nearby municipal lots.

The Jazz Series at the Watchung Arts Center is unique. Now in its tenth season, it manages to attract jazz stars of international repute to an intimate, smoke-free setting, devoid of the noises and distractions of bars and clubs. It is truly geared to the serious jazz fan who wants to listen to the music.

The Jazz Series opens its fall season on Friday, September 11, with a quartet led by cornetist Randy Reinhart. They filled every seat on their last visit. Pianist Rio Clemente, an extremely popular soloist, will give an in-the-round concert on September 18. Concerts follow throughout the fall on a twice-a- month schedule.

Offerings at the Watchung Arts Center go beyond jazz. The Center also sponsors concerts featuring folk, classical, vocal, popular and "new" music, plus theatrical performances, art exhibits, classes and more.