Friday, September 11, 1998 at  8 PM

Randy Reinhart Returns with Jazz Quartet
Local Horn Sensation Opens Jazz Series Fall Season

Brass master Randy Reinhart brought a quartet to Watchung exactly a year ago, and there was hardly a seat to be had in the hall. His concerts for the New Jersey Jazz Society have also attracted overflow crowds. A sellout is the most graphic and sincere expression of flattery an audience can convey.

Randy Reinhart has again assembled a stellar quartet to open the fall season of the Watchung Arts Center's popular Jazz Series. The four include popular pianist Mark Shane, ubiquitous bassist Greg Cohen and raconteur Marty Grosz, whose humorous asides are as well liked as his guitar work. They will appear on Friday, September 11, starting at 8 PM. Seats in the intimate room are modestly priced at $10, including light intermission refreshments.

Madison resident Randy Reinhart switches effortlessly between cornet, trumpet and slide trombone, making him a self-contained brass section. This talent has been used to great advantage by, among others, Paul Lavalle's touring band and Jim Cullum's Band, which broadcasts nationally over Public Radio from San Antonio. His versatility gives any group a fuller sound.

His talent has taken him to Lincoln Center and the 92nd Street Y's acclaimed jazz programs. He's also done an Inaugural Ball, backed singer Banu Gibson and was selected to play in the 50th anniversary tribute to Benny Goodman at Carnegie Hall.

Mark Shane, another veteran of that Carnegie Hall sellout, goes beyond his Teddy Wilson role of that date to play outstandingly in every form of classic jazz piano. His fans especially appreciate his spirited stride work, where a powerful left hand is needed to deliver the pulsing bass beats.

That strong bass sound is in addition to the creative technique of Greg Cohen, whose upright string bass is featured whenever an all-star group wants the best in the business. Greg is featured on an enormous number of recordings too, since he is the acknowledged "first call" for bass on the East Coast.

Marty Grosz is one of the few jazz guitarist who adheres exclusively to his acoustic instrument. "It's a different sound," he explains. "You can hear each string being struck.

Electric instruments deny you that feeling." But it is his razor-sharp wit and the patter that goes with each selection that has endeared him to his many fans. Given his enormous story collection, no two Marty Grosz concerts are anything near alike, even if they have a few tunes in common.

Given the popularity of these musicians, seats (now padded!) for this concert are best reserved in advance. This can be easily done by calling (908) 753-0190, leaving a message on the voice mail outside of the 1 to 4 PM office hours. Tickets will be held for pickup at the door.

The Jazz Series at the non-profit Watchung Arts Center has frequent concerts throughout the year, supplemented by vocal, classical and folk music performances, plus theatrical presentations. Monthly art exhibits surround concertgoers in the acoustic gallery. Classes and other programs are also offered.

Many visitors choose to become members, receiving a monthly newsletter and discounts on certain classes and events. Information on membership and the broad array of available programs may be requested by calling (908) 753-0190.