Bix Beiderbecke’s Birthday Observed with All-Star Concert Randy Reinhart Playing Legendary Jazz Cornetist's Music

Concert: Wednesday, March 10, 1999 8pm

Early jazz cornetist Bix Beiderbecke died at age 28, yet his music made him a legend among musicians and fans alike. Second only to Louis Armstrong, he inspired generations of jazzmen, with his tragic story memorialized in Young Man with a Horn.

Bix would have been 96 on March 10. Although that is a Wednesday, the Watchung Arts Center's Jazz Series will have a commemorative concert that evening at 8 PM. An all-star band has been specially assembled for the evening. Ticket prices, though, have been held at $10 for padded seats, all close to the music.

Randy Reinhart has been selected to lead the band. A virtuoso on cornet, trumpet and even slide trombone, he has a strong following among area jazz fans. 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. He's sold out Watchung several times.

He has assembled a "dream band" for the occasion. Pianist Mark Shane drew ovations for his keyboard work at the recent Benny Goodman tribute, and is "first call" for any all-star group. Clarinetist Dan Levinson, who also leads his own band, brings a freshness to the ensemble that reflects his affinity for early small-group jazz. And Herb Gardner, of the madcap Smith Street Society band, is master of the slide trombone, playing melody, counterpoint or rhythm with equal aplomb.

Drummer Arnie Kinsella plays in the authentic style of the 1920s, often appearing with a drum set from that era. Versatile Vince Giordano is a one-man bass section, with a tuba, upright string bass and bass saxophone in his arsenal.

Given the stature of the musicians involved, the intimate room is expected to be fairly full, even considering the Wednesday date. In fact, this band could only be assembled on a weekday evening. Telephone reservations will hold seats, though. They may be made by calling (908) 753-0190, leaving a message on the voice mail outside of the 1 to 4 PM office hours.

The non-profit Watchung Arts Center has, for a decade, been a center for live jazz. People drive from throughout three states because its building on the Watchung Circle is so easy to reach.