Closed nearly a year, the internationally renowned Jazz Showcase will relocate to Dearborn Station early in 2008, thanks in part to a benefit featuring the famed Ramsey Lewis Trio. Set for Sunday, October 21st (7 pm) at the Chicago Cultural Center in Preston Brady Hall (78 E. Washington), Chicago jazz fans can help support the relocation costs for the Showcase while enjoying one of the premiere trios in modern jazz.
A native of Chicago, Ramsey Lewis is well known for his gospel inflected style that melds with his classical training. Studying piano from age 4 and starting his professional career while still in his teens, his first trio hit the charts with Ramsey Lewis and the Gentlemen of Swing (1956) and later the big hits, “The In Crowd,” “Hang On Sloopy” and “Wade In The Water.” With pop grooves and often playing electric piano, Lewis attracted a wide following that crossed genres. Lewis also gained popularity through his radio broadcasts, particularly Legends of Jazz which is now televised. Over the years he has served on numerous boards of music schools and programs and directs the annual Jazz at Ravinia in Chicago.
Lewis has won three Grammy Awards and in 2007 was named an NEA Jazz Master.
Tickets for this benefit are $65; reservations at 312-266-4935. For more information, visit www.jazzshowcase.com
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Tuesday, 07 October 2008
