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TGIF: Danny Barber's JazzCats at Music in the Gardens

Presented by WVPE Public Radio 88.1 at Center for History

August 1, 2008

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The band, Danny Barber's JazzCats, take center stage in the lush Historic Oliver Gardens at this summertime favorite. Danny Barber is known throughout the music world for his sound, power, and musicality.

He began his professional career at age 15. His first playing job was in 1969 with the Eddie Knight Quintet in South Bend, Indiana. During this time he played with another local big band, the Jazz Assemblage, as well as both the Indiana University at South Bend’s Wind Ensemble and Jazz Ensemble. As first trumpeter in the United States Army Jazz Ensemble, he toured throughout the U.S., performing at concert halls, colleges, and high schools in 48 states. After discharge from the service, Danny was called to play with the Tommy Dorsey Band under the direction of Murray McCeaceran and alongside Buddy Morrow. He ended up as first trumpeter, touring the U.S. and Canada 1973-1977. After the Dorsey Band he was recruited by Maynard Ferguson. He toured and recorded with the band for 3 years. During this time he was contacted by a friend playing in Chicago and was put in touch with the legendary percussionist and vibraphonist Bobby Christian. That audition put Danny’s name in the Chicago scene. He made a steady living playing in rehearsal bands, weekend jobbing, and playing variety show in theaters. Although too many to name, a short list of entertainers he has played with includes Doc Severance, Clark Terry, Tony Bennett, Benny Goodman, Frank Sinatra, Sr., Frank Sinatra, Jr., Bernadette Peters, Joni Mitchell, Dennis DeYoung and Styx. By 1982 Danny was considered a first call session trumpeter. In addition to recording sessions he was doing Broadway Shows. Organized in 2005 the “Jazz Cats” is a group of seasoned world class musicians. They have performed at Jazz Festivals throughout the United States , Europe, and Japan over the last twenty years. These versatile musicians have performed with such Stars as Maynard Ferguson, Dizzy Gillespie, Clark Terry, Doc Severensen, Frank Sinatra, Natalie Cole, Nancy Wilson, The “Mighty” Joe Williams, Count Basie, to mention a few. As seasoned musicians their careers have included studio recording work, jazz festivals, university performances, solo performances with symphony orchestras and the Kennedy Center Honors. The group plays music from the libraries of Duke Ellington, Parker, Garner, Jobim, Nat King Cole, Freddie Hubbard, Miles Davis and many tunes from the Cole Porter library. As a combined group the library spans well over 2,000 songs. Presented by the Center for History and 88.1 WVPE Public. Food and drink sold; no carry-in, please. Bring lawn chairs and blankets. Event held rain or shine.