Saxophonist Bruce Williams, who hails from Washington, D.C., but currently lives in Montclair, is a jazz musician with his own CD releases, plus is a sideman on more than 40 recording sessions.
As an educator, he is or has been involved with Jazz House Kids, Bard College, Princeton University, The New School, the New Jersey Performing Arts Center and the Juilliard School.
On February 2, Williams’ quintet with Freddie Hendrix (trumpet), Elliot Bernard (piano), Chris Berger (bass) and Alvester Garnett (drums) will participate in Black History Month by celebrating the centennial of another great musician – saxophonist, composer, arranger, educator Gigi Gryce (1925-83). The Williams ensemble will play several of Gryce’s compositions.
In addition to the music performances, Montclair-based author, jazz researcher and musician Noal Cohen will discuss the artist’s life and music. Cohen is co-author with Michael Fitzgerald of Rat Race Blues: The Musical Life of Gigi Gryce, now in its second edition.
Admission is $10 for NJJS members and $15 for non-members. Student admission is $5 with valid ID.
There will be light refreshments for purchase.