The festival kicked off with three bands on Thursday night, and all played to a full room.
First up was the Climax Jazz Band, with a couple of substitutes. Their regular cornet player was not due to arrive until midnight, so Marc Caparone filled in. Marc is a first-class musician and we're always happy to see him on stage. Also one of our favorites, Jim Buchmann is with them for the weekend on reeds.
They were followed by the Grand Dominion Jazz Band, and then Titanic Jazz band. We heard them but did not get pictures. I'll try to be better today.
The highlight of the evening for me was seeing, and hearing, George Probert, alumnus of the Firehouse Five Plus Two, Kid Ory, Bob Scoby and other bands. He has been ill and unable to play for a couple of years, and was invited to play as a guest artist with various bands throughout the festival. Last night he played with the Grand Dominion group, and sounded more like he did in the 1950s, which is a very good thing. Brought tears to my eyes!
For some reason, the music doesn't start until 3:00 p.m.today, so we'll be looking for something fun to do in Fresno. That's not as easy as it sounds.
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