Greg Abate
Fri. May 30xxxxxxxx$26

Saxophonist Greg Abate radiates joy and energy. His steady comprehensible musical course combined with exhilarating risk-taking produces a rich sound and his gentle self-confidence allows him to play with sweetness and daring.

Abate revels in the freedom of expression allowed by jazz, especially the harmonically sophisticated style known as be-bop. Says Abate...“There’s nothing like playing bop. I like to do things spontaneously. I hate to rehearse. I like to get up there and play the real thing in the moment. I like to take chances.’’

Originally from Woonsocket, RI, Greg finished college at Berklee College of Music and went to the west coast for a two year stint (‘73-‘74) with the legendary Ray Charles Orchestra, replacing the great Eddie “Lockjaw’’ Davis. Abate tours frequently now with his own groups and his web site lists eleven CDs under his own name as leader.

Says Jazz Times...“Multi-saxophonist Greg Abate is a prime example of the ‘rear back and blow’ school of contemporary bop-based players. The tunes he writes or chooses are based on the kinds of changes that harmony-oriented jazzmen have favored since the beginning and he swings through them with an eager and easy virtuosity.”

“Greg Abate is an absolute powerhouse who will absolutely not let hard driving bebop die”.
                                                                     --The Jazz Messenger

Greg Abate is joined this evening by John Harmon and his trio.

Sponsored by:  Stahl Plumbing

Back to Event Schedule