In the history of jazz music, American icon William James “Count” Basie is the only bandleader with the distinction of having his orchestra still performing sold-out concerts around the world for over 30 years after his passing. The Count Basie Orchestra, directed today by Scotty Barnhart, holds 18 Grammy Awards and has played at every major jazz festival and concert hall in the world.
As an added treat, the CBO’s Cantigny appearance will include guest vocalist Vanessa Rubin, a jazz legend in her own right. The Cleveland native is revered for her diverse vocal talents, delivered with emotional depth and sometimes a playful sass.
The CBO and Rubin will close out Jazz and Wine Fest with a performance beginning at 4:45 pm. Four other outstanding acts will precede them:
• Thaddeus Tukes (12 pm) -- The Chicago Tribune said this musician and composer "brings poetry to the vibraphone." A graduate of Northwestern University, where he pioneered the first degree in jazz vibraphone studies, Tukes currently performs as a bandleader and special guest with various ensembles throughout the country.
• Victor Garcia (1:30 pm) – This acclaimed young trumpeter from Chicago released his debut album, “The Grind/The Groove,” in 2018. He’s recorded on dozens of other albums, three of them Grammy-nominated.
• Frank Catalano (3 pm) – A world-class tenor saxophonist, this Grammy-winning Chicagoan has shared stage or studio with the likes of Miles Davis, Randy Brecker, David Sanborn and Jimmy Chamberlin.
• Big Shoulders Brass Band (4:15 pm) – Our festival calls for a New Orleans-style street parade and BSBB will give us one! They’ll play a short set, too, showcasing their jazzy Dixieland funk.
As the jazz notes waft through Cantigny, oenophiles can sample an interesting selection of wines of different varietals and styles. In partnership with Romano Beverage (Elmhurst, Ill.) and Regal Wine Company (Santa Rosa, Calif.), Cantigny’s food and beverage team has curated a high-quality menu of reds and whites for easy summer sipping. The 10 tasting stations will feature international and domestic selections, including the very best of California winemaking.
Gates open at 11 am on June 18, with music beginning at noon, rain or shine. Food trucks will offer a wide variety of meals and snacks, plus beer and soft drinks. Coolers and outside alcohol are prohibited.
Tickets for Jazz and Wine Fest are $60 per person, or $40 for a music-only ticket without wine tastings. Guests under age 21 are $20. An early bird 20% discount is offered through May 26 (use code JAZZE at checkout on Cantigny.org). Limited onsite parking is available for $15; offsite parking is $5.
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