Lena Seikaly, an outstanding singer with the Capital Focus Jazz Band, also sings with other bands around Washington, D.C. She just earned a music degree at the University of Maryland. Some of her tunes: "A Good Man is Hard to Find," "I Cover the Waterfront," "I Double Dare You," "On Revival Day." (Dave Robinson covered Capital Focus at Ascona in detail in the August RAG.)

Continued: Ascona

The Larry Franco Jazz Society, led by vocalist/pianist Larry Franco, played a lively set of Dixieland tunes with some Italian flavoring. Michael Supnick shone on trombone and trumpet, has recorded on both with Dan Barrett and also sings. I continue to enjoy the band and Supnick on two CDs.

Clarinetist Evan Christopher is a notable musical chameleon who keeps finding new challenges. His roots are in trad, but Brazilian music and dancing are a current influence. Guitarist David Blenkhorn was prominent in Evan's quartet and guest star with other groups.

Italian vibist Marco Bianchi led a very good set paying tribute to Lionel Hampton, including "On the Alamo" and "Strike Up the Band." In the band were drummer Massimo Caracca (seen here) clarinetist Alfredo Ferrario, pianist Paolo Alderighi and bassist Carlo Bagnoli. Bianchi is versatile, playing classical, chamber, Latin, show and other music. He placed second as "best new talent" in a Eurojazz competition and has recorded often.

Ginger Pig of England is stylistically unique, and enjoyable, with a range of jazz, jump, swing, Celtic and Latin tunes. The 10-member band includes two hyperactive singers and a conga/bongo drummer. I met its leader, pianist John Richardson, when he played in a band at Palm Court Cafe in New Orleans.

Another that defies classification is Pink Turtle, a French band reunited after breaking up in 1969. It swings a variety of classic pop-rock standards, with vocals by the guitarist and three horn players. The band's reappearance was welcomed and well attended by fans.

A very special set was by the Vaché brothers, Warren on cornet and Allan on clarinet, for memorable music and their evident brotherly love. Strong support came from trombonist John Allred, bassist Nicki Parrott, drummer Leroy Williams and pianist Tardo Hammer. Warren and Nicki also amused fans with a give-and-take blues vocal.

Nicolas Gilliet, director of the Ascona festival for five years, said major funding is from businesses. Other income is from government, arts groups, media, individuals, sales of CDs and admissions to evening concerts. Those are held at five outdoor stages along the waterfront street.

Daytime concerts are not continuous and are at restaurants and hotels that sell food and drinks. At least one charged to sit at tables. Fans were very supportive and stood in streets after limited seating was full. Dance floors were not provided, but some were inspired to dance in streets or hallways.

This fine European jazz festival is a favorite destination for musicians from many countries. It has a primary focus on New Orleans music but is adaptable enough to include jazz of other interesting varieties.

The front line of Creole Clarinets, here playing a swinging version of "China Boy," comprises Uli Wunner, alto sax; leader Thomas L'Etienne, clarinet, and Freddy John, trombone.  Others in the band were Mike Goetz, piano; Norm Emberson, drums, and Karel Algood, bass.  L'Etienne is noted for delving into swinging Caribbean and Latin styles and stars at many European events.

September 2008 issue | © 2008 The Mississippi Rag

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