Jazz giant Buddy Rich is considered one of the most influential figures of jazz and bebop in the 20th century. Arguably the greatest jazz drummer of all time, the legendary Rich exhibited his love for music through the dedication of his life to the art. Immensely gifted, Rich could play with remarkable speed and dexterity, despite the fact that he never received a formal lesson and reputedly refused to practice outside of his performances. Well known local drummers Todd Reid, Bill Larson, and Alan Aluisi will bring Rich’s music alive performing familiar and popular tunes that include “Big Swing Face,” Love For Sale,” “Norwegian Wood” and “Channel One Suite.”

Specially priced glasses of wine and beer will be sold starting at 2:30pm. Epic Brewing Company will have a selection of its award-winning beers available. MJO welcomes Denver’s Kingman Estates Winery with a selection of their authentic, handcrafted local wines. Soda may be purchased for non-drinkers and youth, and complimentary snacks will be available.

General admission tickets for “A Taste of Jazz” are only $20. They are available at the door or on the Dates page at www.mjo-denver.org. The Historic Grant Avenue is located at 216 South Grant Street Denver 80209 – http://www.historicgrantave.org. Please contact MJO Executive Director Scott Handler at 303-521-8206 or Scott@mjo-denver.org with any questions. More information about the Metropolitan Jazz Orchestra can be found at http://www.mjo-denver.org.