Jazz lovers are encouraged to get their tickets soon for a spectacular concert on October 5, 2019 as the Los Angeles Jazz Society honors jazz legends and supporters at the Montalban Theatre. 

The Jazz Tribute honoree this year is Grammy award winning jazz guitarist, AFM Local 47 Life Member Lee Ritenour, being recognized for his long career spanning 40+ years, and his tremendous support of young musicians as well as through the Six String Theory Competition.

Ritenour has recorded over 40 albums with 35 chart songs, notably the Top 15 hit “Is It You,” which has become a contemporary jazz radio classic. Oscar- and Grammy-award winning composer/jazz pianist Dave Grusin will present the award and perform with Lee and friends during the evening.  Grusin serves as Honorary Chair, with Co-Chairs James and Carole Barrall, Alan and Marilyn Bergman, Gigi and Herbie Hancock, and Cathy and Howard Stone. A recent concert at the Hollywood Bowl with Ritenour and Grusin was a sell-out, and this is a special opportunity to hear them and other honorees on stage in a more intimate setting.

The two hour concert event will also salute one of the most successful contemporary jazz artists today, Jane Monheit, with the Jazz Vocalist Award; Lucy & Mike Peak will receive the David L. Abell Angel Award to recognize their longtime support of young musicians — Mike’s ‘Peak Experience’ will perform with the unbelievable Barbara Morrison on vocals. Jazz musician, educator, and music director Tony White will receive the Jazz Educator Award acknowledging his many years working with the youth of the L.A. All-City Band and LAUSD and will perform. Additionally, the Jazz Society will present it’s first Jazz Impresario Award to Betty Hoover for 18 years of A-Frame concerts just “for the love of jazz.” Bassist John Clayton, drummer Jeff Hamilton, and pianist Tamir Hendelman will accompany Jane Monheit, and pay tribute to Betty Hoover. The Shelly Manne New Talent Award will be presented to talented newcomer Samantha Quevedo after which she will perform with her trio.

The dramatic budget cutbacks in the schools over the past several years have eliminated many of the music and arts programs. This annual Tribute is the Society’s primary fundraiser, and funds raised help continue the highly acclaimed Jazz in Schools, Bill Green Mentorship and New Note programs.  

The concert will be preceded by a 5:30-7 p.m. Red Carpet Reception, and the awards/ concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. For tickets visit: themontalban.com/love jazz. For more info, and VIP Orchestra seats, call the Jazz Society at 818-994-4661.

DISCOUNT SPECIAL: Enter promo code “FRIEND” and receive 20% off any ticket level!