Though we already touched on it here, I can’t process my thoughts on a week of Columbus jazz without acknowledging the tragic passing of pianist, educator, composer, and arranger Mark Flugge. The Columbus (and international) jazz scene has lost a landmark figure that it will never replace. Though I was unfortunately unaware of his immense talent until very recently, I am thankful that I got to see him play live multiple times this year. Details are forthcoming for a public memorial concert, but casual remembrances of Flugge’s life have already begun among his colleagues, students, and fans at jazz shows across town. The Columbus Dispatch and Capital University, where Flugge began teaching in 1988, have provided great tributes. Rest in peace, Mark.
Shows To See This Week
Friday, May 16th: Aaron Scott’s 50th Birthday Bash at Dicks Den. One of the city’s busiest drummers is celebrating half a century with a jazz bash benefiting the Mid-Ohio FoodBank. Three groups will perform, all featuring Scott on drums: The Joe Hunter Trio, Phil Clark & The Soul, and From the Five Jazztet. The Jazztet will play in memory of Mark Flugge, with Dave DeWitt playing keyboard and Derek DiCenzo replacing DeWitt on bass.
Sunday, May 18th (6-8pm): Seth Daily & Dennis Hodges at Hodges Concert Hall, 197 Dakota Avenue. Sunday is the fifth concert in this monthly house show series. After changing the format a bit in April, guitarist Hodges returns to the duo format this month with vibraphonist Daily. Expect interesting arrangements of popular tunes in a casual environment. If you can’t make it to the live performance, the show will once again be streamed live via this link.
Wednesday, May 21st: Clave Sonic at Brothers Drake. After playing the weekly dinner show at Barcelona on Sunday, the local Latin jazz fusion group returns to Jazz Wednesday. Ryan Jewell will be sitting in for Nate Parker on drums, and Bradley Mellen will be featured on electric cello. The band will present groove jazz with Latin inspired rhythms, while also slipping in some surprising covers.
Have a great week.