His arrangements are tightly orchestrated, highly syncopated and punchy with counterpoints behind melodies. On everything, his sonic palette is richly hued and expressionistic with dense backdrops. Unlike most other big band composers, he demands that players improvise on solo section that are every bit as complex as ensemble parts. Sue Brown, concertmaster of the Monterey Jazz Festival's chamber orchestra, led the ensemble backing Hargrove while husband Ray conducted the recording sessions. Ray Brown and the Great Big Band perform at the San Jose Jazz Festival on Saturday, Aug. 12, at noon, on the KICU-TV36 Big Band Stage, in downtown San Jose.
Admission is free.
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