George MacDonald (clarinet), James Birkett (guitar) & Bruce Rollo (double bass)
(Review by Russell)
Nova Scotian George MacDonald played the Great American Songbook with friends James Birkett and Bruce Rollo. Brought up on Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw, the genial ex-pat Canadian conveyed his love of the music, recalling his early childhood listening to his parents’ radio – the days of dance halls, a boy dancing with a girl, the coast to coast live radio broadcasts of the star names of the era.
Blues, After You’ve Gone, Somebody Loves Me. The Lit and Phil’s monthly lunchtime concert series presented the Virtuoso Jazz Trio. Word of mouth ensured the room was full to overflowing. Extra seating taken up, it was standing room only for some. Wave, arguably Jobim’s best-loved tune, A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (programme notes suggested Berklee!) and It Don’t Mean a Thing encompassed bossa, ballads, and without question, swing. Mr MacDonald exudes a relaxed air. A professional classical clarinetist for three decades, the Virtuoso Jazz Trio is his other passion. More than two decades on the trio continues to delight audiences. Dr James Birkett, guitar, and bassist Bruce Rollo worked empathetically from first note to last.
Two helpings of Hoagy Carmichael, back to back, showcased Mr MacDonald’s eloquent playing; Georgia and Skylark (the playful ascent of the songbird expertly evoked). Lady Be Good is the trio’s showstopper. Taken at a lick, the younger men (Messrs Birkett and Rollo) kept up with maestro MacDonald…just! Stompin’ at the Savoy didn’t let up and a Sweeat Georgia Brown (a beautiful typo in the programme notes) was just that... ‘sweeat’
Prolonged applause greeted the trio. Mr MacDonald asked if they could take the audience with them! ‘Next time’ just happens to be tonight (Friday 26) at Ushaw College, Durham starting at half past seven.
Russell.
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