To celebrate its third anniversary, the Exodus to Jazz series is trying something new, a "Weekend of Jazz" featuring groups on two nights. On Friday, October 31st will be the Sylvia Cuenca Quartet, featuring Joe Locke. On Saturday, November 1st, Jeff “Tain” Watts will be bringing his project Ebonix here. Both shows will be at the Clarion Riverside Hotel. The Sylvia Cuenca Quartet featuring Joe Locke will be appearing in the Genesee Suites Ballroom. Leader-drummer Sylvia Cuenca is expanding her leadership resume while maintaining her position in the legendary Clark Terry’s quintet and maintaining an active accompaniment schedule. Cuenca’s October appearances have become an annual ETJ tradition. 
Cuenca will be joined on Friday by renowned vibraphonist (and native son) Joe Locke, who is likely to "turn it up to 11" and give his hometown fans some love. Guitarist David Gilmore returns with Sylvia, with bassist Essiet Essiet to fill out the group. Jeff “Tain” Watts & The Ebonix will be appearing Saturday in the Frontier Room. Drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts is the only musician to appear on every Grammy Award winning recording by both Wynton and Branford Marsalis. “Tain” has established himself as one of the most uniquely creative composers and drummers in today's jazz. Watts will be joined by pianist David Budway, Downbeat Magazine’s ’08 'Rising Star’ and JazzTimes Magazine’s’ '06 ‘Best New Artist' saxophonist Marcus Strickland, and bassist Christopher Smith, a New School (Manhattan) student and winner of Downbeat’s June ’07 Best Composition award.
In addition to these great artists, Exodus to Jazz is offering some specials for this Weekend of Jazz, including:
- A two-show Weekend ticket with a 25% discount off the standard ticket price.
- Free Hors D’oeuvres buffet served at the 8:00 pm show, available beginning 7:00 pm.
- Opening acts each night with some of the amazing local high school jazz musicians playing from 7:00 to 7:45 pm each night.
- For more fun among friends, wear a mask on Friday, Oct. 31 to join the "Frightful Mug" competition (prizes include ETJ gift certificates and CDs).
Both shows are at the Clarion at 120 East Main St., Rochester. Show times are at 8:00 and 10:00 pm each night, with the doors opening at 7:00 pm. Tickets are as follows: One show--Reserved, $25; General Admission, $20. The "Weekend Package" includes a 25% discount off the single show ticket if coming both nights, making two tickets Reserved, $ 37.50; General Admission, $30. Purchase tickets by heading over to Ticketweb.com or by emailing your order to exodustojazz@AOL.com.
Check out Anna Reguero's article in the D&C....
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