Philharmonic Jazz Spins Timeless Improvisations

The Rochester International Jazz Festival last night gave local jazz fans a delightful taste of a long-standing jazz tradition -- Jazz at the Philharmonic. Conceived originally in New York City and on the road in the capitals of Europe, the JATP was basically an all-star show, with a wide range of jazz stars, playing great jazz standards in various configurations.

Last night's version at the Eastman Theatre featured an all-star team of saxes Eric Alexander, Houston Person and Vincent Herring; trumpeters Nicholas Payton and Jeremy Pelt; trombonist Slide Hampton; pianists Cedar Walton and Eric Reed; guitarist Peter Bernstein; bassists Peter Washington and David Williams; drummers Kenny Washington and Louis Hayes; and vocalist Carmen Lundy.