Dear Friends,

As we are in the midst of Thanksgiving season, we wish to express our gratitude and appreciation to our friends and supporters during this past year.

We are excited about the New Year as we are pursuing new musical and artistic explorations that will bring a fresh perspective to the mix not only with Laurent’s solo performances but also with our musical collective.

SPOTLIGHT

Dubspot’s Producer Certificate in Abbleton Live: Laurent is excited about completing this program  in music production designed by New York based Dubspot and using state-of-the art software from Berlin based Ableton. This new knowledge, integrated with his current expertise, brings new and exciting elements to his creative vision for his solo performances.

Recording at Milkboy Recording Studio.

Mélange Jazz Collective: Mélange Jazz Trio and Quartet are adding new songs to their repertoire.

Preferred Vendor status:  In addition to other premier event venues in Philadelphia, LB Entertainment is proud to have been named Preferred Vendor for Entertainment for private events by the sophisticated and elegant R2L Restaurant.  Here is their new digital brochure: http://www.r2lrestaurant.com/privatedining/testimonials/privatediningbrochure/

UPCOMING PERFORMANCES

Public appearances

Sunday December 1^st: Jazz Brunch, Mélange Jazz Quartet (bassist Bert Harris, drummer Kimpedro Rodriguez , guitarist Steve Strawitz, saxophonist/flutist Laurent Bass ), 10:30am to 2:30pm, Manayunk Brewery Restaurant (www.manayunkbrewery.com).

Saturday December 9^th: Bert Harris & Laurent Bass, acoustic Duo, 9:00pm to 12:00am, Paris Wine Bar (www.londongrill.com/paris-wine-bar/).

Sunday January 5^th: Jazz Brunch, Mélange Jazz Quartet, Manayunk Brewery Restaurant.

Saturday January 18^th: Hair O’ The Dog Gala and swanky black-tie affair will be held at the newly renovated Sheraton Philadelphia Downtown Hotel . Laurent will perform solo on tenor sax with the accompaniment of LB Jazz +One. For a complete list of performers, event details and ticket sales, consult www.hairothedog.com

Sunday February 2^nd: Jazz Brunch, Mélange Jazz Quartet.

PRIVATE EVENTS

December 6^th: LB Jazz + One, holiday luncheon, Ralph’s of South Philly at the Sheraton Valley Forge.

December 10^th: LB Jazz + One, cocktail hour reception, PAFA.

December 14^th: Mélange Jazz Trio, holiday event, cocktail hour and dinner reception, Davio’s.

December 16^th: Mélange Jazz Trio, holiday event, the Navy Yard.

INDUSTRY EVENTS

ISES Philadelphia Chapter: November Breakfast Meeting, the Hard Rock Café, November 27^th, www.isesphila.com

Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB): 2013 Annual Luncheon, Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, November 27^th, http://www.discoverphl.com/

Hospitality Sales and Marketing Association International (HSMAI): Annual Jingle Jam, Sheraton Downtown Hotel, December 17^th, www.gphsmai.org

JAZZ PRIVÉ +

CREATING YOUR SIGNATURE EVENT WITH JAZZ PRIVÉ +

When planning an intimate dinner party, a stylish soirée, a garden-party, a family celebration, a holiday celebration or any other special get-togethers – at home or at a premier venue –  live music  will help you create the ultimate entertaining experience and will reflect your personal style.

Jazz Privé +, a full musical service from LB Entertainment,   adds a quality musical experience and enjoyment to private events at home or at private venues.  Mélange Jazz Collective’s blend of contemporary jazz, standards, Brazilian and Latin, ballads, swing, pop, with a touch of blues, or LB Jazz +One or LB Lounge X’s  eclectic and vibrant electro-acoustic solo performances are the perfect musical fit for many occasions.

Whether you need a jazz soloist, a small jazz combo such as a duo, trio, or larger instrumental ensembles, with or without a vocalist, we can help you assess your musical needs and provide the right talent.

Mélange Jazz Collective (www.lbentertainmentintl.com ):  Mélange is defined as « a mixture » and is composed of brilliant professional musicians/composers from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds who all share a deep passion and love for jazz. Mélange Jazz Collective, well known in the special events, social events and local jazz circle, will bring the same exciting musicality, blending sophisticated jazz harmonics, fiery solos and funky and soulful grooves.

LB Jazz +One (www.laurentbass.com):  Multi-instrumentalist Laurent Bass’s signature sound infuses elements of American jazz styles, world jazz with rhythms of Africa, Brazil, Cuba and the Caribbean’s and layers of contemporary sound.  LB Jazz +One will thrill audiences with its rich blend of sambas, bossas, blues, reggae and jazz sounds. Its minimal and cutting edge set up and rich sound make the band one of the of the most sought after solo bands in the region for special events.

LB Lounge X Project (www.lbentertainmentintl.com).  LB Lounge X is a sleek solo lounge/party band that features Laurent Bass which was recently added to our linecard of performance options.  LB Lounge X ‘s creative  and eclectic arrangements and compositions integrate live performance on tenor & soprano sax with electronica, ambient, lounge, electronic dance and other digital elements. Designed to create up-tempo or lay-back feel for lounge, Buddha lounge, soirées, social and private events.

Our warmest wishes and Happy Holiday Season!

Danielle and Laurent

Welcome!

The Fall season brings some of the most anticipated art and cultural/community events of the year in the Philadelphia area. There are so many ways to celebrate the season. Here is a sample of events and activities as listed in the Fall guide from http://www.uwishunu.com/philadelphia-fall-guide/and http://www.uwishunu.com/2013/10/with-art-philadelphia-top-picks-for-october-2013-art-happenings-in-and-around-the-city/

Taking your event to the next level!

Mélange Jazz Collective, Photo by Susan Beard Design

CREATING YOUR SIGNATURE EVENT WITH JAZZ PRIVÉ +

When planning an intimate dinner party, a stylish soirée, a garden-party, a family celebration, a holiday celebration or any other special get-togethers – at home or at a premier venue –  live music  will help you create the ultimate entertaining experience and will reflect your personal style.

Jazz Privé +, a full musical service from LB Entertainment,   adds a quality musical experience and enjoyment to private events at home or at private venues.  Mélange Jazz Collective’s blend of contemporary jazz, standards, Brazilian and Latin, ballads, swing, pop, with a touch of blues, or LB Jazz +One’s  eclectic and vibrant electro-acoustic solo performance are the perfect musical fit for many occasions.

Whether you need a jazz soloist, a small jazz combo such as a duo, trio, or larger instrumental ensembles, with or without a vocalist, we can help you assess your musical needs and provide the right talent.

Mélange Jazz Collective (www.lbentertainmentintl.com ). Mélange is defined as « a mixture » and is composed of brilliant professional musicians/composers from various cultural and ethnic backgrounds who all share a deep passion and love for jazz. Mélange Jazz Collective, well known in the special events, social events and local jazz circle, will bring the same musicality with its fiery, contemporary and sophisticated sound that will make your event even more memorable and experiential.

LB Jazz +One (www.laurentbass.com).  Multi-instrumentalist Laurent Bass’s signature sound infuses elements of American jazz styles, world jazz with rhythms of Africa, Brazil, Cuba and the Caribbean’s and layers of contemporary sound.  LB Jazz +One will thrill audiences with its rich blend of sambas, bossas, blues, reggae and jazz sounds. Its minimal and cutting edge set up and rich sound make the band one of the of the most sought after solo bands in the region for special events.

LB Lounge Project (www.lbentertainmentintl.com).  LB Lounge Project is a sleek solo lounge/party band that also features Laurent Bass.  LB Lounge Project ‘s creative  and eclectic arrangements and compositions integrate live performance on tenor & soprano sax with electronica, ambient, lounge, electronic dance and other digital elements. Designed to create up-tempo or lay-back feel for lounge, Buddha lounge, soirées, social and private events.

Multi-Instrumentalist Laurent Bass, Photo by Jenny Lynn Photography

We did it!

Proud to be a PHL Ambassador and Certified Hospitality Professional and show off Philadelphia as a world class destination to live, work and visit.

The Philadelphia Convention & Visitors Bureau (PHLCVB) launched a new program, PHL Welcomes U! (PWU), designed to empower all Philadelphians with the tools to create meaningful, positive experiences for those who visit the City. For more information on the online educational program, visit www.PHLwelcomesu.com

OUR MUSICAL HAPPENINGS (http://www.lbentertainment.net/calendar/month.php)

We look forward to seeing you at some of our next public appearances.

September 12^th: Pulse Jazz Trio, featuring Kimpedro Rodriguez on drums, Laurent Bass on sax, Bert Harris on bass, the Mexican Post @ the Love Park – public performance. http://www.mexicanpost.com/

September 17^th: LB Jazz +One with multi-instrumentalist Laurent Bass, private reception, Leonard & Madlyn Abramson Pediatric Research Center.

September 21^st: LB Jazz +One , Main Line Night School’s 75^th anniversary reception and celebration. http://www.mainlineschoolnight.org/

September 26^th: Mélange Jazz Trio, private event, Capital Grille, King of Prussia.   http://www.thecapitalgrille.com/

September 29^th: Mélange Jazz Quartet, Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant – public performance. http://www.manayunkbrewery.com/

October 4^th: LB Jazz +One, Trenton Country Club, First Friday, private event. www.trentoncc.com

October 6^th: private event at Seasons 52, King of Prussia. www.seasons52.com

October 10^th: LB Jazz +One, private event, Smilow Center Transitional Research.

October 18^th: LB Jazz +One & Open Mic at Bala Golf Club. https://vimeo.com/72869660

October 24^th: Mélange Jazz Trio, corporate event, Barnes Foundation. http://www.barnesfoundation.org/

Mélange Jazz Trio at The Capital Grille

November 9th: Bert Harris and Laurent Bass Jazz Duo, at Paris Wine Bar – public performance. http://www.londongrill.com/paris-wine-bar/

November 15^th: LB Jazz +One, solo performance at Bala Golf Club.

December 1^st: Mélange Jazz Quartet, Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant – public performance.

December 6^th: LB Jazz +One, luncheon, private event, Ralph’s of South Philly, King of Prussia. http://www.ralphsofsouthphilly.com/

December 7^th: Bert Harris and Laurent Bass Jazz Duo, Paris Wine Bar – public performance.

December 14^th: Mélange Jazz Trio, corporate event, Davio’s. http://www.davios.com/

Enjoy the beautiful Autumn season!

Danielle

Dear Friends,
Welcome to summertime! So far, it has been a sizzling summer and Laurent and I are looking forward to spending a few long weekends at the Shore and on the banks of the Eastern shore of the Chesapeake Bay for a little time out.
Summertime evokes images of travel, leisure, vacation and relaxation. Summertime is downtime. For us, it is also a good time to take advantage of the less hectic event season and focus on special music projects, catch up with friends and colleagues, attend networking events, concerts, festivals, play some cool gigs and get ready for fall and winter’s activities.

MUSIC CULTURE

LB ENTERTAINMENT provides different musical options for social and corporate events in the Greater Philadelphia area. Here are a few thoughts about the importance of musical entertainment in a corporate environment.

CORPORATE EVENTS AND THE MUSIC FACTOR
“We love your music!”; “Your sound was amazing!” We hear these quotes often. It is always very gratifying to hear our corporate clients or their guests express how much they enjoy our music entertainment but it also suggests that the overall event was successful. Success is a combination of valued partnerships (professional event managers and their teams, creative theme designers, floral designers, caterers, photographers, lighting and sound specialists, etc.). Success reflects the close collaboration of all these resources.
Music is a great equalizer. It brings a festive note and also shows a more relaxed side of business. Experiential, highly emotionally rewarding, and a powerful motivator, music is a transformative factor in an event and its synergistic value brings together other important components of the event. Whether it is a fundraiser, award ceremony, incentive program, product launch, promotional campaign, team bonding, exhibitions, conferences, or other corporate events of a different nature, incorporating high quality artistic and musical talent during a cocktail or dinner reception – and having the right fit – will highlight an event and make a significant positive difference. It will:
• Elevate the feel of an event.
• Delight guests.
• Foster and increase social interaction and communication.
• Enhance a corporate message and objectives.
• Create lasting connections.
• Create more memorable and sustainable events.
Music entertainment is a critical consideration when designing an event. It is highly suggested in the overall strategy of a successful event.

SPECIAL PROJECT

Photo by Jenny Lynn

Laurent is working on completing his new electro-acoustic performance – blending live performance with digital elements from Ableton Live. A new and exciting repertoire is being recorded in addition to his jazz collaborative and solo performances; more details and samples to come in September.

HAPPENINGS
Recent events
Performances
Mélange Jazz Trio (Laurent/Bert Harris/Walter Runge) was thrilled to perform for The Club Managers’ Make A Wish Fifteenth Annual Golf Classic at Stonewall Golf Club, fundraiser, gala cocktail reception and live and silent auction, www.stonewalllinks.com
Mélange Jazz Trio at Tendenza, www.cescapheballroom.com/tendenza.cfm, performed for a fabulous wedding’s cocktail hour at a fabulous venue.
Mélange at Front & Palmer, corporate event, www.frontandpalmer.com
Mélange Jazz Trio (Bert Harris, Jim Holton, Laurent) at the Four Seasons Hotel, corporate event, www.fourseasons.com/philadelphia/
Bala Golf Club, Open Mic Jazz Night with Club’s musician members, www.balagolfclub.com
Paris Wine Bar, Jazz duo. Laurent on sax and Bert Harris on bass, http://www.londongrill.com/paris-wine-bar/
Mélange Jazz Quartet was featured at Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant: Bert Harris on bass, Kimpedro Rodriguez on drums, Steve Strawitz on guitar, Laurent on soprano and tenor sax/flute/blues harmonica, www.manayunkbrewery.com

Networking events:
HSMAI (Hospitality Sales & Marketing Association International) Greater Philadelphia Chapter’s annual summer outing on the Moshulu (www.moshulu.com), “Paradise on the Portside, Caribbean style” – www.gphsmai.org
ISES (International Special Event Society) Greater Philadelphia Chapter, July Family Fun Day at the Philadelphia Zoo – www.isesphila.com

Forthcoming performances:
Jazz Pulse featuring Bert Harris on bass, Laurent on sax and Kimpedro Rodriguez on drums, 5pm to 8pm, Mexican Post, 1601 Cherry Street, outdoor performance weather permitting, www.mexicanpost.com
LB Jazz +One: Bala Golf Club, Jazz Night, private event, August 16th.
Mélange Jazz Trio: PAFA, private event, wedding cocktail hour and dinner reception, August 17th, www.pafa.org
LB Jazz + One: Main Line School Night, Radnor, private event, September 21st, 5:00pm to 8:00pm, www.mainlineschoolnight.org/
Mélange Jazz Quartet: Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery, September 29th and December 1st.
Bert Harris/Laurent Bass Jazz duo: Paris Wine Bar, November 9th and December 7th, 9:00pm to 12:00am.
LB Jazz +One: Trenton Country Club, First Friday, private event, October 4th, www.trentoncc.com
Stay tune on our forthcoming performances on social media, Facebook, LinkedIn or consult our calendar of events at http://www.lbentertainment.net/calendar/month.php for updated information and performances.

BILLBOARD 2013 TOP SUMMER SONG
Summer 2013 hit song: “Get lucky” by the French group Daft Punk, vocals by Pharrell Williams – reminiscent of disco era, funky, retro, with an ultra-modern flair!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NV6Rdv1a3I
Everyone has a favorite summer song. What is yours? Here is a list compiled by NPR, 1962-2012: www.npr.org/2012/06/20/155132353/the-mix-the-songs-of-the-summer

Wishing everyone a great remaining summer season!
Danielle

Welcome to Summertime!

INSTRUMENT TALK

High quality musical instruments play a major factor to succeed in music.  Laurent is often asked by beginning students and by parents about the best criteria to select a musical instrument. Here is his suggested recommendation for the purchase of a saxophone or other instruments based on his long time experience.

1)       Never purchase an instrument that you have not tried out. In other words, always, always make it clear to the Seller that you want the option of sending the instrument back. It does not matter who the seller is. They cannot guarantee that the instrument will be the best. The only way to know is to try it out, and then send it back, without any hassle, if it does not work out. You should be able to try a number of instruments with a return policy worked out so that if there is a charge for restocking, at least you will know upfront.  Do not hesitate to take advantage the restocking fee, because it is better to pay the restocking fee than being stuck with an instrument that is not suitable. You should be able to try a number of instruments in this manner.

2)       The instrument must function correctly. This means that all PADS MUST CLOSE TIGHTLY onto the key holes. This is very important. Many beginning students think that their instrument is hard to play, not because of being a beginner, but because the instrument is not performing like it should. So this must be monitored very carefully. Make sure that all mechanisms function and keys do not stick or stutter.

3)       How do you know if an instrument is functioning like it should? The best answer is to take it to an instrument repairman, even if the Instrument is new. There is an extra cost to maintaining an instrument. Even after you purchase an instrument, there should be yearly checkups. This will make the instrument last a long time and give resale value a big plus.  Always take a instrument, new or used, to a repairman for final evaluation. This will go a long way.

4)       The user should be the final person to give the go ahead on the selection of the instrument. Learning how to play may seem daunting at first but dedication, practice and the love of the instrument will lead to a rewarding musical journey.

SUMMER JAZZ

Public performances:

June 9^th  & July 14^th: Mélange quartet, Sunday brunch at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant (10:30am to 2:30pm) – www.manayunkbrewery.com

June 14^th & July 12^th: Bert Harris and Laurent Bass Duo –  bass and soprano/tenor/flute,  Paris Wine Bar (9:00pm – 12:00am) –  www.londongrill.com/paris-wine-bar/‎

CULTURE JAZZ
What Was All Of That Noise About: John Coltrane, His Critics & The New Jazz at Philadelphia Jazz Project at Gershman Y (May 7th).
About
This community conversation provided us with an opportunity to discuss the musical development of John Coltrane, and how his search for musical perfection triggered a firestorm of criticism, anger, disappointment and misunderstanding. The conversation explored what John Coltrane was after, what he did and the impact of his search.

Special guests for this journey were George L. Starks, Jr., – Ph.D. Professor of Music and Saxophonist, Drexel University; Scott Robinson – Ph.D. Franciscan Brother and Percussionist; Bobby Zankel – Composer and Saxophonist, Terry Adkins – Visual Artist/Professor of Design, University of Penna, Robert Kenyatta – Percussionist.

RECENT HIGHLIGHTS
Performances, corporate and social events –

Mélange at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant - LB on soprano sax, Kimpedro on drums, Bert Harris on bass, Steve Strawitz on guitar. Sunday Jazz Brunch.

LB at the Grounds for Sculpture (East Gallery – Installation Ming Fay Canutopia) – Fundraiser.

Mélange’s “Little Big Band” – Bert Harris on bass, LB on sax, Sal Centola on drums, Stan Slotter on trumpet, Paul Pelusi on keys, Brian Pastor on trombone. Graduation party in Chadds Ford area.

LB practicing flute during our recent vacation in Haute-Savoie (France).

Mélange Trio, Walter Runge on piano, Bert Harris on bass, LB on tenor sax Corporate event at The Barnes Foundation

Sunday Afternoon Jam Session

Trio at the Philadelphia Marriott – Corporate Event

Trio – Bert Harris, bass; Laurent Bass, sax; Walter Runge, piano Corporate event at The Ritz Carlton

Wishing You A Wonderful Summer!

FEBRUARY NEWS

February was marked by several exciting performances by our multi-talented solos, duos and trios, celebrating some of the season’s most anticipated events as well as elegant private corporate and social events, and exciting gigs at local restaurants and bar lounges.

HIGHLIGHTS

Music:

Laurent is constantly studying and practicing music, and his learning experience with saxophonist and composer Bobby Zankel – founding leader of the Philadelphia based avant-garde big band Warriors of the Wonderful Sound – is bringing his music performances to new heights.

Laurent is also bringing his talent of multi-instrumentalist and music engineering to his solo performance by blending elements of live acoustic jazz and electronica, created by mixing and mastering sound designed electronic music from Ableton Live – a great platform for creative expression.

Mélange Jazz Collective:  Mélange’s musicians have a long playing history together; however, each performance always brings their individual and collective experience with a sense of renewed musical sensitivity and creativity. Lately, Mélange has expanded their repertoire with new interpretation of some of the greatest from the 60s, such as John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins and Stanley Tarrentine, among others.

Some of our performance highlights:

InLiquid Arts and Design Benefit v.13 at the Crane Building (www.inliquid.org):  One of the most anticipated social happenings in the city, the Benefit & Silent Auction showcases the artwork of hundreds of emerging and talented new artists as well as established artists from the region and an array of business donations, delicious food and entertainment.  Laurent was very happy to be part of this amazing event and support InLiquid and the Arts community by performing with LB Jazz +One during the VIP reception. http://inliquid.org/happenings/inliquid-projects/benefit/benefit-v-thirteen/
Penn Law, Mélange Jazz Collective: Penn Law “Bold Ambitions Campaign” culminated with a very sophisticated closing reception at Golkin Hall. Mélange Trio was thrilled to perform for this very special occasion.

Paris Wine Bar, Fairmount area, Bert Harris Duo with Laurent Bass: The duo is a jazz conversation between sax and bass that fits perfectly in Paris Wine Bar, an intimate venue and bar lounge that is recognized for its selective list of wines from the region’s vineyards, a great menu and a commitment to live music. Here is a very interesting article recently published on Paris Wine Bar: www.citypaper.net/cover_story/2012-11-15-paris-wine-bar-philadelphia.html?c=rTriumph Brewing Co., (www.triumphbrewing.com/Philadelphia/) Old City, with Jazz Pulse: Jazz Pulse – jazz/funk/soul, and more – a trio from Kimpedro’s Nu Groove, features Laurent on tenor & soprano sax, percussion and blues harmonica, Bert Harris on electric/upright bass and band founder Kimpedro on drums. Triumph Brewing is a very friendly establishment, known for its eclectic American cuisine and crafted beers and support of live music and local musicians.

Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery and Restaurant (www.manayunkbrewery.com ), Mélange Jazz Collective:  Located in the heart of Manayunk, on the banks of the Schuylkill River, this is a great spot for  Sunday brunch and enjoy their buffet and a wide range of tasting options and live music with friends and family. Mélange’s next appearance will be on Sunday March 24^th, 10:30am to 2:30pm.

Private function at Seasons 52 (www.seasons52.com) , King of Prussia,  solo LB Jazz +One: “It could not have been more perfect”, this is how one of our clients described Laurent’s entertainment and solo performance with LB Jazz +One at a recent private reception at Seasons 52 in King of Prussia, in their private event facility. The music was a great complement to Seasons 52’s impeccable service and inspiring and fresh menu.

The upcoming months and Spring season will bring a whirlwind of Arts and cultural events, such as the Philadelphia International Festival of the Arts (PIFA), PHS International Flower Show, art exhibitions, concerts and more, but also conventions, private corporate and social events celebrations.  We look forward to be part of this exciting season and to perform for some of these events.

www.uwishunu.com/2013/03/with-art-philadelphia-top-picks-for-march-art-happenings-in-and-around-the-city/

OUR NEIGHBORHOOD – OLD CITY NEWS

Old City recognized nationally for its arts scene by ArtPlaces:  our Old City neighborhood was named among 12 locations nationwide to be recognized as a vibrant destination that combines the arts and a striving economy.  http://www.artplaceamerica.org/articles/americas-top-artplaces-2013/

Old City First Friday Weekends: Old City will launch First Friday Weekends on March 1^st. This new initiative will expand First Friday with two new themes, Stop- in Saturdays and Brunch and Browse Sundays, adding a variety of activities, boutique shopping and dining experience.

(Photo from Philadelphia Flower Show, taken by Danielle)

Thank you for your support of live music.

Happy Spring!

Danielle

Greetings!

Warmest greetings and Happy New Year!  May your new year be filled with Happiness, Peace and Prosperity.

We wish to thank our clients, partners, musician friends, and fans for helping us make 2012 an exciting and successful year. We are excited about bringing you another year of great music and entertainment in 2013.

Musically yours,
Danielle and Laurent

GREETINGS AND WELCOME!
Fall season always brings new projects and this year is no exception: planning for holiday performances, rehearsals and recording, pursuing musical development, attending industry networking events, evaluating trends and working closely with our partners to make 2013 an exciting new year.  Fall is also the season when the city shines and celebrates with many cultural events, from music to design, film,  craft, art exhibitions, theater, dance and more.

Spotlight on multi-instrumentalist Laurent Bass

The most ambitious musicians are dedicated lifelong students: Laurent is one of these musicians.

The past 6 months have been very busy. Music and performance have become a top priority in growth and learning which will lead to expressing my musical potential. I was fortunate enough to find a two week long intensive Jazz workshop which took place at the end of the summer during the last two weeks of August. This 8-day jazz camp was sponsored by world renowned Buster Williams, Jazz Bassist. This workshop focused on rhythm section master classes as well as individual and group instruction in brass, reeds, piano, bass, guitar, percussion, vocal and improvisation. Each day, I participated in individual instrument instruction as well as improvisation and master classes which helped to hone my jazz skills.

I was fortunate to have as my reed instructor Bobby Zankel. Zankel has a history of intensive studies in tonality and rhythms with Maestro Dennis Sandole. Sandole’s instruction nurtured Bobby’s development into one of the most brilliant and original composers of the 90’s. His alto playing has been described as a unique amalgam of the precision and rhythmic intricacy of be-bop, with the soul and drive of hard bop, and the fire, spirituality, creativity and intensity of the avant-garde.

Every day’s curriculum had individual Instrument instruction, tone development, music theory development, Jazz language analysis, Jazz phrasing exercises, improvisation practice and ensemble performance practice. Each day was filled with intensive but rewarding practical music experiences. It was a great boost to my music learning career.

Since then, I have been fortunate to continue my musical studies with Zankel. I just could not give up the opportunity to study more in depth knowledge of my instrument and Jazz music with such a great instructor who agreed to continue with my instruction. I have found an incredible opportunity to learn Jazz history, jazz theory, jazz performance, new creative music composition, new, contemporary jazz movement which will boost my potential to the next horizon. My studies have already started to benefit my performance playing with The Mélange Jazz Trio  and my solo band, LB Jazz +One, as well as with other ensembles and will continue, I am sure, throughout my future performances.

Recent performances

Mélange recently performed at several venues:  the Mainline October First Friday, the Manayunk Brewery Restaurant for Sunday Jazz Brunch and for several corporate events at Loew’s Hotel, The Capital Grille and Penn Law School, among others.

LB Jazz +One & Jazz Jam at Bala Golf Club:  several talented musician members from the Club joined LB to jam and celebrate Jazz Night at the Club.

Special project on Music in the Hispanic Community in Philadelphia region on Telemundo TV:  LB performed on tenor sax along with a 6 piece band as back-up band to young singer and accomplished violinist and percussionist, Brianna Panama. The segment was aired on Telemundo TV  in early November.

LB with Mélange Jazz Trio performing at Penn Law School for a private event

LB on tenor sax jamming with musician members at Bala Golf Club

Upcoming public performances:

Mélange Jazz Collective and solo LB Jazz +One will be performing for several private and public appearances during the holiday season and beyond.  We hope that you can join us for some of their public performances.

Mélange: December 2^nd, February 10^th, March 24^th, Sunday Jazz Brunch at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant, 10:30am to 2:30pm (www.manayunkbrewery.com).

Bert Harris & Laurent Bass: December 28^th, January 19^th, February 16^th, Paris Wine Bar, 9:00pm to 12:00am (www.londongrill.com/paris-wine-bar/).

Mélange performing at Manayunk Brewery Restaurant for Sunday Jazz Brunch.

Lastly, we would like to extend our thoughts and best wishes during the recovery process to all our friends and musician community in the East Coast who have been affected by the devastation of Hurricane Sandy.

Thank you for your support of live music.

Wishing everyone a joyful and grateful Thanksgiving!

Welcome to our Summer news!
Our Summer has been punctuated by a myriad of musical activities and performances, and road trips to the shore, upstate NY, Chesapeake Bay area and trips to France and Switzerland. Laurent has been very busy practicing new arrangements for his solo performances. He is currently attending a 2 week intensive Jazz workshop at the Buster Williams International School of Music (led by the legendary jazz bassist Buster Williams) at IDEA Music Performing Arts Center. The program brings together advanced musicians of different backgrounds who all share a common interest in jazz. He is very excited about the opportunity to study in such a nurturing musical environment and to further develop his individual music creativity, jazz improvisation and ensemble performance – and to integrate his new skills into his style and to his performances as a solo, or with Mélange Jazz Collective and other ensembles.

Summer is also a good time to explore and develop fresh ideas for entertainment for the upcoming Fall and Winter meeting and event planning season and engage with our clients, community members and partners.

Philly jazz scene: Bert Harris Duet with Laurent Bass at Paris Wine Bar & Lounge
Musical notes from my trip to France
I was fortunate to spend the month of June in France vacationing and visiting family on the beautiful shores of Lac Leman (Lake Geneva) and experience one of its major cultural events, Fête de la Musique.
Fête de la Musique, celebrated on the day of Summer Solstice, June 21st, is a very popular festival where amateurs and professionals sing and play music in public spaces all over France, from large cities to small villages. It is a showcase for all musical genres, from traditional music to pop, rock, opera, jazz, techno, choirs, rap, world, etc., to new trends. The region hosted several free and excellent concerts.
Speaking of special events……. Renowned for its natural beauty and for its Winter and Summer activities and due to its proximity to Geneva, the area of Lac Leman attracts a number of foreign visitors and newcomers. I was delighted to be invited to a multicultural “English Apero” (cocktails) where English and French speaking guests and students mingled, sipping wine and savoring delectable hors-d’oeuvres while practicing their English and French. We were entertained by a fabulous musician and multi-lingual conteur (storyteller) performing on Celtic harp and bagpipes, Robert Amyot (www.robert-amyot.com). It was a great occasion to bring community members together, improve one’s language skills and create new friendships.

Best wishes to everyone for the remaining of Summer.

Mélange has been performing in many notable venues the past few months. Some of the noted venues are Restaurant R2L. Great place to linger and lounge, with spectacular panoramic views.

The Hub at Commerce Square was a celebration for the New Opening of a new great venue :

LB Laurent Bass performed for the Smith Memorial Playground & Playhouse annual Fundraiser.

Mélange Jazz Trio performed for several corporate events during RIMS convention week: at the Grand Ballroom at the artsy and sleek Le Méridien and at the spectacular Benjamin Franklin National Memorial at the Franklin Institute.

Soloists John Ebbert (piano), Frank Strauss (keyboard), Dan Brooks (classical guitar), Lawrence Major (violin) and Walter Runge (keyboard) did a fantastic job performing for several cocktail receptions for one of our clients at the Hyatt at The Bellevue.

Bert Harris and LB Laurent Bass performed at The Paris Wine Bar Cafe in Fairmount. We look forward to performing there for the future dates of August 18th and September 15th.

February was filled with many exciting events and activities! We are gearing up to spring receptions and summer wedding celebrations and to the summer season music at the Shore. Working closely with musical artists and with creative and talented event planners in selecting entertainment and help them to deliver their vision for their events is most gratifying. This is also the season to experience the city’s vibrant art and cultural happenings for visual and performing arts. Many engaging networking events and some amazing concerts were held throughout the month. We were able to attend a few of them.

Events:
We love our new sleek logo and prints design by Studio Z (www.studiozdesign.net), our website designer. They are an amazing creative team to work with.
InLiquid ‘s Fundraiser and Benefit v.12 (www.inliquid.org/Benefit-v12/) held on February 10th at the Crane Building was a phenomenal success this year. LB Entertainment was pleased to be part of this fabulous event and be the sponsor for entertainment for the VIP Reception Party with LB Jazz +One.
STHM Event Leadership program (www.sthm.temple.edu) hosted a networking event on February 17th at Ladder 15 for current students, alumni and faculty. It was wonderful to see my professors, former classmates and meet new students and other industry professionals.
MPI-PA’s (www.pampi.org) monthly educational program – integrating Social Media as part of a business’s marketing and communication strategy, featuring speaker Joel Comm – was held at the legendary Sigma Sound Stage, one of the oldest recording studios in the country: a unique place, exciting topic and delectable food by Feastivities.
Bridal event, Horticulture Center’s Love is in the Air, was held at the Horticulture Center on February 23d.

Music news:
Mélange Jazz Trio will be returning to Manayunk Brewery Restaurant (www.manayunkbrewery.com) on Sunday April 8th to perform for Sunday Jazz Brunch.
Laurent and LB Jazz +One, his fabulous solo jazz lounge band, will be performing at several private events held at some of the most unique venues in Philadelphia: Smith Memorial Playground, The Union League, and at private country clubs in the New Jersey area. Our ensembles and solo musicians will also be performing for private and corporate events at The Franklin Institute, Le Meridien Hotel, Hyatt-Bellevue and Penn Law School.
LB will be recording a new song on alto sax for Jaja Matsimela, one of the best world music groups in the East Coast. Their new album is scheduled to be released later on this year.
Recent concerts and upcoming performances:
Network for New Music with Felyx M ( Mendelsohn Club Chamber) performed at Independence Seaport Museum. Cynthia Folio’s new piece, Music Box, was among the new compositions that were performed. Cynthia Folio is a composer and flutist and is Laurent’s flute Instructor.
Norman David and The Eleventet (www.eleventet.com) , an amazing new jazz and modern music band led by composer, jazz saxophonist and clarinetist Norman David (www.normandavid.com), Laurent’s clarinet instructor. The Eleventet performs frequently on Monday evenings at Plays and Players 3d floor studio at 1714 Delancey Place.
Art After 5 at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (www.philamuseum.org/artafter5/) in the Great Stair Hall is a great opportunity to hear and enjoy an eclectic mix of international music performed by well established and emerging artists.
Neighborhood concerts organized by Jazz Bridge (www.jazzbridge.org/upcomingevents).
Music at Woodmere Museum with Friday Night Jazz series (www.woodmereartmuseum.org).
Save the date!
March 28th, ISES FRESH 2012 at the Simeone Museum (www.isesphila.com).