Francesco Crosara & John Stowell: Piano & Guitar Duet…

Casa Mexico Keyport: Francesco Crosara / John Stowell Duets – Art Direction: Julia Crosara

Casa Mexico Keyport
July 29th, 2022 – 6 to 9 PM

Jazz Duets
Francesco Crosara, piano & keyboards
John Stowell, guitar

Jazz pianist & composer Francesco Crosara will appear in a special duet with internationally-renowned guitarist John Stowell. The duo will explore musical concepts based on improvisation, original compositions, and select jazz standards. Expect lyrical and introspective music.

FRANCESCO CROSARA
Originally from Milan, Italy, Francesco Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Francesco stands among the European-bred jazz greats, performing over the years with the likes of Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Lilian Terry, and more. His recordings have featured a multicultural and international array of musicians.
Since 2017, the Northwest can claim his talents, too, as he’s demonstrated an eagerness to contribute to the local scene. Francesco was selected to perform at the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle and has been featured two years in a row in the trend-setting Earshot Jazz: The Second Century series for his bold and innovative music composition and video work. In Seattle he routinely collaborates with local stalwarts like Nathan Breedlove, Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, D’Vonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, Farko Dosumov, and more.
“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” – Down Beat Magazine
“Crosaras compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a living language that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.” – Earshot Jazz

JOHN STOWELL
John Stowell began his successful career in the early 1970’s with private study with guitarist Linc Chamberland and pianist John Mehegan. Both men were valuable mentors to John, allowing him to play with them as he progressed in his development. Several years later he met bassist David Friesen in New York City, and they formed a duo that recorded and toured prolifically for seven years, with performances in the United States, Canada, Europe and Australia.
In 1983, John and David joined flutist Paul Horn and Paul’s son Robin Horn (on drums) for a historic tour of the Soviet Union. This was the first time in forty years that an American jazz group had been invited to play public performances in Russia. In 1993, 1995, 1998 and 2012 John returned to Russia, playing in numerous cities. His two sold-out performances in Kursk may have been the first appearances there by an American jazz musician.
John continues to tour, record and teach internationally. He has been Artist-In-Residence at schools in Germany, Indonesia, Argentina, and in the United States and Canada. He served as assistant director and performer in Oregon Public Broadcasting’s PDX Jazz Summit in 1991, and since 1995 has been a contributing columnist for a number of magazines, including “Downbeat”, “Guitar Player”, “Canadian Musician”, “Soundcheck” (Germany), and “Guitar Club” (Italy).

Francesco Crosara Quartet with Nathan Breedlove, Phil Sparks and…

June 25th, 2022

FRANCESCO CROSARA QUARTET

Francesco Crosara, piano
Nathan Breedlove, trumpet
Phil Sparks, bass
Max Holmberg, drums

WEAVE Presents: Francesco Crosara Quartet – Art Direction: Liza Pascal

Jazz pianist & composer Francesco Crosara will appear at Rolling Bay Hall as part of the Weave Presents series for a special performance on June 25th with an all-star quartet featuring trumpeter Nathan Breedlove, bassist Phil Sparks, and drummer Max Holmberg.

The group will present original material, jazz standards revisited, and extemporaneous improvisations in a combination of formats that leverage the cultural heritage of the individual musicians and provide a unique experience for the public. Ranging from solo, to duets, to trios, and to the full quartet, the varied program promises eclectic, lyrical, and exuberant music.

A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” Down Beat Magazine

Crosara’s compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a “living language” that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.” Earshot Jazz

ABOUT THE MUSICIANS

FRANCESCO CROSARA

Originally from Milan, Italy, Francesco Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Francesco stands among the European-bred jazz greats, performing over the years with the likes of Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Lilian Terry, and more. His recordings have featured a multicultural and international array of musicians.

NATHAN BREEDLOVE

Nathan Breedlove is a twice Grammy-nominated trumpeter from Memphis. He spent over 15 years on the road performing, recording and touring with major artists from Lionel Hampton to the Skatalites.

PHIL SPARKS

Phil Sparks is one of Seattle’s premiere bassists and has recorded and performed with numerous artists including Elvin Jones and many others. Phil is also a founding member of SRJO.

MAX HOLMBERG

Berklee School of Music educated, Max Holmberg is a renowned drummer, bandleader, educator who has performed internationally and with notables like Wynton Marsalis, Joanne Brackeen, Eddie Gomez.

Based out of Rolling Bay Hall on Bainbridge Island, WEAVE Presents is a nonprofit performing arts and education organization that hosts international musicians, showcases our local independent arts community, and invites audiences to celebrate the multi-racial, multi-ethnic roots of American culture.

YouTube player
See the video: A Silent Way / It’s About That Time, Francesco Crosara Quartet.

Francesco Crosara Quartet with Milo Petersen, Farko Dosumov &…

HOT JAZZ AT THE GALLERY Featuring The Francesco Crosara Quartet
May 7th, 2022

Francesco Crosara, piano
Milo Petersen, guitar
Farko Dosumov, bass
Mark Ivester, drums

Francesco Crosara Quartet at Frederick Holmes & Co. Art Gallery – Graphic design by Julia Crosara

Indulge In An Evening of Fantastic Jazz By World-Class Musicians, Phenomenal Contemporary & 20th Century Modern Artwork, and Premium Award-Winning Wines!

HOT JAZZ AT THE GALLERY is on a roll with top jazz performers from the region and throughout the country! Jazz pianist FRANCESCO CROSARA will appear with an all-star lineup featuring Guitarist, Milo Petersen; Bassist, Farko Dosumov; and Drummer, Mark Ivester. The group will present original compositions inspired by jazz, classical and latin idioms, plus select jazz standards revisited.

FRANCESCO CROSARA

Originally from Milan, Italy, Francesco Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Francesco stands among the European-bred jazz greats, performing over the years with the likes of Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Lilian Terry, and more. His recordings have featured a multicultural and international array of musicians.

Since 2017, the Northwest can claim his talents, too, as he’s demonstrated an eagerness to contribute to the local scene. Francesco was selected to perform at the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle and has been featured two years in a row in the trend-setting Earshot Jazz: The Second Century series for his bold and innovative music composition and video work. In Seattle he routinely collaborates with local stalwarts like Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, D’Vonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, Farko Dosumov, and more.

MILO PETERSEN

Making his home in Seattle, guitarist /drummer /composer /educator Milo Petersen has been active in the Pacific Northwest jazz community since the late 70’s. He has performed with Elvin Jones, Gary Steele, Ron Eschete, Julian Priester, Joe Sample, Ernestine Anderson, Herb Ellis, Nancy King, Cedar Walton, Mose Allison, Larry Coryell, Chip Jackson, Eliot Zigmund, Billy Hart and Phil Markowitz.

Milo has appeared on The Bob Hope Show, The Eartha Kitt show, the Broadway shows Ain’t Misbehavin’, Five Guy’s Named Moe, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, and performed with pop vocal groups The Coasters, The Drifters and The 5th Dimension. More recently, as guitarist with the Seattle Repertory Jazz Orchestra, Milo has shared stages with Maria Schneider, Christian McBride, Joshua Redman, Ignacio Berroa, Anat Cohen, Carmen Bradford, and Dee Daniels.

FARKO DOSUMOV

Farko Rustamovich Dosumov was born and raised in Uzbekistan. Farko and his identical twin brother, Feodor Dosumov, began playing the classical guitar when they were ten years old. By the time the Dosumov brothers were in high school, Farko was playing electric bass and Feodor was playing electric guitar in multiple projects throughout Tashkent.

In 1999 Farko moved to New York City to pursue a future career in music. Farko later attended Cornish College of the Arts in Seattle, Washington, and specialized in jazz bass. Since then, he has played with many talented artists and groups such as Double Impact with his twin brother Feodor Dosumov, Michael Shrieve’s Spellbinder, Carlos Santana, Jonny Lang, Pura Fe, Flowmotion, Jazzukha, Duende Libre and many more.

MARK IVESTER

Mark Ivester is a consummate drummer, widely respected for his sensitive musicianship and sincere dedication to his craft. He is experienced in many different idioms from pop-rock to big band to jazz, latin jazz and orchestral settings. Ivester’s live performance credits are extensive, having worked with such jazz luminaries as John Patitucci, Larry Coryell, Freddy Hubbard, Mal Waldron, Diane Schuur, Eliane Elias, Bud Shank, Howard Roberts, Jack Sheldon, Michael Brecker, Charlie Byrd, Barney Kessel, Frank Foster, Bob Mintzer, Randy Brecker, Tierney Sutton, Ann Hampton-Calloway, Karyn Allison and Mose Allison.

Mark’s versatility is demonstrated on a wide range of recordings such as film scores, jingles and album projects including those of R&B artist Philip Bailey of Earth Wind and Fire, Grammy award winning new-age duo Tingstad and Rumbel, Brazilian keyboardist Jovino Santos Neto and vocalist Greta Matassa. Mark is currently on the faculty of Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, WA.

FREDERICK HOLMES & CO. ART GALLERY

The Gallery’s Featured Exhibition In May And Our Guest of Honor For The Evening: Nationally Renowned, Master Encaustic Painter, ELISE WAGNER.

“What a great concert series and a fantastic venue! Fred is doing such an amazing service for the jazz community here…By the way, I felt perfectly comfortable and safe parking and attending this venue in Pioneer Square!” – Greta Matassa

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” – Down Beat Magazine

“Crosaras compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a living language that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.” – Earshot Jazz


DETAILS:
Tickets: $23. 100% Of Ticket Proceeds Paid To The Performing Artists. No Refunds.
Seating On Ground Floor And Second Floor Mezzanine. When Given Advance Notice, Guests With Special Needs Will Be Accommodated To The Best Of Our Ability.

Premium Wines Courtesy Of Our Neighboring Business, LOCUS WINES, Available For Purchase By The Glass Or Bottle.

Vaccine Verification Required. Masks Will Be Optional. If Driving Yourself, Please Allow Enough Time To Find Parking, Purchase A Glass Of Wine, And Be Seated. Paid Parking: https://downtownseattle.org/parking/

SUPPORT LIVE REGIONAL JAZZ. SUPPORT THE VISUAL ARTS. THE ARTS SAVE LIVES.

YouTube player
See the video: All Blues, Francesco Crosara Quartet.

KNKX 88.5FM (part 2) Jazz Northwest by Jim Wilke…

May 2nd, 2022

Bill Anschell and Francesco Crosara playing two vintage Steinway grand pianos at Stage 7 Pianos in Kirkland.
Photography: Lisa Hagen-Glynn Graphics: Julia Crosara

Listen – KNKX 88.5FM, Jazz Northwest by Jim Wilke:

Link to Article

The second show of highlights from a two piano concert by Bill Anschell and Francesco Crosara will air today on Jazz Northwest. The two pianists played two vintage Steinway grand pianos at Stage 7 Pianos in Kirkland. The selections include original music by Bill Anschell and Francesco Crosara as well as the standard “I Fall in Love Too Easily.”

Also on this show, music by Latin Jazz group Sonando, and two new albums by guitarist Brian Nova and Vancouver bassist John Lee.

Jazz Northwest is recorded and produced by host Jim Wilke and airs Sundays at 2 p.m. Listeners may also subscribe to the podcast at KNKX, NPR, Apple, or Google.

Jim Wilke

Jim has been a fixture on Seattle radio since 1961. He was the host of Jazz After Hours on Public Radio International from 1984-2014. Currently Jim has been producing Jazz Northwest for KNKX since 1988. This weekly program focuses on the regional jazz scene and frequently includes performances Jim records on location for Jazz Northwest.

KNKX 88.5FM (part 1) Jazz Northwest by Jim Wilke…

April 24th, 2022

Photography: Lisa Hagen-Glynn
Graphics: Julia Crosara

Listen – KNKX 88.5FM, Jazz Northwest by Jim Wilke:

Link to Article

We were happy to have had the opportunity to record a duo piano concert by two great resident pianists on two great Steinway Grands at Stage 7 Pianos in Kirkland. We’ll present the first part of highlights from this concert on today on Jazz Northwest.

Bill Anschell and Francesco Crosara play two restored Steinways from the 1920s from the collection at Stage 7 Pianos. in this show, they’re playing music by Chick Corea, Francesco Crosara and Duke Ellington. Music from the second part of this concert will air next Sunday, May 1.

Also included on this week’s show is music by Kiki Valera, the Ben Thomas Tango Project, Barry Deister’s Quintet from Portland and Tall and Small.

Jazz Northwest is recorded and produced by host Jim Wilke and airs Sundays at 2 p.m. Listeners may also subscribe to the podcast at KNKX, NPR, Apple, or Google.

Jim Wilke

Jim has been a fixture on Seattle radio since 1961. He was the host of Jazz After Hours on Public Radio International from 1984-2014. Currently Jim has been producing Jazz Northwest for KNKX since 1988. This weekly program focuses on the regional jazz scene and frequently includes performances Jim records on location for Jazz Northwest.

Francesco Crosara & Bill Anschell – Jazz Piano Duet…

$20 cash cover. Refreshments Available.

Goldstar: https://www.goldstar.com/events/kirkland-wa/francesco-crosara-and-bill-anschell-jazz-piano-duets-tickets?preview=true

Eventbrite: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/francesco-crosara-bill-anschell-jazz-piano-duets-tickets-269891531837

Stage 7 Pianos in Kirkland is proud to announce a special duet performance by jazz pianists Francesco Crosara and Bill Anschell.  The duo will present an eclectic program based on jazz improvisation reminiscent of the legendary piano duets by Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock.  Expect both lyrical and exuberant music.

About the musicians

Originally from Milan, Italy, Francesco Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Crosara who has performed with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Shew, Bruce Forman, Don Menza, Barbara Morrison, and many others, is now based in the Northwest since 2017, where he has collaborated with local stalwarts like Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, D’Vonne Lewis, Bruce Phares, Nathan Breedlove, Phil Sparks, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, Farko Dosumov, Cliff Colòn, Xavier Lecouturier and more.

After being featured for 2 years in a row in the trend-setting series Earshot Jazz: The Second Century for his bold and innovative music composition and video work, Crosara was also invited to participate in the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival taking place in October at Town Hall in Seattle, and other venues around town.

Crosara has produced 6 jazz albums internationally, most notably, Colors (through the Chicago-based Southport Records label) featuring the late great Von Freeman, and Emotions (through the TCB Montreux Swiss Jazz label) featuring Lilian Terry on vocals, Von Freeman on tenor sax, and a multi-cultural group of musicians from around the world.  An upcoming new CD release featuring 3 Seattle-based rhythm sections is currently in the production phase.  Downbeat Jazz Magazine described Crosara as “A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.

__________________

 Pianist Bill Anschell has performed in premiere venues throughout the U.S. and abroad, both leading his trio and as pianist/musical director for vocalist Nnenna Freelon.  His concert credits include eight European tours with Freelon and seven South American tours with his trio, including concerts in many of the leading international jazz festivals.

Anschell was the creator, producer and theme music composer for JazzSouth, a syndicated radio program broadcast from 1990 – 2002 on more than 200 stations around the world.  In 1998 his CD, a different note all together, was selected by UPI (United Press International) as one of the year’s “10 Best” jazz releases.  That CD and his two follow-up releases When Cooler Heads Prevail (2001) and More to the Ear than Meets the Eye (2006) both enjoyed critical acclaim and extensive stays on the national jazz radio charts.  His 2009 duo CD of spontaneous improvisations with saxophonist Brent Jensen was described by Cadence as “startlingly beautiful, surprising, and powerful…a transforming experience.” Anschell is also highly regarded as a composer; his original pieces have been placed more than 70 times in network and cable programs including NBC’s The West Wing, HBO’s acclaimed series The Wire, and the the Paramount Plus show Yellowstone.

Anschell, a Seattle native, returned to the Emerald City in 2002 after a long residency in Atlanta, Georgia.  He received Earshot’s Golden Ear Award as the “Northwest Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year” in 2005, 2010 and 2011; his trio was named “Northwest Acoustic Jazz Ensemble of the Year” in 2006; his Figments CD was named “Northwest Jazz Recording of the Year” in 2011, and in 2016 he was inducted into the Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame.

Francesco Crosara Trio with Clipper Anderson and Mark Ivester…

FRANCESCO CROSARA TRIO
March 16th, April 13th, May 18th
Calluna Seattle

Francesco Crosara Trio at Calluna – Photography by Lisa Hagen Glynn, Graphic design by Julia Crosara

Reservations recommended: callunaseattle.com

Pianist composer Francesco Crosara will appear in trio at Calluna Seattle, accompanied by bassist Clipper Anderson and drummer Mark Ivester for an all-acoustic trio performance.  Crosara will present original compositions and choice standards rearranged in his own lyrical and exuberant style.

Originally from Milan, Italy, Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Crosara who has performed with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Shew, Bruce Forman, Don Menza, Barbara Morrison, and many others, is now based in the Northwest since 2017, where he has collaborated with local stalwarts like Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, D’Vonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, Farko Dosumov, Cliff Colòn, and more.

After being featured for 2 years in a row in the trend-setting series “Earshot Jazz: The Second Century” for his bold and innovative music composition and video work, Crosara recently participated in the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival, and appears at select venues around town in a variety of jazz styles, ranging from all acoustic with classical and Blues influences, to electric fusion melded with world music and a Latin imprint.

Crosara has produced 6 jazz albums internationally, most notably, “Colors” (through the Chicago-based Southport Records label) featuring the late great Von Freeman, and “Emotions” (through the TCB Montreux Swiss Jazz label) featuring Lilian Terry on vocals, Von Freeman on tenor sax, and a multi-cultural group of musicians from around the world.

Clipper Anderson is a bassist, composer, studio musician, performer, vocalist and educator. He plays at jazz festivals throughout the Unites States and Canada and has appeared on numerous recordings.  Clipper has worked with some of the biggest names in contemporary jazz including Michael Brecker, Arturo Sandoval and Buddy De Franco. Clipper is an annual guest artist at the Buddy DeFranco / University of Montana Jazz Festival and the Blaine Jazz Festival. He is currently on the jazz faculty at Pacific Lutheran University.

Mark Ivester is a versatile drummer and percussionist who is currently on the faculty at Pacific Lutheran University. Mark has performed with numerous jazz artists of international stature including Larry Coryell, Freddie Hubbard, Diane Schuur, Mose Allison, Charlie Byrd and Eartha Kitt. He has also performed with the Honolulu, Spokane and Walla Walla symphony orchestras. He earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Eastern Washington University and did undergraduate and graduate work in ethnomusicology at the University of Hawaii that included field study in gamelan music on the island of Java.

Francesco Crosara Trio with Clipper Anderson and Mark Ivester…

Francesco Crosara Trio
Saturday November 20, 7:00pm PDT
Stage 7 Pianos – Kirkland

Francesco Crosara photo by Julia Crosara.

Pianist composer Francesco Crosara will appear in trio at Stage 7 Pianos, accompanied by bassist Clipper Anderson and drummer Mark Ivester for an all-acoustic trio performance. Crosara will present original compositions and choice standards rearranged in his own style. Expect both lyrical and exuberant music.

Originally from Milan, Italy, Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Crosara who has performed with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Ira Sullivan, Bobby Shew, Bruce Forman, Don Menza, Barbara Morrison, and many others, is now based in the Northwest since 2017, where he has collaborated with local stalwarts like Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, D’Vonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, Farko Dosumov, Cliff Colòn, and more.

After being featured for 2 years in a row in the trend-setting series “Earshot Jazz: The Second Century” for his bold and innovative music composition and video work, Crosara was also invited to participate in the 2021 Earshot Jazz Festival taking place in October at Town Hall in Seattle, and other venues around town.

Crosara has produced 6 jazz albums internationally, most notably, “Colors” (through the Chicago-based Southport Records label) featuring the late great Von Freeman, and “Emotions” (through the TCB Montreux Swiss Jazz label) featuring Lilian Terry on vocals, Von Freeman on tenor sax, and a multi-cultural group of musicians from around the world.

“Francesco, your music is wonderful – always has been. Play what you love and saturate the world with it.” Chick Corea

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” Down Beat Magazine

“Crosara’s compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a “living language” that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.” Earshot Jazz

“Francesco Crosara […] has been in the Seattle area for about four years now and he really has a growing building exploding reputation in town working with some of our area’s finest musicians.” KNKX 88.5 FM

Photo credits: Julia Crosara

Francesco Crosara Trio with Farko Dosumov & Mark Ivester…

Francesco Crosara Trio
Sunday November 7, 4:00pm PDT
Bainbridge Waterfront Community Center

Francesco Crosara photo by Julia Crosara.

Francesco Crosara – piano
Farko Dosumov – bass
Mark Ivester – drums

Jazz pianist & composer Francesco Crosara returns to the First Sunday Concert series on November 7th with a dynamic new trio.

Originally from Milan, Italy, Crosaras music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Crosara who has performed with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Roy Hargrove, and Ira Sullivan, is now based in the Northwest, and has collaborated with local stalwarts like Clipper Anderson, DVonne Lewis, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, and many others.

For his upcoming performance at the First Sunday Concerts series, Crosara’s ensemble will include two exceptional musicians: bassist Farko Dosumov, and drummer Mark Ivester. The trio will present a blend of original compositions by Crosara and jazz standards revisited. Expect both lyrical and exuberant music.

Photo credits: Julia Crosara

EARSHOT JAZZ FESTIVAL: Francesco Crosara Trio with Clipper Anderson…

Francesco Crosara Trio
Wednesday October 27, 7:00pm PDT
Town Hall Forum
In-person and livestream/VOD
Tickets $10–20

Francesco Crosara photo by Julia Crosara.

“Francesco, your music is wonderful— always has been. Play what you love and saturate the world with it.” –Chick Corea 

And that’s what pianist Francesco Crosara, the Seattle-based native of Milan, Italy, continues to do—saturate the world with his brand of “Francesco Jazz.” Drawing from an array of musical traditions and influences, including classical training, jazz standards, bop, fusion, Latin, world music and more—Crosara engages audiences with joy and healing spirit.

He stands among the European-bred jazz greats, performing over the years with the likes of Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Lilian Terry, and more. His recordings have featured a multicultural and international array of musicians. And now, since 2017, the Northwest can claim his talents, too, as he’s demonstrated an eagerness to contribute to the local scene. 

Completing Crosara’s polished acoustic trio performing on October 27 are versatile Northwest Jazz virtuosos Clipper Anderson on bass and Mark Ivester on drums. Anderson and Ivester have both performed widely in varied styles and settings with impressive arrays of greats: Anderson with Michael Brecker, Paquito D’Rivera, and Arturo Sandoval; and Ivester with Larry Coryell, Freddie Hubbard, Diane Schuur, Mose Allison, Charlie Byrd, and Eartha Kitt. Crosara has been featured two years in a row in the trend-setting Earshot Jazz: The Second Century series for his bold and innovative music composition and video work. –Dennis Moran

Link to article in Earshot Jazz Magazine – October 2021

YouTube player
See the video: Circular Motion, Francesco Crosara Trio.

Photo credits: Lisa Hagen-Glynn, Julia Crosara

Francesco Crosara Trio with Clipper Anderson & Mark Ivester…

Click on the video to view the entire concert. Broadcasted in livestream on June 25th, 2021.

YouTube player

Italian pianist Francesco Crosara debuts at Boxley’s joined by Clipper Anderson on bass and Mark Ivester on drums. The trio will present original compositions by Crosara, improvisations, and jazz standards revisited in a tribute to the art of piano trio music. Crosara has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy. He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Bruce Forman, and more. “A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” Down Beat Magazine

Streaming Online At:
www.jazzclubsnw.org/youtube
www.jazzclubsnw.org/live
www.facebook.com/jazzclubsnw

This event was livestreamed from Boxley’s in North Bend, WA.

Photo credits: Julia Crosara

EARSHOT JAZZ LIVE AT THE ROYAL ROOM: Francesco Crosara…

Click on the video to play the full concert. Broadcasted in livestream on June 11th, 2021.

YouTube player

Originally from Milan, Italy, pianist and composer Francesco Crosara’s music melds an impressive mix of jazz improvisation, a romantic vein from his classical training, along with Latin influences. Crosara who has performed with jazz greats such as Lionel Hampton, Roy Hargrove, and Ira Sullivan, is now based in the Northwest, and has collaborated with local stalwarts like Mark Ivester, Jeff Busch, Osama Afifi, and many others.

For his June 11th trio performance with Earshot Jazz, Crosara’s ensemble included talented musicians—bassist Farko Dosumov, and drummer D’Vonne Lewis. Expect both lyrical and exuberant music.

This event was livestreamed from the Royal Room, Seattle.

Photo credits: Julia Crosara

Mexico 2020: Jazztival Michoacán – CREATING MUSIC – Piano…

Broadcasted on December 20, 2020
Click on the image to view the full video on Facebook

Morelia., Michoacán, a 20 de diciembre de 2020.– Con una serie de actividades que se podrán disfrutar desde la comodidad de los hogares, este 20 de diciembre concluirá la edición XVIII del Jazztival Michoacán, que en este 2020 se desarrolló durante los últimos 5 meses del año, ofreciendo conciertos, clases maestras, presentación de libros, talleres e intervenciones artísticas, tanto presenciales, como vía redes sociales.

El programa de cierre, que será totalmente virtual, contempla en primer término una Clase Maestra a cargo del Dr. Eduardo Núñez, Director de la Facultad de Bellas Artes de la Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, quien hablará sobre la Armonización en el piano de Jazz, a partir de la una de la tarde.

Más tarde, a las 3, toca su turno de participación al saxofonista mexicano Abraham Yacaman, quien ha sido músico integrante de grandes agrupaciones en diversos países, abarcando diferentes géneros entre los que destacan el reggae, pop, jazz, blues, folk, música electrónica, canción de autor, smooth y trova, entre otros.

Su versatilidad lo ha llevado a presentarse en distintos foros de países como Estados Unidos, Canadá, Perú, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Cuba, Francia, República Checa, Eslovaquia y, por supuesto, México.

Para las 5 de la tarde está prevista la participación del Neo Tango Trío, ensamble que reúne en su formación a los sanjuaninos Tito Oliva en piano y Nicolás Bustos en guitarra eléctrica, junto al bandoneonista bonaerense Esteban Calderón. Recientemente lanzó el single “Tangaucho” desde el que propone poner a sonar la “música actual del oeste argentino”.

La propuesta musical del terceto está basada en composiciones de Oliva y arreglos de tangos clásicos que se permiten dialogar tanto con el jazz como con el folclore.

“Tangaucho” es el primer registro formal del Neo Tango Trío que ha paseado su sonoridad por escenarios porteños y cuyanos, así como de México, Serbia e Italia.

Y para cerrar con broche de oro, a partir de las 7 de la noche se contará con la presentación del italiano Francesco Crosara, pianista, compositor y educador de jazz de Seattle que ha actuado en festivales y lugares de Estados Unidos, Japón, Canadá, México, Francia, España e Italia.

Maestro de la improvisación del jazz, el estilo de piano de Francesco mezcla una fuerte vena romántica de su formación clásica en el Conservatorio de Música de Santa Cecilia en Roma con una vivaz expresión lírica en el jazz y los idiomas latinos.

Crosara ha actuado con Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Mark Lewis, Osama Afifi, Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, Jeff Busch, Milo Petersen, Steven Bentley y más.

Desde 1992, Francesco ha producido 6 álbumes de jazz internacionales que van desde el directo hasta la fusión y el latín. Los artistas invitados destacados incluyen a Von Freeman, Lilian Terry, Dave Marr, Rusty Jones, Paulinho García, Dean Taba, Noel Okimoto, Yasushi Gonjo, Larry Marshall, Miles Jackson, Eric Kurtz y más. Su álbum de 2000 “Colors” recibió 4 estrellas de la revista Downbeat.

Como dato curioso mencionaremos que la madre de Francesco, Lilian Terry, fue una de las vocalistas de jazz más importantes de Europa durante cuatro décadas.

En esta ocasión Crosara ha decidido hacer una especie de remembranza, a través de fotografías, de su primer visita a Morelia en 1983 y de su estrecha relación con el Jazztival Michoacán y con su director el maestro Juan Alzate, con quien al final del recital interpretará una pieza con la que se dará el cerrojazo al Jazztival 2020.

Respecto de los resultados obtenidos en esta ocasión por el Jazztival, Juan Alzate se dijo satisfecho, al señalar que a pesar de que fue una edición diferente, por las causas que todos conocemos, el festival continúa siendo un foro impulsor del jazz, y que gracias a que todas sus actividades se transmitieron vía internet, se alcanzó una cifra record de 1´283,556 vistas.

De igual forma agradeció el apoyo de las Secretarías de Cultura y Turismo del Estado, de la Secretaría de Cultura de Morelia, del Instituto de la Juventud Morelia, del H. Ayuntamiento de Tlalpujahua y de UNAM Centro Cultural Morelia.

Cabe recordar que todas las actividades de la última jornada del Jazztival 2020, programadas para el 20 de diciembre, podrán disfrutarse en su modalidad virtual a través de la página https://jazztivalmichoacan.org
Calzada La Huerta 913. Col. Los Girasoles. Morelia, 58049. Morelia, Michoacán Tels. 4434101980, 4433692440, 6621027546 y 4434532785. www.jazztivalmichoacan.org jazztivalmichoacan.@gmail.com

EARSHOT JAZZ FESTIVAL – Francesco Crosara Music Video “Preludio…

Broadcasted on October 21st, 2020.

See the video at 26:02: Preludio Flamenco, Francesco Crosara Quintet, with abstract art by Julia Crosara.

The Jazz: The Second Century series has always been about exploring the fundamental question: “One-hundred years into the art-form, what sonic shape does jazz take in its second century?” This question has never felt more relevant—or urgent—during these times of physical distancing, where musicians are being forced to explore new and innovative ways to develop and present their art. 2020 marks the first time the series is presented as part of the Earshot Jazz Festival.

Tonight’s Artists:

Leanna Keith: Leanna Keith is a flutist, composer, and improviser. This piece (untitled) is largely a response to performance in isolation. Keith’s practice is one of listening, which has obvious implications in a band setting, but far less obvious in practice when alone in a room.

Josh Hou: In the months since quarantine began, Hou has discovered remote recording as a powerful way to create music as well as maintain and build community. This is a video of a Chinese concerto, reharmonized and rearranged for jazz trio featuring Sara Heng, a guzheng player from Kuala Lumpu, all recorded in separate locatsions.

Melanie Sehman & Sarah Yates: Combining two strikingly different musical backgrounds, Melanie Sehman (drums, percussion) and Sarah Yates (double bass) form an improvising duo that approaches jazz as an exploration of the common ground between their diverse musical languages.

Francesco Crosara: Crosara’s personal brand of jazz has become more focused in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, it reflects the collective anxiety of the moment while providing greater introspection in the purpose of music as a powerful source of comfort and escape.

KNKX 88.5FM, Francesco Crosara on Jazz Northwest broadcast by…

May 24th, 2020

Francesco Crosara on tour in Japan, 2008
JULIA CROSARA

Listen – KNKX 88.5FM, Jazz Northwest by Jim Wilke:

Link to Article

Italian pianist Francesco Crosara became a part of the Seattle music community three years ago and had been gaining more public recognition here until public performances came to a halt with the pandemic. Fortunately, we have some representative performances on CDs and some recent streaming shows to enjoy. On this week’s Jazz Northwest, we’ll hear him playing a solo rendition of the ballad “Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most.”

Also on this week’s show, trumpeter Jared Hall plays an original from his debut album and flugelhorn player Dmitri Matheny plays a medley of movie themes from his album Jazz Noir. Guitarist Richard Boukas and pianist Jovino Santos Neto team in a Brazilian duo and the Dave Robbins Sextet from Vancouver BC plays a tune from their recent CD, and there’s more… 

Jazz Northwest is recorded and produced by host Jim Wilke and airs Sundays at 2 p.m. Listeners may also subscribe to the podcast at KNKX, NPR, Apple, or Google.

Jim Wilke

Jim has been a fixture on Seattle radio since 1961. He was the host of Jazz After Hours on Public Radio International from 1984-2014. Currently Jim has been producing Jazz Northwest for KNKX since 1988. This weekly program focuses on the regional jazz scene and frequently includes performances Jim records on location for Jazz Northwest.

Francesco Crosara – Piano Solo Live Stream at Finnriver…

Saturday, May 16, 2020 Livestream concert: “Live Music in the Living Room”, piano solo performance as part of the Finnriver InCider Series.

Click on the image to view the video.

Photo: Julia Crosara

From Finnriver Facebook page:

Inspired jazz performance by pianist composer Francesco Crosara as part of the series “Live Music in the Living Room”. During this session, Francesco played original music, jazz standards, eclectic music and improvisations in a relaxed setting. The concert setting featured original artwork and art weavings by Julia Crosara, as well as a cameo appearance from Jaco the parrot.

Francesco Crosara Trio with Clipper Anderson & Mark Ivester…

Pianist Francesco Crosara will perform in trio format at the Spanish Ballroom at McMenamins Elks Temple on Monday, December 9th, 2019. Crosara will be joined by two of the finest musicians in the Pacific Northwest, Clipper Anderson on bass and Mark Ivester on drums. The trio will present original compositions by Crosara and play a tribute to the art of piano trio music in the tradition of Bill Evans, Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett, and Herbie Hancock.

Francesco Crosara (keyboard), Clipper Anderson (bass), Mark Ivester (drums)
Photo credits: Julia Crosara

FRANCESCO CROSARA

Francesco Crosara is a Seattle area based Italian Jazz pianist, composer and educator, who has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy. He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Mark Lewis, and more.

Crosara produced 6 jazz albums, most notably, “Colors” (through the Chicago-based Southport Records label) featuring the late great Von Freeman, and “Emotions” (through the TCB Montreux Swiss Jazz label) featuring Lilian Terry on vocals, Von Freeman on tenor sax, and a multi-cultural group of international musicians.

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.” Down Beat Magazine

“Pianist Francesco Crosara’s eclectic brand of jazz was born from early classical studies in harmony and composition at the Conservatory of Rome, steeped in the tradition of Italian and European romantic musical heritage, and honed by exposure to mainstream jazz and world music. His style is heavily influenced by improvisation and bouncy lyrical expressions drawn from jazz and Latin vocabularies. Crosara’s compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a “living language” that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.” Earshot Jazz

CLIPPER ANDERSON

Known for his improvisational virtuosity, his steady presence in the pocket and his command of multiple styles, bassist Clipper Anderson is one of the most highly regarded musicians on the Northwest jazz scene today. Equally comfortable with straight-ahead, traditional, free jazz or bebop, he plays with genuine reverence for the music and an unassuming mastery that speaks for itself. Clipper has enjoyed a long and distinguished career as a composer, performer, studio musician, vocalist and educator. He plays at jazz festivals throughout the United States and Canada and has appeared at the Port Townsend Jazz Festival, the Buddy DeFranco/University of Montana Jazz Festival, the Highland Jazz Festival, the Fairbanks Summer Art Festival, the Crown of the Continent Guitar Foundation Festival and the Drayton Harbor Music Festival, the latter Three of which he currently plays annually. He has shared the bandstand with a long list of jazz luminaries including Michael Brecker, Arturo Sandoval, Dave Samuels, Peter Erskine, Bruce Forman, Tamir Hendelman, Bob Mintzer, Lew Soloff, Bucky Pizzarelli, Benny Golson, Paquito D’Rivera, Phil Woods and Buddy DeFranco. As a session musician, Clipper has appeared on numerous recordings, including five with Northwest vocal icon Greta Matassa. He has two recordings on Origin Records. Clipper’s 2012 release, “The Road Home,” marked his debut as a solo artist and composer and held the top 20-22 spots on the national jazz radio charts for several months. Clipper’s 2013 release, “Ballad Of The Sad Young Men”, featured his vocal and bass work and was well received by critics and fans alike. Clipper works out of Seattle, WA and is presently on the jazz faculty at Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma.

MARK IVESTER

Mark Ivester is a versatile drummer and percussionist with extensive experience playing a variety of musical genres from rock to jazz to orchestral music. Mark has performed with numerous jazz artists of international stature including Larry Coryell, Freddie Hubbard, Diane Schuur, Mose Allison, Charlie Byrd and Eartha Kitt. He currently performs and records with the Jovino Santos Neto Quartet, Greta Matassa and Susan Pascal. Ivester has also performed with the Honolulu, Spokane and Walla Walla symphony orchestras. Ivester is a founding member of the professional percussion ensemble Happy Hammers, a group that performs a broad cross-section of percussion music of various ethnic origins including the steel drums from Trinidad, African drumming of the Ewe and Yoruba tribes, Afro-Cuban drumming, Brazilian sambas, and jazz for mallet keyboard instruments. Ivester earned a Bachelor of Music degree from Eastern Washington University, and he did undergraduate and graduate work in ethnomusicology at the University of Hawaii that included field study in gamelan music on the island of Java.

Francesco Crosara Quartet with Cliff Colon, Osama Afifi &…

Francesco Crosara (piano & Rhodes electric piano), Cliff Colón (tenor & soprano sax), Osama Afifi (bass), Mark Ivester (drums)
Photo credits: Julia Crosara and Joe Grojean

Tuesday, October 8, 2019
The Royal Room
5000 Rainier Ave S, Seattle, Washington 98118

FrancescoJAZZ Quartet will perform all original music composed and arranged by Francesco Crosara, which reflects the improvisational talents of four of the finest musicians in the Pacific Northwest.

Crosara is a Seattle area based Italian Jazz pianist, composer and educator, who has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy. He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Mark Lewis, and more.

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans.”
Down Beat Magazine

Velocity is a high energy instrumental fusion jazz band performing original compositions and arrangements. The music is adventurous and always grooving. Velocity draws from a variety of musical styles with the core being funk, latin, and jazz. They combine hard hitting grooves and hook melodies with open improvisation.

Velocity:
Peter Adams / Keyboard
Cliff Colón / Saxophone
Brian Smith / Drums
Rob Hutchinson / Bass

Francesco Crosara Trio with Osama Afifi & Steven Bentley…

Francesco Crosara (piano), Osama Afifi (bass), Steven Bentley (drums)
Photo credits: Julia Crosara

Thursday, August 29, 2019
Tula’s Restaurant & Jazz Club
2214 2nd Avenue, Seattle, WA, 98121

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans”   Down Beat Magazine    

Jazz pianist and composer Francesco Crosara will appear at Tula’s Jazz Club in Seattle on August 29th to present the music of FrancescoJAZZ. He will be joined by bassist Osama Afifi and drummer Steven Bentley. 

FrancescoJAZZ is the brand name of Francesco Crosara’s musical concepts.  It was featured in the series Jazz: The Second Century, sponsored by Earshot Jazz in July 2019. The vision of FrancescoJAZZ is to provide a source of joy, comfort, escape and healing through original jazz compositions, improvisation, and jazz standards revisited. The mission of FrancescoJAZZ is to guide the listeners into a musical journey that provokes a variety of emotions, and ultimately, has a positive impact on their lives.  Crosara’s original compositions are inspired by a blend of Jazz, Latin, World and Classical music, plus new arrangements of select jazz standards revisited.

Born in Milan, Italy, and residing in the Pacific Northwest since 2017, Francesco Crosara is a Jazz pianist, composer and educator who has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy. He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Mark Lewis, and more. 

Crosara has produced 6 jazz albums recorded internationally over the course of over two decades, featuring guest artists such as Von Freeman and Lilian Terry. His album “Colors” received 4 stars from Downbeat magazine.

Francesco’s mother, Lilian Terry, was one of Europe’s foremost jazz vocalists across four decades.  Also a TV/radio personality, and educator in Italy, she recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, and with Tommy Flanagan, and co-founded the Dizzy Gillespie Popular School of Music in Bassano, Italy.  Lilian’s memoirs, “Dizzy, Duke, Brother Ray, and Friends”, (2017-University of Illinois Press) received a highly positive review from Downbeat magazine and others.

A master of jazz improvisation, Francesco’s piano style mixes a strong romantic vein from his classical training at the Music Conservatory of Santa Cecilia in Rome with bouncy lyrical expression in the jazz and Latin idioms.  He feels equally at ease as a solo pianist and sharing the stage with fellow musicians on both acoustic and electric keyboards.  His favorite format is the jazz piano trio for the intimacy that it creates, and the subtle interplay with bass and drums. 

Osama Afifi has been a professional Bassist since the early 1980’s. He has recorded and  performed live with many artists including John Densmore, Kurt Elling,The Cadillacs, Eric Reed,The 5th Dimension, Yanni, Jeff Lorber, Vanessa Paradis, Mindi Abair, Jeff Kashiwa, Billy Preston, Nenna Freelon, The B Sharp Jazz Quartet and has even appeared on VH1’s show “Storytellers” with The Doors. 

Since moving to the Pacific Northwest from Los Angeles he has worked with LaVon Hardison, The Tacoma Symphony, Darelle Holden, Jacqueline Tabor, Judy Collins, Kareem Kandi, Darren Motamedy, David Keys, Hook Me Up, Gail Pettis, Michael Powers, Wally and the Beaves, Michael Benson and many others. His education includes studies at the Dick Grove School of Music. He also studied with Jeff Berlin and Gary Willis.

Steven Bentley has been on the music scene in the Pacific Nortwest for nearly thirty years. A true professional drummer/composer, he has worked steadily in many different styles, from club dates to major shows and countless private functions.  He has the reputation for always providing the right sound for a given situation, by listening and blending with a solid groove.

Over the years, Steven has performed nationally and internationally, traveling to Cuba and as far away as Japan. He has been involved with countless recordings and performances with artists such as Jessica Williams, Larry Coryell, Charmaine Neville, Pete Christleib, Bill Ramsey, Pablo Menendez, Rob Scheps, Essiet Essiet, Norbert Stachel, John Stowell, Jeff Johnson, Bert Wilson, Greta Matassa, Jay Thomas, Tracy Knoop, Gail Pettis, Kareem Kandi, Joe Baque, Dennis Hastings, and Oberador.

EARSHOT JAZZ: The 2nd Century Series – Francesco Crosara…

Francesco Crosara (piano), Osama Afifi (bass), Steven Bentley (drums & percussion)
Photo credits: Julia Crosara

July 18, 2019, 7pm
Chapel Performance Space
Seattle, WA 98103

Read the entire article on Earshot Jazz

Earshot’s annual juried series, Jazz: The Second Century, returns this July at the Chapel Performance Space with three evenings of innovative music.

33 years ago, the newly founded Earshot Jazz organization presented its first programming initiative, a concert series called New Jazz/New City, hosted in the New City Theater on Capitol Hill. While its name has evolved over the years—from New Jazz/New City, to the Earshot Spring Series, to Voice and Vision, and now Jazz: The Second Century—it has always remained true to our core values of cultivating community and supporting the progression of the genre.

For the Second Century Series, Seattle artists are selected by a peer panel through a blind jury process to perform original work in a concert setting that is questioning and expanding the conventions of the jazz form.

This year’s panel of four gathered in early June to review the entries. After careful consideration and deliberation, the jury selected six ensembles. Their choices reflect our city’s current dialogue surrounding the art form, in all its nuances and subtleties.

Thank you to all of the enterprising musicians who submitted work, to our panel for their thoughtful curation, and to the audience members who support the series.

FrancescoJAZZ
Francesco Crosara–Piano
Osama Afifi–Acoustic and electric bass
Steven Bentley–Drums and Percussion

Pianist Francesco Crosara’s eclectic brand of jazz was born from early classical studies in harmony and composition at the Conservatory of Rome, steeped in the tradition of Italian and European romantic musical heritage, and honed by exposure to mainstream jazz and world music. His style is heavily influenced by improvisation and bouncy lyrical expressions drawn from jazz and Latin vocabularies. Crosara’s compositions are considerate of their audience, providing a source of joy, comfort, escape, and healing. Crosara believes jazz is a collective experience and a “living language” that distills a multitude of identities, backgrounds, and personalities.

Francesco Crosara Trio with Osama Afifi & Jeff Busch…

Francesco Crosara (piano), Osama Afifi (bass), Jeff Busch (drums & percussion)
Photo credits: Julia Crosara

Sunday, April 7, 2019
First Sundays Concerts
Waterfront Park Community Center
370 Brien Dr SE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

“A pianist who originally hails from Italy, Crosara is well-versed in bop lore, and his delicate flow might indicate a debt to Bill Evans”   Down Beat Magazine    

Jazz pianist and composer Francesco Crosara will appear at the Waterfront Park Community Center in Bainbridge Island on April 7th as part of the First Sunday Concerts series. He will be joined by bassist Osama Afifi and drummer Jeff Busch. The program will feature Francesco’s original compositions in a blend of Jazz, Latin, and World music, plus select jazz standards.

Born in Milan, Italy, and residing in the Pacific Northwest since 2017, Francesco Crosara is a Jazz pianist, composer and educator who has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, France, Spain, and Italy.

He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Bobby Shew, Ira Sullivan, Don Menza, John Heard, Gabe Baltazar, Mayuto Correa, Bruce Forman, Barbara Morrison, Earl Palmer, Mark Lewis, and more.
Francesco has produced 6 jazz albums recorded internationally over the course of over two decades, featuring guest artists such as Von Freeman and Lilian Terry. His album “Colors” received 4 stars from Downbeat magazine.

Francesco’s mother, Lilian Terry, was one of Europe’s foremost jazz vocalists across four decades.  Also a TV/radio personality, and educator in Italy, she recorded with Dizzy Gillespie, and with Tommy Flanagan, and co-founded the Dizzy Gillespie Popular School of Music in Bassano, Italy.  Lilian’s memoirs, “Dizzy, Duke, Brother Ray, and Friends”, (2017-University of Illinois Press) received a highly positive review from Downbeat magazine and others.

A master of jazz improvisation, Francesco’s piano style mixes a strong romantic vein from his classical training at the Music Conservatory of Santa Cecilia in Rome with bouncy lyrical expression in the jazz and Latin idioms. He feels equally at ease as a solo pianist and sharing the stage with fellow musicians on both acoustic and electric keyboards. His favorite format is the jazz piano trio for the intimacy that it creates, and the subtle interplay with bass and drums.

Osama Afifi has been a professional Bassist since the early 1980’s. He has recorded and performed live with many artists including John Densmore, Kurt Elling,The Cadillacs, Eric Reed,The 5th Dimension, Yanni, Jeff Lorber, Vanessa Paradis, Mindi Abair, Jeff Kashiwa,Billy Preston, Nenna Freelon, The B Sharp Jazz Quartet and has even appeared on VH1’s show “Storytellers” with The Doors.

Since moving to the Pacific Northwest from Los Angeles he has worked with LaVon Hardison, The Tacoma Symphony, Darelle Holden, Jacqueline Tabor, Judy Collins, Kareem Kandi, Darren Motamedy, David Keys, Hook Me Up, Gail Pettis, Michael Powers, Wally and the Beaves, Michael Benson and many others. His education includes studies at the Dick Grove School of Music. He also studied with Jeff Berlin and Gary Willis.

Jeff Busch is an exuberant drummer/percussionist, vocalist, and composer whose passion for soulful music of varied traditions has led him to perform with jazz, gospel, samba and Cuban ensembles. In addition, Jeff is committed to exploring the vital interconnection between musicians and dancers.

Jeff has spent the last 20 years in Seattle drumming for two-time Latin Grammy winner Carlos Cascante from Costa Rica, as well as three-time Latin Grammy nominee, Jovino Santos Neto of Brazil.

This high-powered event promises to be an inspiring night of jazz music celebration for musicians and fans alike.

Sponsored by: www.firstsundaysconcerts.org
For information and tickets, please visit www.brownpapertickets.com

Francesco Crosara & Dan Duval – Piano/Vibes Duet at…

THE ART OF THE LATIN JAZZ DUET

Instrumental jazz duet performances are a unique experience, one which transports the audience into a more intimate setting, and allows close introspection into the artists’ inner creativity. Arguably, no other duo has better defined the magic of the piano and vibraphone jazz duet more than Chick Corea and Gary Burton. They paved the way for this new format, enabling newer generations to express themselves creatively.

Join Francesco Crosara and Dan Duval in a special piano & vibraphone duet performance. Travel through original compositions, Jazz and Latin standards, Brazilian rhythms, Blues
and improvisation.

FRANCESCO CROSARA (piano) – Born in Milan, Italy, Francesco is a jazz pianist and composer who has played at festivals and venues across the USA, Japan, Canada, Mexico, and Europe. He has performed with Lionel Hampton, Freddie Hubbard, Roy Hargrove, Richie Cole, Ira Sullivan, Mark Lewis, and more. He has produced 6 CDs, featuring guest artists such as Von Freeman and Lilian Terry.

DAN DUVAL (vibraphone) – Dan studied music at Mt. Hood Community College Western Washington University. He has performed with Marc Seals, Scott Reeves, Dave Peterson, Rich Cole, Michael Powers, Milo Petersen, Clipper Anderson, Mark Ivester, Mark Lewis and more. Dan is the leader of the Good Vibes Quartet, whose first CD Badlands Express was released in winter 2017.

CASA MEXICO, 1918 NE Poulsbo Ave, Keyport, WA 98345, Tel. 360-598-2727

Find out more about Dan Duval: www.danduvalvibes.com

Francesco Crosara Trio with Derick Polk & Glenn Young…

Francesco Crosara & Jazz Impressions Quartet

Benefit Concert at Admiral Theatre, Bremerton, WA – October 7, 2017
Featuring Jeff Winslow (sax, clarinet, and flute), Derick Polk (acoustic bass), and Glenn Young (drums).
Benefit gala for the Bremerton Central Lions Club & Charitable Foundation – 30th Annual Dinner & Auction. Focus of this year’s event is on the job skills program for homeless youth provided by Bremerton’s The Coffee Oasis HOPE Inc. Program.