A Treasury of Rhode Island Jazz & Swing Musicians is a book you'll treasure; full of information, stories and great photos outlining not only the history of jazz in Rhode Island, but also, more importantly, the players who made that history.
In 1988 Lloyd Kaplan and Robert Petteruti published Who's Who in Rhode Island Jazz c. 1925-1988. This was the first book of its kind, chronicling all the great jazz musicians to come out of the Rhode Island area. Now, Dennis Pratt and Dr. Tom Shaker have finished A Treasury of Rhode Island Jazz & Swing Musicians updating and expanding Who's Who to include stories you'll never forget, like the drummer who ended up playing on a train trip to NYC with the legendary Charlie Parker and the RI sax player who likes to dress up as Batman, not only at his gigs, but going to them as well!
From Providence's legendary Celebrity Club, the first interracial night club in New England, to the renowned Monday night Big Band jazz gigs that began with Duke Belaire and continue today with John Allmark, A Treasury of Rhode Island Jazz & Swing Musicians will delight the jazz lover in all of us, whether you're from Rhode Island or not.
The book is available now. Come and join us at one of these upcoming events:
NEW EVENTS
Be sure to check out the latest episode of Rhode Island's award-winning TV program "State of The State." This special episode features RI's premier Dixieland swing band The Aristocats (featuring Dennis Pratt on bass) and is hosted by Tom Shaker.
Check your local listings for airdates or watch online now!
And catch the latest episode with Tom and Norm discussing their new documentary, DO IT MAN! The Story of the Celebrity Club, premiering this month: www.stateofthestateri.com
Join Dennis & Tom as we present an interactive talk about Rhode Island jazz history. We'll look at the people, places and events that make it such a wonderful story.
You'll also be able to purchase your own copy of A Treasury of Rhode Island Jazz & Swing Musicians with over 600 profiles, vintage photos and anecdotes that bring all this great music to life. The authors will be available for a book signing after the talk. It makes a great holiday gift for any music lover. See you there!
No upcoming dates scheduled right now. Check back often for future dates.
FILM PREMIERE!
Join us for the exciting premiere of DO IT MAN! The Story of the Celebrity Club.
WHERE: Blackstone Valley Visitor Center at 175 Main Street, Pawtucket, RI
WHEN: Friday, October 12th, 5:30 p.m
WHAT: A reception featuring a performance by Rhode Island’s own The Aristocats/ followed by a screening of “Do It Man! The Story of The Celebrity Club” film premiere & fundraiser
HOW: Tickets are $25.00 and are available at https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3620202
Dennis Pratt
Tom Shaker
While you’re here take a quick look at the trailer for the film "Do It Man: The Story of The Celebrity Club”.
It’s here! Order your copy now!
