He’s been making jazz, and nurturing young jazz artists, for more than 50 years, and Berkshires Jazz thinks it’s about time we paid tribute to Mike Schiffer. At the age of 93, he is still playing local gigs. But this time, he’ll be joining us in the audience.
Literally a Berkshires Jazz Living Legend as a performer, Mike also booked the talent at the legendary, and lamented, Castle Street Café for as long as the jazz program existed at that Great Barrington venue. He introduced us to young and seasoned artists alike, and helped audiences discover budding talent. You’re invited to hear several of them –including Paul Arslanian, Rob Putnam, Rob Kelly and Benny “Fingers” Kohn—serenade Mike...and the rest of a lucky audience. Complimentary wine, beer, and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.
There will be brief remarks from legislator Smitty Pignatelli, musicologist and jazz historian Jeremy Yudkin, and educator, musician, and presenter Andy Wrba. And some of the best jazz piano you can hear hereabouts.
And a few surprises. Among them, if we’re lucky, Mike will say a few words and play a number or two. It promises to be a wonderful event, musically and socially.