Two Astoria Jazz Band concerts in Manhattan this past month, thanks to a generous grant from NYC Department of Cultural Affairs. One, at Shutters, with our 13-piece band playing the arrangements of Charlie Camilleri (many baritone sax features) and new ones by Stan Bielski.

Next, on April 3, our "Women Composers of Queens" concert by the 10-piece formation with guests Emme Kemp, Julie Mandel, dancer Yvonne Curry, and Sarah McLawler. We were honored to discover that Alan Gershwin was in the audience (and loved it). Barbara Connelly commented, " The concert was wonderful. I had missed Myrna Lake singing at the last concert. What a beautiful voice she has . . ... And Emme . . . I love her!
 You are really wonderful . . . having this unique band and keeping these
women in the forefront . . ."

A lot of magic in these two concerts!

Here is an article written by Rom Ferri about his experience of our band:

A BEAUTIFUL NIGHT AT SHUTTERS BAR and RESTAURANT
by ROM FERRI

I heard Carol Sudhalter's 13-piece Astoria Jazz Band at a club called Shutters on West 34th Street on Saturday, March 29. This was the last in a series of Saturdays devoted to Women's History Month. Carol is a baritone saxophonist and bandleader, in New York since late 1970s, and leading a big band since 1985.  Three trumpets, 4 saxes, a trombone, bass bone and rhythm section including both piano and guitar - this is a slightly abbreviated version of the usual 16-piece big band. Sweet, mellow swinging arrangements by Charlie Camilleri.  New arrangements by band tenor saxophonist Stan Bielski. Very original and moving vocal interpretations by Marti Mabin. Big band soloists were right on top of it, especially Charles Lee on Close your Eyes. Carol Sudhalter's baritone sax solos displayed a great deal of warmth plus solid rhythmic and melodic individuality, and a beautiful baritone sound. The warm, close atmosphere of this historic jazz room offered an acoustic and a vibe that made for a pleasant and most unforgettable evening.

[Rom can be heard on piano every Thursday with Carol Sudhalter and Whitney Moulton at McAnn's Restaurant, 1st Ave and 52nd Street.]