Donn Trenner to perform at Avon Public Library

The Friends of the Avon Library have set January 10 as the opening date of their hugely successful series of musical programs, Sundays at Three. On tap for an hour of music and memories are two extraordinary artists, pianist Donn Trenner and bassist Mike Asetta.

When Donn Trenner took his first piano lesson at the age of six, little could he imagine the musical journey he was embarking upon. Now, more than 80 years later--and still playing—he can look back on a globe-circling career that saw him become one of the most successful, sought-after pianists in the big band and Bebop jazz eras. The youngster from New Haven played with the great bands led by Buddy Morrow, Charlie Barnet and Jerry Gray, among others, and teamed up with such jazz immortals as Miles Davis, Charlie Parker and Stan Getz. But he may be best known to millions of popular music fans as the piano behind such singers as Nancy Wilson, Lena Horne, Anita O’Day and Ann-Margret. Donn also led the house band for the Steve Allen Show on NBC, toured with Bob Hope on six of his international Christmas shows, and appeared on more than 100 recordings. He recounts his remarkable career in a just-released memoir, Leave It to Me…My Life in Music, copies of which will be available for sale and signing by Donn after the performance.

Bassist Mike Asetta, a classically trained musician, is a masterful improviser whose international touring began early in his career, ranging around the globe from Carnegie Hall to Korea’s Seoul Arts Center. It was while working as house bassist at Foxwoods Resort and Casino that Mike first observed Donn Trenner in a jazz duo. Later that evening, the two bumped into each other on an escalator, a chance encounter that blossomed into a collaboration that’s lasted nearly 20 years.

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The free, one-hour program starts promptly at 3:00 p.m. in the Community Room of the Avon Free Public Library, 281 Country Club Road. Seating is on a first come, first served basis. Doors open at 2:30. Light refreshments and an opportunity to meet the artists following the program.