The Sensational Ross Novgrad Jazz Trio In Performance At The Avon Library

What better way to brighten a Sunday afternoon in mid-winter than to spend an hour enjoying the exciting musical musings of the Ross Novgrad Jazz Trio. They’ll be showcased by the Friends of the Avon Library in a free performance on Sunday, February 7, the next offering of the popular Sundays at Three musical series. The veteran threesome comprises Novgrad on saxophone and flute, pianist Ralph Whittle, and bassist Lou Bocciarelli.

Ross Novgrad’s musical roots run deep. A native of Vernon, Connecticut, he earned a performance degree from the prestigious Manhattan School of Music and spent the next decade honing his chops as a free-lance musician in New York City performing in settings ranging from the legendary citadel of jazz, the Blue Note, to every musician’s hallowed ground, Carnegie Hall. He’s shared the stage with a number of greats including Randy Becker and Jerry Dodgion. He broadened his musical horizons with a deep dive into the world of Latin music, touring nationally with Lucho Munoz and playing with Mario Bauza, Paquito D’Rivera and Daniel Ponce. Back in his home stomping grounds since 1992, he’s been performing locally and throughout New England with his trio and as the leader of his Latin Jazz Quintet. He lists Charlie Parker and Michael Brecker among his musical influences.

Pianist Ralph Whittle is a versatile keyboard artist whose background includes performing with many jazz headliners including Phil Woods, Rufus Reid, John Abercrombie and Sheila Jordan. He is also a committed music educator who has played and accompanied for the UMASS summer jazz clinics and teaches at Westfield State University, Holyoke Community College, and the Community Music School of Springfield.

A much sought-after bass player, Lou Bocciarelli has an impressive musical resume that features a list of credits that reads like a Who’s Who of the jazz world. Among the many wonderful artists he’s had the pleasure of performing with are Dave Brubeck, Louis Bellson, Joe Morello and…Donn Trenner who opened this winter’s series of concerts at the library. Lou’s busy schedule includes appearances with numerous ensembles including the Hartford Jazz Orchestra, and at such noted venues as the Goodspeed, Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun.

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.

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