Mastroianni - to Perform at New England Festival

Latin jazz by Ed Fast and Conga-Bop featuring a roster of
internationally recognized musicians will perform at the New England Autumn Fest on October 1st at the Farmington Polo Grounds. Special guest star will be the virtuoso alto saxophonist and composer John Mastroianni. 

Conga-Bop combines the harmony and sensibilities of hard-bop with the rhythms of the Caribbean to produce an original and vibrant sound that is Latin and jazz. Drummer/Vibist/Composer Ed Fast leads these musicians through an exciting array of his own soulful originals as well as Latin jazz classics by legendary artists such as Cal Tjader, Tito Puente and Hilton Ruiz. This band grooves its way through a multitude of Latin rhythms.

Special guest John Mastroianni is currently director of Hall High School's nationally acclaimed jazz program. John is a woodwind specialist and an alto saxophone virtuoso whose style and ability have been recognized throughout the jazz community. In addition, John has played with many internationally recognized stars and broadway shows.  Also on the bill will be the Zaccai and Luques Curtis project.

After graduating from New England Conservatory in 2005, pianist Zaccai Curtis has been living in New York City playing with artists such as Ralph Peterson, Jerry Gonzalez and Donald Harrison.  He has performed in Bangladesh, Calcutta, Bangalore, Mumbai, Sri Lanka and Maldives.  In 2007, Zaccai was awarded the Connecticut Commission on Culture and Tourism's Artist Fellowship for original composition. He also teaches at the Litchfield Jazz Camp every summer. Luques  Curtis has been touring the world as bassist for Eddie Palmieri.  In addition, performers include the Mike Casey Group, Umoja, Hartt School jazz ensemble directed by world renowned bassist Nat Reeves, and an All Star youth jazz ensemble comprised of high school students from the Farmington Valley, directed by Dave Raposo. Supported in part by the Hartford Jazz Society, this event will be held rain or shine. Come and join local businesses, artists and vendors in a celebration of Autumn in New England in the heart of the Farmington Valley.
This day long festival will have attractions for the entire family and people of all ages.Equestrian events will include a special presentations and pony rides will be available for children.You are also invited to enjoy the Hartford Jazz Society Wine Garden, the Thomas Hooker Brewery Pavilion,  J's Crab Shack (Formerly Tinker's) Lobster Fest and additional food, arts, and crafts vendors.