The Southside Quartet in Concert

Introducing the beautiful jazz notes of the Southside Quartet—a brand-new group from Glen Ridge, New Jersey, featuring four exceptional, accomplished musicians: Paul Byrne (guitar), Steve DeLuca (drums), Michael Kruge (double bass, cello, mandolin, guitar), and Jerry Weir (vibraphone, marimba).

A concert by the Southside Quartet will never be boring: The Southside Quartet is made up of individuals who simply have a deep love and commitment to music in all its myriad forms. The group eschews the sometimes puritanical vision of jazz as an American “classical” music, fit to be tied and placed in the museum. This is hardly to say they do not respect jazz’s traditions—each member has studied those traditions and has a profound knowledge of the music’s history. Instead, they try to follow the course that jazz musicians—whether it be Duke Ellington or John Scofield—follow: Building on the traditions. Hence, influences as broad as Brazilian music and the works of Classical, Romantic, and 20th-century composers are part of their milieu. Of course the group also enjoys highlighting their own original compositions and arrangements.

The band will play two sets starting at 7:30 with a break in-between for socializing. For tickets, go to eventbrite. $12/person.

Proceeds from the concert will benefit the Glen Ridge Music Parents Association (GRMPA), a nonprofit organization promoting interest, appreciation, participation, and support of all Glen Ridge High School music programs: Chorus, Color Guard, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Marching Band, Madrigal Choir, and Percussion Ensemble.