A Perspective From The Stage At Frank Vignola Guitar Night

Guitarist Ray Matuza sits in with Jimmy, Frank, and Ken at Birdland for Frank Vignola Guitar Night- March 9, 2022

As with any night out, it’s always a treat to get a nice seat, grab a few drinks, maybe some food, and listen to some great music, jazz guitar, or otherwise. Fitting that bill, Frank Vignola’s Guitar Night held weekly at Birdland is an awesome night out for anyone who loves jazz guitar. It was a very special treat for me last week, March 9th, to get a different perspective from the stage as the special guest guitarist for a few tunes that evening. In usual fashion, the trinity of Jimmy Bruno, Frank Vignola, and Ken Smith, along with Vince Cherico on drums and Gary Mazzaroppi on bass blazed through a set of Frank’s well-crafted guitar arrangements of a few Charlie Parker tunes along with some duets and the typical tour de force ensemble playing.  Armed with my Mirabella CM 375, I took to the stage to join Frank and Jimmy on a swinging read of “Cherokee” and “All the Things You Are”. As great as it is to listen to these guys, it’s even more fun to play with them! Looking forward to the next time!

Upcoming Guests:

March 16 – Vinny Raniolo
March 23 – Ken Smith
March 30 – Sheryl Bailey*
April 6 – John DiMartino
April 13 – Aaron Weinstein
April 20 – Olli Soikkeli 
April 27 – Dave Stryker*
May 4 – Martin Taylor special appearance

View: The Amazing Career of Frank Vignola
JGT Lesson Series: Frank Vignola Chord Melody Arrangements

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