Impromptu jazz ensemble wows crowd at restaurant

WEST MILFORD — Jazz enthusiasts in the know got a treat last Friday night when four West Milford residents and two from New York City took the stage at The Huntsman Restaurant on Macopin Road. The six top flight musicians played original and standard jazz repetoire that covered funk, bop and hard swing for two shows. The ensemble included Mitch Schecter, a consummate jazz pianist with a long-established teaching practice in town. Kent Smith, on trumpet, is often on the road with the Rolling Stones. Eric Goletz and Bob Magnuson, also home town professionals, played the trombone and sax respectively. Joining them from the city were Mike Longo, who was Dizzy Gillespies pianist for 27 years, and drummer David Meade. “At this stage of the game we have all toured and traveled the world playing for other artists, so to play what we want for the people of our town is a great feeling.” said Magnuson. Huntsman owner Mark Costanza was all smiles as the band drew a packed house who were obviously enjoying themselves.