Jack Wilkins, Harvie S. return to Sugar Loaf Music Series

SUGAR LOAF — Twenty-five years ago, after performing a stellar concert in Sugar Loaf's Methodist Church for Sugar Loaf Music Series, jazz guitarist Jack Wilkins handed producer Russ Layne a CD and told him to enjoy it. Layne hadn't yet been aware of this new technology and naively asked Wilkins, “What do I do with this?” to which Wilkins replied, “Play it.” “On what?” Layne queried. “You'll find out,” was Wilkins' reply.

And, indeed, after Layne purchased his first CD player, that stellar release, "Mexico," featuring bassist Harvie Swartz, now known as Harvie S., was a cathartic tour de force.

On Sunday, Nov. 17, Sugar Loaf Music Series proudly presents the return of Wilkins and Harvie S. in a reunion that promises to be a premiere jazz event for the Hudson Valley. The concert will be performed at the new Seligmann Center for the Arts in Sugar Loaf, at 3 p.m. Seating is limited. For information, visit www.sugarloafmusic.com or call 845-986-6463.

Wilkins has not only worked with such artists as Bob Brookmeyer, Stanley Turrentine, and Eddie Gomez, but has been called upon to work and record with Mel Torme, Ray Charles, Morgana King, Tony Bennett, and Manhattan Transfer. He is also teaching at four institutions of higher education: The New School, New York University, Long Island University, and Manhattan School of Music.

Aside from having worked with Stan Getz, Tony Bennett, and Chet Baker, Harvie S. has also been called upon to tour with Ray Barretto, Paquito D'Rivera, Jean Pierre Rampal, Dexter Gordan, Joe Lovano, and Hilton Ruiz. His first appearance for Sugar Loaf Music nearly 30 years ago was with vocalist Sheila Jordan. Having also appeared for Sugar Loaf Music with piano master Kenny Barron, he has just returned from a national tour of Japan with Barron.