West Point Jazz Ensemble celebrates Art Blakey centennial on Feb. 6

WEST POINT — The West Point Jazz Ensemble, comprised of members of the West Point Band, will present a centennial tribute to percussion master and band leader Art Blakey on Wednesday, Feb. 6, at 7:30 p.m. at Ike’s Riverside Café inside Eisenhower Hall at West Point.
The West Point Jazz Ensemble will welcome consummate drummer, band leader and educator Ralph Peterson as a distinguished guest for this performance, which honors both the Art Blakey Centennial, as well as African American History Month.
In the event of inclement weather, the performance will move to Feb. 7 at 7:30 p.m.
As always, this event is free and open to all. Note, however, that all West Point Band concerts at Eisenhower Hall will now be ticketed through Eventbrite.
Please reserve your free tickets in advance by visiting westpointband.eventbrite.com.
Ralph Peterson’s prolific recording career began in 1985 with the fabled Blue Note label, with whose house band, OTB (Out of the Blue) he performed as a drummer. He released six Blue Note albums as leader of different combos, including the “Fo’tet,” a quartet whose members have at various times included clarinetist Don Bryson, saxophonist Steve Wilson, bassist Belden Bullock and vibraphonist Bryan Carrott. To date, Peterson has released more than 20 albums.
A band leader and educator for more than 30 years and having played a significant role in launching the careers of Sean Jones, Tia Fuller, Justin Faulkner and Orrin Evans, among many others.
Since 2002, he has taught drums and ensembles at Berklee College of Music. In 2010, Peterson founded Onyx Productions Music Label and has released his own music on the label ever since.
For concert information, cancellations and updates, call 845 938-2617 or visit www.westpointband.com.
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