JAZZ FOR THE SOUL: Bossa Brazil with Frank Smith

Bossa Brazil showcases the rich and varied musical styles of South America’s most diverse and populous nation. Featuring Brazilian singer and percussionist Cleo Corcoran, Frank Smith on piano/flute, Eric Bart-acoustic guitar,  Lucas Neiri-Brazilian drummer, Glenn Stern-bass.

Singer Cleo Corcoran, originally from Rio de Janeiro, has a great love of Bossa Nova and the music of Carlos Antonio Jobim. Her influences include Astrud Gilberto, Elis Regina and Gal Costa.

Frank Smith is a well-established Phoenix musician who is recognized for his work on Tenor Sax, Alto Sax, Piano, Keyboards, Clarinet and Flute. Over the years, Frank has performed with over three dozen internationally-famous artists who represent a wide range of styles and modalities… from Gladys Knight to Glenn Campbell… from Bob Newhart to the Phoenix Symphony.  His numerous television credits, including featured soloist on CBS’ Evening Shade and ABC’s B.L. Stryker. As an arranger, Frank has created charts for shows at Harrah’s Las Vegas, the Fiesta Bowl and many local and national bands and groups. He is also a sought-after studio musician who has played on many commercials, including Oasis Water Beds, Desert Toyota, and Continental Bank. Frank has dozens of years of teaching experience.  Some of the places he has taught: Arizona State University, University of Montana, Maricopa Community Colleges, Phoenix Art Museum and Phoenix’s world-renowned Musical Instrument Museum.

Guitarist Eric Bart grew up in New Jersey and started playing guitar at age eight. He was influenced by The Beatles, Eric Clapton, and Jimi Hendrix. He studied with a few guitar teachers, but the most influential was the late Harry Leahy, legendary New Jersey jazz guitarist. Eric briefly attended The School of Contemporary Music in Boston as well as William Paterson College in New Jersey, famous for its jazz program run by bassist Rufus Reed, and later Arizona State University, where he first studied classical guitar. He moved to Phoenix in the late 80’s and is often first call for local shows. Eric has played behind countless acts including Percy Sledge, The Drifters, Tanya Tucker, Jimmy Dean, The Lennon Sisters and Stevie Wonder. He has also performed in Europe at the Montreux and North Sea Jazz Festivals.

Lucas Nieri-Brazilian drummer

Glenn Stern-bass

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This is a FREE EVENT!