Prolific woodwind master and frequent collaborator with the late legendary bebop saxophonist, Phil Woods, swings into BLU by way of New England with a special program honoring the jazz icon. Featuring Greg Abate, Theron Brown, Dan Pappalardo, Zaire Darden.
Jazz saxophonist, flutist, & composer, Greg Abate, continues as an international jazz recording artist with 225 days a year touring the globe.
In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years.
In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to 1987.
Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.
Greg recorded his first CD Live At Birdland NYC in 1991 on the Candid Jazz Label with the trio of James Williams, Rufus Reid and Kenny Washington.
To this date Greg has recorded over 17 other recordings and was nominated for a Grammy for his 2004 recording EVOLUTION in four categories. James Williams, Harvie S and Billy Hart comprised the trio.
The Greg Abate / Phil Woods new double CD, “Kindred Spirits: Live at Chan’s” with The Tim Ray Trio became available in January 2016 on Whaling City Sound Records.
Greg is also an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at Rhode Island College and is also a very active jazz clinician with co. sponsorship from the Conn-Selmer Instrument Co., conducting workshops and master classes through the U.S and abroad.
Join us for this very special tribute to legendary saxophonist, Phil Woods, as Abate brings music from his latest double CD, “Kindred Spirits: Live at Chan’s” (which features Woods in one of his final recorded performances) in his BLU Jazz+ debut – get your tickets today!