The Jazz Scene: The world premiere of a Charlie Parker opera

In 1964, bandleader Stan Kenton recorded an album of the works of Richard Wagner. In 2002, tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano recorded an album, Viva Caruso, that consisted of jazz versions of operatic compositions sung by Enrico Caruso. Those are the only times, if memory serves, when jazz has met opera. Until now. On Friday, June 5, Opera Philadelphia will present the world premiere of Charlie Parker’s Yardbird, an opera based on the life and music of the tragic giant, the alto saxophonist who is arguably the most influential player in jazz history. The project focuses on Parker as he composes his final masterpiece, revisiting the inspirations, demons, and women who fueled his creative genius. Jazz aficionados shouldn’t expect a lot of improvisation — this is, after all, an opera, not a jam session — but composer Daniel Schnyder appropriately has a considerable background in the jazz and classical fields. Lawrence Brownlee, said to be the most in-demand American tenor in the world in the bel canto repertoire, will be playing Parker. Performance times at the Perelman Theater, for what certainly should be a groundbreaking and cutting-edge project, are June 5 at 8pm, June 7 at 2:30pm, June 10 at 7:30pm, June 12 at 8pm, and June 14 at 2:30pm.

Honoring local legends and legacies

The Clifford Brown Jazz Festival, named for the legendary late trumpet legend (and Wilmington, DE native), runs from June 16 to 20 at Rodney Square in Wilmington. There is something for everyone at this confab, including straight-ahead artists, crossover groups, and a nice mix of regional performers and national names. National acts include bassist Ray Drummond, drummer Jason Marsalis, and trombonist Steve Turre, all of whom will be playing in a Clifford Brown Big Band Tribute on Wednesday; Tito Puente, Jr. on Thursday; and Pieces of a Dream, keyboardist Jeff Lorber’s Fusion, and drummer Norman Connors on Saturday. Among those representing our region are singer Denise Montana, trumpeter Leon Jordan Jr.; and Latin percussion master Edgardo Cintron. Info: www.cliffordbrownjazzfest.org.

Our town has long been known as the home of some of the greatest organists in jazz history, including Shirley Scott, Charles Earland, Norristown’s Jimmy Smith, Camden’s Richard “Groove” Holmes, and Trudy Pitts. Joey DeFrancesco, who signed his first record deal and toured with Miles Davis when he was only 16 years old, continues the Philly jazz organ tradition with his mixture of down-home funk and exploratory swing. Francesco and his group will be swinging the rafters off at the Clef Club, a.k.a. “The House that Jazz Built,” 736 S. Broad Street, Philadelphia, for two shows on June 19. Info: http://clefclubofjazz.org/events/

A big band in the Great Northeast

Last month’s column reported on the wealth of big bands in our area, including the one led by trombonist Brian Pastor, who has played with just about every big name in the business. Fans of contemporary big band jazz — note that Pastor’s crew is not warming over Glenn Miller hits — can hear the group on June 16 and June 30 at the Casino Deli in Northeast Philadelphia. Yes, it is a deli, and a darned good one, but this venue, at 2425 Welsh Road, has also been presenting live jazz for years. Info: http://www.brianpastorbigband.com/bpbb_calendar.html

Cathy Rocco is one of the busiest — and most swinging — jazz singers around, and her shows at Chris’ Jazz Café on June 6 will have a very special guest, tenor saxophonist Houston Person. Person, now 80 years old, is likely the last of the big-toned, swinging soul saxophonists and a certifiable jazz legend. Info: http://www.chrisjazzcafe.com/

On June 13, the long-time owners of Chris’ Jazz Café, Mark DeNinno and Glenn Gerber, will receive the first annual Jazz Bridge Jazz Ambassadors Award, as the business that has done the most for jazz in the metropolitan area. The honor will be given during a sold-out jazz cruise on the Delaware, Jazz Bridge’s annual fundraiser. (Full disclosure: I handle Jazz Bridge’s press.)