Jazz Appreciation Month with Dan Reed’s Dixieland Hotshots

Dan Reed’s Dixieland Hotshots

Helen Daley

The Arizona Classic Jazz Society (ACJS) appreciates jazz every month. However, in 2001 April was designated as the official “Jazz Appreciation Month” (JAM) by the Smithsonian’s Museum of American History. Its purpose is to recognize and celebrate the role of early jazz in our heritage and musical history. Jazz is known around the world as one of America’s original art forms.

It is appropriate that Dan Reed’s Dixieland Hotshots will be performing for ACJS in April. The band is led by trumpet player extraordinaire Dan Reed and accompanied by fantastic musicians from around the Valley. Dan’s motto of “Keeping It Fun” comes through in every performance.

Whether or not the trumpet player is the actual leader of a Dixieland band, the trumpet is always the lead instrument in the front line. The trumpet carries the melody for most tunes, as it is loud and can be heard even if other instruments are “improvising.” Trumpet players must know the tune and can’t really fake it!

Please join ACJS on April 28 from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m. at the Crowne Plaza San Marcos Golf Resort in Chandler as they celebrate the wonderful art form of Traditional Jazz. The cost for an afternoon of great fun is $15 for ACJS members; $20 non-members; under 18 free. Become a new member of ACJS on the 28th and get in free: Yearly membership for a couple is $35, singles $25. For more information, go to www.azclassicjazz.org or call 480-620-3941.