Rob Wright rocking ‘n’ rolling at the Arizona Classic Jazz Festival
Helen Daley
Composed of six world-class musicians, the Wildcat Jazz Band has been performing together for 16 years. While best known for their jazz and Dixieland numbers, they can play anything, as evidenced by their Rock ‘n’ Roll set at the recent Arizona Classic Jazz Festival.
Band leader Rob Wright started playing banjo at age 10, and then progressed to ukulele and guitar. As a member of The New Christy Minstrels from 1979 to 1981, he played in all 50 of the United States. He is also branching out into solo work in the Pinetop-Lakeside area during the summer months, with the use of new “toys” that allow him to sound as though he has a full band or orchestra accompanying his banjo, guitar, and ukulele.
On Sunday, Jan. 24, the Wildcat Jazz Band will be performing at the Arizona Classic Jazz Society’s monthly event, in the San Marcos Ballroom at the Crowne Plaza Phoenix – Chandler Golf Resort; One San Marcos Place, downtown Chandler. The cost is $15 for Arizona Classic Jazz Society members; $20 for non-members (become a new member on the 24th and get in free; yearly membership $35 couple, single $25). There will be two dance floors and seating with spacing to meet everybody’s wishes, with the choice of table or theater seating. Masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer will be available. For more information, go to www.azclassicjazz.org, or call 480-620-3941.