[TPIN] Doc Severinsen concert

[Paul Kurtz]

Tonight was Doc's concert at University of North Florida in
Jacksonville, FL. He played a couple of pieces with the school's
outstanding jazz band which had opened the show and then played a full
set with his own big band!! 
Great ballads, great enthusiasm, great entertainment, a presence, and
from what I was told, some real flashy clothes!! Doc played and
conducted with vigor!! Great songs from the past such as "Flying Home",
"Every Day I have the Blues" and others. Lastly, there was a version of
"1 O'Clock Jump," "2 O'Clock Jump," and then Doc's own "12 O'Clock
Jump." 
The trumpet student of mine I got a ride out with was transfixed
throughout and was real frustrated because he had to go to work before
the show was over. (right during "Sing, Sing, Sing!.") 
The trumpet section was great as well and came out on "Flying Home." My
only regret was that they seemed to be a bit under-mic'ed. I worry now
that I may've helped cause that given the sometimes effect of cell
phones on wireless mics because I had to try and negotiate a way home
during intermission. I wish I could've talked to Doc after the show to
tell him how much I'd appreciated the effort, but I had to go out and
position myself for the person to see me who was providing a ride. So,
if anybody has his private e-mail, I'd appreciate a forward of this to
him. 
And you know, back to that little "if" word about big bands!! There was
a couple next to me in their early 40s who were, like my trumpet
student, mesmerized by what happened with the band. Is this supposedly
last tour worth it to see? You bet!! 
Won't be able to read/write further til the weekend, but wanted to get
this out, especially for others in Florida and elsewhere where Doc's
going. 
And yes, even though he's a sax player, *tremendous playing by Ernie
Watts! 
Paul Kurtz Jacksonville, FL