Count Basie is topic of Menlo Park Library Black History Month program on Feb. 2

KCSM Jazz 91.1 Operations Director Alisa Clancy makes a return visit to Menlo Park, part of the Menlo Park Library’s Black History Month Program. This year she’ll be talking about William “Count” Basie, the influential band leader of the swing era in jazz.

Ms. Clancy will celebrate Count Basie’s contribution to the world of jazz on Saturday, February 2, 2013 at 11:oo am at the Menlo Park City Council Chambers, 701 Laurel Street. The presentation is free and sponsored by the Friends of the Menlo Park Library.

Count Basie was an outstanding representative of big band style. Basie’s orchestra was characterized by a light, swinging rhythm section that he led from the piano, lively ensemble work, and generous soloing. Basie formed his orchestra in 1935 and he led the group for almost fifty years. Many notable musicians came to prominence under his direction, including the tenor saxophonists Lester Young and Herschel Evans, the guitarist Freddie Green, trumpeters Buck Clayton and Harry “Sweets” Edison and singer Joe Williams.

Ms. Clancy teaches jazz history, theater and film. She has been the KCSM Jazz 91.1 FM Operations Director and co-host of the weekday program “A Morning Cup of Jazz” for more than 15 years. Her program airs Monday through Friday from 6:00 to 10:00 am.

Free wheelchair accessible van service is available for Menlo Park area seniors and people with disabilities. Call 330-2512 for van reservations. For event details, e-mail Roberta Roth at rlroth@menlopark.org.