The Willie Akins Quartet on Sunday, February 15th
St. Louis Jazz and Blues Vespers—Launching a St. Louis Tradition
PRESS RELEASE, Jan. 23, 2009
www.stlouisjazzandbluesvespers.com
St. Louis Jazz and Blues Vespers is the newest music venue in the St. Louis region – and it’s free and open to the public. The Vespers feature the highly regarded, WILLIE AKINS QUARTET on Sunday, February 15 at 6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the Beatitudes of Second Baptist Church of St. Louis. The acoustically excellent sanctuary is located 1/3 mile west of the St. Louis Galleria on Clayton Road at McKnight Road. This venue is offered to the best jazz and blues groups in the city to perform 100 minutes of popular music. The Vespers, held on the third Sunday of each month, are free to the public. No tickets needed.
A native of Webster Groves, Willie Akins has worked to raise the standard of jazz musicianship in St. Louis since the 1960’s. He and his quartet perform regularly at Spruill’s nightclub. In 1998, they released their first CD, “Alima” (Catalyst Productions). One reviewer said, “These guys play beautifully together and the lead soloist Akins plays with a keen sense of drama.” Joining Akins (tenor sax) in the quartet are Bob DeBoo on bass, Erving Neal on drums and Matt Dillinger on piano.
During the inspirational interlude between the band’s two acts, Dr. Stephen Jones, pastor of the church, will offer a brief, non-sectarian message. A free-will offering will be taken to benefit the musicians during the interlude. Refreshments will be served in the church’s narthex after the vespers. Parking is free in the lighted lots surrounding the church.
The next St. Louis Jazz and Blues Vespers will be on the third Sunday night of March, March 15 featuring the Ptah Williams Trio and vocalist. For more information, go to our website, www.stlouisjazzandbluesvespers.com or call 314/991-3424.
St. Louis Jazz and Blues Vespers feature the Willie Akins Quartet on Sunday, Feb. 15, 6:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary of the Beatitudes of Second Baptist Church: 100 minutes of popular jazz with an inspirational interlude. The Vespers is free and dress is casual. Located 1/3 mile west of the St. Louis Galleria at the intersection of Clayton and McKnight Roads. www.stlouisjazzandbluesvespers.com
Posted by Linda Novak on Jan 26, 2009 at 13:0:18 | Article Path: Home: About: Press Releases: The Willie Akins Quartet on Sunday, February 15th
