Here's my column for August issue of Mosaic for those who miss out on getting a copy of this great magazine.

Stardust Big Band has some new faces this year as this popular band gears up for a dinner dance at the Lakeshore Racquet Club, Port Elgin on Friday, August 31. Part of the Friday Dinner Jazz Series, the band will play from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. Rebecca Binnendyk and Ernie Duff on vocals.

Passes of $10 are available from Bayberry's Flowers in Southampton or Cathy's Flowers 'n Treasures in Port Elgin. A turkey and beef buffet dinner is available for $24.25 including tax and gratuities. Reservations call 519-832-9027

Stardust said good-bye this year to five band members; Brian Ball (alto sax), Don Buchanan (piano), Ian Burbidge (alto sax), Cam Porter (baritone sax) and Stephen James (drums) The long distances traveled to rehearsals by some members were becoming an obstacle for the busy lives they lead and a couple of members headed off in a new musical direction.

Newcomers to the band include a saxophone duo, Wendy and Doug Pullen who have paused in their cross-country and around the world touring to fill the lead alto sax (Wendy) and alto/soprano sax (Doug) chairs.

The Pullens have an impressive background. Doug gave up teaching music at university several years ago to tour abroad with Wendy, a bachelor of music performance grad. The couple has presented more than 250 concerts a year developing an educational presentation, Bach to Beatles which became a fixture on the Canadian music scene.

Stardust baritone sax chair is being filled by Rob Tite who also doubles on clarinet. A recent graduate of University of Toronto Faculty of Music, Rob now adds a degree in clarinet playing to his music diploma from Mohawk College. Rob has been featured in CBC shows as well as with Georgian Bay Symphony.

Gerard Willmes takes over keyboard duties with the band. His background includes percussion and keyboard with Georgian Bay Symphony. Gerard is also a member of jazz vocal ensemble 'Cricket'.

Justin Burgess will be on drums for the Big Band and has played under the direction of jazz clarinetist Phil Nimmons at University of Western Ontario in the jazz ensemble. Justin's sideline is producing recordings for local musicians in Hanover.

For more information: www.stardustbigband.com

Rob Gasidlo is off on vacation for month of August and has posted an impressive lineup of entertainment for Saturday nights at the Chaise Lounge restaurant in Owen Sound. Music for diners runs from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Here's the lineup:
August 4 : Jack McFadden, bass, has asked Mike Grace to join him on bass. I'm told this is only done in New York City with two bass players so will probably be interesting.
August 11 : Nura, vocals and percussion and Stu Steinhart, six string electric bass.
August 18 : Greg Haddow, guitar and Leny Boyd on bass.
August 25: Ian Burbidge on keyboard with special guest
Sept. 1: Rob Gasidlo, keyboard and Charlie Bell, sax

For more information and reservations www.chaiselounge.ca

Several jazz concerts are on the bill of the Kincardine Summer Music Festival during August including performances by Alex Deal, Guido Basso and Lorne Lofsky as well as Charlie Bell's quartet.

Also you can hear upcoming musicians at Kincardine Secondary School who are offering a Jazz Student Showcase.

For more information on dates, locations and details: www.fsmf.ca


The Howlin' Dog Vintage Jazz Band is at the Fairy Lake band shell in Southampton on Sunday, August 12 at 7:30 p.m. We heard this lively group last month outdoors in Port Elgin and they sound as good as indoors. Limited number of chairs available.

The group also plays some Sunday afternoons on the patio at Bruce Bar and Grill in Kincardine. A full schedule of their dates around the province during the summer can be found on their web site. www.howlindogjazz.com

Toronto All Star Big Band, a young group that plays old tunes, is scheduled for Tuesday, August 7, at 7:00 p.m. at Oakview Woods Outdoor Complex in Wasaga Beach, a Jazz in the Park Summer Series free concert. Take a lawn chair.

The free concerts continue at the same location with Bob DeAngelis Band on Tuesday, August 14, Sandy Faux Quintet on Tuesday, August 21.

Toronto All Star Big Band will also perform in Victoria Park , Kincardine along with the Pipe Bands at the Gathering of the Bands on Saturday, August 25 at noon. Then this busy band will perform at the Wasaga Beach Fest on Sunday, August 26 from noon to 2:00 p.m. A free concert at The Peak 95.1 stage
More information on their web site: www.torontoallstarbigband.com

Outdoor free Sunday concerts continue at Bayview Park, Thornbury from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m. courtesy of Chamber of Commerce. Take a lawn chair. Donations accepted. Weather conditions call 519-599-3223

Aug. 5. Georgian Sound Big Band
Aug. 12 Razzmatazz Jazz Band
Aug.19 Toronto All Stars - Special location for this concert only, at Raven Golf Course, Lora Bay.

The irrepressible Shelaugh Hart performs on Thursday, August 16 at 7:00 p.m.at the Gazebo in Stayner a new location for free outdoor music.

Guitarist Paul Danard is becoming quite a fixture out at Sandy Bay Surf & Turf Restaurant in Oliphant. This talented musician has a busy schedule this month, appearing on Tuesdays and Fridays during August at the popular waterfront location. We caught his gig last month and while he played some good jazz, there was also a pleasant mix of semi classics and popular songs. Paul plays for diners from 6:00 p.m. Reservations 519-534-4880

For other jazz events in the region check out http://www.jazzbythebay.ca

Doreen Fawcett is a member of Grey Bruce Writers

http://www.cybersquibbs.com/blog/AllThatJazz