Cool Jazz By Jade For Pre-Father’s Day Gathering

“Cool Jazz by Jade,” featuring live music by a Westchester, N.Y.-based group, will be offered as a pre-Father’s Day event at Congregation Adath Israel, 115 Huntingtown Road, on Saturday, June 16, at 7:30 pm.

Music will begin at 8:30 pm. 

Reservations are $20 per person in advance, if received by June 11. Admission will be $25 the door.

Hors d’oeuvres and beverages are included in the price, as well as dessert and coffee at intermission. This is an age 21-plus event; BYOB is permitted.

Jim Skinger, a guitarist from Goldens Bridge, N.Y., is the leader of the group, which also includes keyboardist Doug Malfer, bassist Claude Preece and flutist and saxophonist Ericka Schlenkermann. Mr Skinger has performed at Carnegie Hall, Royal Festival Hall, London, and throughout Europe as well as locally. This summer he will be performing in the Czech Republic. He has also taught at Clark University and SUNY-Purchase.

Organizer Rita Frost of Newtown is excited to be bringing Jade to her hometown.

“The group’s finger-snapping rhythms captivate you so that your body can’t stop swinging and swaying,” said Ms Frost. “Their Brazilian numbers are particularly compelling. The group is very accomplished and are classically trained as well.”

Asked about the group’s name, Mr Skinger explained, “Jade is a precious stone and that is what I think of my musicians. To have this much talent in one ensemble is quite rare and precious.”

Tickets can be purchased at Dunkin’ Donuts, on Queen Street in Newtown, or by calling co-chairs Bonnie Goldstein at 203-459-0089 or Ms Frost, 203-426-8787.

Checks payable to Congregation Adath Israel can also be mailed to Bonnie Goldstein, 37 Flint Ridge Road, Monroe CT 06468. Tickets are also available through www.adath.ticketleap.com.