John Paulson Big Band reunites for Nov. 23 event
John Paulson’s 17-piece contemporary jazz big band returns to Winona Sunday, Nov. 23, at 6:30 p.m. They will perform two sets of all-original music at Wellington’s Pub & Grill.
The concert will feature exciting contemporary big band music composed and arranged by Paulson, who taught jazz and woodwinds at Saint Mary’s University for over 30 years. He is now professor emeritus at Saint Mary’s and an adjunct jazz instructor at Winona State University.
In addition to Dr. Paulson on saxes and flute, the ensemble is comprised of 17 of the best jazz players and teachers in the region including trumpeter Scott Jensen of La Crosse, Wis.; Winona’s own Ray Dretske on tenor sax; alto saxophonist Brian Koser of Austin, Minn.; and an amazing rhythm section comprised of Dr. Rich MacDonald, drums; Larry Price, piano; bassist Eric Graham; and Twin Cities guitarist Scott Gerry. The program will highlight their exceptional soloing skills.
You may have heard this great band at their premiere concert at the Winona Arts Center in 2012 or at their celebrated appearance opening for the Hornheads as part of the Saint Mary’s Page Series in 2013. Their CD and DVD “The John Paulson Big Band Project” was funded by a grant from the McKnight Foundation and it is currently available on iTunes, CDbaby.com and numerous digital download sites. CDs and DVDs will be available at the concert. Paulson’s music is published worldwide by eJazzLines.com and walrusmusic.com
There is no cover charge for the concert. Arrive early because seating will be limited. Wellingtons is located at 1429 W. Service Dr.
