On Tuesday, September 19, at 7:30 p.m., Loyola University’s Nunemaker Hall hosts an evening of traditional jazz to honor the memory of the late trumpeter and cornet player Conrad “Connie” Jones and his wife, Elaine Jones. The event has been organized by Dr. Gordon Towell, Loyola’s head of Jazz Studies.
“The Connie Jones Legacy Band” comprises former members of Connie Jones’s ensembles who have gained recognition as accomplished traditional jazz musicians. The band will perform a selection of pieces from his extensive repertoire, paying homage to his contributions to the jazz genre.
Leading “The Connie Jones Legacy Band” is Loyola University faculty member, bassist Ed Wise, who was once part of Connie Jones’s sidemen. The ensemble includes:
- Duke Heitger on trumpet
- Tim Laughlin on clarinet
- Tom Fischer on tenor saxophone
- Charlie Halloran on trombone
- David Boeddinghaus on piano
- Pete Siers on drums
The setlist for the evening will feature well-known jazz tunes such as “Jazz Me Blues,” “Original Dixieland One Step,” “Do You Know What it Means (to Miss New Orleans)” and others.
Connie, who passed away in 2019, was known by many for his involvement and leadership in the music for French Quarter Fest. Connie was also seen alongside Tom McDermott on OffBeat Magazine‘s April 2008 cover.
To learn more about this musical tribute at Loyola University or purchase tickets, visit Loyola University’s College of Music and Media’s website.
