>> Our first item this week has absolutely nothing to do with jazz but it’s just too noteworthy not to mention. This week, The Millennium Stage hosts the 2007 Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Championships. Tonight through Sunday, each free 6 p.m. concert will showcase a different internationally renowned accordion ensemble. Admit it, you’re curious.
>> As we told you yesterday, trumpeter Terence Blanchard will be celebrating the release of his new album with a four night stand, beginning on Thursday, at Blues Alley. 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are available here. $27.50 + $10 food/drink minimum.
>> Anyone who hasn’t checked out Jazz Night in Southwest should do so. Every Friday, for $5, attendees get to see 3 hours of straight ahead jazz performed by some of D.C.’s finest. This Friday the series will feature Thad Wilson’s Ugetzu Big Band.
>> For the past two weeks, Twins Jazz has been running the Reggie Workman’s Sculptured Sound Series, which features artists invited by Workman, the famed bassist. This week’s must see is drummer Billy Hart (pictured), who will bring a group to the club this Friday and Saturday as part of the series. A D.C. native, Hart has appeared on over 400 recordings with jazz icons such as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter. His group this weekend will feature Michael Bowie (bass) and D.C.’s own Allyn Johnson (piano) and Antonio Parker (sax) with special guest, trumpeter and grandson of the late trumpeter Doc Cheatham, Theo Croker. Tickets to the 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. sets available here. $20.
Photo from Billy Hart’s website
