Dear Friends,

.....Spring is finally here, and we couldn't be happier! It's time to shake off those winter blues and get moving on my serious spring cleaning as we move into the gloriously warmer, flower-filled, lighter days!

.....As most of you know, my diligent husband Dean has been busy speaking with all kinds of interesting people. He's been setting up some really wonderful and fun musical events for us to experience during these most welcomed spring and summer seasons. What would I ever do without him?

.....This past winter has been an exciting one for us. We're so happy to continue to see more and more of you showing up at gigs and supporting our efforts to keep classic live music alive. In this sad age of horrendous, money-induced, technology-based, promotionally targeted "music", it's nice to see that the classic American songbook is enjoying a resurgence of appreciation. It's a little disturbing that the new appreciation comes as the result of a lack of better listening choices, but we feel that whatever the reason, we are glad that the "old" music is getting the recognition it deserves!

..... Everywhere you look, musicians are putting out (and selling) CD's chock full of these standard classics. In the last year alone, Rod Stewart, Cyndi Lauper, Queen Latifah, Bette Midler, Michael Bolton (I know I know---don't say it), and a host of others are all breathing new life, once again, into the timeless beautiful music of days gone by. Not to mention the efforts of musicians like Harry Connick Jr., Norah Jones, Michael Buble', Diana Krall, etc. It seems that "Second Chances" came out at just the right time, and we're glad that so many people are enjoying it and appreciating the fine musicians that worked so hard to make my album special. I know I never say it enough, but thank you all once again.

.....Speaking of those fine musicians, I have been so lucky to be able to utilize the wonderful talents of so many throughout this past season. As well as being one of the finest pianists and arrangers around, and notwithstanding his crazy schedule working on TV and around the country with guitar virtuoso Esteban, Jim Ahrend has been my partner in crime as well as a most trusted friend. His friendship and musicianship have been invaluable to me throughout my career.

..... Another name that bears mentioning is Kenny Mackenzie. I have been working with Kenny for more than 2 years now, and his excellence is beyond compare. He's also undertaken the huge challenge of giving me piano lessons. My heart goes out to him! Right now, as a result of and as testament to Kenny's efforts, I can give you all a wonderful recital of "Hello Mudda, Hello Fadda" and "On Yonder Rock Reclining"! I'll let you all know when the concert will be! (not!)

.....Special thanks also must go out to other phenomenal musicians we've been lucky enough to share a stage with this season. Folks like the incomparable John (X-RAY) Ray, Noriko Ueda, Bob Leto, Jeff Lange, Jerry Weldon, Ralph Lalama, Kevin Dunne, and Mark Marino. These are some of the biggest names on the NY Jazz Scene, and I have been both blessed and honored to have worked with them. (See photo gallery for pix)

 



 

 

 

....On to the business at hand…that being the upcoming events! As many of you know, last year, we spent a lot of time playing out at the Long Island vineyards of the North Shore. I can tell you, there is no better way to spend a breezy (sometimes too breezy - right Mark?) afternoon. That last reference being to a particular summer afternoon over at Pindar last year that had poor Dean running through the vines to "catch" our set lists and music that were flying everywhere! Ah…fond memories! With more to come! We are looking into booking more of these special days this Spring and Summer.

.....To kick off the spring festivities, and back by popular demand, on April 25th at 6:30pm we will be tantalizing all of your senses with the second Meritage Wine Tasting/Jazz Dinner Extravaganza. This time we will be featuring the incredible sounds of the aforementioned Jim Ahrend on piano, and John Ray on bass. Adding to the mix will be Mr. Bill Easley on saxophone. Mr. Easley's credits include playing with the George Benson quartet, Ruth Brown, Isaac Hayes, Al Greene, Albert King and the Duke Ellington Orchestra just to name a few. Be sure to make your reservations early as this promises to be a special night! (call 631-286-3300)

.....As well as our forays into the vineyards of LI, we have been invited to perform at a "Live at Five in Patchogue" street fair. We've also been asked to do a performance at the Bellport band shell, and some library gigs to boot! Lots of fun stuff happening - Stay tuned for dates!

.....And as always, we are proud and happy to still be performing weekly for you at 2 of Long Island's most popular and finest restaurants.

.....Our Saturday evenings at Collins and Main have become a staple of Sayville. It's excellence in cuisine and coziness in ambiance is unrivaled. Owners Jerry and Vincent always provide the utmost in hospitality and charm. People just love the separate lounge with big cozy couches and baby grand piano for drinks, dessert, or just for the musical enjoyment.

.....Our Thursday nights at Meritage in Bellport are also quickly becoming the "place to be". Owners Keith and Rich have made Meritage Bellport's finest establishment with a menu to die for, and a plush atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. The food is phenomenal and we've made many new and valued friends.

.....In other exciting news, "Second Chances" is now available for purchase at the following fine retailers; Tower Records in Huntington, Carle Place, and Massapequa, Mother's Music in Patchogue, Listen Here in Pt. Jefferson, and The Piano Outlet in Patchogue. On the web, it is available at www.CDBaby.com, and it is up and running very soon on www.Amazon.com (see the link on the order page). You can purchase it as well from www.AllisonParis.com, but our most preferred way is for you to come see us and buy one in person at a gig!

.....As always, information about scheduling, establishments, directions and times, how to order CD's, and any other questions you may have (how many meters in a mile?) can be answered at: www.AllisonParis.com

..... Here's wishing you all a fabulous spring as well as all of the good things that life has to offer. May you all find happiness, peace and success in this season of new beginnings! Hope to see you all soon!



Love and peace

The End!!

 

 

 view Winter 2003 Newsletter

 

 

 

 

view Spring 2003 Newsletter view Summer/Fall 2003 Newsletter