Dave Samuels to kick off Sparta Summer Concerts June 23

Sparta - The 2006 Sparta Summer Concerts kick off at 7:30 p.m. Friday, June 23, rain or shine, at George Dykstra Concert Park (behind the Sparta Public Library). The season opener features Dave Samuels, multiple Grammy winner and Concord Picante recording artist. Samuels has established himself as the top mallet player of his generation. He is recognized for his fresh sound and creative approach to both the vibraphone and marimba. He has performed and recorded with a wide range of artists, including Gerry Mulligan, Oscar Peterson, Chet Baker, Stan Getz, Carla Bley, The Yellowjackets, Pat Metheny, Bruce Hornsby, Frank Zappa, The Fantasy Band, Spyro Gyra, Double Image and The Caribbean Jazz Project. During his time with Spyro Gyra (1977-1994), the five-time Grammy nominated group was named the top contemporary jazz group of the 80’s by Billboard magazine. Samuels has been voted best vibes player in both Jazziz and Modern Drummer Magazine. He received a Grammy in 2003 for “best Latin jazz recording” with his group, the Caribbean Jazz Project’s, CD, “The Gathering.” In 2004, Samuels was nominated a second time for a Grammy for “best Latin jazz recording” for the Caribbean Jazz Project’s release, “Birds of a Feather,” and in 2005 he was nominated a third consecutive time for the group’s current release, “Here and Now - Live in Concert” a two- CD set of performances recorded at the Manchester Craftsmen’s Guild in Pittsburgh. His four solo recordings showcase his writing, performing and producing talents: “Living Colors” (MCA), “Ten Degrees North” (MCA), “Natural Selection” (GRP), and “Del Sol” (GRP) feature a variety of musical settings that include the Yellowjackets, Bruce Hornsby, Danilo Perez, Andy Narell, and Dave Valentin. Samuels’ recent energies have focused on the Caribbean Jazz Project, a sextet he founded in 1993. The Sparta Summer Concerts are held Friday evenings, June 23 through the end of July. In the event of inclement weather, the concerts are held in the Mohawk Avenue School Auditorium (adjacent to Dystrka Park). For information on featured artists, directions, sponsorship and the finalized season program, log on to spartaarts.org. Funding for the Sparta Summer Concerts is provided by the township and through the support of local businesses and local patrons of the arts. Tax deductible donations can be sent to the Sparta Cultural Affairs Committee, 65 Main St., Sparta, NJ 07871. Donations can also be made on line.