Our October concert certainly broadened our jazz horizons. Rather than our usual straight ahead jazz by a trio or larger band, we were treated to the duo of Danish musicians, violinist Mads Tolling and guitarist Jacob Fischer. What they lacked in number, they made up for with excellence in taste and execution. They were entirely in sync on each and every number. The program opened with Ellington’s “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing” and swing they did! The later selections ranged from American jazz, Swedish and Danish folk music, to Brazilian tangos. The concert was billed as a tribute to legionary violinist, Sven Asmussen who was a mentor to Mads. Jacob was also a member of Sven’s band for the last 15 years of his life. Famous American violinist, Stuff Smith who was a favorite of Asmussen’s, was celebrated in the lovely waltz, “Sermon for Stuff” played with feeling. My personal favorite of the afternoon was “Fiddler in Rio”, an exciting Asmussen composition. These excellent musicians were not only amazing technicians, but were masters of the dynamics in each selection. We were indeed fortunate to treated to the music of these inspiring musicians!
