George Shearing was one of the most beloved and honored jazz pianists of all time. The composer of Lullaby of Birdland, he performed for three presidents, the Queen of England ( who knighted him in 2007) and all over the world
until his death at the age of 91.
The vibraphonist Charlie Shoemake, played with one of Shearing's premier quintets and is now leading a west coast based tribute group that brings back that distinctive Shearing Sound that "came to represent the essence of sophisticated hip for countless listeners worldwide who preferred their jazz on the gentle side." (Peter Keepnews, New York Times, February 14, 2011).
The Sounds of Shearing is a great treat for all jazz fans and especially for those in the Berkshires, considering that George and his wife Ellie for nearly a decade enjoyed summers in Lee at Brookside Farm on Devon Road right here in Lee.
Don't miss this unique presentation of Sir George's music by The Sounds of Shearing at the Berkshire Gateway Jazz Weekend. Special introduction by Ellie Shearing.
