The Sharp Seven is one of the Valley's newest jazz combos, featuring songs of the Sinatra and Ellington era.
The band has been playing up and down the Island and has many of the Valley's finest jazz musicians.
On trumpet is Gregory Bush, professor of music at Vancouver Island University. On keyboard, Michael Eddy, ARCT Royal Conservatory of Music. On bass, Don Mackay, masters in jazz composition. On alto sax and flute, Troy Lucas, music degree at VIU. On trombone, Paul Nuez, and on drums, Rob Peterson.
Ralph Barrat is often seen singing behind a piano, but the Sharp Seven provides Ralph with the opportunity to treat the audience with his distinct vocal style, reminiscent of the Sinatra era. Barrat belts out favourite standards, specifically arranged for the band by Bush and Lucas.
The repertoire is exceptionally well-performed and songs like Take The A Train and Mack the Knife will transport you back to a golden era in jazz music. For more information, visit ralphbarrat.com.
The Little Red Church hall is a family-friendly venue serving tea, coffee, soft drinks and goodies. The Winter Jazz series performances will take place on the third Thursday of each month — Jan. 16, Feb. 20, March 20 and April 17. All performances start at 7:30 and doors open at 7.
Advance tickets are available at Bop City in Courtenay and the Red Carpet Boutique in Comox at the corner of Anderton and Comox. If there are some left, tickets will also be available at the door.
— Little Red Church