Bill Cunliffe Returns to Ojai

Grammy-winning pianist Bill Cunliffe returns to Ojai for a special performance on Friday, September 30 at 7 pm. Come see this world-class musician at a new venue, Starborn Wellness Concert Hall in Meiners Oaks. Plus drummer Joe La Barbera and bassist Mike Gurrola join Bill on stage for this stellar night of jazz.

Imagine receiving an invitation to a gala featuring Bill Evans, Oscar Petersen, and Chick Corea. A piano performance by Bill Cunliffe is all that and more. It draws on Cunliffe’s decades of experience as a formidable jazz pianist and his considerable skill as a storyteller and teacher, producing a show that is greater than the sum of its dazzling parts. Bill has received four Grammy Nominations that resulted in his 2010 Grammy Award. He toured or recorded with Frank Sinatra, Freddy Hubbard, James Moody, Joe Henderson, Mary Lou Williams, and many others.

Joe La Barbera, an American jazz drummer and composer, is best known for his performances with pianist Bill Evans. His reputation grew in the 1970s when he recorded and toured with Chuck Mangione. He spent much of the 1980s and early 1990s with Tony Bennett. He also worked as a sideman for Jim Hall, Art Farmer, Art Pepper, John Scofield, Toots Thielemans, and Phil Woods.

Mike Gurrola quickly became an in-demand bassist on the international jazz-scene. He’s known for his solid technique, attentive musicianship, and his strong passion and love for the music. A Grammy-winner, and protégé of the great Ray Brown and John Clayton, Mike has toured and recorded with Eric Reed since 2013. He also stays busy with jazz A-listers including Benny Golson, Benny Green, Jeff Hamilton, Mary Stallings, Ralph Moore, Willie Jones III, and Roy McCurdy.

Tickets: $20 online, $25 at the door. Doors open at 6.30 pm. Free parking in the Ace Hardware lot.

No refunds. Questions? Call: 805-746-0936.