Jazz concert to be held at Pioneer Church this weekend

Longtime Skamokawa resident and local musician Sunrise “Sunny Jim” Fletcher will perform songs from his new CD release, “Sunrise Unplugged,” at Cathlamet’s Pioneer Church on Saturday (January 19) at 7:30 p.m.

Showcasing jazz standards from 1928 to 1944, plus many originals, Fletcher will be joined by double bassist Dave Speranza, son of Don and Kitty Speranza of Skamokawa, and pianist Craig Bidondo.

Portland pianist and keyboardist Bidondo has performed on the West Coast for over 20 years as a solo artist, bandleader, back up to local talents, and as composer and music director for major Portland theatre productions. He and his brother have just released a CD entitled "The Homecoming: The Brothers Bidondo."

Speranza, a double bassist also from Portland, has worked with many of Portland’s most well known jazz players including Mel Brown, Ron Steen, and Rob Scheps.

"Sunrise Unplugged” is Fletcher’s seventh album. His first was on vinyl recorded at Pierre’s Restaurant in Cathlamet in 1979 with his wife Jessica.

Concert songs will include Route 66, Blue Moon, and Caravan. Tickets are $12 at the door. For more information, call 360-795-8770.