Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Band schedules 4000th gig
By SUZETTE PORTER
Article published on Wednesday, July 25, 2007  |
TREASURE ISLAND – The Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Band is celebrating a special event on Wednesday, Aug. 1, 6:30 to 9 p.m., in the Beach Room of the Bilmar Beach Resort.
The performance is not an ordinary gig – it will be the band’s 4000th gig, which is “no doubt a record,” according to the Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Society.
The organization plans to present a plaque to the band leader Paul O'Connor during the evening.
The Suncoast Dixieland Jazz Band started playing occasionally in 1963 before starting its career of steady performances in 1967.
Rush Baltz, a trombone player and Dixieland jazz fan, started the band, and 25 local musicians have been among its members throughout the years.
Today’s band leader is trombonist Paul O’Connor. He has been a member of the group for the past 30 years.
Other current members include Roger Athans, the bands drummer for 34 years; Frank Thompson, pianist for 25 years; Burt Kempe, on clarinet for eight years; plus Bobby Tess, trumpet, and Lohn Lamb, bass, members for five years.
The Bilmar Beach Resort is at 10650 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island.
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Article published on Wednesday, July 25, 2007
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