Erroll Garner Tribute by the Anthony Wonsey Jazz Trio

City of Asheboro presents an Erroll Garner Tribute by the Anthony Wonsey Jazz Trio FREE to the public on Saturday, February 17th at 7:00 PM.

In celebration of Black History Month, Sunset Theatre will pay tribute to pianist and composer Erroll Garner (1921-1977). Erroll Garner became the first black musician to own his own record label, Octave Record, founded in 1960. He began performing on the world stage in the late 40’s, becoming a global star throughout the 1950’s, 60’s, and 70’s. His unique approach was a distillation of the big-bands he loved as a child growing up and the music he reated (with more than 200 compositions published) was deeply rooted in Black American cultural traditions. His music became synonymous with a sense of joy and introduced jazz to millions of people. Garner broke records and pushed boundaries, charting a course for future generations of musicians to follow. His album “Concert By The Sea” was the first Jazz album to achieve over $1 million worth in album sales. Also notable are his ties to North Carolina—where he once lived.

An adventurous yet flexible pianist with a potentially significant future, Anthony Wonsey started playing piano when he was six years old. Anthony first studied with his mother, Darlene, a classical pianist and then Zilner Randolph. He earned a full scholarship to Berklee College of Music. After graduating in 1994, Anthony moved to Boston and played locally with Roy
Hargrove and Anthonio Hart, among others. He has toured with Christopher Hollyday, Nnenna Freelon, and Kenny Garrett. During the past few years Anthony has played regularly and recorded with the groups of Carl Allen and Nicholas Payton. The Trio consists of Anthony, William Lyle, and Christopher Beck.

Admission for this event is completely free. Doors will open at 6:00 PM. For more information, please call the Cultural & Recreation Services office at (336) 626-1240 ext. 1