The key element in saxophone/piano duets is melody and harmony. This is certainly true in the partnership of Miguel Zenon (alto sax) and Luis Perdomo (piano), on display at The Local in Saugerties on Saturday, December 13.
In a two hour concert the theme was Bolero, a musical form that originated in Spain with the influence of the Moorish and the European Music. It migrated to the New World, was influenced by the music from the African slaves and spread throughout what is now Latin America.
A melodious music, compositions influenced and originating from Spain, Mexico as well as various poems. Luis is originally from Venezuela, Miguel from Puerto Rico. Both are accomplished straight ahead jazz musicians and brought those influences into the music.
As there was no vocalist, the alto sax played the role of the vocalist. The piano was the accompaniment. The integration of the music was tight, this project started six years ago and is continuing.
The entire concert was done without equalization and amplification, the duo using the hall to express dynamics and tone. A truly enjoyable evening.
The duet will continue touring, they have released two albums, one recorded during Covid, the other more recent on Miel Music. You can follow both musicians on their websites and social media.
The jazz performance that will close the 2025 year at the Local will be on December 19 when violinist Jenny Scheinman and her band the All Species Parade perform for a sold out crowd. The venue will be closed in January and reopen thereafter. Follow the Local Saugerties on FB for performers and dates.
Thanks to Danny Melnick and Isabel Soffer for curating this performances here and bringing acts we usually would not see here in Upstate NY.
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