Grant Stewart/Tardo Hammer Quartet at the Douglas Beach House November 23, 2008

Tenor “saxman” Stewart projects a big and satisfying tone that is. Sonny Rollinsesque, passionate and rich. Stewart considers Bob Mover to be one of his greatest teachers and among his strongest influences along with Sonny Rollins, John Coltrane, Don Byas, and Lester Young.

For more than a quarter of a century jazz pianist Tardo Hammer has been a major figure on the New York City bebop scene. He has played with such jazz notables as Lionel Hampton, Lou Donaldson, Art Farmer, Clifford Jordan, Abbey Lincoln, Johnny Griffin, Bill Hardman, Junior Cook, and many more. Hammer is an oft-sought sideman, and since 1994 has been accompanist and musical director for the vocalist Annie Ross. Hammer’s mastery of idiom inspires awe -- it comes through especially clearly when he strings together harmonic substitutions on the blues and rhythm changes.

All concerts are presented at the Douglas Beach House, directly on Miramar Beach in Half Moon Bay, CA, 40 minutes from SF and Silicon Valley. Doors open at 3 for buying tickets and hanging out until music starts at 4:30. Food and drinks available.

Official Website: http://www.bachddsoc.org