Mindi Abair, Joey Alexander wow Jazz Fest patrons
Two-time Grammy award-nominated saxophonist Mindi Abair thrilled the crowds during two shows at the Rusty Rudder Oct. 16.
Abair has had a long and outstanding career. In addition to her solo success, she also worked with many notable artists and groups, including Aerosmith, the Backstreet Boys, Mandy Moore, Adam Sandler and John Tesh. She’s also appeared on “American Idol” and “The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon,” and filled in on the CBS Orchestra for “The Late Show with David Letterman.”
Just a few miles north, 18-year-old pianist Joey Alexander took to the stage at Epworth United Methodist Church for a lively performance with drummer John Davis and bassist Kris Funn.
Alexander was considered a child prodigy, learning to play the piano by himself at age 6. He released his first album in 2015 at age 11. He’s performed for Presidents Bill Clinton and Barack Obama, and legendary musician Herbie Hancock.
Alexander was discovered by Wynton Marsalis, who watched a Facebook video of Alexander performing. Marsalis invited him to play at Lincoln Center, and the rest is history.
See the official 2021 Rehoboth Beach Jazz Festival program, produced by Cape Gazette, at capegazette.com/center/2021-rehoboth-beach-jazz-festival/226733.
