Photos: Rudy Lu

April is Jazz Appreciation Month (JAM). It is marked by lots of free concerts all over the 518. They are sponsored by the Schenectady -Amsterdam NY Musicians Union (AFMl 85133 )and the sister organization Albany Musicians Association (AFM 14). This years Schenectady concert was a tribute to the recently passed president drummer Mark Anthony. Mark was a special man in the music scene of the area. He grew the union by recruiting younger musicians and helping create the environment for young musicians fresh out of school or new to the area thrive through mentoring and networking. Events like this were made possible for his establishment of a trust fund for free public performance. As of the year the Schenectady Performance Trust Fund will be renamed the Mark Anthony Memorial Trust Fund.

The afternoon’s concert held at Robb Alley @ Proctor’s had 3 bands performed. Unlike a commercial gig, all 3 bands featured original compositions or uniquely arranged standards. Something that would not go over well in a commercial gig. Mark’s old drum set was played as part of the tribute.

Dylan Canterbury curated this concert and sound was provided by Rob Aronstein. Follow both union’s facebook pages for the free concerts offered this month with others offered during the summer. AFM 14 will be presenting its equivalent on 4/28 @the Renssalaer Elks, 689 Columbia Turnpike East Greenbush, NY.

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