Want to see some great jazz in a place more known for its history than its music? One need look no further than across the river at the American Museum of Natural History.
Starry Nights, live jazz at the museum’s Rose Center for Earth and Space (formerly the Hayden Planterium), presents some of the world’s greatest jazz musicians in one of the most spectacular settings in New York. Visitors to Starry Nights, which is presented the first Friday of every month, can enjoy tapas and beverages along with the music.
Performances are 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Friday, Aug. 1
Hilton Ruiz Trio
Broadcast live on WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM, 5:30 p.m. —6:30 p.m.
Born in New York City, Hilton Ruiz began performing as a child, appearing on the Sandy Becker television show, performing at Carnegie Hall at the age of 8, and playing in an accordion symphony at 9. Ruiz, after receiving jazz guidance from the great Mary Lou Williams, has gone on to work with such artists as Frank Foster, Joe Newman, Call Massey, and Freddie Hubbard. Ruiz’s music has also been featured in films such as Woody Allen’s “Crimes and Misdemeanors,” “Low Down Dirty Shame,” and the Academy Award-winning “American Beauty.”
“One of the finest pianists in Afro-Cuban jazz” — AllMusicGuide.com
Friday, Sept. 5
Ray Baretto & His Band
For over five decades, legendary conga player Ray Barretto has provided a Latin flavor for such top jazz stars as Art Blakey, Wes Montgomery, Herbie Hancock, Dizzy Gillespie, and Cannonball Adderly. Perhaps the most prolific conga player ever, he has made the instrument a necessary component of jazz ensembles.
“Ray Barretto and New World Spirit are one of the finest ensembles in Latin jazz.” — AllAboutJazz.com
Friday, Oct. 3
Paquito D’Rivera Ensemble
Broadcast live on WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM, 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.
Four-time Grammy award winner Paquito D’Rivera began his career as a child prodigy, playing clarinet and saxophone with the Cuban National Symphony Orchestra. As a teenager, D’Rivera became one of the founding members of the Orquesta Cubana de Música Moderna, which he conducted for two years. He was also a founding member and co-director of the innovative musical group Irakere. D’Rivera has received many awards including a Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to Latin music.
“A gifted saxophonist and clarinetist, Mr. D’Rivera is a formidable musician.” — Ben Ratliff, The New York Times
The Rose Center is open until 8:45 p.m. on Friday evenings. The museum’s suggested admission covers entry to the museum and to Starry Nights. For general information, call 212-769-5100. Advance tickets for the Space Show can be purchased by calling 212-769-5200 or visiting www.amnh.org.
