It has been a wonderful few weeks of music and time spent with my daughter and dear friends in Austin Texas.
LuluFest ATX was sold out and we all had a blast making music. Guitarist Margaret Slovak's trio opened the festival with Paul Unger on bass, and Mike Gordon on Drums. It was a beautiful set of textural dreamy music all composed by Margaret contrasted nicely to Emily Gimble Texas Swing sound in the second set. Emily's voice and piano chops are unparalleled. She had people up out of their seats.
The last set was Peggy Stern's band "Estrella Salsa" featuring the incredible Su Terry on soprano sax. Also in the band was Alex Coke on tenor, Suzi (me) vocals, Ryan Hagler bass and Mike Gordon drums.
A high point for me was getting to sing one of my original compositions with long time friend and collaborator Paul Unger on bass along with Mike Gordon on drums and Peggy Stern on piano. Making music with Paul again was incredibly special as we hadn't seen each other since pre-covid!
On the following Sunday I had the great honor of being inducted into the Austin Jazz Hall Of Fame. The honor was so heartwarming and to top it off my son and daughter were both there, René having flown in from Portland Oregon to surprise me at the concert!
Playing with my old friends and band mates again was an absolute joy.
Mitch Watkins guitar, Peggy Stern piano, John Fremgen bass, Steve Summers drums
Here I am looking appreciative as I receive my award with Ariana and René looking on.
