The Heights: Lee Shaw – An Xperience Celebration

The Heights: Lee Shaw – An Xperience Column – by Joe Barna.

A Celebration to the Life of Pianist Lee Shaw

It was a calm and warm day in late summer of 1999. My friend Andrea and I were traveling north on the Taconic Parkway in my forest green 1996 Ford Mustang enroute to spend time with her mother and younger brother. I had only known Andrea a few weeks, but we connected on many levels, including musically. She was a cellist at SUNY Purchase Conservatory of Music, and I was just beginning my journey as a jazz studies major. She and I were engaged in a conversation when my phone began ringing. Being a responsible driver, I asked Andrea to see who was calling me. This would be one of the calls that would forever alter the course of my career.

Let’s get into something …

Knowing I could not leave this call unanswered, I immediately pulled onto the grassy side of the parkway and picked up the phone.

Me: “Hello Lee, how are you?”

Lee: “I’m doing well, Joe. How are you?”

Me: “I’m great. Traveling with my friend Andrea on our way to spend time with her family.”

In true Lee Shaw fashion, she responded, “Well, that sounds lovely on a beautiful day like today. I hope you both enjoy yourselves.”

Now, I still didn’t know the reason for the call, so I simply asked Lee what I could do for her. She explained that she had a performance coming up at Justin’s on Lark Street in Albany and did not yet have a drummer. Knowing I was currently studying at Purchase, she asked if I would like to join Rich Syracuse and herself for the evening. In a moment of sheer excitement, I responded, “OF COURSE I WOULD.” This was the first time a musician of her stature had ever asked ME to play with THEM. It’s the type of call we as young artists dream of one day receiving. An opportunity to share the bandstand, in a sideman role, with someone we love, respect, and aim to become. I was both excited and joyfully scared to be a part of Lee’s historical career. It’s a moment that will remain in my heart for eternity.

So, why am I expounding upon this topic??????

Lee Shaw was an absolute treasure. Not just here in New York State’s Capital Region, but across the country and abroad. She was a pianist, composer, educator, friend, mentor, and humanitarian who touched the lives of thousands throughout her 89 incredible years navigating her way through this mortal realm. Londa Lee Moore (Lee Shaw) was not just a musician; she was an inspiration. Someone you aspired to one day become, although you could never. A petite and humble lady raised in Ada, Oklahoma, Lee would devote her entire life to bringing music into the lives of people thirsting for someone or something to uplift them, releasing them (if only temporarily) from their struggles, trials, and hardships. She composed songs that brought smiles to those fortunate enough to hear them. The way she carried herself was nothing short of exquisite. Lee had an elegance and softness that calmed even the most untameable of beasts. She led every step with passion, conviction, humility, confidence, and tenderness.

I was fortunate to have had the privilege of calling Lee a friend. She mentored me musically, but also took time to reach out when time allowed. She’d ask questions like “Joe, how are you feeling today?” or  “What have you been listening to lately?” or “Have you composed any new songs recently?” Lee cared about those she loved and made the effort to let them know she was curious about them. Even with her busy schedule, she would often take the time to go out and listen to others whenever possible. Lee never put herself above anyone, nor did she utter a negative word regarding another individual’s playing or persona. She was first class through and through. In the words of saxophone great Ralph Lalama, “She’s #1 in my book.”

Lee Shaw passed away on October 25, 2015, in Troy, NY. In her passing, she left behind a legacy most would salivate over. Her thousands of performances, album releases, guest appearances, compositions, and kind soul touched the lives of many. Her students went on to accomplish great heights of their own, including Theo Hill, John Medeski, Nick Hetko, David Gleason, and too many others to list. They took the lessons Lee emboldened them with and carved their signatures into this artform known as jazz. Her impact continues to be felt through the stories, teachings, and performances of those who were affected by her.

On Sunday, March 1, I will present a concert honoring the woman who gave me my first big chance as a sideman. This year’s WINTER JAZZ FEST at Alias Coffee will be a celebration of the life and contributions of pianist Lee Shaw. This concert will be completely free to all who wish to attend. We are able to do this in partnership with Capital District Jazz and Keith Pray. The organization has agreed to allow me the good fortune to fundraise through their 501(c)(3) nonprofit, using both individual and corporate sponsorships. We know some of you out there do not have the $45 to attend a show of this magnitude, so we have decided to raise the money for you. It’s our way of saying we love and appreciate each of you who wish to be there.

Along with Capital District Jazz, I would like to send out a heartfelt THANK YOU to Art Fredette and his entire crew at XperienceMonthly/RadioRadioX for getting behind this project and encouraging those in their circle to do the same. You have been a force on the area’s performing arts scene for years, affording opportunities to hundreds of artists from in and around the region. You’re another treasure in our community that deserves far wider recognition, and I love you all.

Special thanks to StudioBlue (led by Chris Alsdorf and Jay Mosier) featuring Peg Delaney & Jeanine Ouderkirk,  Dave Solazzo Trio, and my band Sketches Of Influence for bringing your talents to the stage for this joyful encounter. It’s going to be a memorable gathering for all involved.

Thank you, Bill Stern, for videotaping; Hernan Lopez for opening up your space; Chris Alsdorf for constructing the new stage; John Chiara for running sound; Bill McCann for being the master of ceremonies; and Chris Garabedian for being a rock in my life who goes way beyond the call of duty in encouraging me to be a better man.

Thank you to my daughter Savina Jewel for inspiring me every day to be a better father, human, and lover of God. You give my life purpose and fulfillment. I Love You.

Last, but certainly not least, thank you to the great Lee Shaw for bestowing your wisdom, music, and integrity on all who knew you. You’re a force of nature who shone down on so many, breathing life into a community who loved you …We miss you.

What to expect on Sunday, March 1, at Alias Coffee in Troy, NY

~ Free Admission

~ Catered Dinner & Dessert

~ 3 Bands Beginning at 4pm

~ Cash Bar (beer, wine, and craft coffees)

  If you wish to make a tax-deductible donation to help ensure the overwhelming success of this special concert, please go to cdjazz.org and click the link for Lee Shaw Tribute.

  If you wish to make a cash donation, you may do so the night of the event or email  Joebarnamusic@gmail.com

Thank You

Warmest Regards,

Joe

 

 

 

 

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