12/6/1986 Ahmad Jamal, Scottsdale Center for the Arts, Scottsdale, AZ


 35 years ago today...

December 6, 1986 - Scottsdale, AZ

Jazz piano virtuoso Ahmad Jamal performed in concert at Scottsdale Center for the Arts.
Jamal was regarded as one of the top band leaders in jazz and the cool jazz movement, known for his understated instrumental versions of "Poinciana," "But Not For Me" and "One." I met him a few months earlier when I promoted his appearance at the Boojum Tree Jazz Lounge. When he returned for a gig in Scottsdale, he hooked us up with tickets as his guest.
With a sponsorship agreement from Steinway, Jamal declined to play any other brand of piano. This created an added expense for the Boojum Tree, as the house Yamaha piano had to be removed, and a Steinway delivered and tuned for his performance.
In the photo, Jamal is showing me his chops, tickling the 88's in the studios of public radio KMCR (now KJZZ) prior to a live on-air interview.



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