A Saxophone Summit Celebrating Charlie Parker took place at Cuesta College’s Harold J. Miossi CPAC on August 29 at 7:30 p.m. The concert  celebrated the music of the legendary saxophonist, featuring selections from his acclaimed Charlie Parker with Strings recordings as well as arrangements from Med Flory’s Supersax library. Seven professional saxophone soloists, an all-star rhythm section, and a 22-piece orchestra shared the stage in a tribute presented on what would have been Charlie Parker’s 106th birthday.

Featured saxophonists included Dave Becker, Ron McCarley, Ana Nelson, Michael Mull, Andrew Conrad, Wes Smith, and Jake Hammer. The rhythm section featured Jamaal Baptiste, Dylan Johnson, and Darrell Voss. David Arrivée conducted the 22-piece orchestra, which included strings, oboe, French horn, and harp.

The concert marks the inaugural performance of a new ensemble within Cuesta College Community Programs. Led by Dave Becker, the Central Coast Saxophone Coalition (CCSC) is a premier saxophone ensemble that brings together some of the Central Coast’s most accomplished and passionate musicians. The concert is co-sponsored by the SLO County Jazz Federation and the SLO CTE Foundation.