Ross-Levine close Jazz Alliance 2007

COURTESY PHOTO Pianist Mike Levine, left, and Saxophonist Billy Ross close out the Jazz Alliance 2007 season. The final Jazz Alliance 2007 concert at the Alliance for the Arts Saturday features the Ross-Levine Quartet with guest vocalist Wendy Pedersen.

Saxophonist Billy Ross and pianist Mike Levine have been making music together for over 30 years. Both met while attending the University of Miami in the late 1970s.

Shortly after, they formed the Ross-Levine Band, which was one of the early jazz-fusion groups. Their national release "That Summer Something" placed them on the jazz on AOR Stations in the top 10 for over 6 weeks. Ross went on to record 2 solo albums with the help of Levine on the Fantasy Label, which showcased Ross's straight ahead style. Now back together, the two and their quartet are performing a combination of standards and originals all done in the groups unique musical style.

Don Coffman on bass and Sam Levine on drums round out the Ross Levine Quartet. For this performance, special guest vocalist Wendy Pederson will add her talents. Wendy is one of the top jazz vocalists from the South Miami Area and has made her contribution to both "The Sound" and "Woody". She comfortably sings many styles including Jazz, R&B, and the Blues. Wendy's "Under the Influence" CD will be released sometime this year.

The Jazz Alliance series officially began in 2003, based on the popular Sanibel Jazz on the Green, which ran from 1980 to 1995. Grounds Open at 5:30 p.m. and music starts at 7. Tickets are $15 each in advance, $20 at the door. Call 939-ARTS for tickets or visit www.artinlee.org for more information.