Must See Shows: Bobby Selvaggio and Red Rhinoceros at the Erie Art Museum

Friday, Nov. 17th

On November 17th, JazzErie will continue to please enthusiasts of both jazz music and local arts and culture by hosting Bobby Selvaggio and Red Rhinoceros at the Erie Art Museum. Born a state over in Cleveland and having graduated from Kent State, Selvaggio is now known as one of today's most gifted alto saxophonists. In addition to composing and being skilled with other instruments (including alto clarinet and flute), it's Selvaggio's unbridled passion for jazz and music education that compels him to perform at venues like the Erie Art Museum. Selvaggio released his latest solo album, Quantum Man, just last year.

"It's not often that a composer sets up tunes and situations that make the band and every soloist sound special, but once we understood Bobby's compositions, each and every one of them started to make us sound brilliant," says Kenny Werner, just one of Selvaggio's peers willing to praise him on the performer's website. Alongside him is Joe Lovano.

"Bobby Selvaggio is one of the few young saxophonists on the scene today that captures you with his strong presence, focus, and sound," says Lovano. "He carries you with him on his journey through these original compositions and has put together a fantastic group for his new release."

For those curious about the connection between Selvaggio and Red Rhinoceros (the group with which he performs), the ensemble was initially conceived as an outlet for Selvaggio and company to "experiment with composition and improvisation." Originally formed (and disbanded) in the late 90s, the octet is now being rebranded as the Red Rhinoceros Revival, delivering a performance curated completely from Selvaggio's original compositions written for the group. From its exclusivity to the talent involved, Bobby Selvaggio and Red Rhinoceros truly will be putting on a must see show. — Aaron Mook

8 to 10 p.m. // 20 E. Fifth Street // $20 General Admission, $15 JazzErie Members