The minute I heard that trumpeter Frank Vardaros was throwing a big 75th birthday bash for Maynard Ferguson on May 3 and 4, I immediately made plans to attend. Ever since I first heard Maynard on record, sometime in the early 60’s, I have been drawn to high-energy big band music—and trumpets in particular.

Both nights were at Ryles Jazz Club, in Cambridge, Mass. Frank is the musical director there, and leader of the Ryles Jazz Orchestra. Maynard has been leading his own band since 1956, and even at 75 he continues to tour more than 10 months every year. While his playing is still certainly amazing (for a player of ANY age), it is his enthusiasm and passion for music that I find particularly moving. In my book, Maynard is the king.

The evening of May 3 was an extended birthday party for Maynard. A big band of alumni and other friends played Maynard’s music from all eras and “The Boss” got to be in the audience—until around midnight, when he couldn’t stand it any more and brought out his current band for two numbers to close out the night. For a complete review of the evening, check out Matt Keller’s account at his Maynard Ferguson Tribute site.

May 4, Maynard’s actual birthday, was a concert by Maynard’s Big Bop Nouveau band. After a great dinner at Terramia in Boston’s North End, Karen and I arrived only 15 minutes before the 7:30 start time. Ryles was packed, and it was painfully clear that we were going to be sitting near the back of the room unless a miracle happened. One did

“Frankie V” noticed that we were having trouble finding a table, and invited us to join him, his girlfriend Jennisa, and trumpeter Mark VanCleave at their table RIGHT UP FRONT. I mean we were directly in front of Maynard’s microphone (like he needs one), probably no more than 6 feet from the bell of his horn. It was like being at a rehearsal. Maynard was (characteristically) relaxed and at home—clearly having fun all night. He loved Karen’s special laugh, and it seemed like she was part of the show.

And a great show it was. No time to go into the details, but we’ll never forget it. Special thanks to Maynard, Frank, Jennisa, Mark, Ed, Carl, and Matt.