The Novel Jazz Septet will be returning to the Skidompha Public Library for what they are affectionately calling, “The Great Pumpkin Jam,” on Saturday, Oct. 11 at 7 p.m. during the Pumpkinfest weekend. They will be playing an evening of jazz out of the Great American Songbook, with tunes befitting the fall season.  Proceeds will benefit Skidompha and its Little Food Pantry. 

This is the 21st year in which Novel Jazz has been playing straight-ahead jazz for audiences throughout Maine (and beyond). Collectively, they share over two centuries of experience in the jazz idiom.  The musicians of Novel Jazz are Herb Maine (acoustic bass), Barney Balch (trombone), Michael Mitchell (trumpet), Mickey Felder (piano), David Clarke (guitar) and Nate Johengen (saxophone).  Regular Novel drummer, Bill Manning, will be out of town that evening so the band will be welcoming the very-talented guest percussionist, Rusty Quinn, to keep the rhythm hopping.

 Novel Jazz events at Skidompha began in 2004 with the observation that lovers of books often are lovers of jazz. The superb acoustics of Skidompha’s atrium, plus the seating “in the round”, make it a superior place to see and hear jazz, all in a relaxed, informal atmosphere.  It was while performing at Skidompha that the band began their unique focus on jazz giants, Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn.  The band has released four CDs over their time making music together. 

 Admission is free and all are welcome to this special concert, but in lieu of purchasing a ticket, the library requests, not requires, attendees bring either a financial donation (suggested $20/person) for the library, the food pantry (items must not be expired or opened) or personal hygiene items for Skidompha’s Little Food Pantry, all to support other community members in need.

As is always the case, we encourage parents to bring their children, the future of this art form.  The library is located at 184 Main St., downtown Damariscotta.Call 207-887-0919 during business hours for more information or, point your web browser to http://www.skidompha.org/ or www.mainejazz.net.