Juneau Jazz & Classics Celebrates 15th Anniversary.

• Author: PILKINGTON, STEVE
• Position: Brief Article

Does the thought of cool-sliding jazz tickle your springtime fancy? How about some kick-down rhythm and blues by some favored artists? Maybe your palate is awaiting an inspiring aria for contemplation? What if you want it all?

This month you can have it at the 15th anniversary of the Juneau Jazz & Classics Festival starting May 18 and running through May 27. Linda Rosenthal, its artistic director, cofounded the event with her husband Paul.

"It's not just like a standard festival," said Greg Cohen, administrator for the Juneau Jazz & Classics Festival. The variety of talent, teaching skills and musical tastes could be the key for some creative and unique experiences. During last year's festival, cards were handed out to audience members asking them which artists and performers they would want to return for repeat performances if they had a choice. The responses created a rich schedule promising something for almost everyone.

One returning favorite is Joe Louis Walker & The BossTalkers, which packed Centennial Hall back in 1996. Festival officials describe their music as "sizzling slide guitar work in a smoky mix of funk, R&B and rock-tinged San Francisco blues." The band's popularity brought in numerous requests for their music at this festival. Another returning artist is Armen Ksajikian, principal cellist of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra and the American Ballet. Violinist Gwen Thompson, known from Viveza, brings her spark and charm back to Juneau. Pianist Alan Chow, who will return for his third Jazz & Classic Festival, has recently performed at Lincoln Center, in Hong Kong and Japan.

Cofounder Paul Rosenthal, a violinist, also is scheduled to join the artists in Juneau this year to mark the anniversary. Cohen said Paul will perform chamber music and both Paul and Linda will play two-fiddle favorites for listeners. The classical side of the schedule also will feature Lincoln Mayorga and...