We've watched and listened to pianist Isaiah J. Thompson since his early days at the Jazz For Teens program at NJPAC, his first recording as part of a piano spectacular at Jazz at Lincoln Center, his performances with Steve Turre, Christian McBride and Ron Carter. He hipped us to the legacy of Buddy Montgomery, then went to Montgomery's hometown of Indianapolis, where he was awarded top honors in the 2023 American Pianist Awards, and he’s currently touring and recording with guitarist John Pizzarelli.
With A Guaraldi Holiday, Isaiah, his group, and guests John Pizzarelli, trumpeter Anthony Hervey, saxophonist Alexa Tarantino and vocalist Tyreek McDole (this year's winner of the Sarah Vaughan Vocal Competition) all join in for an imaginative encounter with the spirit of Vince Guaraldi.
From Tuesday, December 26 through Friday, December 29, one cut from the A Guaraldi Holiday album will be featured each morning on the New Day, New Play spotlight on my Daybreak show.
Preview “What Child Is This” from A Guaraldi Holiday above.
