FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                                     November 14, 2003

MARVELOUS MUSIC CONTINUES WITH BUTCH THOMPSON TRIO

Cary , NC – The  Butch Thompson Trio continues the 2003-2004 Marvelous Music Series on Saturday, November 15, 2003 at 7:30 p.m. at the Herbert C. Young Community Center in Cary .  This is the fifth season of the Marvelous Music Series which features an eclectic mix of national touring groups. Previous seasons have included the Grammy Award winning Riders in the Sky, the Loonis McGlohon Trio, and the River City Brass Band, just to name a few.  Livingston Taylor opens the new season with his unique brand of folk music.  

Butch Thompson came to national fame during his 12-year run with A Prairie Home Companion on public radio. But for much longer he has been known around the world as a traditional jazz master, a pianist whose command of the music of Jelly Roll Morton, Fats Waller, Scott Joplin and other giants is unsurpassed.

Thompson's concerts present a fascinating look at a vital American tradition that, as Jelly Roll Morton said, includes "everything from blues to opera." Butch's lively commentary and crackling wit are a part of every concert.

Highlights of Thompson's recent schedule include the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, touring in Switzerland , Italy , Great Britain , and Japan ; a December tour of his popular Yulestride holiday show; A Prairie Home Companion guest spots; and national touring with his popular Trio. In addition to solo and trio work, Thompson leads the "Jazz Originals," an eight-piece New Orleans style band whose members include some of the best traditional jazz musicians in the U.S.

In addition to performing, Thompson writes reviews and articles on jazz and produces his own radio show, Jazz Originals, in Minneapolis . His writing has appeared in Downbeat, the Mississippi Rag, and other magazines.

His recent recordings include the Grammy-winning Verve release “Doc Cheatham and Nicholas Payton,” and “Bethlehem After Dark,” the ninth release in his continuing series "The 88s," produced by Mason Daring and distributed by Rounder Records. This well-known series also includes “Butch and Doc,” an album of duets with the late trumpeter Doc Cheatham; and “Thompson Plays Joplin,” a CD devoted to the music of Scott Joplin. A new CD, “Butch Thompson on Tour” was recorded in England .  

The Marvelous Music Series enters its fifth season offering nationally acclaimed touring groups. Other concerts in this series include the Nuclear Whales Saxophone Orchestra on February 28; and the grand finale – the Sauce Boss on April 3.  Tickets go on sale a month before each performance.  For more information call (919) 469-4061 or visit www.townofcary.org.

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