We asked Artistic Director John Clayton for his thoughts on the artists you’ll be seeing at 2008 Jazz Port Townsend. We’ll divide those comments into one post for each mainstage show. Today, we feature the artists on the Friday night bill: Taylor Eigsti and Wycliffe Gordon. You can purchase tickets for the Friday show online.

Taylor Eigsti
"Taylor has been making my jaw drop since the days he performed as a wunderkind with saxophonist, Red Holloway.  Taylor was a young teen then and now, after having studied at USC and absorbing lessons from many of his favorite musicians, Taylor’s voice has surfaced.  He has an abundance of creativity and technique to support his musicianship.  His music is fun, deep, engaging.  I still wonder where a young man like this gets his seasoned ideas.  I can’t wait to hear what he’ll bring to us."

Wycliffe Gordon
"Wycliffe’s trombone playing touches the soul.  As audience members, we always appreciate being able to connect with a performer’s expression.  Wycliffe makes it easy.  He swings, he plays beautiful ballads, he allows us to be a part of his roots, he keeps us smiling.  His music is so rhythmic that it’s hard to prevent the body from moving!  So, we’ve allowed for a “Wycliffe Outlet.”  There will be a dance floor ready for anyone who wants “do their thang” to his music.  Joining Wycliffe in the front line will be his friend and colleague, another remarkable trombonist, Andre Hayward."

Stay tuned for Saturday afternoon and evening performance guides…