A tribute to the legendary jazz saxophonist and Trenton native Richie Cole will be presented by Richie Cole’s family at the 1867 Sanctuary in Ewing on Sunday, May 1.
When Cole’s daughters, Annie Cole and Amanda “Amy” Marrazzo, contacted U.S. 1 to say that their dad had died on May 1, 2020, they were unable to do an event to celebrate his life and legacy. Now that such a gathering is possible, we asked them to share a thought about their father’s connection to the area, the Sanctuary, and the musicians in the region.
They responded with the following
We are excited to finally be able to have a Richie Cole tribute concert. We hope to have one that the community and our dad would be proud of.
I remember having a talk with my dad about the annual 1867 Sanctuary gig and what it meant to him. He grew up going there for church service every Sunday — whether he wanted to go or not, he was there for Sunday service!
Being asked to regularly perform at the 1867 Sanctuary meant so much to him since it was such a huge part of his life growing up.
Trenton was home to him, and we are excited to share his farewell to home with the community he loved so much. Our dad loved including Trenton in his entire career. He spoke about it on stage when traveling and he would regularly come home and play with the local musicians. You could find him at the Candlelight Lounge anytime he was in town. The New Jersey music scene was a huge part of his legacy. He also loved connecting with musicians in all stages of their careers and having them sit in with him. He took pride in teaching and mentoring. He truly wanted to share his gift and was fortunate enough to spend his entire career doing so.
We hope that everyone will come join us to celebrate, play and remember not only Richie Cole, but Trenton, jazz music, and everything in between. If you play an instrument, bring it and sit in! Have an awesome memory? Come share it! We have a lot of exciting things planned and want to make it an amazing day for everyone.
“A Tribute to Richie Cole,” presented by his family, features Richie Cole’s jazz group performing original Cole compositions, favorite works, highlights from his past Sanctuary performances, and open session.
The tribute starts at 2 p.m. with a presentation by Vince Lardear, alto sax; Pete Lauffer, piano and vocals; John Sheridan, electric guitar; Chris Clark, bass; and Joe Falcey, percussion, at 3 p.m. area musicians are invited to B.Y.O.I, (Bring Your Own Instruments) $35 available at door or at www.eventbrite.com/e/206902128837. Refreshments and memorabilia will be available.
