Celebrating Mike Schiffer

Jazz in the Berkshires

By: Jazz - Jan 07, 2023

 

He’s been making jazz, and nurturing young jazz artists, for more than 50 years, and it’s about time we paid tribute to Mike Schiffer. At the age of 93, he is still playing local gigs. But this time, on Sunday afternoon, Jan. 29 (4pm), he’ll be in the audience with the rest of us lucky jazz followers.

Literally a Berkshires Jazz Living Legend as a performer, Mike also booked the talent at the equally legendary Castle Street Café for as long as the jazz program existed at that heralded Great Barrington venue. He presented young and seasoned artists alike, and introduced audiences to budding talent. You’re invited to hear several of them –including Paul Arslanian, Rob Putnam, Rob Kelly and Benny “Fingers” Kohn—serenade Mike at the Lenox Club. Complimentary wine, beer, and light hors d’oeuvres will be provided.

There will be brief remarks from legislator Smitty Pignatelli, musicologist and jazz historian Jeremy Yudkin, and educator, musician, and presenter Andy Wrba. And some of the best jazz piano you can hear hereabouts.

And a few surprises. Among them, if we’re lucky, Mike will say a few words and play a number or two.

Tickets are available online (click here, or paste the following URL into your browser).

 https://berkshires-jazz.ticketleap.com/a-tribute-to-berkshires-jazz-living-legend-mike-schiffer/