Atherton jazzes it up on Dad's Day Atherton jazzes it up on Dad's Day (June 09, 2004)

Pete Escovedo's Latin Jazz Orchestra, the U.S. Air Force Commanders Jazz Ensemble, and the Menlo-Atherton Jazz Band will be headliners at "Big Daddy Jazz," a family music festival to be held from noon to 4 p.m. on Father's Day, Sunday, June 20, at Holbrook-Palmer Park in Atherton.

The fundraiser is sponsored by the Atherton Arts Committee to support its art scholarships for children from low- to moderate-income families.

Jazz producer and historian Herb Wong, co-founder of the Palo Alto Jazz Alliance, will host the event.

Pete Escovedo's band will play Latin rhythms with elements of jazz, rhythm and blues, and funk. The Commanders Jazz Ensemble is the 18-piece big band of the U.S. Air Force Band of the Golden West from Travers Air Force Base. The ensemble will play music ranging from big band to the jazz styles of today.

The Menlo-Atherton Jazz Band, led by Frank Moura, has performed in many regional and European jazz festivals. This year's ensemble includes 31 performers and focuses on the sound and style of jazz greats Stan Kenton, Count Basie, Buddy Rich, Ella Fitzgerald and Thad Jones.

The "Big Daddy Jazz" festival will be held in the park's north meadow. Guests are encouraged to bring a chair, a hat, and lunch or a snack, although food and beverages will be available.

Admission to the festival is $15 general, and free for children under 10. For advance tickets and information, call 482-9824. Tickets will also be available at the park entrance.

Holbook-Palmer Park is located at 150 Watkins Ave.

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