by Evelyn J. Mocbeichel
As most residents know, the Montauk Library offers a host of delightful programs year-round that are educational, cultural and inspirational topics. Their monthly calendar of events is online and describes activities for adults and children of all ages. Some of the events take place daytime and others in the evening. Programs take place during the week and weekends. Montauk Library programs are supported, in part, with funds provided by The Friends of the Montauk Library.
Recently we had the pleasure of attending a lovely concert performed by The Julie Bluestone Jazz Duo. Julie Bluestone played the flute, saxophone and clarinet and is a classical musician known in the Hamptons and Manhattan. She is popular for her outstanding performances at clubs, cabarets, weddings and other venues where music is desired. Ms. Bluestone also gives private lessons. Accompanying her was Max Vanderbeek on the piano and percussion. Mr. Vanderbeek regularly performs in the East End where he spends his summers with family. In addition, he gives private lessons and serves as the Music Coordinator at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.
The evening began with a welcoming greeting to the audience and introduction of the Jazz Duo by Program Coordinator, Carolyn Balducci. The well- rounded and engrossing musical selections included favorites by the Gershwin brothers, Hoagy Carmichael and Duke Ellington to name a few. Songs such as But Not for Me, Body and Soul, I Got Rhythm, Lullaby of Birdland, Stompin’ at the Savoy took the audience through decades, starting from the 1930’s, of fabulous music that continues to thrill listeners today. A favorite part of the evening was when Mr. Vanderbeek addressed the audience and spent a few minutes between sets to compliment the turnout of “younger members in the audience” that came to this Wednesday evening concert. One of these young attendees was our 14-year-old grandson, Brandt, and in a row behind us were several young women college students. Mr. Vanderbeek asked each their name and if they played any instruments. After each gave their mini background, Mr. Vanderbeek invited them to come up and say hello to him and Julie after the concert. To learn more about Julie Bluestone and her music and performances with other bands as well, visit www.juliebluestone.com To learn about Max Vanderbeek visit https://www.maxvanderbeekmusic.com This was a relaxed, pleasant musical evening that continued the Montauk Library’s well-known tradition of outstanding entertainment and not to be missed line up of programs! https://montauklibrary.org/