Tribute to Buddy Rich

Event Description

American jazz drummer Bernard “Buddy” Rich is considered one of the most influential drummers of all time. He was known for his virtuoso technique, power and speed. He discovered his affinity for jazz music at a young age and began drumming at the age of two. In terms of his technical prowess, it seemed that no-one could touch him. 

Our first encounter with Buddy Rich’s music over here occurred a few years ago when, together with The Loop Jazz Orchestra, we invited the remarkable drummer Steve Smith over here, as well as five outstanding remaining members of the Buddy Rich Big Band – the legendary Bobby Shew, Andy Fusco, Charles Owens, Chuck Findley and Pat LaBarbera. We revisited this superb project, recorded by Czech Television as part of a ČNSO Studio Live broadcast, in the autumn of 2022. On this occasion the programme featured the fabulous drummer and percussionist Martin Valihora; as one of only a few Slovak musicians in his discipline, he has pulled off something unprecedented, performing to critical acclaim in major world venues across Europe and the USA. 

In view of the huge success of the event, we have decided to repeat the programme. This time the drum kit will be in the hands of stellar American drummer Dave Weckl. Born in Missouri, he started out on the New York fusion scene in the early 1980s and was soon appearing with such artists as Paul Simon, George Benson, Michel Camilo, Robert Plant and Anthony Jackson. He was with the Chick Corea Elektric Band from 1985 to 1991.

The programme will include the best of the repertoire from the legendary Buddy Rich Big Band and the audience can thus look forward to well-known jazz evergreens.