Subject: [Harp-L] Jack Ely - an appreciation



I didn't know Buckeye without Jack.

He was there for my first in 2005 where I met Joe Filisko, Jimmy Gordon,
Dennis Gruenling, Smokey Joe Leone and so many other amazing players...wow
that first 'Filisko teach-in' - I was hooked!  - and was ever present for
each one I attended afterward.  When he brought Jason Ricci in to star on a
Saturday night 3(?) years ago, shocking many of those who'd no idea who  this
wild young player was, he made it clear how much he admired Jason's
playing.  There was a feeling in the room of history being made...I saw  mouths
literally falling agape.

...Jack must have been paying attention when some of us talked  about how
much more atmospheric the jazz night might be. The next year when  we showed
up for the jazz jam, the main ballroom was turned into a 'supper  club',
replete with round tables covered with white tablecloths and small  flickering
candles with the lights turned down.  Jack had heard  us...and done
something to ensure a more conducive atmosphere for the jazz (and  soul) music. It
was wonderful.

I agree with Winslow about Jack leading the way....prior to those days Jazz
 had been relegated to a small, off-the-beaten-path room at SPAH.   Since
then SPAH has acknowledged Jazz improv playing in a big way...(now who's
going to be listening in 'with big ears' when we suggest there should be as
great a jazz night at SPAH for those of us not the at the 'pro'
level?)....what're we going to do without Jack Ely quietly paying  attention?

Everywhere one looked at Buckeye...Jack was there, even into the wee hours
of the morning. When the last stragglers would finally pack it in, Jack was
 still up, finishing up details even when he looked exhausted.   Some of us
would tell him he needed to sleep, although I've no idea when or even  if
he slept at Buckeye.

Despite being considered still 'new' after a mere 4 years, I felt very much
 welcomed, safe and secure as a part of the Buckeye 'family'. It brought me
back  each year.

I didn't get to know him very well on a personal level, but I'll sure miss
him and the Buckeye Convention without his hand at the helm.

RIP Jack Ely. You did good.

Elizabeth


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