Blog Entries (archived)

Java Jived Entertains Kirkwood Rotary - posted 7/14/17

June 29, 2017 found Java Jived members performing at Greenbriar Country Club for the Kirkwood Rotarians. The cocktail hour performance and dinner music provided by Java Jived members created a festive backdrop for the installation of new officers at this annual event. Repertoire included songs of love and travel. New Rotary President - Bob Sears - remarked that the inclusion of the jazz standard "Route 66" was especially welcome since it was a fit with recent service projects of the Rotary Club. "We are always happy to customize the repertoire we perform to fit the occasion," said alto, Phyllis Pasley.

Villa Vista Concert Series welcomes Java Jived - posted 5/15/17

Java Jived members became traveling troubadours in April as they journeyed for the third time to the Branson area to perform. On April 22, they shared the stage with accomplished pianist - Delyla - who along with her husband, lives on the estate which was designed to become a concert venue when desired. Inspired by concerts held in homes while visiting Europe, the Uebel's mission to celebrate art and support their local community is realized through a series concerts featuring local and regional performers, as well as partnerships with colleges and universities in the area. Proceeds from the concert benefit local Stone County charities, Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake - and the Branson Arts Council. "It is always such fun to be there. It's nice to be together as an ensemble for a few days for fun, food and fellowship, and so wonderful that the larger community becomes involved to help sponsor the event and benefit community members in need," said soprano, Nancy Luetzow.

Java Jived "Lucky in Love" at the Monocle - posted 5/15/17

March 3, 2017 marked return to one St. Louis' well-kept secret venues - Java Jived members performed at The Emerald Room at the Monocle and gave a performance sponsored by The Presenters Dolan which featured classic love songs from the previous century. It is always fun to sing at this historic venue - and we were thrilled to be able to reschedule the performance which was rescheduled due to an ice storm in January. "Our theme of 'Lucky in Love' was chosen in part - due to our earlier concert date - which was Friday the 13th. We were lucky enough to be able to find an open date at the venue to reschedule in early March. And every season - is the season of love!" remarked Alto, Phyllis Pasley.

Oh the PLACES we went! - posted 2/12/17

Java Jived was one of the featured acts at the St. Peter's Episcopal Church's charity gala on February 10, 2017. All the members of Java Jived were treated to a delicious meal of Middle Eastern inspired cuisine, delicious food, desserts and beverages as well as a feast for the senses with musical performances from a variety of St. Peter's Church members! We were thrilled to be a part of this evening to benefit a variety of local charities. Thanks JJ and church members alto Roberta Hmiel and soprano Nancy Luetzow for arranging this performance for the group. It was great fun!

Oh the PLACES we'll go! - posted 2/9/17

Java Jived will be one of the featured acts at the St. Peter's Episcopal Church's charity gala on February 10, 2017. Ticket holders to the cabaret-style performance will be treated to an entertaining variety of music, and also support a variety of local charities. In keeping with this year's theme: PLACES - Java Jived will take audiences to HEAVEN with "Pennies from Heaven," south of the border with "Chili con Carne," to England with "Nightingale sang in Berkley Square," and home to the U.S. with Ellington's "Take the A Train."

Lamenting the loss of TOFA - posted 2/9/17

While noodling around on the web, soprano Nancy Luetzow found a vintage reference in a 2013 Trip Advisor entry - to Java Jived from a performance at the TAVERN OF FINE ARTS. Seeing these uploaded pictures from a "fan" was a nice surprise, but also caused us to reflect on the loss of a great wine bar and wonderfully intimate performance venue in the Central West End of St. Louis. Java Jived was able to perform there a number of times. As performers we loved it - and our audiences did too!

We miss you - TOFA - and thank you Matt and Aaron - TOFA owners!

We fondly remember the opportunities we had to make some great music together!

Gatesworth Holiday Gala - posted 1/4/17

Warming the hearts of all those in attendance, Java Jived returned to the Gatesworth for a concert featuring songs of the season. Tunes such as "The Christmas Song" and "White Christmas" were featured as well as a reprise of the Vince Guaraldi's "Christmas Time is Here" and "Linus and Lucy" both from the cartoon classic "A Charlie Brown Christmas." Tenor Mark Cereghino remarked, "The organizers asked us to sing songs for Chanukkah in addition to songs celebrating the weather and Christmas. We searched through our repertoire archives and found two: "O Chanukkah" and "Joyous Chanukkah" which we did as a set. We also had a friend of the group allow us to perform a parody she had written of "Good King Wenceslaus" with comic lyrics which celebrate the idea of being Jewish - at Christmas time." Alto Phyllis Pasley remarked - "It was fun! I hope we get to do it again!"

WINTERMARKT - posted 12/20/16

Braving chill temperatures in outdoor setting in December is not for the faint of heart, but Java Jived did just that at their first performance at the Skinker-DeBalivier Neighborhood's Annual Winter Festival. The event was held this year on December 3rd and featured local musicians, art and craft booths and food vendors. Java Jived took the stage in Greg Freeman park and performed a variety of holiday tunes including "Santa Baby" and "It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year." The music of Vince Guaraldi was celebrated with "Christmas Time is Here" and the premiere performance of "Linus and Lucy."

"It was cool!" said percussionist Tom Pasley, "And I'm not just talking about the weather!"

SOME LIKE IT HOT - posted 7/9/16

Java Jived returned to THE MONOCLE in The Grove - St. Louis, MO on 6/23/16. This charming venue was stretched to capacity by a sizable crowd and ten performers on a very small stage. The concert was an eclectic mix and included music reflecting a theme of travel and warm climates such as "Route 66," the Beatles "Drive My Car," and the latin flavored "Mas Que Nada," and "Chili Con Carne."

"Although we specialize in a capella jazz, we always love it when we are able to perform with Mark Luetzow, our accompanist and Tom Pasley - our drummer. But it WAS a tight fit to get everyone onstage!" said Betsy Roig, soprano. "I enjoy performing here," said Roberta Hmiel, alto. "I hope we have an opportunity to return."

FUN Fest 63119 - posted 6/10/16

Java Jived performed as a part of the Webster Groves/Shrewsbury/Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce "FUN FEST 63119" A Community Festival at the Eden Seminary's Lehr Library and grounds on April 16, 2016. "We are always happy to perform, and really like it when we can also give back to the community," said alto, Phyllis Pasley. Alto Roberta Hmiel is shown here with one of our loyal fans.

Jazz at Holmes Lounge - posted 3/14/16

Java Jived made their debut performance on the campus of Washington University in Ridgley Hall's Holmes Lounge. Part of the university's "Jazz at Holmes Lounge" series which sponsors free concerts throughout the year. "All of us have some connection to Wash U," noted Bass Paul Buschmeyer. "Many of us attended classes here, and two of our number actually work on campus. It's a great fit for us to be invited to perform here." Java Jived shared the stage with Washington University's own "Mosaic Whispers" a capella ensemble. The well-rounded program included Java Jived highlighting music from the 20th century, and "Mosaic Whispers" performing more contemporary music.

Java Jived returns to Gatesworth - posted 2/15/16

Back by popular demand, the performers of Java Jived returned again to the Gatesworth in Clayton for a private performance for residents. Song selections included a tribute to "love" as an homage to the upcoming Valentine's Day - such as "Where is Love?" and "The Look of Love." The group was also joined by sound technician and percussionist Greg Roig. "We really appreciate everything Greg does to help us sound great!" said soprano Nancy Luetzow.

Java Jived at the Monocle - posted 1/15/16

Java Jived had just the prescription for your post-holiday blues at a concert in the area of St. Louis known as "The Grove." Presenter Jim Dolan helped bring Java Jived to this intimate yet very special venue on January 14, 2016. "The stage is so near to the performers, it lends an intimacy to the performance that you just don't get at other venues," said alto Phyllis Pasley. Percussion added some special zest to the performance with the talents of drummer Tom Pasley. "I would definitely love to return to this venue," said tenor Mark Cereghino. "It is a really special place."

more photos

Java Jived @ Gatesworth - posted 7/8/15

There was literally "dancing in the aisles" at the Wednesday night performance at the Gatesworth Senior Living Center in Clayton, Missouri when Java Jived performed a variety of repertoire for residents and their guests. Featured was an arrangement of Ward Swingle's "All the Things You Are" and several pieces arranged by New York Voice's Darmon Meader.

"We want you back!" one of the entertainment committee planners said. To which alto Phyllis Pasley replied, "We're ready anytime! Let us know when!" more photos

A return to Villa Vista - posted 6/6/15

The beautiful home of Rick and Delyla Uebel welcomed Java Jived to a performance to benefit Stone County, MO residents through the community organization "Neighbors and Friends of Table Rock Lake." A concert was held on Sat. May 30, 2015 and featured the music of the Gershwins, Ellington, the Beatles, and more. A reknowned pianist, Delyla also performed both as a soloist, and to join Tom Pasley, Mark Luetzow and Greg Roig to accompany the singers. Soprano Nancy Luetzow remarked to Dee, "We had so much fun making music with you and your delightful friends and neighbors at your gorgeous home on the lake!"

Singing at the Sheldon - posted 2/20/15

Java Jived returned to the St. Louis Sheldon Concert Hall in a joint concert with Midwest Jazztette on February 10, 2015. The groups each had a set of their own and then came together to perform several pieces including arrangements by New York Voices arranger Darmon Meader, and Manhattan Transfer's "Birdland." "It's always such a pleasure to perform at the Sheldon," said tenor Mark Cereghino. "Such a historic building and it was also a great opportunity to work together with the great musicians of the Midwest Jazztette, said alto Phyllis Pasley.

One of the members of our audience that evening happened to be the mother-in-law of Phyllis: Dorothy Pasley. 91 years young she was so inspired by the concert that she wrote the note and penned the poem below upon her return home.

"Thanks for a great night. Loved the concert! What a fun evening!

You keep me young...who needs doctors!"

PRESCRIPTION JAVA JIVE

ENHANCE YOUR LIFE WITH JAVA JIVE

AND WATCH YOUR SPIRITS COME ALIVE

FOR WHILE THE CLASSIC VOICES BLEND

YOUR SOUL WILL QUICKLY START TO MEND

YOU'LL FEEL THE DAILY CARES REPAIR

AS LOVELY MUSIC FILLS THE AIR.

AND AS YOUR SPIRIT STARTS TO SOAR

YOU'LL CHEER AND CHEER AND ASK FOR MORE

OF HARMONIES THAT LONG WILL STAY

TO BRIGHTEN EVERY FUTURE DAY! - - Dorothy Pasley - Feb. 11, 2015

Java Jived at TOFA - posted 1/22/15

The members of Java Jived were found to be heating up the night in a return performance at St. Louis' own Tavern of Fine Arts on January 10, 2015. The group shared music of George Gershwin and the Beatles as well as a tribute to St. Louis' unpredictable weather with such diverse numbers as "Let it Snow," "Baby It's Cold Outside," and "Soon It's Gonna Rain."

"We always have such a great time performing at TOFA," said soprano Nancy Luetzow. "The space is such a great acoustic and the intimacy of the setting makes performing there a special treat. I can't wait to go back!"

Java Jived Free Holiday Concert - posted 12/22/14

The Maryland Heights Cultural Arts Commission and the Parks and Recreation Department sponsored a free concert of holiday favorites and classic jazz on December 8, 2014 at the city's Community Center. Commission member and performing arts chair Melissa Blue said, "The performance was lively and full of holiday songs. I [wish I'd] brought the kids, they would have loved the "snoopy song". It is a fun group to watch, it is obvious they enjoy performing together." Already there a discussions about sponsoring a similar type show for next year.

Java Jived in "Sink" - posted 11/26/14

October 15, 2014 Java Jived performed at the Grand Center performance space as part of the Kitchen Sink Series in the St. Louis Public Radio. Originally scheduled for August, the concert was rescheduled to accommodate some programming changes at the station. "It is a great place to perform," said alto Phyllis Pasley. "We were able to feature our gentlemen "Standing on the Corner" and our women who performed St. Louisan Martha Schaffer's arrangement of "Our Day Will Come."

So... We went to a Garden Party - posted 6/24/14

The First Congregational Church of Webster Groves "Benevolence Fund" was the big winner when Java Jived donated their services to provide entertainment at a lovely gala garden party held at the home of Rosemary H. in Kirkwood, MO on June 14, 2014. "It was a gorgeous night," said alto Phyllis Pasley. "It was especially fun when we sang the song "Orange Colored Sky" under the beautiful sunset sky! I hope our hostess invited her neighbors to the party!" Tenor Mark Cereghino, a member of the church, learned of the silent auction being held by the church with proceeds to their "Benevolence Fund." He approached the singers, who agreed. Said Mark, "The church has opened its doors to us for rehearsal space on more than one occasion. It's a great way to give something back, and help others in need as well."

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