The return of Jazz Vespers

Jazz Vespers returns to the South Okanagan, in Penticton on Sunday March 2 @ 4 p.m. at St. Saviour Anglican Church, 150 Orchard Ave. in Penticton.

Church or no church, newcomer or longtime jazz enthusiast, friends of the band, whatever gets you off your couch, come on out.

As for the band, Justin Glibbery is on piano; Stefan Bienz on bass, Scott Gamble on drums, and Stan Sabourin plays horns.

 This service marks the return of Jazz Vespers to the South Okanagan after a few months hiatus.

Larry Crawford and I brought Jazz Vespers to the South Okanagan in late 2004 where it has evolved and flourished in different forms ever since.

Jazz Vespers originated in Harlem in New York City during the 1950s, a creation of Lutheran John Genzel, the pastor to the budding jazz community. Featured performers at the time included Duke Ellington.

JV found its way to Canada during the 1980s led by Tim Elliott (brother of onetime Vancouver cathedral dean Peter Elliott). It also grew up at St. Andrews/Wesley United Church in Vancouver where it continues today. It can now be found across many denominations all across Canada.

There is some debate as to whether Jazz Vespers is a concert, or a worship service. On Sunday I return to the original template of Jazz Vespers, less a concert but more of a reflective worship experience. Come and see what you think.

So what happens at Jazz Vespers? Good question.

After a welcome we hear two tunes from the band. Then we hear a prayer and we light every candle we can find. This is followed by another two tunes. Next we hear a piece of sacred text followed by one more tune. Then I get to have some fun.

As the musicians respond to the charts musically, I respond to their improvisation using words. Sometimes I bring prepared ideas; most of the time I go with the flow in the moment.

Next we hear one more tune. Then we pray—for the community, the country, the world, for musicians, and we offer thanksgiving for the gift of jazz and for all who perform, produce, promote, and engage with it.

Then, and this is truly fun, the band lead us in a congregational hymn, chosen by the leader, in this case, Justin. He will explain his choice to us. And hey, I don’t even know it. I know a lot of hymns, but not this one. So I need to practice. See how it goes. Thoughts and prayers.

The whole service will likely be just under one hour, sixty minutes of something truly unique, something beautiful for God, and for each other.

Hope to see you Sunday.