Live Jazz: Pasquale Grasso Trio

Born in Italy and now based in New York City, Pasqaule Grasso has developed an astounding technique and concept informed not by jazz guitarists so much as by bebop pioneers like Powell, Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and the classical guitar tradition.  His intensive studies of both midcentury jazz and classical music meld into a signature mastery that is at once unprecedented and evocative.  In 2021, Falmouth Jazz hosted Pasquale Grasso and rising star Samara Joy for a memorable performance at West Falmouth Library.

Pasquale Grasso will be joined by Bassist Ari Roland who began playing bass at the age of 12 and was working professionally by age 16.  He studied at The Julliard School and has played in the bands of jazz legends such as Lou Donaldson, Barry Harris and Betty Carter.  Sketches From a Bassist’s Album, his recent CD on Smalls Records, has received widespread critical acclaim.

New York City based drummer Keith Balla rounds out the trio.  At age 13, Keith started to play the drums and by 17, moved to NYC to continue studying and playing.  He quickly found himself immersed in the jazz community of Smalls Jazz Club, acquainting himself and playing with jazz performers including Falmouth Jazz favorite, Rossano Sportiello and others including Sacha Perry, Grant Stewart, Ari Roland and brothers Luigi and Pasquale Grasso.

Event is presented by Falmouth Jazz and co-sponsor Gallery bon Main.