This live, full-length DVD concert performance of the 16-piece Big Band, The Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra, includes Frank Wess and Lew Tabackin alongside pianist / band leader Toshiko Akiyoshi and provides an additional dimension by infusing the concert with interviews from Akiyoshi and Tabackin. The definitive record of the world"s foremost modern Jazz orchestra, this DVD is contemporary Big Band music at its best.No. 1 Big Band! - Downbeat Magazine"s Critic"s and Readers PollTHE BAND:Pianist, composer, and arranger Toshiko Akiyoshi led what was considered to be one of the finest Big Bands in Jazz. They masterfully possess an individual sound while continuing to swing, maintaining a traditional Big Band feel. From the American Bebop of pianist Bud Powell, to Eastern folk music structures of Japan and the creativity of the band"s principle soloist (saxophone/flutist Lew Tabackin), these various musical influences create a rich texture and originality to the renowned Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra.THE HISTORY:Born in China, Akiyoshi began by playing piano in Japanese dance halls during WWII. By the 1960s she had gained international acclaim, recording with Oscar Peterson and playing regularly with Charles Mingus. But it was in the 1970s, upon establishing the Toshiko Akiyoshi Jazz Orchestra with Tabackin, that Akiyoshi cemented her place in music and rose to become one of the most respected pianists and composers in Jazz.Selections include:1. Yellow is Mellow2. Strive For Jive3. Quadrille Anyone? 4. Autumn Sea5. Warning, Success May Be Hazardous To Your Health6. Strive For Jive (reprise)Musicians Include:Brain Lynch (Trumpet), Lew Tabackin (Tenor Saxophone, Flute, Piccolo), Frank Wess (Alto Saxophone), Chris Pasin (Trumpet), John Eckert (Trumpet), Joe Mosello (Trumpet), Matt Finders (Bass Trombone), Bruce Otter (Trombone), Hart Smith (Trombones), Dave Panichi (Trombone), Ed Xiques (Baritone Saxophone and Reeds), Walt Weiskopf (Tenor Saxophone), Jim Snidero (Alto Saxophone), Jeff Hirshfirld (Drums), Dennis Irwin (Bass), and Toshiko Akiyoshi (Piano)DVD BONUS FEATURES:Toshiko Akiyoshi BiographyLew Tabackin BiographyFrank Wess BiographyDVD RecommendationsDigital Dolby Stereo AudioDigitally Remastered Audio & VideoInstant Access to All Songs