The Sweet Sounds of Juice

The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain (PCOM) in Delaware Water Gap, PA presented Jazz Juice (aka The Vinny Bianchi Quartet) on Sunday June 16th as part of their 2013 Summer Gazebo Concert Series. A nice sized crowd gathered upon the Church’s lawn as Vinny Bianchi on Saxophone led his band mates Marko Marcinko on Keyboard, Paul Rostock on Bass, and Daniel Gonzalez on Drums upon their musical journeys. Together they filled the evening’s air with the gentle sounds of jazz standards along with several contemporary pieces which enlivened the pulse of those who heard them.

One who experiences a performance presented by the quartet can’t help but be taken by the sense of camaraderie and love for the music these multitalented musicians share with one another with a great deal of joy. One aspect indicative to the musical art of Jazz is to begin a composition as it was originally written with each musician later adding improvised melodies and riffs as they delve deeper into the mechanics of the work. This pleasing aspect of the art form was demonstrated again and again as musical explorations took the audience on one wonderful journey after another until the musicians once again combined their talented sounds to bring everyone home.

A great many discoveries were made during these journeys by the audience which enhanced their appreciation to the music as well as those who became their guides. Each note brought with it a lesson eager to be absorbed into the consciousness of those who experienced them until the entire curriculum of chords and measures was eventually returned along with a more loving understanding of life making Jazz Juice good for everyone. You’ll be able to find more photographs taken during the Jazz Juice concert in The PCOM 2013 Gallery at www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151682942230421.1073741834.636000420&type=1.

According to their website, The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain is “… a community of disciples illuminated by God’s love who care for others spiritually, emotionally, physically, and financially as we explore new avenues of grace and grow in faith through worship and service.” In an endeavor to manifest the goals of this statement, they hold weekly services every Sunday beginning at 10am, providing a hostel for those hikers who travel along the Appalachian Trail as well as holding a Hikers’ Dinner every Thursday evening throughout the Summer Months to replenish their energies, supporting the Kenyan village of Amilo by providing a school feeding program for 15 orphans, a well, housing, and simple medical care and information to the villagers, and by sharing a partnership with the Reformed Church located in Cardenaz, Cuba. They also support the local Fire Company and Women’s Resources Center as well as provide community aid funds for residents who are suffering economic burdens. The size of the congregation is approximately 200 people.

The Summer Gazebo Concert Series began in 1990 and is presented every Sunday evening throughout the Summer months until the end of August in order to support the local musicians and provide a venue where all ages could learn to appreciate Jazz and acoustic music. In reflection of Delaware Water Gap, PA being considered a Mecca for Jazz, the concerts has a great number of Jazz performances in their schedule. However, all musical styles are showcased during the summer which includes Blue Grass and Classical Music. The next installment in The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Summer Gazebo Concert Series for 2013 is scheduled for Sunday June 23rd and will feature the talents of Kate and Richie Roche. The concert is free to the public and begins at 6pm. Please Explore The Presbyterian Church of the Mountain Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/pages/Presbyterian-Church-of-the-Mountain/234593743269661 for more information.