If you’ve ever vacationed in Colorado Springs and witnessed the natural beauty of Pike’s Peak, Colorado's most noted mountain, nestled in the heart of the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, and then taken in the scenic wonder of the awesome sandstone formations at the Garden of the Gods, you would surely consider that experience to be one of the highlights of your trip. If you happened to stay at The Broadmoor Resort while on that vacation, your experience just got twice as good. If while staying at The Broadmoor, you also got to see live music performances by such jazz greats as Earl Klugh and David Sanborn, your vacation just became priceless.
Such was the case at The Broadmoor’s Weekend of Jazz that took place over this past weekend. Earl Klugh began hosting this elaborate production in 2004 after teaming up with the late cofounder and former Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Mike Dimond. The two of them put their heads and hearts together to create what is now an annual event that not only features the finest jazz artists in the world, but also displays them on a stage located in one of the most fabulous settings that performers and music fans could possibly ask for. The Broadmoor pulls no punches when it comes to satisfying its guests and living up to its five-star rating. It is impeccable in its presence and stature, boasting world-class everything; championship golfing, exquisite dining, and spa amenities that are the standard by which other hotels rate themselves.
Over the years, Earl has brought some heavy-hitters into the Broadmoor spotlight, such as Chuck Mangione, Al Jarreau, Fourplay, Roberta Flack, Ramsey Lewis, Bob James, Boney James, and Patti Austin, just to name a few. Last weekend, he showed that his own musicianship only gets better with time as he delivered a stellar performance, even while tackling all of the responsibilities of organizing and hosting the production. He continues to elevate and expand the listening audience with each event. This year’s concert was kicked off on Thursday night with a performance by the sultry Nnenna Freelon, who performed at one of the resort’s more intimate venues where fans could really get a good feel for just how special this savvy lady truly is. Friday night, the incomparable David Sanborn took the stage, accompanied by Joey DeFransceco on keyboards. Do I really need to say anything more about these two? Okay, Sanborn is legendary. I could be here all night talking him up. But if you haven’t heard of Joey DeFrancesco, trust me when I tell you this – you will. His Hammond B-3 chops left me mesmerized, and his honest passion for the music sets him miles beyond any other Jimmy Smith wannabes out there today. This cat is the real deal. Rounding out the evening, Brian Culbertson brought his energetic, contemporary style of smooth jazz to the stage, leaving the crowd pumped up and anxious to hit the resort's after parties to keep the good times rolling.
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Saturday night, Earl Klugh led off the night and wowed the audience with a masterful performance of the theme to the James Bond movie classic, “Goldfinger.” It was a wonderful surprise to see Gene Dunlap at the drums, sounding as crisp and clean as ever. For me, it brought back memories of so many wonderful selections that he had played drums on during the early days, such as my personal favorite, Magic in Your Eyes. Klugh was then followed by the soulful stylings of veteran crooner Peabo Bryson, who provided a powerful finale, and was accompanied by an outstanding female vocalist, Kim Price.
Okay, let's face it. Staying at a joint like this is going to set you back a few bucks. This ain’t no Motel 6, you know. But each year, the Weekend of Jazz offers packages that includes choices of either two-night, or three-night accommodations. These packages also include tickets to the performances, along with a variety of free activities that often feature up-close and personal interaction with the artists, discounts on other resort amenities, and occasionally, there are other little unspoken perks that are quietly thrown in just for staying at a schmoozy joint like this. All things considered, the cost is not as extravagant as it might appear to be at first glance. Besides, we’re not talking about doing this every other weekend, right? So you’ve got a whole year to start rolling your pennies for next year’s show. Do yourself a favor. Treat yourself to the treat of a lifetime and visit www.weekendofjazz.com.
By the way, if you just can’t wait until next year to get your jazzy weekend started, Klugh will be hosting his second annual Weekend of Jazz at the Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina this fall. Last year’s event was held at The Sanctuary, an equally luxurious resort. Just don’t wait too long to book your stay. The first event was nothing short of fabulous. The second one is sure to sell out fast.
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