ASCAP & IAJE Commissions

Two works, commissioned by ASCAP to honor the life and work of composer, saxophonist and bandleader, Frank Foster, were premiered during annual IAJE International Conference in Toronto. Darcy James Argue's Secret Society North performed: "Box of Cannoli" by established composer Tim Hagans, and "Vinifera" by emerging composer Ayn Inserto. Prior programs have honored Marian McPartland, Louis Armstrong, Benny Carter, Ornette Coleman, Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Dizzy Gillespie, Quincy Jones, Dr. Billy Taylor and Billy Strayhorn. Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, ASCAP member Frank Foster is one of those rare triple threats: he’s a saxophonist with a big, broad, rangy sound and approach; he’s a composer and arranger of both tunes and long-form works; and he’s a skilled leader of bands both large and small. The 2008 ASCAP/IAJE Commissions will celebrate the life, work and 90th Birthday of Hank Jones. These works will be premiered at the annual IAJE Conference in Seattle, WA, on January 8, 2009. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2008. To apply, click here.