Johnson County Community College
Press Release

College Information and Publications
913-469-8500
Julie Haas, Associate Vice President, Marketing Communications, ext. 3120
Peggy Graham, Writer, ext. 3425
Tyler Cundith, Sports Information Director, ext. 3122

2/02/09
Story by Peggy Graham

Jazz legend Pete Eye plays Jazz Series

Pete Eye

OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – Jazz piano legend Pete Eye will perform the JCCC Jazz Series at noon on Tuesday, March 3, in Polsky Theatre of the Carlsen Center, Johnson County Community College. Joining Eye will be Scott McDonald on second Yamaha piano, bassist Tyrone Clark and drummer Tommy Ruskin.

Eye began his professional career in Kansas City 50 years ago after completing the U.S. Navy School of Music and performing with the Navy jazz band in San Diego. Over the years he performed in many significant jazz clubs in the city, including the newly opened Playboy Club, a six-year stint at the Alameda Rooftop, engagements at Eddie’s and at the Muehlbach Hotel.  He was the featured pianist at the Carriage Club and continues to play private country club and party dates.

His reputation as a leader and player took him to a number of out-of-town shows.  He opened for Les Brown’s last public performance, as well as a Roy Clark concert, and spent time in Tulsa as the featured group for the eight-day PGA tournament. He also manages a full-time career as a piano tuner.

McDonald has gained fame for his longstanding engagements in Kansas City at such establishments as the Ritz-Carlton Hotel, Bristol, Hyatt Regency Hotel, Mr. Putsch’s, Hilton Plaza Inn and Raphael Hotel, and as a keyboardist for Andy Williams and Glen Campbell on tour. He earned his bachelor’s degree in musical theory from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, publishing and recording original music.

The Jazz Series continues at noon Tuesday in the Recital Hall unless otherwise noted:

The series is cosponsored by the JCCC music departments, Community Services and the Richard J. Stern Foundation for the Arts. Seating is available first-come, first-served.

For information, call 913-469-8500, ext. 3605.