Payson Roundup

Courtesy photo

Pete Pancrazi, jazz guitarist and vocalist, brings jazzy Christmas sounds to Payson at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Payson Community Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Main St. Beth Lederman will accompany him on piano and keyboard, Vic Kottner on string bass, and Gerry Reynolds on drums. Refreshments will be included, and a donation may be given to support the program costs. Reserving a seat is advised, as seating is limited to 200. To make a reservation, contact Gerry Reynolds at gerryr@cox.net.

Pete Pancrazi, jazz guitarist and vocalist, brings jazzy Christmas sounds to Payson at 2 p.m., Sunday, Dec. 13 at the Payson Community Presbyterian Church, 800 W. Main St.

Pancrazi, who is reappearing in Payson by popular demand, is not exactly a household name when it comes to music legends, but the Valley musician is extremely well known in the jazz community. Downbeat magazine called him “the one to watch,” and a guitar player “deserving greater attention,” while AzJazz magazine named him “Jazz Guitar Player of the Year.”

Pancrazi is a graduate of the prestigious Berklee School of Music in Boston. While there, he received their Performance/ Songwriter Award four times, and he was a two-time winner of their songwriter competition.

Pancrazi has cultivated a large and loyal following among Arizona jazz fans. They enjoy his nimble guitar work and warm vocals. While his repertoire will include original compositions, straight-ahead and Latin standards, the focus Sunday will be on his special blend of holiday music.

Beth Lederman will accompany him on piano and keyboard, Vic Kottner on string bass, and Gerry Reynolds on drums.

Refreshments will be included, and a donation may be given to support the program costs.

Reserving a seat is advised, as seating is limited to 200. To make a reservation contact Gerry Reynolds at gerryr@cox .net.