AKIRA TANA

PALO ALTO — The Palo Alto Unified School District will present a jazz concert by Akira Tana on Friday, April 4, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. at Spangenberg Theater at Gunn High School, 780 Arastradero Rd.

The program will feature the jazz ensembles of both Gunn and Palo Alto (Paly) high schools.

Tana, a famed percussionist, is a native of San Jose and a Gunn High School alumnus from the 1960s. He graduated from Harvard University and the New England Conservatory of Music.

He has played with such greats as Sonny Rollins, Lena Horn, Maurice Hines, and The Manhattan Transfer, appearing on over 150 recordings.

Tana has five releases on Concord Records, three releases on Evidence Music, and two releases on Sons of Sound. In 2007, he released “Kiss Kiss Bang Bang,” which consisted of themes from the James Bond movies.

An active teacher and clinician, Tana is currently an adjunct professor at San Francisco State University.

The PAUSD Guest Artist Concert is now in its 31st year. Founded by former Gunn Jazz Ensemble director Rich Prioste, it is designed to give a unique performing experience to Palo Alto students. It allows students to rehearse, participate in master classes, and perform with experienced jazz professionals.

Previous guest artists have included John Handy, Bobby Hutcherson, and Pete Escovedo.

Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for Palo Alto high school students and seniors with ID. For more information, call (650) 354-8264 or e-mail tsummers [at] pausd.org.

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