Pine Grill Jazz reunion at MLK park -

The African American Cultural Center presents the 27th Annual Pine Grill Jazz Reunion on Sunday (and next Sunday). This annual jazz picnic is one of the East side’s hallmark family summer events. It’s difficult to say who tops the Pine Grill bill because there’s so much talent. Virtuouso pianist Danny Mixion has played with artists that reads like a who’s who of Jazz: Charlie Mingus, Betty Carter, Lionel Hampton, Joe Williams and more. Jazz vocalist Melba Joyce‘s career spans the globe. From Broadway’s “Black and Blue” to Beijing, London, LA and NY’s Lincoln Center, Joyce has thrilled audiences. Also performing is blues guitarist Raymond Schinnery, and Hammond B3 master Dr. Lonnie Smith. Shinnery, from NYC, who has toured with Jimmy Witherspoon, Big Moma Thornton and others. Smith, who is from Lackawanna, found fame recording with George Benson and other big stars. He also recorded 30 albums of his own and won Jazz Organist of the Year 9 out ofthe past 12 years.