The Lukejazz Quartet presents jazz standards and originals in swing, Latin and bebop styles performed by musicians who are also strong soloists. Band leader and jazz guitarist Luke Brouillette coined the group’s name in 2000 for his website. Lukejazz appearances include the Jazz/R&B Festival, Bloomin’ on the Bricks, and Cane River Green Market, all in Natchitoches, as well as the Vernon Parish Mayfest, Leesville, and the Hot Jazz on the Red! concert series, Shreveport. They also perform at Spirits Food & Friends in Alexandria and at The Landing in Natchitoches.
A Natchitoches native, Brouilette began cello lessons at age 10 with Richard Rose of the Northwestern State University music faculty. From age 13 throughout high school Brouillette played cello with The Natchitoches/Northwestern Symphony Orchestra. Hearing a Buddy Rich concert at NSU opened his eyes to the guitar’s role in big band music, and he started guitar in addition to cello. By age 16 his musical outlets included playing popular guitar music with peers in area bands. When in 1980 he earned a diploma in professional music from Berklee College of Music, Boston, Buddy Rich handed him the diploma and composer John Williams was on the stage. Brouillette remained in Massachusetts as a guitarist/singer/songwriter and engaged in live and recording-studio performances. He shifted to classical guitar study in 1991 and taught guitar as a sideline. Brouillette joined the NSU faculty in 1993 as an adjunct guitar instructor. Today he credits the appeal of jazz to him as not only the instant gratification in composition but also to interacting with other musicians in musical “conversations.” At NSU he has participated in NSU Theatre productions, NSU Jazz Orchestra as member and guest soloist and faculty and student recitals.
The Lukejazz Quartet lineup for Jazz on Jackson will include: Brouillette, guitar; Paul Tassin, keyboards; Bill Conerly, bass; and Sammy Nix, drums.
