Jazz With Jim Performs Valentine's Show, 2/18

Jim Burge and The Jazz Directions are back this month to keep the passion of Valentine's Day alive through music. Every song in this month's program will have "Love" in the title.

Jazz with Jim is a monthly event at the Carrollwood Cultural Center. It has become a tradition for many of the Center's members and fans of Jim Burge & the Jazz Directions. The relaxed, intimate setting makes this a wonderful opportunity to enjoy great music and make new friends.

Jim Burge received the B.M.E. and M.A. in performance from the University of Denver. After teaching in Denver area schools, he moved to Las Vegas to perform in show bands, backing many of the stars of the '60s and '70. He moved to Orlando for the opening of Walt Disney World where he was a staff musician and assistant conductor of the Walt Disney World Band. While in Orlando, Mr. Burge taught at Seminole and Valencia Community Colleges and performed with the Florida Symphony Orchestra. In 1976, he joined the faculty of Hillsborough Community College and remained there until retiring in 2005. He became the Director of Music at HCC, where he conducted the Wind Ensemble and the Jazz Band among other responsibilities. He is a founding member of the Bay Area Saxophone Quartet and performs in various jazz and show bands around the Tampa Bay area. Currently, Jim is also leading a new swing band, The Sounds of Swing. The Sounds of Swing will be featured at the bi-monthly social dances at the Carrollwood Cultural Center.

Jazz with Jim will happen on Friday, February 18 at the Carrollwood Cultural Center at 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL 33618. Tickets can be purchased at the door and are $8 for Carrollwood Cultural Center members and $12 for non-members. For more information visit the Center website at www.carrollwoodcenter.org.