LEN PIERRO

The A to Z Band
re-imagining the music of Al Cohn and Zoot Sims
featuring Mary Lou Newnam and Len Pierro

Tenor saxophonists, Al Cohn and Zoot Sims were prominent figures in the jazz world, primarily in the 50s and 60s but their roots go back to the Swing era.  They met in 1948 when Al joined Woody Herman's Second Herd (known as the Four Brothers band) and launched a musical collaboration with Zoot that would last a lifetime. They were good friends and the music reflects that.  It’s joyous, accessible and possesses an infectious swing.  

The A to Z Band (quintet) will play tunes (originals and standards) that were recorded during Al and Zoot’s heyday.  They will also present some of their history, humor and works.

Mary Lou Newnam brings her 50 years of mainstream jazz experience and versatility to the stage with her. An accomplished saxophonist, Mary Lou has a melodic and soulful approach to her music and is a frequent performer in the tri-state area.

Len Pierro is a performer, composer, arranger, musical director, producer, and educator from the Philadelphia area.  He is the leader of the Len Pierro Jazz Orchestra which has released two CDs of his compositions and arrangements for big band titled The Third Quarter (2020) and As I Was Saying (2024).