January Musical Artist of the Month – Reed Simon
William Reed Simon (aka Reed) is an Associate Professor of the Fine Arts Department at Notre Dame College where he teaches both studio Art and Design as well as Graphic Design. In 2001, Reed earned an MFA from Pratt Institute of Art in Painting with a minor in Art History through the “Pratt in Venice” study abroad program. In addition, Reed also studied Visual Communication in Manhattan, working with internet author ware to design and develop interactive web-based media. Reed has since been working as an educator, graphic designer and painter, and continues to exhibit his artwork. Reed is a multidisciplinary creative. He is being recognized as our musical artist of the month of January for being the front man and jazz violinist for Hot Club of Cleveland.
The name “Hot Club of Cleveland” was originally penned by newspaperman Julian Krawcheck in 1940. They formed a jazz club inspired by the Quintet of the Hot Club of France, a band formed by guitarist Django Reinhardt and violinist Stephane Grappelli. Krawcheck liked the sounds of jazz so he and his friend Paul Myhre organized jam sessions around town including the Cabin Club on Eudlid Avenue between 105th and 107th1. The new “Hot Club of Cleveland” is a loose configuration of musicians (different every time but that’s why they call it ‘Jazz’ 😃). In addition to middle century swing influences including Django and Grappelli, other styles are quoted from latin to rock. The binding force behind the music is rhythm, improvising, expression, and fun.
Keep an eye out for “Jazz Mondays” at The Paris Room Bistro in Chagrin Falls where Reed performs a jazz duo version of the band with Jackie Warren. The Hot Club of Cleveland will bebringing Jackie Warren and bassist Aidan Plank to Heights Arts this January for ARTbar. Former Cleveland Heights Poet Laureate Christine Howey will read poetry at this event as well.
More about Cleveland Jazz History and Hot Club of Cleveland
Hot Club of Cleveland on Facebook