SUNY Broome’s legendary Jazz Ensemble played to a large audience on May 16 in honor of Armand Olevano, Jr., who served as a community member with the Ensemble for 34 years. Olevano died this December and the rousing concert, conducted by SUNY Broome’s distinguished music instructor Dr. Mike Dubaniewicz, paid tribute to his memory.
The evening began with a tribute to Olevano by Dr. Michael Kinney, who presented Olevano’s wife Barbara with a piece of artwork by local artist Jan Petersen. The concert’s guest soloist was Manhattan Brass’ Tony Kadleck on trumpet, which is fitting since he is a Binghamton native and one of the most sought-after trumpet players in the state.
Armand and Dr. Kinney met in 1983 when he was new to SUNY Broome. The two were hired to play a church gig for Easter with Olevano on lead trumpet. Olevano also played in Dr. Kinney’s 15-piece jazz band, the Jazz Exchange, as well as a number of other community bands.
Dr. Kinney praised Olevano’s work as a lead trumpet player: “In the music world, there’s a saying: Lead players are born and not made. Armand had a natural gift for that. All of our students benefited from his talent and also his willingness to always be there to help out. . . . for 34 years! Armand Olevano was among a number of community members who continue to rehearse and perform with our bands and are an integral part of our Music Program. He will be missed.”
