Step into a rich, resonant world of jazz when the Rob Thorsen Trio brings their signature blend of swing, soul, and sophistication to the Coronado Public Library’s Winn Room on Friday, August 22, at 1 p.m. Led by acclaimed bassist Rob Thorsen—a mainstay of the Southern California jazz scene and a passionate jazz educator—the trio features the expressive, rhythm-savvy drumming of Richard Sellers and the eloquent, genre-spanning pianism of Melonie Grinnell. Admission is free, and seating is open— come early, settle in, and let the music carry you away. Whether jazz is your passion or a new discovery, this concert offers a welcoming space to unwind and experience something truly special. Bassist Rob Thorsen maintains a diverse and busy schedule in Southern California as a performer, educator, clinician and composer. After playing classical guitar, flute, saxophones, tuba and electric bass as a youth, he found his true voice in the upright bass. He performs regularly as a leader, and with artists including the Gilbert Castellanos Quintet, Mike Wofford/ Holly Hofmann Quartet, Charles McPherson, Steph Johnson, Voices of Our City Choir and others. He has released six recordings as a leader, the most recent "Bass is the Space - Solos and Duos" featured an array of jazz talents including Gilbert Castellanos, Marshall Hawkins, Joshua White in duo settings as well as solo performances of originals and more. Rob is also involved in several educational programs including the "World of Jazz" and is also an educator at the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory in addition to teaching privately. Pianist Melonie Grinnell is active as an educator and performer, she began studying piano at an early age and has since been recognized not only for her versatile skills as a pianist, but also for her abilities as a vocalist, music educator, and musical director. Melonie received her Bachelors of Music degree in Music Education with jazz emphasis from the University of Miami and a Masters of Music performance degree in Jazz Studies from SDSU. Melonie has been a music educator at the collegiate level for 24 years and is an Assistant Professor at Grossmont College where she serves as director of piano studies and the vocal jazz ensemble. Additionally, she is on the faculty for the Francis Parker/KSDS 88.3 Summer Jazz Workshop where she teaches jazz piano and co-directs middle school to high school student ensembles. Richard Sellers has been playing drums professionally for over thirty years. In that time, he has performed with countless groups and ensembles in a variety of styles, including straightahead jazz, avant-garde jazz, Brazilian, Latin, funk and hip-hop. Richard recorded with the Internationally acclaimed Mike Wofford/ Holly Hofmann quintet for their 2014 release "Turn Signal" which featured trumpeter Terrell Stafford. Richard has become one of the premier drummers in Southern California, and finds himself sharing the stage with world class artists such as Hubert Laws, Terrell Stafford, Kenny Rankin, Kamau Kenyatta, Mike Wofford, Bob Magnusson, Marshall Hawkins, Clare Fischer, Andy Simpkins, and Jackie and Roy. Coronado Public Library on Facebook / Instagram
