It is apparent Sonny LaRosa does not like to be interviewed. He hands a reporter a sheaf of clippings. "It's all there," he says, noting that reporters always ask the same questions. The 82-year-old LaRosa can be forgiven. As founder of America's Youngest Jazz Band, a group of Suncoast 4- to 13-year-olds who know how to make sweet notes on trumpets, saxophones and other instruments in the style of the Big Band era, he has had to contend with nosey reporters for 30 years. ...more

February 21, 2009

Percussionist Don Capone calls it "a work in progress." He is referring to the Wednesday night jazz sessions at Lenny's Latin Cafe. ...more

January 7, 2009

When Ernest Allen Jr. was killed outside his auto repair shop Monday, the community lost more than a trusted businessman. ...more

January 1, 2009

When Ernest Allen Jr. was killed outside his auto repair shop Monday, the Lakeland community lost more than a trusted businessman. Insiders in the city's jazz scene are mourning one of the area's most beloved musicians. ...more

December 31, 2008

Tampa native Eric Darius is a rising star on the smooth jazz scene. He promises that his CD release party will be a "Hollywood-style event with a red carpet." ...more

June 19, 2008