André Bush, who grew up in Fresno and had strong ties to the Bay Area, was a gifted guitarist, an inspiring teacher, and an unforgettable friend who died too young and left behind a circle of fellow musicians who wish to pay tribute to his memory and make music in his honor. Proceeds from today’s performance will be donated to a scholarship fund for his daughter, Sophia Scott Bush.

André earned a Grammy nomination for his contributions to the album Blueprint of a Lady with singer Nnenna Freelon, released three esteemed solo albums, taught at the California Jazz Conservatory, formerly known as the Jazzschool, and wrote a fine book for serious students of the guitar, Modern Jazz Guitar Styles. He was a key member of the Bay Area “Guitar Mafia,” which included Will Bernard, Charlie Hunter, and John Schott, playing at local clubs almost every night, performing together, leading their own bands, and supporting a handful of talented singers, including the organizer of today’s remembrance, the inimitable vocalist Jenna Mammina.

Jenna has drawn on the wealth of musical talent in the Bay Area and beyond, bringing in pianists Art Lande, John R. Burr, and Jack Perla, saxophonists Tom Pereira, Bruce Williamson, and Mike Zilber, bassists Derek Jones, Peter Barshay, Kai Eckhardt, and John Hettle, guitarists Robin Lewis and Dave McNab, bassoonist Paul Hanson, drummer Alan Hall, producer Cookie Marenco, Robin Lewis, Maria Marquez, Zoe Ellis, Essence Goldman, Mark Novak, Andrea Nelson Novak, and other special guests. Please join us for this tribute to an irreplaceable musician, brother, and friend.