Album Notes

February 2011
It is with sadness that we announce that after 76 years of playing violin, Mr. Ron Kilde has stepped down from the stage. Troubled by weakness in his left hand and losing the ability to play at the level he demanded of himself for so many decades he chose to retire from playing 3 weeks ago. In a career in which he shared the stage with such legends as Henry Mancini, Duke Ellington, Joe Venuti, Horace Heidt, the infamous Billy Tipton, and I could go on and on, he is ending an era. It was my privilege to have known and played with him for more than 3 decades. Consequently the trio, Kilde, Fleetwood & La Freniere is now a thing of memories .... many wonderful memories. This recording with cohorts, Paul La Freniere and Doc Fleetwood represents his latest, and probably last, recordings. Certainly enjoy the CD .... an artist like Mr. Ron Kilde crosses our paths very rarely.
Doc Fleetwood

March 2006
The individual talent in this trio is truly amazing. Put them together and their musical 'conversations' will sparkle the soul. This trio is a must see!

Master violinist Ron Kilde has graced concert stages and bandstands since the age of 6 (he started playing at the age of 5). Declared a “genius” as a child prodigy he has delighted audiences for decades since. He played with such musical luminaries as Horace Heidt and Henry Mancini, with the Spokane and Seattle Symphonies and has taken the stage with such jazz legends as Duke Ellington, Joe Venuti and Billy Tipton.

This ensemble brings Mr. Kilde together with fingerstyle jazz guitarist and teacher Doc Fleetwood. Growing up in a different musical era than his colleagues, yet cultivating a love for classic jazz and standards, he has developed a distinctive style of jazz guitar that lays a solid foundation for the trio’s unique sound.

Paul La Freniere began playing trumpet at the age of seven, performing at President Harry Truman’s inauguration as a child. His exquisite trumpet stylings have been heard in many settings since. He has toured with the esteemed Air Force Band, played with legendary Ray Charles, and sat under the baton of conductor Arthur Fiedler.

Now you can enjoy this unique blend of instruments and talents. With an infectious sound that is appealing to all ages. A unique blend of light jazz, standards and classic instrumentals bringing three lifetimes of great musical experience into one enticing sound.