The Manhattan Jazz Society Appearing At Table XII

NEW YORK (Manhattan Jazz Society) - Table XII owner John Scotto announced that jazz greats John Colianni and Tira Bluestone, also known as "Johnnie & Tira," will bring their signature sound of jazz, swing and blues to Table XII, with performances including songs from the big band era, every Friday and Saturday night from 7:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m. Table XII is located at 109 East 56th Street, between Park and Madison avenues. There is no cover charge and no drink minimum.

Pianist Colianni has played with some of the world's great jazz legends, currently performing each week with guitarist Les Paul and his Quintet. He has also toured the country with Lionel Hampton, played with Woody Allen's band at Michael's Pub in New York, and worked for several years with Mel Torme – touring and recording six albums.

Vocalist and guitarist Tira just completed a successful three-year run at New York's Merchants restaurant. She attended the celebrated High School for the Performing Arts, and has performed in venues throughout the world. Johnnie & Tira have performed together for several years, and have been featured at the Carolina Jazz Festival, the Watchung Arts Center in New Jersey, Jilly's, The Palm Beach Jazz Society, the Van Dyke Jazz Club in Miami, the Arch Social Club in Baltimore and in London at the Boisdale, the Bulls Head, and Pizza on the Park.

"I'm so pleased to have these gifted musicians perform every week at Table XII," Scotto said. "This is a great opportunity for people to see some of New York's finest performers right in mid-town Manhattan. You don't have to go downtown anymore to experience first-rate jazz in New York."

The restaurant is an elegant setting for anyone who wants to enjoy an evening of jazz favorites. The former residence of publishing magnate William Randolph Hearst, the restaurant boasts many of the original design elements as well as modern touches and works by famed artist Alfred Jensen. The result is a mixture of old world elegance in a contemporary New York City setting. Executive Chef Benedetto Bartolotta also offers some of the city's finest Italian cuisine in the restaurant's main dining room, including four pastas made fresh daily.

Table XII is open Monday-Saturday, serving lunch and dinner in its main dining room and lighter fare in the bar/lounge. All major credit cards accepted; large parties and private events welcome. A member of the renowned restaurant family, Mr. Scotto appears monthly with them on The Today Show, and has been featured on Weekend Today, QVC, The Food Network, The Tony Danza Show and Good Day New York. Mr. Scotto is also featured in the family's third cookbook, "Sunday Supper with the Scottos," in bookstores now.