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Chick chic: Pianist and composer Chick Corea and his trio co-headline this year's fest. Russian River Jazz Festival Schedule SOMETIMES dreams do come true. A lot of local jazz fans grumbled about the smooth jazz (pronounced "pop") and chardonnay haze that had come to obscure this venerable event, which in the past has showcased the likes of bebop pioneer Dizzy Gillespie. The people spoke , and the programmers listened. The top acts featured at the annual festival--now in its 24th year at Johnson's Beach in Guerneville--are mostly rooted in straight-ahead jazz and are far more innovative than recent offerings. The Chick Corea Trio, vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater, percussionist Poncho Sanchez, singer Kevin Mahogany, and the Mel Martin/Harold Jones 17-piece big band will shine on Saturday, Sept. 9. The Sunday, Sept. 10, lineup features saxophonist Branford Marsalis, trumpeter Roy Hargrove, vocalist Flora Purim and percussionist Airto, and the Omega Aires Gospel Singers. The gate opens at 10 a.m. Advance tickets are $40 each day, $70 for both. 869-3940. [ Sonoma County | MetroActive Central | Archives ]