The Benny Green Trio's concert served as both a beginning and an end Saturday night.

It was the debut event in the Pabst Theater since a foundation funded by philanthropist Michael Cudahy assumed ownership of the historic theater. It also concluded the 10th season for the Hal Leonard Jazz Series.

Cudahy himself addressed the audience before the concert, telling patrons what he hopes to do with the Pabst in the months and years to come.

The sale of the Pabst for $1 by the City of Milwaukee to Cudahy's foundation raised some controversy. But, jazz fans loudly applauded Cudahy for his efforts Saturday night. Cudahy also turned out to be a good jazz reviewer when he introduced Green as one of the premier jazz pianists in the world.

Green, bass player Barak Mori and drummer Rodney Green, no relation to Benny, demonstrated what Cudahy was talking about over the next two hours.

From the opening song, which once served as the theme song for the sitcom Bewitched, to the up-tempo finale, the trio displayed a wide range of techniques and rhythms.

Green truly is an amazing piano player. At times, you swore he was playing with a partner, or had grown a second pair of hands, because he mixed tempos and melodies in a single song.

Perhaps the best demonstration of Green's wide range of talent came when he made a smooth transition from the mellow "Killing Me Softly" to a key-pounding blues piece that had his hands flying on the keyboard.

The audience exploded into applause several times after songs. One fan couldn't wait, shouting "oh yeah" during several songs.

Green has been called a "dazzling, crowd-pleasing player" by the Chicago Sun Times. He has had several jazz hits with the famous Blue Note Records label.

His appearance concluded a Jazz Series season that featured legends Ray Brown and Hank Jones in the first and third concerts, and vibes player Stefon Harris in the second concert.

It was announced that the Hal Leonard company will sponsor the series against next year, starting in February.

A special concert, featuring pianist Kenny Barron, also will be held September 28 at the Pabst.