2023 Jazz in the Park Finale Features Steve March-Tormé and a 'Wisconsin Friends and Family' Theme
07/25/23Jazz in the Park with the La Crosse Jazz Orchestra stays in Wisconsin this week and explores the music of regional artists, bandleaders and composers.
Headlining the July 30 program is Wisconsin resident and internationally loved entertainer Steven March-Tormé.
"Mr. Tormé has performed throughout the world at festivals, in concert halls and at intimate night clubs," says LJO bandleader Greg Balfany. "He sings wonderfully in both the jazz and pop realms. Steve is an exciting entertainer with experience in movies, television and performances with famous entertainers including Liza Minnelli and Diane Schuur. His repertoire for this event will be drawn from his own library as well as that of his famous father, Mel Tormé."
At Sunday’s show, he will perform with the full 18-piece La Crosse Jazz Orchestra as well as a dektette from the orchestra. A special feature will be a duo performance of “Hit the Road Jack” with the band’s bassist, Karyn Quinn.
Other selections include “Just One of Those Things” and “Town Without Pity” with the full band. From the Mel Tormé 10-piece book you’ll hear “On The Street Where You Live” and “Sweet Georgia Brown.”
The concert also marks the annual return of New York City pianist Dave Marck to the band.
"Dave will be featured especially on a kicking version of 'Blues for Stu,'" Balfany says.
Other highlights:
- The orchestra will perform the theme from the movie “Whiplash” as a tribute to all the great Wisconsin musicians
- Nationally recognized trumpet artist Brent Turney from Stevens Point will sail over the band on “You Go To My Head”
- “The Lambeau Leap” from legendary Wisconsin composer Fred Sturm will bring the concert and season to a fitting close
The concert starts at 7 pm. and is free for all and suitable for the whole family.
The rain site is the Cappella Performing Arts Center, 721 King St., La Crosse.
ABOUT THE BAND
The La Crosse Jazz Orchestra is Western Wisconsin's premier big band. Directed by Greg Balfany, the group is best known through its Jazz in the Park concert series. The LJO mission: to promote, preserve and forward the creation of jazz music through free live performances available to all in our region. LJO operates under fiscal sponsorship from La Crosse Community Foundation.