Kaleidoscope of Sound: 'Rhapsody in Blue' Centennial Concert
$175-$225
- Mary Callanan, voice
- Vladimir Rumyantsev, piano
- Louis Arques, conductor
Victor Herbert — A Suite of Serenades
Various — Selected works (1920s jazz selections TBA)
History has it that Paul Whiteman wanted to prove that the new music called jazz was not any less refined than classical music and deserved to be heard in a proper concert hall, with orchestrations for a symphonic band. On February 12, 1924, he presented his "Experiment in Modern Music" at the Aeolian Hall, and as the critic W. Damrosch later wrote, "made a lady out of jazz." This concert featured early traditional jazz, comedy selections, the latest standards, and two creations: Victor Herbert's A Suite of Serenades – the last composition of the operetta master – and Gershwin's Rhapsody in Blue!
Avalanche is really excited to celebrate the centennial of this piece which crystallized the sound of American music, influencing jazz, classical, and music at large for the past hundred years! We will be presenting a concert based on the original 1924 program, with a 25-piece symphonic jazz band Avalanche, our favorite pianist Vladimir Rumyantsev, Broadway guest star Mary Callanan, and conductor Louis Arques.
About Avalanche Orchestra
Avalanche Orchestra was created with the vision to perform non-classical music with the soundscape and striking power of a full symphony. It has also thrived in exporting classical music beyond the walls of traditional venues, creating new concert experiences and music-making opportunities for all. Avalanche's first recording premiered a piece by Fabian Beltran, mixing traditional Colombian melodies with jazz and contemporary elements. In 2022, Avalanche invited pianist Radosia Jasik and composer Mikolaj Gorecki for an evening of music, interviews, and an art exhibition at the landmark Consulate of Poland in New York.
https://www.avalanche-arts.com/About SUNY College of Optometry Foundation
SUNY College of Optometry Foundation stands as an example of what partnership among visionary community, education, and businesses leaders can accomplish. Since its inception the foundation has demonstrated an ongoing commitment to supporting vision care for underserved populations; educating the next generation of optometrists including providing merit and need-based scholarships to students; and advancing research into the complex human visual system.
https://www.sunyopt.edu/news/talent-announced-for-exclusive-gershwin-concert-event-kaleidoscope-of-sound/About Mary Callanan, voice
Mary Callanan is a Broadway performer and Cabaret artist. Mary is best known for playing Rosie in the Broadway, Las Vegas, and National Tours of Mamma Mia! On Broadway, she originated the role of Jean Ann Ryan in the Tony-winning musical Bandstand, and played Mrs. Pugh and Miss Hannigan in the 2012 Broadway Revival of Annie. Mary has crisscrossed North America in seven National Tours and has performed in NYC Cabarets that include: 54 Below, Russian Tea Room, Green Room 42, Eighty Eight's and Brandy's. Additional Cabaret Engagements include Boston, Provincetown, and cruise ships.
https://www.marycallanan.com/