Year 2007 starts with a tribute concert tour dedicated to the great
lady of jazz, Anita O'Day (1919-2006). This big band concert tour
memorises and respects her genuine vocal style, charisma and
astonishing rhythmic and improvisational skills.
I initiated this project already in April 2006 – I wanted to create
something inspiring in the swing style and with the big bands.
Therefore I was so happy when composer, trumpet player Mika Myllari
took the challenge and promised to write me brand new arrangement
material on twelve selected tunes that Anita made famous with her
genuine interpretation.
The program consists of tunes from the 40's and the 50's – the period
when Anita was very active with recording and touring.
The concert tour premiere will take place on Feb 2 in Lappeenranta
with Lappeenranta Big Band, conducted by Ismo Varis. I'm so excited
to have this chance to collaborate with all the great musicians.
The next concerts will be created together with Helsinki Great Swing
Big Band/Helsinki/28.3., Lohja Big Band/Lohja/1.4., Kotka Big Band/
Kotka (September, date tbc) and Opera Big Band/ Finnish National
Opera/Helsinki (November, date tbc)
Please see more on
Anita O'Day
Mika Myllari
Lappeenranta Big Band
