The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis celebrates the centennial of Ella Fitzgerald, a vocalist whose legacy and influence define a classic era of jazz singing.
Through diverse repertoire arranged by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, tonight's guest vocalists will demonstrate why the "First Lady of Song" remains a case study in succinct phrasing and uncompromising musicality. Joining the Orchestra for this special occasion are two celebrated veteran vocalists: Kenny Washingtonand Roberta Gambarini.
Washington – Ravi Coltrane's favorite vocalist – carries on Ella's legacy by finding the maximum impact in each and every song, utilizing his enormous range and improvisational skills with restraint and impeccable taste. Gambarini – a similarly tasteful yet boldly original artist – was described by NEA Jazz Master Hank Jones as "the best new jazz singer to come along in 50 years."
In Ella Fitzgerald's centennial year, you will witness how her most identifiable traits and her complete devotion to originality and authenticity inspire the best musicians of our time.
