Songs from a golden age

Songs from a golden age

Celebrating the great tradition of American songwriting, Melbourne Recital Centre (MRC) will host its American Songbook Series next month – sure to delight lovers of jazz, pop and show tunes.

The series encompasses an impressive back catalogue of 20th century American song which MRC CEO Mary Vallentine assures offers something special for lovers of great song writing.

“Melbourne has a thriving culture of song writing, with a strong appreciation for the classic songs and standards,” Vallentine said.

“The American Songbook series brings together songs that stand out as markers of American culture, giving them a voice at Melbourne Recital Centre with a line-up of outstanding musicians who share our passion for this incredible catalogue of music.”

New York cabaret artist Steve Ross will start off the series on July 2 with two concerts at the MRC’s Salon, performing works by Cole Porter, Rodgers and Hart, Flanders and Swann and the inimitable Noel Coward.

Jazz pianist Joe Chindamo will perform his own arrangements of Burt Bacharach songs along with bass player Ben Robertson and drummer Tony Floyd, on July 8 and 9.

Australian jazz chanteuse Ali McGregor will join jazz pianist Sam Keevers on July 14 and 15, performing the work of Kurt Weill and Irving Berlin, before taking on contemprary artists, Britney Spears, Gloria Jones and Tom Waits.

Australia’s ‘first lady of jazz’ Janet Seidel is set to wow audiences with two different programs over two nights to mark the finale of the series on July 22 and 23.

Seidel will perform classics, That Old Black Magic, Blues in the Night and Moon River, from songwriter and co-founder of Capital Records Jonny Mercer.

Pop songwriter Jimmy Webb will also join the series on July 1, performing in the Elisabeth Murdoch Hall.

Use the promo code: SSO when booking and receive a complimentary drink voucher.

info: Bookings at melbournerecital.com.au or (03) 9699 3333

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