"Dreaming the Duke"

Nnenna Freelon and Harolyn Blackwell with Mike Garson

Jazz meets classical in this one of-a-kind celebration of the music of Edward "Duke" Ellington called "Dreaming The Duke."

Award-winning vocalists NNENNA FREELON from the jazz world and HAROLYN BLACKWELL from the classical world blend and shape their respective genres to celebrate the legacy and influences of the great Duke Ellington!

From innovative solo pieces to thrilling duets; from full use of the double quartet to intimate vocal-piano selections; this show proves that legendary music and phenomenal talent produce timeless musical moments.

Joining these two stunning vocalists is noted pianist Mike Garson, whose work in both the jazz and classical worlds has made him the ideal arranger, accompanist, and musical director for this show. From J.S Bach to David Bowie, Garson’s boundless musical talents have made him one of the most in-demand pianists in jazz and pop,

These three talents will lend their skills to create an unforgettable evening filled with timeless music: from beloved jazz standards (Prelude To A Kiss, It Don't Mean A Thing, and Love You Madly) to classical Ellington fare (Come Sunday from his famed Black, Brown and Beige Suite) as well as lesser-known gems from the Ellington canon including Solitude and Black Butterfly.

INSTRUMENTATION:
Nnenna Freelon - vocals
Harolyn Blackwell - vocals
Mike Garson - piano, arranger
Bass, drums, saxophone, and String Quartet