Jump into the '20s and '30s with the infectious, toe-tapping sound of jazz and Big Band music.
In an effort to revive the era's classics, the Heartland Chorale invites its audience to join them for music reminiscent of that time during their Freedom on Main concert Tuesday night in downtown Roanoke. The concert begins at 8 p.m. and is preceded by a barbecue dinner at 5 p.m. and a rock 'n'roll concert by End Game at 6 p.m.Maestro Robert Nance, who will be directing the concert, is excited about the songs performed and the era they came from.
“I think it's the timelessness of the music” said Nance, said Heartland's founder and artistic director. He added that all ages will enjoy the music. The concert is meant to provide an evening of fun and patriotism through song, both lively and serious.
The Heartland Chorale and newly formed Heartland Jazz Orchestra will perform music such as jazz, ballads, solos, ensembles and military songs, as well as music by Cole Porter, Gershwin and more. Songs by the Andrews Sisters will also be featured by special group the Heartland Sisters, Heartland officials said.
The audience can expect to hear energetic and heartfelt songs such as “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy,” “Route 66,” “Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree,” and a rendition of “Amazing Grace,” Heartland officials said. The evening will even include an opening address by U.S. Rep. Marlin Stutzman, an appearance by a color guard and a fly-over salute in the country's honor.
In addition to Heartland's performances, Les Six and Stutzman's wife, Christy Stutzman will perform, a news release said. Christy Stutzman, who holds a music degree and is trained in opera, will open the concert with the National Anthem and later sing, “Say a Prayer for the Boys Over There.” She also serves as an honorary member of the Heartland Board of Directors.
Special guest Les Six will include Dorothy and the animals from “The Wizard of Oz” and will sing songs from the movie.
In the event of bad weather, the concert will be moved to Huntington North High School, 450 MacGahan St.
Concert proceeds support the Heartland Chorale and the educational programs it offers in the community.
