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| First United Church and Coastal Jazz present Duke Ellington's Sacred Music Making Music. Making a Difference. This is the goal of all those Involved in the third presentation of Duke Ellington's Sacred Music in Western Canada. This fund-raising performance emceed by Rick Cluff for First United will feature vocalist - and mastermind behind bringing the concert to Western Canada - Dee Daniels; award winning conductor/arranger Fred Stride, and the Fred Stride Jazz Orchestra; gospel and blues vocalist, Marcus Mosely; Vancouver's own Juno nominated Sojourners; the sensational Sacred Music Gospel Choir; and New York tap dancer, Alex Dugdale. Top flight talent that promises an unforgettable evening. Last year's concert, the second in Western Canada, was described as "grace-filled" and "spectacular". Rick Cluff, emcee for the evening, was at a loss for words. An audience of close to 1000 people was mesmerized by the depth of talent of the performers as they were treated to a magnificent, soulful performance of the Sacred Music of Duke Ellington. Duke Ellington is best remembered as perhaps the finest and most influential composer in the history of American jazz. He was also a man of deep spiritual convictions. Late in his career, he wrote three programs of inspirational music between 1965 and 1973 that blended his peerless tonal artistry with the celebratory energy of classic gospel music. Ellington's last sacred concert was performed only seven months before his death, and although very ill, he gave an inspiring performance of his sacred music classics. Dee Daniels says, "My dream to bring this great music to Vancouver came true three years ago with the help of a group of extremely talented musicians and performers, the co-presenters Coastal Jazz, First United Church, and the Sponsors. It's wonderful to be able to present Ellington's inspiring music again this year on November 18th. In March of 1973, I had the incredible opportunity to meet The Duke just months before the premiere of the Third Sacred Music Concert. Having had that experience adds to the special significance of sharing his music." First United is an inclusive community situated in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside providing safe refuge for homeless & marginalized people. "Home" to 350 people daily, this 24 hrs/day facility provides services that include three meals a day, advocacy, health & social support services, storage, showers and access to supportive networks. write your comments about the article :: © 2011 Jazz News :: home page |