Dave Bennett’s Tribute to Benny Goodman
Saturday, October 10, 2009   2:00 PM & 8:00 PM
Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre

Andrew Lane, Conductor
Dave Bennett, Clarinet

Described as “Benny Goodman reincarnated,” virtuoso clarinetist Dave Bennett joins the talented musicians of the Orlando Philharmonic to perform some of Goodman’s  most popular hits along with some tunes that Goodman made his own. Included on the program are Moonglow, I Got Rhythm, Don’t Be That Way, Stompin at the Savoy, Goody Goody and Sing Sing Sing.

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“Clarinetist Dave Bennett’s extraordinary re-creation of the sounds and artistry of Benny Goodman brings the swing era back to life in all its splendor.”
-Michael Krajewski, Principal Pops Conductor Houston Symphony, Jacksonville Symphony, New Hampshire Music Festival

“Dave Bennett wowed the audience and brought the house down. I can’t wait to bring him back!”
-Kendra Whitlock, Director of Pops and Specials (2006) Detroit Symphony Orchestra

Commentary from Principal Pops Conductor Andrew Lane

I first got interested in Benny Goodman and his music when I saw “The Benny Goodman Story” when I was only 14 years old. His story was interesting to me because of his struggle to become known for his music and his unwillingness to compromise his musical style to arrive at his goal. (I would not have explained it quite that way at 14 but I think I got the idea of the story.)

Goodman was called the “King of Swing” and in the mid 1930s he was the leader of one of the most popular musical groups in America. His Carnegie Hall concert in 1938 has been described as the most important jazz concerts in history and during an era of segregation, he also led one of the most racially-integrated groups in America. This, no doubt, contributed to the unique sound and style of his music.

The Orlando Philharmonic is pleased to feature Dave Bennett and his band performing a “Tribute to Benny Goodman.” Those who know the music of Goodman will be transported back in time to the early days of jazz music as performed by the great master. Those not so familiar with his music will be amazed at Dave’s skill on the clarinet and will get a look at what it might have been like to attend a performance by the “King of Swing.” (Dave Bennett favors the look and musical style of Benny Goodman.)

Dave and his band will perform Benny Goodman favorites so many of us know and love, including Let’s Dance, Moonglow, Bugle Call Rag, Sing Sing Sing and more. All performed to perfection by a 25 year old clarinet virtuoso. The orchestral arrangements have been carefully crafted to pay tribute to the great Benny Goodman sound.

I always enjoy performing jazz with the Orlando Philharmonic. Our orchestra has a great feel for this musical style and I know this will make our evening together even more special.

Also, this is the perfect time to attend a concert dedicated to the music of Benny Goodman since in 2009 we celebrate the 100^th anniversary of his birth.

See you there!
Andrew Lane
Principal Pops Conductor

To hear more music, click http://www.davebennett.com/ then click on Discography and then click on the album icon “Dave Bennett Celebrates 100 Years of Benny”

Listen as Principal Pops Conductor Andrew Lane discusses Dave Bennett’s Tribute to Benny Goodman on the popular Smith & Riley show.  Click Here

Read More about Benny Goodman on NPR’s website.

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