Photo Coverage: Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé CD Release

Composer, arranger, vocalist and jazz pianist Billy Stritch celebrated the release of his acclaimed new record, "Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé" on Monday, February 18, 2008 at 7PM at Birdland, as part of the long-running, critically-heralded and popular concert series Broadway at Birdland.

"Born as a tribute to legendary jazz singer Mel Tormé, 'Billy Stritch Sings Mel Tormé' features specifically-selected songs from key moments in the classic vocalist's remarkable career, ranging from early moments to all-time classics like 'Lulu's Back in Town' and 'Mountain Greenery,' explain press notes.

An award-winning composer and performer, Billy Stritch has won international acclaim for his interpretations and passion for the Great American Songbook, a healthy mix of fresh perspective, laid-back humor and expert showmanship. He has produced, arranged for and performed onstage with world-renowned icons including Liza Minnelli, Christine Ebersole, Marilyn Maye and Charles Aznavour, and was a guest conductor for The Rosie O'Donnell Show.

As a composer, Stritch co-penned the 1994 Grammy Award-winning song, "Does He Love You?," recorded by Reba McEntire and Linda Davis, which has sold over four million copies nationwide and was named one of the Top Ten Country Songs of that year.  In 2001, he landed the role of piano-playing crooner Oscar in the Tony Award-winning Broadway revival of 42nd Street, opposite Ebersole – which led to a long-standing and hugely celebrated professional partnership, across dozens of stages and television shows.

Following the event was Jim Caruso's Cast Party, where folk-singer Christine Lavin played host. Birdland is located at 315 West 44th Street (between 8th & 9th Aves). For reservations call 2120581-3080 or visit www.BirdlandJazz.com

Photos by Mark Rupp

Christine Ebersole and Billy Stritch

Billy Stritch

Steve Sorokoff and Doug Major

Louise Quick and Billy Stritch

Gianni Valente and Billy Stritch

Christine Lavin calling the absent Jim Caruso

Joan Crowe

Christine Pedi

Christine Lavin

George Stella

Allison Wonderland