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
