I had the pleasure of attending WFMT's Live from Mayne Stage broadcast this morning with pianist Kevin Cole. What a joy this show was! As many of you probably know, Cole is regarded as the foremost George Gershwin interpreter according to press and also members of the Gershwin family. The hour-long performance was entirely devoted to this American composer and fans enjoyed the sounds of songs such as "I'll Build A Stairway To Paradise," But Not For Me," and "Love Is Here To Stay," to name a few. In between pieces, WFMT program host Dennis Moore spoke to Cole about his experiences growing up and how he became fascinated with the great composer as well as the history of Gershwin's work.
Watching Cole move back and forth on the piano with such beauty and speed, I felt as I though I just ran a marathon! I cannot wait to hear him at our Gala Benefit Evening on July 23, when he joins forces with the great Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Ravinia Music Director James Conlon and vocalists Kelli O'Hara, Brian Stokes Mitchell and Sylvia McNair to pay tribute to the 75th anniversary of Gershwin's only Ravinia performance back in 1936 and recreate that original show.
Tune in to WFMT at 11 a.m. on Sunday, July 31, to hear the sounds of another Ravinia artist, pianist Jorge Federico Osorio!
Amy Schrage
Associate Director of Communications