DETROIT — For the third year, the Detroit Jazz Festival, presented by Chrysler, the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House and the Ford Motor Company Fund, are hosting a signature summer event as part of the Detroit Jazz Festival’s Community Series – “Detroit Divas Sing, Sing, Sing” on Aug. 23, 2013, at 7:30 p.m.
With the majestic Ford House and expansive Lake St. Clair shoreline providing an elegant backdrop, the memorable big-band swing era will come to life with a concert featuring three Detroit vocalists – Ursula Walker, Jeannine Course-Miller and Barbara Ware along with Detroit trumpet legend Johnny Trudell. Regarded as one of today’s finest trumpet players, Trudell has performed with many world-renowned artists including Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and Diana Ross.
Joining the three divas will be an up-and-coming protégé and winner of the Detroit Jazz Festival’s Youth Vocalist Competition. The winner of the competition will be selected after an Aug. 15 performance at the Dirty Dog Jazz Café in Grosse Pointe, Mich.
“Beginning traditions such as this annual performance and partnership with the Edsel & Eleanor Ford House is another way for the Detroit Jazz Festival to help enrich the culture and make a positive effect on metro Detroit communities,” said Gretchen Valade, chair of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation board of directors. “The incredible elements of the evening – the music, setting and incredible talent of these artists – are a true representation of the big-band jazz genre, making it a not-to-be-missed event.”
The audience will not only be enchanted by the music, but the historic Ford House estate. Its 87-acres along Lake St. Clair create a unique and picturesque location for enjoying music in a relaxed, non-traditional setting.
“Combining Detroit’s rich Jazz history with the history of the Ford House makes this a unique and special event. With native Detroit Divas and the up-and-coming Youth Vocalist winner, we are offering the chance to experience an authentic Detroit jazz experience,” said Kathleen Mullins, president, Edsel & Eleanor Ford House. “We’re proud to be a part of this entertaining, inspiring and magical evening.”
Additional event sponsorship is provided by Comerica Bank, Crest Lincoln, DTE Energy, Dirty Dog Jazz Café, eTitle, Henry Ford Health Systems and PNC Foundation. For more information, visit www.fordhouse.org or call (313) 884-4222.
Tickets range from $60 for preferred seating with pre- and post-VIP reception, $30 for preferred seating to $15 for general admission advance purchases. To purchase tickets visit http://www.eventbrite.com/event/6910937801.
