January 23, 2011,The Hamden Arts Commission
presented
A Sensational Sunday Performance
by the Fryer/Balaban Swingtet, with Red Balaban, Jim Fryer,
Paul Boehmke, and Jim Tutunjian at the Hamden Library,
Thornton Wilder Hall,
2901 Dixwell Ave.
Hamden, CT.
Before "Pages" 2003," we had "A Taste of Irving Berlin" 2000.
"Berlin" was such a huge success, Red and Jim decided to embark on
some of the early, first half of the 20th century music. Music that
Red calls
"American Folk Music." Looking back on a century ago, I must agree
with Red. I doubt that we shall ever again see the likes of such
iconic composers.
The Thornton Wilder Hall was packed to capacity with both young and
old. Many, who attended today's performance, spoke of attending 'A
Taste of Irving Berlin' a few years ago.
When everyone settled down, the quartet began. It wasn't long
before the crowd pleaser "Shuffle off to Buffalo" had audience
attention. With Red on vocals and Jim Fryer on euphonium, they were
off and running. Here are some of the selections that brought back
memories for many in the audience...including
myself.
 |
They all Laughed.....................Gershwin
Jubilee.............................H. Carmichael
Hong Kong Blues...........H. Carmichael
Paper Moon...............................H. Arlen
The World on a String...............H. Arlen
You are so Beautiful......Preston/Fisher
Thou Swell..........................Rogers/Hart
Don't Fence Me In..............Cole Porter
Mood Indigo...................Duke Ellington
Ain't Misbehavin'.................Fats Waller
Putting on the Ritz........................Berlin |
These are only a few of the songs that were played to a captivated
audience. The selections brought back many memories to all of us.
As I was listening, I asked myself why are we lacking these types of
composers? A little imagination and sensitivity and throw in some
creativity....Wow!
Red and Jim were in top form. Both their playing and vocals were
outstanding.
Jim Tutunjian is always wonderful on the bass. Adding his vocal
rendition of 'You are so Beautiful' brought a hush throughout the
room.
When the band played 'Paper Moon,' Paul Boehmke picked up his flute
and played magnificently. I wish Paul would play his flute more
often.
One number, that got the crowd on their feet, was Cole Porter's
'Don't Fence me in.'
Everyone knew the words and really belted them out. There is
nothing better than audience participation. This is something Red
and Jim Fryer do quite often.
The next time you see one of these programs advertised and you have
not previously attended one, you will be in for a treat. Not only
is the music a joy but the narration by both Jim and Red brings
everything together.
Support OKOM!
Jean Hadley
Fryer Balaban Swingtet |
