Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 1
18-19 SEASON Cole Porter’s
Broadway with DAVID CHARLES ABELL
APRIL 12-14
AT THE HOP!
A Philadelphia Story At the birth of rock and roll
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CONTENTS
Artists and program subject to change without notice. Please silence all cell phones and electronic devices. No flash photography. Please take care not to inhibit the enjoyment of those around you.
4 5 6 7 8 9 9 10 12 14 16 18 20 21 22 24 26 27 32
Letter from the President Program The Philly POPS The Philly POPS Roster Trumpet & Vocalist Byron Stripling Vocalist Carmen Bradford Tap & Vocalist Leo Manzari Behind The Scenes: Gerry Rice POPS In Schools: All-City Jazz Partner Spotlight: Structure Tone Q&A with Byron Stripling Board of Directors & Administrative Staff Memorable Moments The Philly POPS Today 2019-2020 Season Announcement Corporate and Community Support Subscriber Spotlight: Ali & Farah Houshmand Friends of The Philly POPS Giving Levels
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Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 3
LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT Dear Friends, It’s an exciting time at the POPS! One month ago, we celebrated a weekend of fizzy fun in POPS Rocks: The 80s. The excitement in the hall was palpable as the orchestra came out in their ‘80s best and played everyone’s favorite hits from that flashy decade. Nicole Parker and Aaron Finley helped make this show a stand-out success … and I can’t say enough about our rock specialist, conductor Stuart Chafetz. His energy and infectious smile made this a performance we will never forget; we can’t wait to have him back in March 2020 for POPS Rocks Phil Collins! Tonight, we return to one of the POPS’ signature genres, swing. In the 1940s and 1950s, Harlem was a hotbed for musical talent. Venues like the Cotton Club and the Savoy attracted talent like Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and more. Together with the virtuosic vocalists, trumpeters, and pianists, tap dance took root in these clubs as well. One of the Cotton Club’s featured tap acts, The Nicholas Brothers, actually grew up in Philadelphia and learned their craft at Philly’s Standard Theater, which was once at 11th & South streets. In honor of this bombastic period in American musical history, we’ve brought back trumpeter and vocalist Byron Stripling to conduct the POPS. You may remember him from our Ella, Louis & All That Jazz show back in 2017. Joining him is former Count Basie Orchestra singer Carmen Bradford and, in a first for the POPS, this show will feature tap dance, provided by the young and sensational Leo Manzari. This show adds yet another crowning performance to our 40th Anniversary Season, and we’re so happy to have you joining us again. Be sure to get your subscriptions now for our 2019–2020 TOPS of the POPS season — it’s a celebration of the best of popular music, including The Beatles, Marvin Hamlisch, Aretha Franklin, Stephen Sondheim, and of course, Frank Sinatra. With great appreciation for your continued support,
Frank Giordano, President and CEO Encore Series, Inc., The Philly POPS
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UPTOWN
NIGHTS with BYRON STRIPLING
MAR 1-3, 2019 Verizon Hall, Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts
Byron Stripling, trumpet & vocalist Carmen Bradford, vocalist Leo Manzari, tap & vocalist
CONCERT PROGRAM FIRST HALF
SECOND HALF
It Don’t Mean A Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing) Duke Ellington
Bugle Call Rag Bill Pettis/Jack Meyers/Elmer Schoebel
Dinah Harry Akst
St. Louis Blues William C. Handy
St. James Infirmary Irving Mills
Mood Indigo Duke Ellington
Symphony In Riffs Benny Carter
Harlem Street Scene Jeff Tyzik
I Got Rhythm George Gershwin
Minnie The Moocher Cab Calloway
Love Is Here To Stay George Gershwin
The Harlem Numbers Game Leo Manzari
I Can’t Give You Anything But Love Jimmy McHugh
I Ain’t Got Nothin’ But The Blues Jeff Tyzik
Smile Darn Ya Smile Frank Marsales/Abe Lyman
I Won’t Dance Jerome Kern
You Gotta Give Me Some Rhythm Jeff Tyzik
Bill Bailey, Won’t You Please Come Home Hughie Cannon
INTERMISSION
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THE PHILLY POPS The Philly POPS, the largest standalone pops orchestra in the United States, delights audiences with the inspired performance of American popular music. The POPS celebrates this distinctive musical heritage through an expanding repertoire of innovative concert performances and a robust set of educational and engagement initiatives. Now in its 40th season, the official POPS orchestra of Pennsylvania serves a consistently growing audience of over 150,000 annually. Music Director Michael Krajewski and the 65-piece Philly POPS orchestra keeps listeners tapping their toes to an impressive repertoire of songs from American traditions of music up through today’s chart-toppers. The Philly POPS BIG Band, an 18-20 piece ensemble performing a rock and rhythm and blues repertoire, premiered in 2017 to enthusiastic response at the July 4 Welcome America Concert on the Parkway. Outside the concert hall, Salute Series performances — including POPS on Independence on July 3 and the I’ll Be Home for Christmas: A Salute to the Military and First Responders concert — celebrate the American tradition of service around important national holidays; POPS in Schools enhances music education for Philadelphia School District students; and POPS Outside brings POPS music to local communities. The Philly POPS performs as a founding resident company of The Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, and at venues throughout the mid-Atlantic region.
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THE PHILLY POPS ROSTER 1ST VIOLIN
BASS
Michael Ludwig Rachael Ludwig Blake Espy Emma Kummrow Robert Vieira Paul Reiser Alexandra Cutler-Fetkewicz Gared Crawford Rebecca Harris Laura Park Chen
Miles Davis Anne Peterson Stephen Groat
2ND VIOLIN
HORN
Michelle Bishop Yu Hui Tamae Lee Kate Suk Greg Teperman Donna Grantham Sarah Dubois Andrea Levine Diane Barnett
VIOLA Davis Barnett Marjorie Goldberg Scott Wagner Ellen Trainer Gerry Rice Kathleen Foster
CELLO Uli Boeckheler Jon Fink George Atanasiu Brooke Beazley Glenn Fischbach Pat Daniels
SAXOPHONE Ron Kerber Chris Oatts Chris Farr Greg Riley Mark Allen
John David Smith Todd Williams Adam Lesnick George Barnett Lyndsie Wilson
TRUMPET Matt Gallagher Dave DiValentino George Rabbai
TUBA Brian Brown
TROMBONE Paul Arbogast Jarred Antonacci David Cianci
ELECTRIC BASS Steve Beskrone
KEYBOARD Dean Schneider
Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 7
trumpet and vocalist
BYRON STRIPLING A powerhouse trumpeter, gifted with a soulful voice and a charismatic onstage swagger, Byron Stripling has delighted audiences internationally. As soloist with the Boston Pops Orchestra, Stripling has performed frequently under the baton of Keith Lockhart, as well as being featured soloist on the PBS television special, Evening at Pops, with conductors John Williams and Lockhart. Currently, Stripling serves as artistic director and conductor of the highly acclaimed, award winning Columbus Jazz Orchestra. Since his Carnegie Hall debut with the New York Pops, Stripling has emerged as one of America’s most popular symphony pops guest artists, having performed with more than 100 orchestras around the world, including the Boston Pops, National Symphony, Pittsburgh Symphony, Detroit Symphony, Seattle Symphony, Baltimore Symphony, Dallas Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra, Detroit Symphony, Vancouver Symphony, Toronto Symphony, and Dallas Symphony, to name a few. He has been a featured soloist at the Hollywood Bowl and performs at jazz festivals throughout the world. An accomplished actor and singer, Stripling was chosen, following a worldwide search, to star in the lead role of the Broadway bound musical, Satchmo. Many will remember his featured cameo performance in the television movie, The Young Indiana Jones Chronicles, and his critically acclaimed virtuoso trumpet and riotous comedic performance in the 42nd Street production of From Second Avenue to Broadway. Television viewers have enjoyed his work as a soloist on the worldwide telecast of The GRAMMY Awards. Millions have heard his trumpet and voice on television commercials, TV theme songs including 20/20, CNN, and soundtracks of favorite movies. Stripling earned his stripes as lead trumpeter and soloist with the Count Basie Orchestra under the direction of Thad Jones and Frank Foster. He has also played and recorded extensively with the bands of Dizzy Gillespie, Woody Herman, Dave Brubeck, Lionel Hampton, Clark Terry, Louis Bellson, and Buck Clayton in addition to The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, The Carnegie Hall Jazz Band, and The GRP All Star Big Band. Stripling was educated at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, New York and the Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan. One of his greatest joys is to return, periodically, to Eastman and Interlochen as a special guest lecturer. A resident of Ohio, Stripling lives in the country with his wife, former dancer, writer and poet, Alexis and their beautiful daughters. 8 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
vocalist
CARMEN BRADFORD Carmen Bradford grew up with music in her home and heart. Following the footsteps of her great family musical legacy, she has carved out a place in music history for herself and plays an integral role in the jazz world. Bradford was discovered and hired by William Count Basie and was the featured vocalist in the legendary Count Basie Orchestra for nine years. She has since performed and/or recorded with such talents as Wynton Marsalis, John Clayton, Nancy Wilson, Doc Severinsen, Tony Bennett, James Brown, Byron Stripling, George Benson, Lena Horne, Frank Sinatra, as well as the DIVA Jazz Orchestra, the National Symphony, and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, among others. Bradford performed on two Grammy Award-winning albums with the Count Basie Orchestra in the 1980s and later collaborated on a third Grammy Award-winning album, Big Boss Band, with guitarist George Benson. Bradford began another chapter in her illustrious career as a solo artist with the critically -acclaimed debut album Finally Yours and With Respect (Evidence Records), which established her as one of jazz music’s most diverse and exciting vocal talents. Her next release, Home With You (Azica Records), was a collection of piano/vocal duets with Shelly Berg.
vocalist & tap
LEO MANZARI Originally from Washington D.C., Leo Manzari is a Lucille Lortel-award nominated tap dancer. As part of the duo act The Manzari Brothers, Leo has headlined in the touring and off-broadway productions of Maurice Hines Tappin’ Thru Life. He was a featured guest artist on Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance, BET’s The Mo’nique Show, PBS News Hour, Jerry Lewis Telethon, and ABC’s The View. Manzari had a recurring role in Showtime’s wildly popular and award-winning television show Homeland. He is the lead writer and vocalist for a musical genre he created called “TAP RAP”. His most recent album, CLOCKWORK, can be found on all major streaming platforms. Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 9
BEHIND THE SCENES Gerry Rice, violist
Violist Gerry Rice enjoys a multi-faceted career of performing and teaching. A graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music, she played regularly with The Philadelphia Orchestra under the leadership of maestros Muti and Sawallisch, making many recordings and joining the orchestra on tours to Asia, South America, and in the United States. As a teacher, her students have gone on to major conservatories including Juilliard, the New England Conservatory, the Cleveland Institute of Music, the Eastman School of Music, and the Peabody Institute. A registered Suzuki teacher, she taught violin and viola at the Ogontz Suzuki Institute in New Hampshire for 12 years. She also served on the faculty at Curtis, where she taught pedagogy from 2014–18. Gerry’s private studio in Haddonfield, New Jersey includes students ranging in age from 5 to 86 years old. Away from music, she has applied the same dedication and discipline to running, completing one marathon and a dozen half-marathons. Gerry has played with The Philly POPS since the mid-1990s. As part of the POPS in the Schools program, Gerry Rice teaches violin to 21 students at The McDaniel School in the Point Breeze section of Philadelphia. She believes that violin is a vehicle for teaching discipline, sequential thinking, coordination, listening, team building, respect for authority, long-term goals, and gratitude.
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“Miss Gerry’s impact is not solely on the lives of the students she teaches — she has also developed a care for our entire student population. This year Miss Gerry provided toys for each student in the entire school to take home with them during the winter holiday season. The looks on the students’ faces — priceless. With the concern to enhance students’ opportunities for cultural awareness, Miss Gerry provided tickets for all of our third grade students to see The Philadelphia Orchestra. Miss Gerry’s impact is not just in her ability to teach, but also in her commitment to build relationships with our students. When her students are having challenges, Miss Gerry fights for those students to ensure they continue their participation in the violin program. We do not take for granted that Miss Gerry is a member of our learning community. Words will never adequately express the value she adds to our school. If I had one word to describe the impact Miss Gerry has, it would be LOVE! Miss Gerry is serving our students through her love of violin, but more importantly, her love of children.” — Dr. Nina Knight, School-Based Teacher Leader at McDaniel School
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POPS IN SCHOOLS: JAZZ The Philly POPS launched its innovative POPS in Schools program in June 2015 with the AllCity Jazz Festival. This annual celebration of music features a full slate of activities, including masterclasses led by POPS musicians and performances by the best student jazz musicians in the School District of Philadelphia. The festival culminates in a performance by the All-City Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Terell Stafford, the Director for Jazz Studies and Chair of Instrumental Studies at Temple University. Stafford provides valuable insight for the next generation of jazz musicians each year by leading this stellar ensemble. This April, the POPS and its partners will hold the Fifth Annual All-City Jazz Festival. This effort has grown into a comprehensive program for over 200 high school students and now includes performances by the Temple University Jazz Band under the direction of Terell Stafford and the University of the Arts “Z” Big Band under the direction of Matt Gallagher, leader of The Philly POPS BIG Band. Throughout the year, high school students have access to POPS dress rehearsals and concerts at the Kimmel Center. This program connects Philly’s best jazz students with the best jazz musicians in the city, many of whom are Temple University and University of the Arts professors. School District of Philadelphia high school jazz bands, including ensembles from Franklin Learning Center and the Arts Academy at Benjamin Rush, will provide Pre-Concert Entertainment in the lobby during this concert series. Today, POPS in Schools is an EITC-certified program that impacts over 2,500 students in the School District of Philadelphia with supplemental music instruction at four elementary schools and 11 high schools. Jazz music and education continue to be a key component of the program. As we celebrate sounds of Harlem’s famed musical hot spots like The Cotton Club and The Savoy this weekend, POPS in Schools is committed to crafting the jazz leaders of tomorrow with mentorship from the jazz leaders of today! 12 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
PARTNER SPOTLIGHT Structure Tone
Structure Tone is one of the industry’s leading construction management firms. Regardless of a project’s size or scope, their commitment is first to their client’s vision, enabling them to set new standards in building efficiency and sustainability, in employee wellness and productivity, in technology innovations — or whatever their goals may be. Structure Tone’s team of experts offers a complete range of services, from design constructability review, to renovated interior fit-outs, to major building infrastructure upgrades and modernization.
“Structure Tone’s Dermid Kelly has been a wonderful addition to our Board of Directors. I’m especially grateful for the company’s support of our POPS in Schools program, which enhances the lives of so many talented and deserving young people in Philadelphia. For nearly 50 years, Structure Tone has been one of the country’s most-respected leaders in the construction services industry. We’re proud to have Dermid and Structure Tone in the POPS family.” — Frank Giordano, President and CEO, The Philly POPS
Dermid Kelly, Regional Vice President, Structure Tone As Regional Vice President for Structure Tone’s Philadelphia office, Dermid Kelly oversees all aspects of construction, purchasing and personnel for projects of all shapes and sizes across the Greater Philadelphia region. Dermid’s career with Structure Tone has taken him all over the world, giving him an extensive understanding of all types of clients, markets, and construction trends and innovations. Dermid is a graduate of Iona College where he received a bachelor’s degree in business management. Outside of the office, Dermid is active in his community as well, including serving as a board member for the Charter High School for Architecture and Design (CHAD) and as a member of the Union League, Carpenter Company of Philadelphia, and Central Philadelphia Development Corporation (CPDC).
“As a proud member of the Philadelphia community, it’s our responsibility to give back by supporting community institutions like the POPS. The work the POPS does to enrich the city through music is vital to keeping Philadelphia the vibrant cultural hub that it is.” — Dermid Kelly, Regional Vice President, Structure Tone Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 15
POP QUESTIONS Q&A with Byron Stripling, Trumpet and Guest Conductor Where are you from originally? I was born in Decatur, Georgia near Atlanta
Who were your favorite musicians when you were growing up?
and still have family there, but we moved for
Dizzy Gillespie because I was so inspired
my father’s graduate education and teaching
and blown away by his unconventional
career to Kentucky, Boulder, Colorado, St.
style of playing the trumpet. Dizzy joined
Paul, Minnesota, St. Louis, Missouri, and
with Charlie Parker and Thelonious Monk to
Texas. As an adult, I moved to New York City.
create the bebop style of jazz and that’s what
I’ve lived so many places that I sometimes
brought me to this music. I always point to
consider ‘the world’ the place where I was
Louis Armstrong too. What he did through
born and lived. I’m comfortable anywhere.
his trumpet uplifted so many people that his
legacy and spirit still live on today. When he
When did you start playing music? Was trumpet your first instrument?
played his trumpet, you hear the love that he
Since our family was so surrounded by music,
I absolutely fell in love with the idea of playing and performing, but especially listening and
Have your favorites changed since then?
enjoying music. Music is so important to lift
I’m always adding to my list of people I’m
people’s hearts, minds, souls, and spirits.
inspired by. Some of my heroes will always be
I started playing the trumpet formally in fifth grade. It was my first instrument, inspired by my father whom I loved dearly. He used to play Louis Armstrong a lot around the house. He also played Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, and all the Duke Ellington trumpet players. Hearing those sounds around the house set the tone for my wanting to play the trumpet.
had in his heart.
Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, and lesser-known musicians, like Harry “Sweets” Edison, Cootie Williams, Freddie Hubbard, and Woody Shaw. I stand on their shoulders.
When did you first visit Philadelphia? It was probably when I was playing with the Lionel Hampton Orchestra or with Count Basie Orchestra.
Have you had a cheesesteak? Yes, but my doctor wants me to reduce red meat in my diet, so I’m looking for a vegan Philly cheesesteak.
What do you like best about Philly?
Tell us about your family?
There’s an energy I feel in Philly that I don’t
My wife, Alexis Wilson, is a former dancer and
feel anywhere else in the world. There’s a way
currently a writer. Her book “Not So Black and
that the people walk and talk here, a swagger,
White” is available on Amazon. She spent a lot
especially in the black community. There’s a
of time in Philadelphia – her father was Billy
great song by Kenny Dorham called “Philly
Wilson, a famous Broadway choreographer
Twist” about that embodies the swagger,
from Philadelphia (he’s known for Bubbling
movement, joy, and pride that Philadelphia is
Brown Sugar, Eubie, and a celebrated black
all about.
version of Guys and Dolls).
Why do you like performing with The Philly POPS?
We have two daughters – one in college and
The thing that’s different about the POPS is
the jazz sensibility. The musicians attack jazz with a feeling of swing.
Where are you performing next after this weekend’s concerts?
I have upcoming shows in San Francisco,
Do you have any non-music hobbies?
Florida, Arizona, and Kentucky.
Music is my hobby and my life. I can’t wait to wake up and do what I do as a musician, but my other hobby is reading. It feeds my mind. I often suggest that people read what I call ‘mental protein,’ not just ‘mental candy.’ I think that all great leaders are readers.
one heading there next year.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2018-19 Joseph Del Raso, Chairman Anthony Ricci, Vice Chairman Tony Mahon, Secretary James M. Matour, Treasurer Wilbert D. Abele Timothy Alles Joan Carter Pamela Cyr Daniel DiLella Carol A. Eggert Frank Giordano Louis K. Habina, Esq. Adriana Herrera Dr. Ali A. Houshmand Dermid Kelly Marc A. Lucca, P.E. Barry Magarick John J. Meko, Jr. Harry D. Madonna Denise Viola Monahan Gregory Montanaro Ryan Peters Philip Rinaldi Andrew J. Santacroce Louis Scaglione Jon C. Sirlin Ashley E. Widger Salvatore M. DeBunda, Esq., Chairman Emeritus Samuel Savitz, Chairman Emeritus
ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF ENCORE SERIES, INC. Frank Giordano, President & Chief Executive Officer
Jeffrey Kern, Chorus Master
Michael Krajewski, Music Director
Vincent Leonard, Music Librarian
Todd Ellison, Music Director-Designate
Anne Peterson, Orchestra Contractor
David Charles Abell, Principal Guest Conductor
Jeffrey Smith, Assistant Conductor
Louis Scaglione, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Debbie Lobel, Stage Manager
Karen Corbin, Chief Operating Officer Patricia Wells, Office Manager & Executive Assistant to the President
Marketing Mark Gisi, Partner, Brand Strategist, Eastern Standard General Counsel
Daniel Palmieri, Director of Sales & Customer Relations Keith Obaza, Production Director Sarah Maiellano, Assistant Director of Communications Austin Berner, Manager of Communications Gilberto Vega, Manager of Education & Engagement Reginald-Chris Mendoza, Staff Accountant Will Farr, Graphic Designer Brendan McHale, Program & Production Associate Mia Serafine, Contributed Revenue & Events Coordinator Chandra Deal, Sponsorship & Partnership Manager Nicole Schaefer, Project Manager
David H. Marion, Esq. POPS Physician Dr. Gary W. Dorshimer, MD, FACP, FCPP POPS Photographer Peter Blaikie, Bachrach Photography
MEMORABLE MOMENTS July 2018 The Philly POPS enters its 40th Anniversary Season. At the Wawa Welcome America festival, Frank Giordano and the POPS were honored as the “2018 Welcome America Honoree” in recognition of the Salute Series and POPS in Schools program.
June 2018 The Philly POPS announces the appointment of Music Director-Designate Todd Ellison.
September 2017 The Philly POPS announces the appointment of Principal Guest Conductor David Charles Abell.
July 2017 The Philly POPS BIG Band debuts on July 4 at the 25th anniversary of the Wawa Welcome America concert on the Parkway.
July 2016
September 2015 The Philly POPS performs for Pope Francis on Independence Mall.
June 2015 Launch of POPS in Schools kicks off with a presenting sponsorship of the Philadelphia School District’s All City Jazz Festival.
December 2014 Launch of POPS Outside! brings the vibrant programming, musicians and featured guest artists of the POPS family to a growing list of holiday tree lightings and celebrations around the Delaware Valley.
December 2014 The Philly POPS salutes military and first responders by giving away 2,000 free tickets to the inaugural I’ll be Home for Christmas: A Salute to the Military and First Responders concert.
July 2013 Music Director Michael Krajewski takes over the “baton” of The Philly POPS.
In addition to July 3’s traditional POPS on Independence concert, the POPS brass percussion July 2012 ensemble performs at Philadelphia’s televised July 4 Frank Giordano takes the reins as Celebration of Freedom ceremony. President and CEO of the The Philly POPS.
May 2016 The Philly POPS partners with the Mann Center for the Performing Arts for Philadelphia’s first-ever Memorial Day concert: Memorial Salute.
December 2015 The Philly POPS performs with renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli at the Wells Fargo Center.
December 2001 The Kimmel Center opens with The Philly POPS as a founding resident company.
1999 The Philly POPS is designated as the official Pops Orchestra of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
1979 The Philly POPS is founded by Moe Septee.
SPOTLIGHT The Philly POPS Today ​
Thanks to its passionate supporters, The Philly POPS is generating significant growth in ticket sales and attendance, with particular growth in the POPS subscription base. These advances are the driving force behind innovative programming for new audiences, meaningful work that benefits local communities, and a new slate of in-school education programs. The Philly POPS is breaking out of the concert hall and bringing music to the streets of Philadelphia and its surrounding towns. Look for POPS artists performing in pop-up beer gardens, city parks, leisure venues, public schools, and alongside some of the greatest vocalists of our time.
Salute Series The Philly POPS Salute Series encourages recognition of service and commitment through an expanding set of events and activities — each transformative moments of celebration for our community. Salute performances recognize the service and sacrifice of those dedicated to a collective identity of American values and tradition.
POPS in Schools Launched in 2015, POPS in Schools is an EITC-certified program that supplements music education for 2,500 students in the School District of Philadelphia by embedding POPS Musicians and Teaching Artists in schools to cultivate the music leaders of tomorrow with mentorship from the music leaders of today. POPS in Schools provides programming for high school students through the All-City Jazz Festival, held each April during Jazz Appreciation Month and with weekly in-school activities at four elementary schools and one high school.
Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 21
ANNOUNCING THE 2019-20
22 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
SUBSCRIBE TODAY FOR NEXT SE
SEASON
EASON. PHILLYPOPS.ORG or CALL 215.893.1955
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SUPPORT The Philly POPS is extremely grateful for the generous support received from the following corporations, foundations, and government agencies. Their support is vital to the POPS’s commitment to music excellence. The Philly POPS is an approved Educational Improvement Organization (EIO) by the PA Department of Community and Economic Development (DCED) certified to receive donations through Education Improvement Tax Credit (EITC).
40TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON SPONSOR
CIVIC, FOUNDATION, AND GOVERNMENT PARTNERS THE ABELE FAMILY FOUNDATION
SALUTE SERIES PRESENTING SPONSOR
CHRISTMAS PRESENTING SPONSOR
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MEDIA PARTNER
MULTIMEDIA PARTNER
MARKETING SUPPORT
CORPORATE PARTNERS
UM HOLDINGS Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 25
SUBSCRIBER SPOTLIGHT Ali and Farah Houshmand
As the President and “first lady” of Rowan University, Ali and Farah Houshmand keep a very busy schedule. “It’s a 24/7 job,” says Ali, who’s spent in his career working at academic institutions all over the country. Luckily for The Philly POPS, Ali was able to carve out time to join the Board of Directors in 2017 – he’s currently contributing to the organization’s strategic plan (with the assistance of a couple promising Rowan students). The Houshmands, who live in Mullica Hill, New Jersey, have two grown children – Layla, 32, lives outside of Washington, D.C. and Kasra, 30, lives in Denver. Farah has always appreciated music, but didn’t have the opportunity to learn to play an instrument while growing up, so she and Ali made sure that their children had an education in music. Both learned to play the piano first and then Layla took up violin – eventually becoming first violin in her school district – and Kasra has played guitar, percussion, and drums. He still jams with his friends. In their limited spare time, Ali is a distance runner and gardener, and Farah enjoys volunteering, cooking, and baking. Her friends say she’s perfected her recipe for Cake Yazdi, a Persian baked good made with cardamom and rosewater. The Houshmands started going to the POPS two years ago and enjoyed the energy and excitement. “Music feeds my soul,” says Farah. “I truly believe that a world without music would be a very sad place.” Favorite shows: Farah especially enjoyed the recent Billy Joel, Abba, and Sinatra shows, and says that Rufus Wainwright was one of the most memorable shows. Ali says he was “blown away by Rufus, his voice is so heavenly.” Support local students: Ali makes his own hot sauce and Rowan sells it! All proceeds go to the Rowan University Student Scholarship Fund. Visit: https://www.rowan.edu/hotsauce/ to buy a jar.
FRIENDS OF THE POPS The Philly POPS greatly appreciates the many patrons who have made contributions as Friends of the POPS. Thank you! Your support helps make our concerts possible and creates a sustainable future. AMERICAN SONGBOOK SOCIETY $100,000 AND ABOVE Archer Law Salvatore M. DeBunda, Esq. Comcast NBCUniversal Carol A. Eggert Senior Vice President, Military & Veterans Affairs
Bank of America
CFI, The Knoll Dealer
Delaware Valley Regional Economic Development Fund John Coffman Executive Director
Lou and Kim D’Ambrosio
EisnerAmper EQUUS Capital Partners LTD Monica and Dan DiLella
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania
Independence Blue Cross Daniel Gilferty
Department of Community and Economic Development
Key Bank Robert D. Kane, Jr. Market President
Parx Casino Tony Ricci Chief Executive Officer
Pennsylvania Council on the Arts
Republic Bank Mr. Harry H. Madonna Chairman and CEO
John and Christine Meko In memory of Jack Templeton, MD
ORCHESTRA SOCIETY $50,000 TO $99,999
The City of Philadelphia
Dottie and Frank Giordano
Wells Fargo Bank Louis K. Habina, Esq.
Vernon W. II and Shirley Hill Harry Dillion Madonna Susan and Chase McDaniel Philadelphia Energry Solutions Phil Rinaldi Founder, Chairman, & CEO (Ret’d) Drs. John* and Pina Templeton
MAESTRO CIRCLE $25,000 TO $49,999 Tim and Pam Alles AssuredPartners Tony Mahon Managing Director
Mrs. Nancy M. Miller
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE $10,000 TO $24,999 Abele Family Foundation Joan and Wilbert D. Abele Aqua America Marc Lucca President
Beneficial Bank Pam Cyr EVP, Chief Retail Banking Officer
CBS3 TV
Dilworth Paxson LLP Mr. James M. Matour, Esq. The Foundation of Morris Hall St. Lawrence, Inc. GMIH, LLC Recycling Management Services Mr. Anthony Serafine President and CEO Holman Enterprises Kaufman Financial Services Mr. Larry A. Kaufman M&T Bank Denise Monahan Administrative Vice President Macy’s/Bloomingdales Rochelle and Barry Magarick Vic and Urve Maggitti Elizabeth and Terrence McCabe Muller, Inc. Sandra Muller President Mr. Mark Nicoletti PECO Pepper Hamilton, LLP Anne and Joe Del Raso
Atlantic Trailer Leasing
Brinker Capital Ashley Widger
Darrell Dorsey
The Philadelphia Phillies Psalm 103 Foundation Karen and Jon Sirlin Manning and Ginny Smith Structure Tone, LLC Dermid Kelly Regional Vice President
Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 27
Rowan University Dr. Ali Houshmand President Louis Scaglione UM Holdings, Ltd. John Aglialoro and Joan Carter The Union League of Philadelphia Mr. Jeffrey P. McFadden General Manager
The Haverford Trust Company George W. Connell
MUSICIAN CIRCLE $2,500 TO $4,999
The Heritage Center of the Union League
Anonymous
Mr. Leroy Kean LaVan Law Julie LaVan Tom and Nancy Londres John and Janet Marsella
Visit Philadelphia
John J. Meko, Jr.
William Penn Foundation Special Gifts Program
Frank Messina Gregory Montanaro
ENCORE CIRCLE $5,000 TO $9,999 All-Risk, Inc. Frank Messina ASL Transportation Group Mr. James R. Donnelly President and CEO Gabriel A. Battista The Baxter Family Foundation George Beppel Samantha Brandolini and Patrick Morgan
Nadia and Antoine Moukarzel Norman and Suzanne Cohn PA Convention Center Authority Pennsylvania Thoroughbred Horseman’s Association Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau The Philadelphia Cultural Fund The Prime Rib Mr. Garth Weldon
David and Jennifer Cardy
Eric Rosen In memory of Robert Rosen
Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Carlucci
Anthony and Belinda Roth
Citizens Bank Daniel K. Fitzpatrick, CFA President
Boenning and Scattergood, Inc. Harold F. Scattergood, Jr. Chairman of the Board and CEO
Clark Capital Management Group Harry and Kina Clark Abram and D. Walter Cohen Foundation In memory of Gail Denny DNB First Drexel University John A. Fry President Jayne and Walter Garrison Ron Giordano Mr. and Mrs. William A. Graham, IV Lisa Hale and James E. Haas, III
28 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
Mr. and Mrs. Walter Strine Esq. George Turak Deborah and Andrew Webster Bill and Jeanne Whitmore Charles and Barbara Widger ZAC Management Group Anthony Zingarelli Principal/COO
Baxter Family Foundation Dr. Sucha and Mr. Michael Asbell Phillip and Ellen Baer Chris Baxter Nancy and James Baxter BNY Wealth Management Francis T. Schickling, Jr. Senior Director Salvatore and Amy Calabrese Mr. Paul Catinella Charles Jacquin et. Cie., Inc. Mr. Stanton Remer CFO Karen Corbin Jana and Frank D’Andrea Charles and Susan Davidson Barry Depew Exact Design Mr. Richard Walling Arlene and Stan Ginsburg Kathleen and Bruce Goldberg Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce Rob Wonderling President Legacy Advisors, LLC Mr. Michael T. Piotrowicz President Cpt. And Mrs. Jack P. Lieberman, US Navy (Retired) L.F. Driscoll Co., LLC Jacobs Music Chris Rinaldi Mr. and Mrs. David H. Marion, Esq. Edythe and Robert Mazer Metropolitan Contract Carpet Joe Pelosi J. and Brenda Nixon
Thomas Nowakowski, Sr. Obermeyer Rebmann Maxwell & Hippel Nina B. Stryker, Esq. Trusts and Estates Department Chair Office of Arts, Culture, and the Creative Economy
Amy Branch and Jeffry Benoliel Ed, Jane, & Brownie Brandt Kenneth Brandt Judith Burgess and Randy Bradway
David Horowitz Henry Gosik Ms. Elaine Grobman Jo-ann Jones Charles Keates
Francis and Mary Burke
Michael Keenan
Laurie and Christopher Olivia, MD
Carter Family Fund of Central Indiana
Gerhart and Anne Klein
Penn Medicine
Geraldine Camishion
J.W. Pepper & Sons, Inc.
Ms. Courtney Carter
Roscommon International Sean Reilly President and CEO
Edward and Joellyn Cattell Ivan Ciment
Levy Wealth Management Victor Levy
Joan Sacks and Lee Paynter
Cohen Private Ventures
Louis K. Fox Charitable Trust
The Reverend Lucy Pierre
Gen. Ronald Coleman
Riccardo Longo
Monique and Gary Silvi
Kevin Collins
Stradley Ronon Stevens and Young, LLP Wm. Sasso, Esq.
Michael J. and Lynne Cona
Christian R. & Mary F. Lindback Foundation
Ten Pennies Florist and Event Planners Ms. Ann Catania President
F. Richard Courtney
TD Bank Richard and Elaine Valiga Martin and Janice Wilensky
Corporate Health Solutions
Stephen Crane and Elaine Jaskol Creative Financial Group Gary Daniels, CLU, ChFC, CAP
Rep. Joseph Lashinger, Jr.
Mr. Mark D. Lupke Cathy Medway Kaitlin MacKenzie Gerald and Jeannine McMenamin Mr. Lawrence G. McMichael
Mrs. Karen Pelino
Wills Eye Hospital David Yurman
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen G. Darlington
BATON CIRCLE $1,000 TO $2,499
Mr. Joseph M. Della Ratta
Amany Mansour-Awad and George J. Awad
Ms. Christine Lange
Ms. Elaine Meltzer*
CRW Graphics David Van Dusen Michael Crofton
Anonymous
Calvin and Orsula Knowlton
Mr. and Mrs. Peter Michaelson
Ken and Marian Disken Susan and Matt Dupee
Michael Milone Morgan Stanley Mark Morganthaler Stephen Muracco
Lisa Fazi
National HR Jay Nistad Principal
Mr. David Fineman
James Nelligan
Firstrust Bank
Dominic Nigro
Joseph and Eileen Bilson
Dennis Fitzgerald
Hon. Paul and Nancy Panepinto
Frank and Suzanne Binswanger
Kenneth Gale and Gail Munion
Bob Andrews Group, LLC Mr. Robert Andrews, Jr. P.E. President and CEO
Scott Gamble
Penn Personalized Care Gary W. Dorshimer, MD, FACP, FCPP Official Physician of The Philly POPS
Ms. Roslyn Barefield The Harold and Renee Berger Foundation
Maris and Roger Evoy
Ms. Gail Goldstein Mr. and Mrs. Jack Holender
Uptown Nights with Byron Stripling | March 2019 | 29
Pine Belt Auto Louis Trebino Konstadinos Plestis and Maria Vogiatzi Police and Fire Federal Credit Union Cynthia and Gary Porter Mr. Robert Rau Mrs. Joannie Rich Mr. Theodore Robb Savitz Family Foundation In memory of Walter D. Cohen
Patricia Wellenbach
Mr. Guy Berger
Wellshire Farms Louis B. Colameco, III
Mr. Barry Bressler, Esq.
West Capital Management Janet G. and Harold J. Whartnaby
Cupersmith, Wilensky, Steiger, Stempler & Co. LLP Marty and Janice Wilensky
Mr. Stephen B. Clyde
Ms. Jane Windle
Mr. Andrew J. Santacroce
S.R. Wojdak & Associates, Inc.
Patricia and Daniel Scott
Christopher Wolfington
Marvin and Roberta Schimmel
Zook Dinon PA
Terence and Deborah Smith Roxanne and Gene Spatocco David and Peggy Stedman Paul Stewart Technology Concierge Group Gerald Francesco President Peter Throm Management Mr. Peter Throm Carol B. Tinari Tot-Time Child Development Centers, Inc. Ms. Donna M. Parisi Owner John Turchi Joseph Voytilla Waldorf Racing Stables The Wanerman Group USB Financial Services, Inc. Kathryn and Dr. Michael Warhol Dennis Wasilewski Elizabeth Weinreb
CD Realty Advisors Craig Frater
Sally Chandler and Mark Chalmers Maxine Coleman Pat and Connie Dalton Robert and Constance Dalton George Daly Emilio Degregorio
CONDUCTOR CIRCLE $750 TO $999 Ken Dunek Rick and Julie Frost Dr. and Mrs. John A. Harman Brian and Lenore Locke New Opportunity Publishing NH Wealth Advisors Richard and Barbara Orr Peterson Service Company Renee Fiorelli President
Louis and Nina Eni Ms. Karen Fei In memory of Donna Fei Friends of the Ocean City Pops, Inc. Ruth Ann and Paul Fox Patrick R. Gault Joan and Larry Glazerman Sandra Goodstein Nancy and Alan Grossman Cheryl D. Gunter and Paul A. Rabe
Precision Automation Fred Rexon President and CEO
Robert and Megan Hausler
Elliot and Barbara Schwartz
Mr. Anthony Hui
Dr. Larry and Bonnie Seidman
Nina and Alan Kirschner
Wealth Development Group Alan D. Katz Managing Member
Ms. Jacqueline S. Klein
Herbein + Company, Inc.
Stephen and Randy Klein Drs. Lawrence and Lynn Levine
PRINCIPAL PLAYER $500 TO $749 1518 Associates Melville and Maria Ackerman Sandy and Vince Basanavage
30 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
Jeanne Brunozzi Mary Lou and Frank Burke
Elizabeth Wojdak
Michael Scott and Robin Hauner
Bonnie Brown and Don Wynne
White Penny Jon Cofsky Principal
Ms. Joyce Seewald Sando
Wayne M. Schuh
Sharon and Bill Bronstein
Mrs. Patricia Levitt Mr. Frederick D Lipman Chris Masso Dr. Michael Mittleman
Dr. Catherine A. Michon Kathleen Mulhern Reid and Elizabeth Murray Mr. Frank C. Palopoli Mr. and Mrs. John Pelino L. Stephan and Rochelle Perchick
NewsHeisler Wealth Management John Heisler, CFP
Phyllis and Robert Lambeck
Drs. Domenic and Dorothy Pisano
Robert Lynn
David Schneider and Rosalind Erwin In honor of William Nathan Erwin
Janet Leo
Jim and Kanra Magnatta Liss & Marion Ricky Liss, Esq. Carole Marani
Michelle and Mark Pressman
Richard Weisbrot and Barbara Shaiman
Dr. Ralph Riviello, M.D.
Dr. and Mrs. Clifford Sporn
Stephen McWilliams
Dr. Harry Rosenthal
Richard Williams
Hermann Moser
Donald Salmon
Janet and Stephen Mullin
Salus University
ENTHUSIAST $250 TO $374
Henry Schwarz
Pamela Altman
C. Raymond Nelson
Mr. Paul Sloate
Gary Beaver
The Honorable Brian J. O’Neill
Gabriel Staino
Esha Bhatia
Patricia and Michael Pence
John and Sandra Stouffer
Blue Bell Country Club
Robert N. Racciatti
Ms. Joyce Ann Swoyer
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Bortz
Scott and Marilyn Radley
Albert and Sabina Talone
Kimberly and Donald Brooks
Regina and John Riordan
Rebecca and Brooks Van Pelt
Thomas Brunner
Nancy and Thomas Rocereto
Kevin Waldron and Harriette Owens-Waldron
Ms. Mary Chirillo
The Rotary Club of Washington Township
Dale Wallace
Beverly and Herbert Cohen Ms. Anne M. Congdon
John McIntyre
Harry Mullins
David and Susan Roulston
Alexander and Joanna Williams
Sarah and Joseph M. Corvasce
F. Gordon Yasinow
David Courtright
John and Iris Zook
Francis Costello In memory of Rhonda Costello
PERFORMER $375 TO $499
Karen and John Fulton
Laurence Sussman
Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Goldberg
Halfred Taylor In memory of Judith Ann Taylor
George Baver Mr. Robert Doman Ms. Jodi Friedman Bernard and Harriet Gross
Harriet Beloff Goodwin Jeff Guaracino Gwen and Matthew Iller
Mr. John Heisler
Mrs. and Mrs. Joseph Jaworowski
Pat Lannutti
Loraine and Edward Jones
Ms. Tracy L. Maeter
Rona Josephs
Debbie and Elliot Maser
Gerald S. Kates and Tema Freed
Mrs. Kathleen Mulhern Patricia and Gordon Munson
Joseph Kolakowski Dr. Ray and Terri Kovalski Joseph W. Kvech
Mr. and Mrs. Charles R. Sceia William and Anna Simpson Janet Steinberg Nancy Sullivan
Steven Tuso Ronald Vickers Ms. Dale Wallace Herbert and Sandra Weinstein James Winn *in memoriam current list as of 1.4.19 If you found your name has been misspelled or omitted, please accept our sincerest apologies and contact Mia Serafine at 215.5463234 or via email at mserafine@phillypops.org
GIVING LEVELS Join the friends of The Philly POPS today! If you love The NEW Philly POPS and want to become a Friend, please donate online at phillypops.org/donate to join others who share a passion for the Great American Songbook. Your tax-deductible gift makes a significant difference in the lives of thousands of fellow patrons by allowing our beloved stand-alone orchestra to continue to play the music you know and love to hear.
FRIEND — $75 TO $124
BATON CIRCLE — $1,000 TO $2,499
ADMIRER — $125 TO $249
Conductor Circle benefits, plus: • Free ticket exchange of your subscription tickets • Exclusive VIP Invitations to POPS special
MUSICIAN CIRCLE — $2,500 TO $4,999
•
10% discount on single tickets
Friend benefits, plus: • Priority seating change request for your subscription
ENTHUSIAST — $250 TO $374
Admirer benefits, plus: • Acknowledgment of your contribution
in the Encore! program book
events and performances
Baton Circle benefits, plus: • Invitations to a special reception with Maestro
Krajewski and POPS leadership
•
A private tour of the Kimmel Center
ENCORE! CIRCLE — $5,000 TO $9,999 PERFORMER — $375 TO $499
Enthusiast benefits, plus: • Complimentary tickets to a special
backstage tour
PRINCIPAL PLAYER — $500 TO $749
Performer benefits, plus: • Exclusive intermission receptions with
musicians and Board of Directors
CONDUCTOR CIRCLE — $750 TO $999
Musician Circle benefits, plus: • A private dinner with Frank Giordano,
President and CEO of The Philly POPS
•
1/2 page ad in the Encore! program book
PRESIDENT’S CIRCLE — $10,000 AND ABOVE
Encore! Circle benefits, plus: • Concert Series Sponsorship • Full page ad in the Encore! program book
Principal Player benefits, plus: • A private backstage visit with
Maestro Krajewski and guest artists
All membership benefits are designed for two people. You may also waive all benefits, making the full amount of your contribution tax-deductible. For additional information on individual giving, please call our Development Office at 215.735.2841. To donate online, go to phillypops.org/donate. Benefits incept upon receipt of the contribution and are active for one year.
32 | Encore! | The Philly POPS
GROUPS HAVE MORE FUN! The Philly POPS WOULD LIKE TO WELCOME:
Ann’s Choice Retirement Community Donna M. Patti and guests Neighborhood Jams Fantastic Fifties Mona Ballard and guests Senior Community Tours Sharren and David Filan and guests The Union League Of Philadelphia The Weston Club at Sagemore Touriffic Travel, Inc Vanessa Thomas Smith and guests
SOULFUL
Bar | Restaurant | Venue
Only one block away from the Academy of music and kimmel center!
INDEPENDENCE BLUE CROSS
SALUTES
The Philly POPS Independence Blue Cross is proud to sponsor The Philly POPS 40th anniversary concert season. Thank you for delighting us with your fun and dynamic performances of popular music throughout the years. We also recognize your efforts to bring our community together through the gift of music. Independence Blue Cross shares this commitment to the community. We embrace a bold, innovative vision to help improve the lives and health of people in our region and across the nation.
YOuR cONTRiBuTiONS ARE BEYOND mEASuRE.
Archer & Greiner is committed to making a difference in our community. That’s why we’re proud to support The Philly POPS for their ongoing contributions. Best wishes for a great season.
archerlaw.com | 215.963.3300
Haddonfield, NJ | Hackensack, NJ | Princeton, NJ | Red Bank, NJ | Flemington, NJ | Philadelphia, PA | New York, NY | Wilmington, DE
Shining a spotlight on creativity.
The arts enrich all our lives and are an integral part of our culture and heritage. It’s why we support arts organizations within our community. They inspire, entertain, move, and inform us in so many ways. Without the arts our community would not be the vibrant and diverse place we enjoy today. KeyBank thanks The Philly Pops for making a difference.
Key.com is a federally registered service mark of KeyCorp. Š2017 KeyCorp. KeyBank is Member FDIC. 161207-170606 key.com
Join us for dinner! Open Daily 4PM- 10PM
Pre-Theatre Menu 3-Courses $35pp
 with Philly POPS concert ticket menu available until 8 PM
1420 Locust Street, Phila. PA 19102 | www.hauterestaurantlounge.com | (215) 309-5422
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Proudly Partnering with Philly Pops to Bring You More Great Jazz
COmING IN march THU 07
Divinity Roxx
FRI 08 & SAT 09
Allan Harris Sings Nat King Cole
THU 14
Mary Ann Redmond & The Scott Ambush Band (from Spyro Gyra)
SUN 17
Michelle Lordi with JD Allen
THU 21 & FRI 22
Jessy J
SAT 23
Joseph Block Trio with Larry McKenna & Joe Farnsworth
SUN 24
The Huntertones
THU 28
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Happy Hour Tuesday through Friday | 4PM–7PM Daily food & drink specials!
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Street Road Exit off I-95 or PA Turnpike
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