For his tribute, Belgrave's eight-piece ensemble includes favorites
such as Charles Gabriel, clarinet and tenor sax; Dave Flanigan,
alto sax and clarinet; Chris Smith, trombone and tuba; Bill
Meyer, keyboards and vocals; Hugh Leal, banjo and guitar; Paul
Keller, bass; and Pete Siers, on drums. Belgrave's performance
of these trumpet classics follow the general stylistic shape
of Armstrong's approach, but are delivered with his personalized
interpretation and nuance. As a singer, Belgrave is blessed
with a "Satchmo-like" voice, which comes off naturally,
evoking Armstrong's sound, spirit and warmth with an uncanny
ease.
The Louis Armstrong Tradition featuring Marcus Belgrave. November
22 at 7:30 p.m.
DSU Bologna Performing Arts Center. For ticket information,
call 846-4626.