Chicago Jazz Orchestra

The first half format allowed for each vocalist to perform three selections before closing out the first half with the three singing, "Let's Call The Whole Thing Off," together. Even though they confused some of this song's lyrics, these professionals still made it work. They were able to "chuckle" throughout this song, which the audience seemed to really enjoy. Their charm and charisma allowed them to pull this number off.

After the intermission, a very special presentation was made to Geraldine de Haas, founder of Jazz Unites Inc. and considered by many as the organizer of Chicago's first Jazz Festival, the Duke Ellington tribute concert in 1974 at the Grant Park Band Shell. Geraldine a former actress and exceptional jazz vocalist, was presented the Steve Jensen Jazz Unity Award in honor of the co-founder of the Jazz Members Big Band, which ultimately became the CJO. A. Alyce Claerbaut, Executive Director of CJO and niece of the late great composer/songwriter Billy Strayhorn, did the honors.

The second half was highlighted by Spider Saloff's rendition of "Cotton Tail." During this number, Spider and saxophonist Bill Overton engaged in a friendly "call and response." The crowd loved it!!!! Miss Lee was "sassy and classy" as she sang "A Fine Romance" with spirit and energy. This too was a crowd pleaser. But it was Chicago's first lady of Jazz, Dee Alexander who won the hearts of this attentive audience with her singing throughout in general, and her splendid version of Irving Berlin's "Blue Skies". She brought the true sound of Ella to life with her customary scatting and bird like chirping, like only Dee can accomplish. She produces nonlyrical sounds with her voice that most vocalists would "sell their souls" to be able to replicate. And she makes it look soooooo easy!!!!!!! Dee also "nailed" it on Duke's "I Got It Bad(And That Ain't Good)."

It took three eloquent ladies and one of Chicago's finest jazz bands to cover a small portion of Ella's Songbook, but Spider Saloff, Frieda Lee, and Dee Alexander accomplished that task with style and class as CJO opened its 08-09 Concert Series in front of a very large and enthusiastic crowd. This listener would be remiss, without giving kudos to this wonderful orchestra that performed effortless without ever missing a beat. They are such a pleasure to listen to and can will perform their second in this series of concerts on November 21, 2008 at Wentz Concert Hall in Naperville.

For details about their entire series, refer to their website at www.chicagojazzorchestra.com.