Chicago Jazz Orchestra
Sacred Music of Duke Ellington

Second Presbyterian Church, Oct. 11, 2009

Tammy McCann

Story and Photos by James Walker

The CJO celebrated Duke Ellington's "Concert of Sacred Music" recently at the Second Presbyterian Church in the South Loop. Ellington, considered by most jazz aficionados as the most prolific jazz composer/arranger of all time, also was responsible for a series of "Sacred" concerts that he preferred to be performed in "the house of the Lord."

CJO was joined on this occasion by the Community Renewal Chorus/All God's Children's Choir, under the able direction of Gerome Bell. But the true stars on this day were baritone Robert Sims and vocalist Tammy McCann.

Sims, a highly recognized vocalist of Negro Spirituals and classical arrangements was perhaps at his best during his rendition of Duke's "In the Beginning God". This number was performed during the 2ND half of the concert that featured Duke's Scared Music. The Choirs were featured before intermission. Trumpeter Kirk Garrison put final touches on this number with some high octave notes.

Sims also opened the concert with Dr. Lena McClin's (his former instructor)"Great Day". It was also during this portion of the program that technical problems inhibited balanced sound from the speakers, but this little "hiccup" did not appear to limit the vibrant sound emitting from the vocals of this polished singer.

Chicago's rising star Tammy McCann followed Sims during the second half of the concert with stirring renditions of "Come Sunday" and "Tell Me It's The Truth". Tammy's strong instrument resounded throughout the pristine edifice, even when she backed away from the microphone. She has such a unique gift and was initially classically trained. This was an ideal setting for Ms. McCann who displayed far reaching range during her delivery(coincidentally, Tammy also studied under Dr. McLin at Kennwood Academy in Hyde Park). The audience spontaneously rose to it feet in response to this spectacular performance.

Highlights form CJO members included the muffled trumpet sound of Art Hoyle on "The Shepard". This number was done with a "bluesy" tinge. This number allowed CJO to display its full sound and abilities.

Bassist Dennis Carroll distinguished himself on "Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence" with some flamenco like sounds exuding from his acoustic bass.

This fine Sunday afternoon of music concluded with encores from Sims on "Great Day" and McCann on "Move". Both selections were Dr. McClin compositions.

Although the choir performed adequately during the first half of the program, it would have been more appropriate for a traditional Gospel choir from one of Chicago's abundant African American churches to add authenticity to the "Gospel Choir" portion of the program.

For detailed information about future CO events, refer to their website at www.chicagojazzorchestra.com.