The Venice Concert Band, led by Artistic Director and Conductor Bob Miller, brings “Dance with Me” to the Venice Performing Arts Center at Venice High School on Monday, February 23, at 7:00 PM.
Some people love to dance. Others just love the music; the energy, the rhythm, the feeling that comes with great dance tunes. Either way, this concert has something for you.
The night kicks off with the bold Spanish flair of “España Cañí,” one of the most iconic paso dobles ever written. The band keeps that Spanish heat going with “Spanish Fever,” packed with drum set solos, and “Libertango,” spotlighting soprano saxophone soloist Vince Loose. The flute section steps into the limelight during “Fiesta for Flutes,” and you’ll hear a fresh arrangement of Barry Manilow’s “Copacabana” which is always a crowd-pleaser.
Switching gears, the band dives into the classical side of dance with “Cake Walk,” a lively, syncopated piece with roots on pre-Civil War plantations. Originally called the “prize walk,” dancers competed for a lavishly decorated cake. This number practically begs your feet to move.
Waltz lovers don’t miss George Bizet’s graceful “Menuet,” featuring flute soloist Mary Duer.
Broadway fans get their due with two showstoppers: “Mambo” from West Side Story and “Shall We Dance” from The King and I.
Before the music starts and during intermission, resident artist Wayne Ramirez will display his artwork, including a painting of a dancing couple featured on the concert program.
Mark your calendar for February 23. This is a concert you won’t want to miss. Tickets go on sale February 9 at 10:00 AM. Buy them online at www.VeniceConcertBand.com or in person at the Venice Performing Arts Center box office from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. You can also pick up tickets the night of the show for $17 cash at the box office. Even if the official box office sells out, people often have extra tickets available at the door.
