Facility: St. Anthony Foundation’s
Date:
Host: Brenda Laribee
Essence Story by Brenda Laribee:
The Oakland Jazz Choir are seasoned
performers; their music director Walter had them warming up as the residents
were getting settled into the
The Choir did an array of songs – some
recognizable to the audience, others not. The audience was intent and
appreciative. They snapped their fingers along and/or clapped when the
song called for it. The Choir debuted a new musical arrangement of “I Like the Sunrise” which was beautiful.
I noticed most of the men sitting in the first
row of the audience were very attentive and seemed to be taking in and
appreciating the talent and style of the Choir the most. One gentleman sitting
alone very close to Walter and his piano was particular focused on his/their
every move, and keeping time to each song.
The Choir received a standing ovation and came
back to do “Summertime” as an encore, which rallied
the audience a little more than the other songs performed.
Overall, I could see on their faces how this
music was providing an hours’ escape from each of the resident’s work of the
day, providing some love and light to their sometimes difficult lives. Many of
the men in the audience came to the front of the room after the performance to
shake the performers’ hands and personally thank them and wish them a happy holiday.
Special thanks to Lloyd for doing such a
terrific job on the complex sound set up for these performers!
Lisa Starbird
Bread & Roses
Program Assistant
415-945-7127 ext.104
BREAD & ROSES!
"Hope and Healing
Through Live Music"