A world-class lineup of jazz artists is teaming up with the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra to put on an event like Sylvan Lake has never seen before.
The third and final installment in the 2015 Jazz at the Lake Concert Series will see the orchestra joined by the Dan Brubeck Trio and Sylvan Lake’s own Eric Allison and Cheryl Fisher for a one-of-a-kind performance at Centennial Park on Aug. 15.
The event, according to Allison, will mark the pinnacle of a successful three-part series that has — temporarily, at least — replaced the long-running Jazz at the Lake Festival in Sylvan Lake.
“In the 15 years I’ve been here, I don’t know of any full orchestral performance on the lake or even in a venue in Sylvan Lake, particularly with world-class jazz artists combining with (the orchestra),” he said. “I think it’s going to be a highlight of the cultural events in Central Alberta this year.”
Allison, who plays saxophone, and his wife Fisher, a jazz vocalist, have both had leadership roles in the organizing of the town’s popular Jazz at the Lake Festival, which went on hiatus this year.
The partnership with the Red Deer Symphony Orchestra for this year’s event will create a temporary new look for the festival, but Allison is confident it will be every bit as special.
“To put a jazz trio and then a vocal soloist and a horn soloist with the full orchestra, it’s really exciting for us,” he said, adding the event will mark a long-anticipated return to Sylvan Lake for renowned jazz drummer Dan Brubeck.
“Dan Brubeck was our headliner with his quartet at the festival eight years ago, and he just tore it up. They got a standing ovation after the second or third tune of the concert — I had never seen anything like that before.”
Music from Brubeck’s latest album will be performed in orchestral arrangements, with the other musicians joining in.
A portion of Centennial Park will be fenced off for the occasion, which will take place rain or shine. Spectators are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets.
Tickets cost $125, and may be purchased online at www.rdso.ca, or by calling 403-340-2948. Dinner and a drink are included.
Gates will open at 6:30 p.m., with the concert expected to wrap up by 10 p.m.