Here are some recent additions to MI’s winter event schedule:
January 29: Kevin Toney
A concert/keyboard master class by the Grammy-nominated conductor for Seal, Annie Lennox, Pink, Aretha Franklin, Trisha Yearwood; music director for Patti Austin and Michael McDonald; keyboard player with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles and Pink; and writer of the theme song for the Winter Olympics. His new CD Sweet Spot (Shanachie) has just been released. Kevin’s band includes Craig T.Cooper (guitar), Rayford Griffin (drums), Noriko Olling (keys), BIT instructor Ernest Tibbs (bass) and Kevin Ricard (percussion).
February 12: Ellis Hall & Friends
A concert by the multi-talented singer-keyboard player-composer for Tower of Power, Molotov, Juanes, Lowell George, Kenny G, Duo-Tones, Ray Charles, Warren Hill and the "California Raisin Song". For this show, Ellis will be backed by an all-star ensemble including drummer Johnny Friday (Natalie Cole Tom Scott), bassist Stan Sargeant (Tonight Show, Jodi Watley, Joe Cocker, Mindi Abair), guitarist Danny Jacobs (Tower of Power, Sheena Easton, Bette Midler), keyboards and vocals by Carlos Murguia (Three Dog Night, Luis Miguel), saxophonist Jason Freeze (Wilson Phillips, Goo Goo Dolls, Liz Phair) and background vocals by Shea Chambers, Melanie Taylor and Christi Black.
March 4: James Gadson & Friends
The multi-platinum drummer for James Brown and a host of others will be appearing with his band.
April 22: Derek Trucks Band
This just in! Slide guitar phenom Derek Trucks and band are coming to MI for a concert / Q&A session with MI students. Stay tuned for details…