by Tony Zambito
We are privileged to have joining us on stage at Iris this coming Saturday, March 24th, the marvelous vocalist Mari McNeil. While being owner and partner of Buffalo Creative Group, Mari carves out time to sing the classic jazz standards that touches the heart with her styling and phrasing. Mari is married to the highly regarded local actor David Lundy - a deep reservoir of creativity in this marriage!
Mari draws from the experiences in her life to bring alive, with feeling, the stories these songs tell. Whether they are up-tempo songs or the slow and sometimes heartbreaking ballads, Mari delivers each with the conviction, passon, and energy that has captivated audiences with her performances. She has also played with some of our best musicians including genius piano talent Michael McNeill - no relations believe it or not and yes spelled with two l's.
A few questions for Mari:
What are some of your favorite songs?
"I love the classics. They touch the heart like no other songs can. Some of my favorites are How High The Moon, Do Nothing 'til You Hear From Me, and I Remember You."
Who were your main influences?
"There are so many! I have to start with Ella Fitzgerald. Others I love are Diana Krall, Holly Cole, the Indigo Girls, and Jeri Southern."
If you could only take one album with you on a trip, what album would it be and why?
"That probably changes from day to day, but right now? The Complete Tony Bennett/Bill Evans Recordings. It's cheating because it's actually 2 albums, but I'd take it because I'm really working on my phrasing and paying closer attention to the relationship between a singer and the pianist. They are both so "in the pocket" on this album. I can learn from it"
We are excited and looking forward to Mari McNeil gracing the stage with her presence this Saturday. Please do make plans to come out and hear the classic jazz songs that touch our heart.
Visit Mari McNeil's new web site: www.marimcneil.com
Iris in the Maple Entertainment Center
$5 at the door
Phone: (716) 831-3271
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