The San Luis Obispo Wind Orchestra is kicking off its 2015-16 season with a new tradition – the start of an annual pops concert. By George!, a presentation of the music by George Gershwin, will hit the main stage of the Cuesta College Cultural and Performing Arts Center (CPAC) on September 27 at 3:00 p.m. Joining the SLO Winds is vocalist Inga Swearingen and pianist Rudolf Budginas.
“George Gershwin is one of the most popular and beloved American composers who synthesized classical, popular and jazz music,” said President of SLO Winds Shannon McNeely. “We are so excited for the community to come out and enjoy this unique blend of American music, along with the talents of local favorite Inga and internationally known Rudolf.”
Swearingen, a Cuesta College associate faculty member and 2014 Honored Alum, will perform Embraceable You, Someone to Watch Over Me, and more. Nationally recognized, Swearingen is an accomplished jazz vocalist, appearing on the live radio broadcast “A Prairie Home Companion” with Garrison Keillor and in many local venues.
Budginas, who built an international career when he lived on the Central Coast, will perform Rhapsody in Blue. A native of Latvia, Budginas is known for making music accessible to audiences of all ages.
The concert is a fundraiser for the SLO Winds. Wine and hors d‘oeuvres will be served during intermission and an artist reception will be held after the concert. Tickets can be purchased online at www.cpactickets.cuesta.edu and are $30 for adults; $15 for students.
The San Luis Obispo Wind Orchestra (also known as SLO Winds) is a 45-member group of wind and percussion players that perform throughout the Central Coast. The non-profit ensemble is under the auspices of Cuesta College’s Community Programs.
For more information on SLO Winds and a full list of the 2015-16 concerts, please visit www.slowinds.org or call (805) 464-9434.