The last River Concert of the 2012 summer season was performed by the Chesapeake Orchestra, Music Director Jeffrey Silberschlag and some very talented local singers and instrumentalists on the green at St. Mary’s College of Maryland on Friday July 27th.  Despite the light persistent rain and oppressive summer humidity, the concert continued unabated, while umbrellas popped out across the grass.  Most, if not all, of the vendors were in attendance and a quilt was raffled away.

Igor Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite 1919 started the first portion of the concert.   The work had a soft and ominous beginning, and then became gentler in the second movement.  The spectacular finale of the Suite slowly grew in pace and volume to a beautiful and joyful ending.

Charlie “Bird” Parker’s smooth jazz music was up next, featuring 5 saxes, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass and drums.  Some of the musicians included Don Stapleson (current jazz ensemble director for the college), Rick Humphrey (former jazz ensemble director) and Clarence Knight.  Among the musical pieces played were “Just Friends” and “Star Eyes”.   Mr. Stapleson shared that he was celebrating his 31st anniversary and Silberschlag, not to be outdone, teased that it was his 32nd anniversary, a possibly questionable statement.

After intermission the music continued with a sort of local music variety show. Gretchen Richie, a jazz singer from the Café des Artistes restaurant in Leonardtown, was featured first.  In a vibrant red dress, she began with a popular jazz piece “Beginning to See the Light” and pleasantly sang a love song, “Until It’s Time for You To Go”.

Joe Norris, local folk singer and guitarist, continued the concert with a beautiful soft gentle song called “In My Dreams”.  His second song was about a Piscataway prayer hoping that the Piscataway would be brought back together, called something like “On the Shores of My Home” which brought a number of people to their feet.  Mr. Norris’ family goes back to 1637 in St. Mary’s County and he has been singing since he was 3.

Singer Jennifer Anne Cooper performed next.  She has had broad musical experience ranging from opera and musical theater to jazz and blues.  She sparkled on the stage with “Sway” (made famous by Dean Martin), and “Blue Skies”.  Both songs were entertaining.  Ms. Cooper had an irresistible smile and was quite comfortable on the stage.   Mr. Silberschlag joked that she needed a seat belt to be held down (since she was constantly moving and very enthusiastic).

Rick Humphrey, saxophonist, continued with “True North” and “Cool Jazz”.  He had very dexterous fingers and hit some exceptionally high notes.

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