LJO Celebrates Divas and Drummers
10/02/25The La Crosse Jazz Orchestra kicks off its fall 2025 indoor concert season with "Divas and Drummers" on Oct. 9 and 10 at the Cappella Performing Arts Center.
"This electrifying performance showcases two iconic forces of jazz, pairing the timeless vocals of the genre's legendary divas with the explosive energy of compositions from master drumming bandleaders," says LJO director Greg Balfany.
The concert will feature band vocalist Cathy Reitz as she channels the spirit and style of jazz greats like Sarah Vaughan, Ella Fitzgerald and Natalie Cole. The audience will be treated to a repertoire of timeless classics, including "Cheek to Cheek," "Orange Colored Sky," "At Last" and "Sway."
Providing the powerful rhythmic foundation, drummer Rich MacDonald will drive the orchestra through selections from iconic drummer-bandleaders Chick Webb, Louis Bellson, Buddy Rich and more. The program will feature thrilling instrumental pieces such as "Leave Us Leap," "Tiptoe" and a dynamic "West Side Story" medley.
The evening will also spotlight the exceptional talent within the orchestra, including featured solos from:
· Jeff Erickson on tenor saxophone
· Jon Ailabouni on trumpet
· George Von Arx on trombone
· Luke Thering on piano
The concerts start at 7:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 9 and Friday, Oct. 10, 2025, at the Cappella Performing Arts Center, 721 King St., La Crosse. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Tickets are available online or in person at the Cappella Performing Arts Center.
ABOUT THE BAND
The La Crosse Jazz Orchestra is the premier big band of western Wisconsin. Under the direction of Greg Balfany, the ensemble is best known for its long-running Jazz in the Park concert series. The LJO is committed to preserving and promoting the art of jazz through high-quality public performances. The group operates under the fiscal sponsorship of the La Crosse Community Nonprofits Association, an affiliate program of the La Crosse Area Community Foundation.