Michel Legrand’s music to be celebrated with all-star charity concert
The legendary film composer and jazz pianist died in January
A number of stars have rallied behind a concert to pay tribute to Michel Legrand - the French film composer, conductor and jazz pianist who unexpectedly died in January aged 86. He had been due to play a show with the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra in the autumn, which will now become a celebration of Michel’s life and career with guest singers including Alison Moyet and Maria Friedman, alongside contributions from the likes of Quincy Jones and Sir Michael Caine, with more to be announced.
It’s all to be led by Ronnie’s Musical Director James Pearson, who tells us the concert will be rooted in Legrand’s 1999 Big Band Jazz album. They’ll also have a chance to visit some of his greatest hits including the songs ‘Windmills of your Mind’, ‘Ray Blues’, ‘Summer of 42’, ‘The Umbrellas of Cherbourg’, ‘Dingo Rock’ and many more.
James Albrecht of Fane Productions told Jazz FM: “We are so happy that artists are lining up to pay tribute to Michel in this way. Most of them have their own personal connections to him and will be choosing which songs they will perform. This is a fitting way to pay tribute and we know it will be an unforgettable evening for artists and audiences alike.”
Proceeds from the show will go to a music charity. It’s all happening at London’s Royal Festival Hall on September 20th, with tickets available now via www.southbankcentre.co.uk/