The series kicks off Sunday afternoon May 25th with Boston native and vocalist Cassandre McKinley
BROADWAYWORLD.com – The Spire Center for Performing Arts will present Sunday Serenades, a new series celebrating the rich sounds of jazz, swing, big band, classical crossover, and Broadway favorites. The series kicks off Sunday afternoon May 25th with Boston native and vocalist Cassandre McKinley.
Other shows announced for the series include award-winning big band A Swingin’ Affair on June 22; Echoes of Fusion, a trio blending Venezuelan folk music, jazz, and classical influences, on June 29; cello and vocal duo BRANDEN & JAMES, presenting their show Cellovoci with Effie Passero, on July 27; trombonist Charlie Halloran and his band on August 10; and Michael Dutra and his band performing the great songs of Frank Sinatra on October 26. Tickets go on sale for these shows on Saturday, March 1, at 6:00 a.m. at spirecenter.org.
“We are excited to introduce our new series Sunday Serenades to the Spire presenting amazing world-class musicians for an experience that’s both sophisticated and exhilarating. Through this unique programming we expect a different kind of energy in the building, ” said Dot McDonough, Director of Marketing and Operations. “The Spire Center is always expanding its offerings. This series, which will run on select Sunday afternoons throughout the year will make us more accessible to audiences that might not be able to make a night time show.”
Today, Cassandre McKinley is deeply rooted in a recording career, having released 5 solo albums, and is revered for her spirited and impassioned live performances illustrating evidentially her extensive range and vocal power.
Her most notable collaborations include those with Peter Eldridge (New York Voices), Duke Levine, Dave Mattacks, Clay Osborne, Bernard Purdie, and Herb Pomeroy. She appeared as a regular featured artist alongside the great J. Geils in his named Jazz & Blues Review to sold-out audiences throughout New England.
In honor of Frank Sinatra’s timeless music returning to Billboard 200’s “top 10” albums in 2025, A Swingin’ Affair presents 25 of Sinatra’s top hits, the voice of a generation, dovetailed among captivating stories of the “Rat Pack,” a little ol’ blue-eyes banter, and tunes served straight up with a twist from the Chairman of the Board’s swoon music anthology. “The Best is Yet to Come” features greater Boston’s all-star professional performing artists, convened in captivating swing and song – a rare opportunity! Revel in 16 inspired instrumentalists as they dive into the toe tappin’ Great American Songbook, showcasing the legendary tunes of Frank Sinatra and more. Swoon over the huge swingin’ sound of professional frontman vocalist Donnie Norton, and a special guest vocalist, as bandleader Steve Bass brings all the class, fun, and excitement of Sinatra’s soundstage to you! Hit songs include “Fly Me To the Moon” and “I’ve Got The World On A String,” “New York, New York,” and so much more, delivered with a twist from the circa-authentic stage set. No big band concert would be complete without a little dancing in the aisles, so wear your dancing shoes, and sway the night away! Tickets are available here.
By Chloe Rabinowitz
