by Sarah Kugler
ORANGE CITY – One might not think that classical violin melds well with soulful blues, but this distinct, high-energy brand of music is Lionel Young’s specialty. He returns to Orange City’s Windmill Park on Wednesday, June 12 at 7 PM for what promises to be an evening of fun entertainment from world-class performers. http://lionelyoung.net/music
Born in Rochester, New York and classically trained on the violin at the Eastman School of Music, Young crafted his own unique style by combining elements of blues classics with his talent on the electric violin.
His work has thrilled audiences and critics alike, earning him prestigious awards including The Pittsburg Symphony’s Young Artist Award, Carnegie-Mellon’s Concerto Contest, and The International Blues Challenge’s solo award; The Lionel Young Band’s subsequent victory at the IBC made Young the first repeat champion in the award’s history.
In addition to his impressive repertoire of awards, Young has shared the stage with a number of well-known performers ranging from Robert Plant and Jimmy Paige to Stevie Wonder to Homesick James.
The Lionel Young Band, of Boulder CO, includes AnDré Mali on trumpet, Dexter Payne on sax, clarinet, and harmonica, Kim Stone on bass, and Jay Forrest on drums and vocals.
Young brings interpretations of blues classics by Willie Dixon, Leadbelly, and Stevie Ray Vaughan to his show as well as his original work, which includes the award-winning piece “Brown Cloud Over Denver.”
Members of the Orange City community who attended last year’s late May show in the Orange City town hall, raved about the performance, saying:
“FANTASTIC SHOW! Great world-class musicians, wonderful crowd interaction, and dancing by kids and adults!”
“Best blues performance we’ve ever seen, and in Orange City, Iowa!”
“Amazing performers. Orange City needs another chance to see these guys.”
This free event, part of the Onstage Orange City series, is sponsored by Quatro Composites™ and Diamond Vogel Paint, in conjunction with the Orange City Arts Council. Lionel Young replaces the originally scheduled band, Lil’ Brian and the Travelers.
Concessions will be offered. Bring lawn chairs or blankets. Rain location is the Orange City town hall.
For more information or weather-related announcements, see orangecityarts.net or facebook.com/ocArts, or email ocArts@orangecityiowa.com. Young’s website is lionelyoung.net.
