The Tommy Thompson Jazz Ensemble includes vocalist Julie-Anne Johnson, Ron Steen on Drums, Michael York on saxophone, Steve Christofferson on piano and Paula Mazzio on trumpet. The group will perform classic jazz compositions from Broadway and Hollywood and include Be-Bop and Latin music in the program. The music of George Gershwin, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Miles Davis, Dizzie Gillespie, Jerome Kern, Oscar Hammerstein, Bill Evans and Chick Corea will be featured in the performance. Fortissimo is an Oregon Symphony volunteer organization that offers educational resources, member benefits and networking opportunities. Fortissimo volunteer activities support the Oregon Symphony's efforts to reach new and younger audiences.
Members assist with fundraisers, pre-concert receptions and general office support.
Tickets also may be purchased at the door, if available. All proceeds benefit the Oregon Symphony. In addition to his position as an Oregon Symphony bassist, Thompson is also an accordion player. He has played since he was five, and later studied with Eileen Hagen. Thompson was among the students Hagen took to New York City in 1962 to compete in the National Accordion Competition.