With Uptown Nights (seen March 8), the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra paid tribute to the world of jazz as it was founded on the talents of Harlem era musicians. The rise of jazz coincided with the emergence of incredible musicians like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. As it became increasingly popular throughout the Roaring Twenties, jazz served as an outlet for expression and freedom, with its unpredictability and syncopation resonating with audiences for generations to come. Beyond all else, jazz is a living, breathing thing, and trumpeter Byron Stripling embodies this.
Byron Stripling. Photo: Madeline Boldt
Stripling has a presence like no other, with a remarkable ability to seamlessly transition between singing, conducting the orchestra, and playing the trumpet. A born showman, his charisma, humour, and stage presence were evident before he even played the first note. His musical essence was reminiscent of jazz icon Louis Armstrong, with the voice of a rich baritone and an ability to command the trumpet with an unforgettably powerful tone.
The show kicked off with the legendary classic, “It Don’t Mean A Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing”, with all three guest artists contributing to this incredible intro to the golden era of jazz. Stripling’s scatting mixed with the playful voice of vocalist Sydney McSweeney set the tone for an energetic and entertaining performance, with tap dancer Leo Manzari brushing onto centre stage later in the piece.
Sydney McSweeney. Photo: Madeline Boldt
McSweeney delivered a standout performance, with her voice going from smooth and sultry to perky and playful, matching each song’s tone perfectly. Her vocal versatility was incredible.
The evening featured a number of commendable sax solos and the double bass at centre stage, building the rhythmic backbone alongside the drums. The orchestra enriched the performance with the depth and musical diversity that a smaller ensemble can lack.
Manzari’s remarkable flair for tap dancing shone through during a number of songs, particularly “Smile, Darn Ya, Smile,” “I Won’t Dance” and “You Gotta Give Me That Rhythm” which was paired with a hilarious skit with Stripling ‘teaching’ him the art of rhythm. Manzari commanded his body with incredible control, and yet simultaneously channeled a sense of effortless ease with each step.
Leo Manzari. Photo: Madeline Boldt
This trio perfectly replicated the feel of Harlem era jazz. The songs that made up the carefully curated setlist were among those that revolutionized the popular music scene. Duke Ellington’s impact is undeniable; his compositions captivated the hearts, ears, and souls of America, as did Stripling with anyone present at the Orpheum Theatre on March 8.
It was a lighthearted and uplifting evening – not a single audience member left that theatre without a smile on their face and rhythm in their step.
For more of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra’s events, visit https://www.vancouversymphony.ca/
