Sympatico & Strathcona Big Band

The Strathcona Big Band is delighted to return to the Rivercity Stage. With its roots going back as far as the 1970’s when the Campa Big Band was in full swing, this group keeps the big band sound alive. We will be bringing you a mix of old and new arrangements featuring the music of Wynton Marsalis, Benny Goodman and George Gershwin just to name a few. The band will feature many musical friends including some new additions to the band, vocalists Amy Lelliot and Matthew Baker, and members of Sympatico, Rachel Cooper and Tom Tinsley.

Sympatico

Sympatico is led by Don MacKay on 5 string bass and Michael Eddy on keyboards and features Rachel Cooper on saxes, clarinet and EWI, Jay Havelaar on trumpet and flugelhorn, and Tom Tinsley on drums.

These well known and very experienced Vancouver Island musicians play an exciting program featuring a taste of Chick Corea’s vast repertoire.

On piano/synth, Michael Eddy maintains a solid, sensitive approach to accompaniment while also performing some very fiery solos. Incredible talent and a compassionate approach to tackling very challenging music makes him an absolute pleasure to listen to.

Rachel Cooper and Jay Havelaar play so well together that at times you would think you were listening to one instrument, not two. With five instruments between them as well as assorted percussion; they give Sympatico, symbiotic synergy.

On 5 string bass, Don MacKay brings a solidity to the harmonic and rhythmic aspects of the band while also locking in melodically when needed. His arrangements have been used extensively for this program.

Drummer Tom Tinsley brings to the band a wealth of musical expertise and plays with both the energy and taste needed to perform Sympatico’s music.

Sympatico is an energetic infusion of talent, conceived to be unique and enjoyed by all!

Tickets: $25 Admission (+applicable fees)