Anticipation is driving me crazy. That’s because this Friday, May 18 and Saturday, May 19, the Columbus Jazz Orchestra joins the 200-voice Harmony Project at the Lincoln Theatre in a spectacular concert called, “Raise Me Up!” The excitement for this concert has been brewing for over a year and as we get closer I’m so filled with excitement that I find it harder and harder to get a good night’s sleep.

Imagine a stage packed full of 218 musicians and singers filled with raw energy, passion, and emotion. Think of the music that lifts YOU up. Patriotic songs, jazz standards, inspirational songs and even classic rock ‘n’ roll. We’ve got ya covered. The Harmony Project (conducted by the amazing David Brown) and the Columbus Jazz Orchestra will give you all that and more.

The inspiration doesn’t stop there! You see The Harmony Project “embraces the mission of transforming the community through service and song.” Rather than talk about it, their conductor David Brown, along with members and staff of the Columbus Jazz Orchestra, and the Harmony Project joined together to build a Habitat For Humanity home. This is true community service backed up with hard work and action. I want you to join me at the concerts and personally thank each of the individuals who participated in this event to make Columbus better, stronger and more vibrant.

Speaking of community service, our good friends Ann and Tom Hoaglin’s efforts assured the success of this concert. Join me in a standing ovation for them as well as our series sponsor, Sequent, for their unwavering support for all of our efforts.

As you can see I’m excited. We never forget the magical moments when a song enters our heart and lifts us to higher heights. That kind of magic WILL happen this weekend. I look forward to seeing you this Friday and Saturday for a jubilant concert experience bursting with the spirit of 200 voices, 16 swingin’ jazz musicians and enough musical electricity to “RAISE YOU UP!”

Trumpetblowingly Yours,
Byron Stripling

P.S.: This concert will be so special that I’ve asked Bobby Floyd if he’d honor us with a special version of “Amazing Grace.” You don’t wanna miss that!