Chicago a cappella shares a nostalgic musical journey

Chicago a cappella performed the “American Songbook” on Saturday, April 22, at Ganz Hall on Michigan Avenue. This unique vocal ensemble shares songs that have stood the test of time. It’s an incredible musical journey, which will remind you of simpler times. The ten talented voices mixed well together without the support of any musical instruments. There was a little beat boxing and hand trumpets, which just added to the overall performance. Many of these classic songs brought back memories and emotionally moved the enthusiastic audience. The second song, “Love Walked In,” by George and Ira Gershwin, brought some tears to the eyes of the audience. Other notable songs included “I’ve Got You Under My Skin” by Cole Porter and “Come Fly with Me” by Jimmy Van Heusen and Sammy Cahn. The ensemble performed 19 songs in all. The program is led by Artistic Director John William Trotter with music direction by Paul Langford.

The "American Songbook" contains the most influential popular songs and jazz standards from the early 20th century. Many of these enduring tunes are from 1920 to 1950 and were created for Broadway theater and Hollywood musical films. The tunes were interpreted by legendary vocalists like Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald and tap into our romantic yearnings, experiences, and memories. These songs were written by Gershwin, Porter, Jerome Kern, and Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein and will sweep you off your feet. 

“It has been 10 years since we did a full concert of American Songbook tunes,” said Matt Greenberg, executive director of Chicago a cappella. “The first time it was performed, in Spring 2013, it was John William Trotter’s first time working with the group as music director. So, this is the 10th anniversary of our collaboration with him. John, of course, became our artistic director in 2020, and he updated the program for this remounting. This current program is being prepared by guest music director Paul Langford.”

For more information about Chicago a cappella, visit their website or call (773) 281-7820.

Upcoming Performances for “American Songbook”:

• Friday, April 28, 2023, 8 PM, WENTZ CONCERT HALL, 171 E. Chicago Ave., Naperville, IL 60540

• Sunday, April 30, 2023, 4 PM, PILGRIM CONGREGATIONAL CHURCH, 460 Lake Street, Oak Park, IL 60302