On Tuesday nights throughout the summer, the Festival of Arts’ roster of world-famous musicians and music aficionados introduce their favorite up and coming performers.On July 18th, it’s John Proulx (pronounced Proo), jazz scene aficionado in singing, piano and composing. His piano playing is hot and swinging and his voice recalls the smooth, mellow sounds of a young Chet Baker. In addition to his own trio, John has performed with the likes of Anita O’Day, Melissa Manchester, Michael Feinstein, Natalie Cole, and Marian McPartland.
John will be introduced to the stage by none other than Melissa Manchester, a powerhouse since the 1970s. Her songwriting and performances include Midnight Blue, co-writing with Kenny Loggins on Whenever I Call You Friend, Don’t Cry Out Loud, the Ice Castles movie theme, Looking Through the Eyes of Love, the Grammy winner, You Should Hear How She Talks About You, and many many more. She’s also starred in a variety of TV, movie and theater productions. As John Proulx has shared her stage, it should be an interesting and enthusiastic introduction.
The Rising Stars series takes place every Tuesday evening at the Festival of Arts grounds.