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| Jazz vocalist Kate Patterson |
Jazz singer Kate Patterson closed out the 22nd Jazz Forum Concert series at the Grosse Pointe Unitarian Church Wednesday evening. For 20 years, Patterson has performed at the Jazz Forum, and her concert is the most anticipated. This time, Patterson dedicated the concert to her buddy the late jazz bassist Don Mayberry. The bassist passed away in April of a massive heart attack. Patterson and Mayberry worked together off and on for 28 years. Some of Mayberry's relatives were on hand.
The concert began at 8:00pm sharp. Patterson made a grand entrance, gliding down the aisle blowing a harmonica in a white dress that looked hand-stitched by Valentino. When Patterson reached the bandstand, she guided her band—Steve Woods, Dan Pliskow, Johnny Trudell, Jim Wyse, Robert Tye, Chuck Shermetaro and Dave Taylor—throw “If I Had You”. The band was decked out in black tuxedos. The band's playing was also sharp. All evening, Patterson voice was robust, which was surprising because she's been ill lately. That didn't slow her down. Patterson had a field date with the standards she sung.
The two-hour concert had three unforgettable moments. The first was saxophonist Steve Woods' duet with clarinetist Jim Wyse on “Petite Fleure”. The second was Patterson's duet with guitarist Robert Tye on the lullaby “Little Man You Had a Busy Day”. She sung it slowly and softly like trying to lull a child to sleep. The third memorable moment occurred while Patterson performed Don Mayberry’s favorite Roger and Hammerstein song “You’ll Never Walk Alone”. Patterson broke down. When she pulled herself together, Patterson said: “If it’s raining after the concert it’s Don crying tears of joy in heaven”.
Patterson has stagecraft. Patterson prefaced songs with humorous stories, made off-handed jokes, and egged on her sidemen like a soccer mom. For 16 years, Patterson has battled leukemia. Lately, she’s been in and out of the hospital, undergoing experimental treatment. Wednesday evening, Patterson was robust, was dancing and was singing up a storm.
I heard her sing at one of our class reunion dinners and she is fantastic....sorry i was not at the concert, i know i would have enjoyed that very much....and i wish her all the best in any future endeavors she attempts.. carol holtcamp howey
ReplyDeleteHaving lived in Japan for the last 17 years, I haven't seen Kate much, except for once in the Detroit airport during a layover. But WOW! What I read sounds like the Kate of old when she was at The Whitney with Mike Zaporski.
ReplyDeleteIt's great to hear you 're using that gorgeous diaphragm we love...all my love, Kate, and keep jazzin' it up forever!
My wife and I attened Kate's concert last night and while I've known Kate since the 60's through her father's political campaigns in River Rouge, this was my first time seeing her perform. It was FANTASTIC! Her singing ranged from upbeat,strong and lively; then caress you gently in a ballad.
ReplyDeleteThe musicians with her were the some of the best in the business.Each showcased their amazing abilities; and so did our Kate in a over-too-soon two hour show. We shall return! Daryl and Ruth Puckett, Standish, Mi
My Mother, husband and I were there Wednesday evening and the only way to describe Kate is INCOMPARABLE, AMAZING, and ONE OF A KIND!!! She reaches inside of you and touches your very soul........... We can't wait to see her again and listen to her velvety voice....
ReplyDeleteKate was dazzling! I know Kate has not been well, but she performed as the consumate professional I know her to be. Kate has always said that she 'must sing' and sing she did. I am proud to call Kate my friend and say that her concert was exceptional entertainment. I can't wait to hear her again, real soon. We love you, Kate.
ReplyDeleteCass & Phyllis
Kent said...
ReplyDeleteShe is a true artist in the field of music, and one worth hearing.
Inspite of very serious medical issues, she has continued her career for supporting audiences. In person, or through recordings, she is one of lasting value, and worthy of future enjoyment.
I have never seen Kate sing at a concert but I have heard her voice.She sounds like an angel from heaven. I am very glad to see that she is getting out there and doing her thing. Kate is a wonderful person that has been blessed from God with a wonderful personality. Kate and Jim are very good friends of mine,the absolute best neighbors that I have ever had! Keep up the good work and make sure to let me know when your next show is. I would be honored to be there.Your neighbor, Craig Gomez
ReplyDeleteEnjoyed Kate's voice for the first time at one of our reunion dinners. Best wishes to both Kate and Jim as she fights her health issues. Barb Sichak Meloche
ReplyDeleteOn a personal level, a remarkable person.
ReplyDeleteI have heard Kate sing a few times and she is a wonderful singer. I am sorry we were not able to attend the concert. Kate is a strong person and she amazes me with her positive strength. All our love to her.
ReplyDeleteI was really upset that I didn't get to attend the Spring Fling or the concert. I've listened to her sing and am very impressed. What a great lady!
ReplyDeleteThe above remark says it's from safollbaum when in fact it came from Mary Ann and again from Mary Ann I think you're great.
ReplyDeleteshe is a great singer and woman!!!!!!!
ReplyDeleteif you want to know how she is i can tell you on the 11th june as i am going to stay with her for a week.
she is the greatest singer ever!
lots of love her neice and no.1 fan cassie
i have always known kate to be the best singer of the 20th/21st century -- right up there with frank, liza, barbara, etc. she is dazzling and this was her best concert ever. i don't know how she does it!! keep on keeping on!
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