The soulful strains of jazz are set to echo over the tranquil waters of Ford Cove as Straight Ahead, Detroit’s esteemed all-female jazz ensemble, prepares to take the stage. It’s not just a performance — it’s an invitation to immerse yourself in a tapestry of sound, an evening that vibrates with the very essence of music. Jazz aficionados and those simply seeking an enchanting night out — take note of this must-attend event!
The Sound of Detroit’s Rhythmic Resilience
Straight Ahead is more than just a name; it’s a testament to the fortitude and tenacity of these jazz luminaries. Hailing from a city lauded for its indomitable spirit and a history rich in musical excellence, each note they play is infused with the soul that defines Detroit. Since their formation in 1987, Straight Ahead has been pushing boundaries, seamlessly weaving together genres from bop to R&B, bringing home a GRAMMY nomination and leaving audiences spellbound with their performances.
A Date to Remember — Friday, March 22nd
On the evening of March 22nd, the Lake Shore Room will transform into a sanctuary for the senses. It’s not merely a performance; it’s an experience. Guests can anticipate an evening that goes beyond listening. It’s about feeling the music in the air, tasting the notes in the carefully curated drinks at the cash bar, and listening to melodies that harmonize with the gentle lapping of the cove’s waves.
Pre-Show Dinner at the Continental
Looking to elevate the rhythm of the night? Start with a pre-show dinner at the renowned Continental. Indulge in a culinary overture recommended by the artists themselves. Secure your reservation and set the stage for a night where every tune is accompanied by the finest selection of food and drink the region has to offer.
How to Secure Your Spot for the Evening
With this impeccable blend of music and setting, tickets for this event are in high demand. Jazz enthusiasts are urged to secure their spots early. For those keen on reveling in Straight Ahead’s spellbinding performance, admission is as follows:
- Friend of Ford House/Member Adult: $30
- Public Adult: $40
It’s an investment in an evening that promises a return of cove-side enchantment and musical escapism.
Immerse Yourself in Detroit’s Jazz Legacy
To attend the Straight Ahead performance is to engage with the living legacy of Detroit’s jazz scene — a heritage marked by innovation and diversity, a trait famously embodied by this all-female ensemble.
The all-female quartet/quintet, Straight Ahead, has been nominated for a GRAMMY award. They perform a diverse range of music, including bop, poppish, modern jazz, R&B, and fusion. The group was formed in Detroit in 1987, and its members include lead singer Cynthia Dewberry (who also played flute), violinist Carter, keyboardist Eileen Orr, bassist Marion Hayden-Banfield, and drummer Gayelynn McKinney. All of the musicians are also vocalists. Straight Ahead was a finalist in the 1989 Sony Innovators competition, and the following year, they had the honor of opening for Nina Simone at the Montreux Jazz Festival.
An Invitation to Transcend
The Concert Over the Cove with Straight Ahead is more than just a concert. It’s a chance to transcend the everyday, to lose oneself in the timelessness of music, and to celebrate the cultural tapestry that is Detroit jazz. Don’t miss the chance to join in this extraordinary event. Reserve your spot, and join us for an unforgettable night of straight-ahead jazz by the cove.
