You’re Invited to Jeff Tyzik’s Birthday Benefit Bash!

This weekend, Principal Pops Conductor Jeff Tyzik will celebrate his 60th birthday in style, and you’re invited to join in the festivities! Saturday, July 30 at 8:00 pm in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, Jeff will lead the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra in a musical celebration, complete with special performances by some of Jeff’s close friends, and a few extra surprises. In addition to celebrating his birthday, the concert also will celebrate the RPO Musicians, with all proceeds benefiting the RPO Musicians’ Pension Fund.

Jeff’s birthday bash will feature a wide range of festive favorites, including some of his own compositions and arrangements. The program also will include works by Shostakovich, Mozart, John Williams, Dave Brubeck, and the RPO’s own Wes Nance. Several RPO musicians will take to the stage as featured soloists, including David Brickman, Peter Kurau, Jim Tiller, Michael Griffin, Ray Ricker, and Mark Kellogg. Plus, tenor Tonio DiPaolo and Latin jazz quintet Mambo Kings will both be on hand for special performances.

Tenor Tonio DiPaolo has performed with ensembles around the world, including the Metropolitan Opera, the Los Angeles Philharmonic, and the London Symphony Orchestra. After singing with virtually every major opera company across North America, DiPaolo now sings for special occasions and friends, and will perform a medley of Italian Popular Songs for Jeff’s birthday celebration.

Recognized as Upstate New York’s foremost Latin jazz ensemble, Rochester’s own Mambo Kings have earned a national reputation for their explosive blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz improvisation. Mambo Kings made their orchestral debut in 1997 with Jeff Tyzik and the RPO. Since then, they have performed with numerous orchestras in cities around the world, including Baltimore, Detroit, and Dallas. Now, Mambo Kings will return to Eastman Theatre, performing favorites such as Day Tripper and Oye Como Va, as well as Dave Brubeck’s Blue Mambo a la Turk.

This concert is a wonderful opportunity to hear some great music, celebrate our remarkable Principal Pops Conductor, and pay tribute to our world-class musicians. Please join us for this special event, and don’t forget to visit Jeff’s new fan page on Facebook to send him a birthday greeting of your own!

The suggested minimum ticket prices for this concert are $25 (zones 3 & 4), $45 (zones 1 & 2), and $65 (box seats). All donations above-and-beyond ticket prices are encouraged. At all Kodak Hall concerts, we encourage ‘summer casual’ attire. To purchase tickets, call 454-2100 or click here.