Compaq Big Band featuring special guest vocalist Anaïs Reno
The exciting 19-piece Compaq Big Band welcomes jazz phenom Anaïs Reno as our very special guest vocalist – her first public performance in Boston! A rising star in her hometown of New York City - and far beyond - Anaïs will be singing arrangements from the Great American Songbook as performed by Ella Fitzgerald with the Duke Ellington Orchestra, as well as other jazz classics as sung by Ella, Carmen McRae, Anita O’Day, Helen O’Connell, and more. A few very hip, more modern takes on timeless vocals will be sprinkled in, such as John Clayton’s powerful version of “Fever”. And, we’ll round out the evening with a few tasty instrumental arrangements from the likes of Chris Walden, Callum Au, and Gordon Goodwin.
The perfect exclamation point to the evening will be a separately ticketed, post-show Meet & Greet with Anaïs and many of the band members, where signed copies of both of Anaïs’ CDs, plus signed bottles of the Artist Wine commemorating the event, will be available for purchase.
Anaïs appears regularly at iconic music venues such as Birdland in New York City, Chris’ Jazz Club in Philadelphia, and at PizzaExpress in London. Her first album, “Lovesome Thing: Anaïs Reno sings Ellington & Strayhorn”, debuted in 2021, and is a 12-song compilation of 100% Duke Ellington/Billy Strayhorn collaborations that rose quickly to #6 on the jazz charts. Her second album has just been released and is titled “Anaïs Reno at PizzaExpress Live - in London“ – recorded last year at the iconic club’s trendy Soho flagship location.
The Compaq Big Band is one of the longest continuously operating large-format jazz ensembles in New England. Formed in 1975, the group has performed for hundreds of clients across the region and beyond, impressing crowds at swing dances, gala celebrations, nonprofit fundraisers, music festivals, summer concerts, and legendary Boston area music venues. It features the power of 14 horns, a cookin’ rhythm section, accomplished instrumental soloists, a rotation of outstanding regional vocalists, one of the most exciting ‘books’ in New England, and an unrivaled passion for technical production.
For more on both the band and Anaïs’ impressive resume check out www.compaqbigband.com/240519.php.
Post-Show Meet & Greet available with Anaïs Reno & select members of Compaq Big Band
- Photo Opportunity with Anaïs
- Glass of City Winery Bubbles
