Panoramic with Liam Teague performs March 25 at Mendelssohn

Staff Report

Charlotte’s Web will present “Calypso, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian—world rhythms” featuring Panoramic with Liam Teague at 7:30 p.m., Friday, March 25, at Mendelssohn Performing Arts Center, 415 N. Church St., Rockford. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and concert begins at 7:30.

Panoramic takes a wide-angle view of music. Formed by steelpan virtuoso Liam Teague and Robert Chappell (piano, marimba, tabla), the group combines intricate original compositions and intense improvisations with calypso, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian and even East Indian rhythms. With Orlando Cotto, congas; Doug Stone, saxophones; Phil Beale, drum set; and Josh Ramos, bass, Panoramic pays tribute to its members’ Caribbean heritage while seamlessly integrating the band’s musical experiences in jazz, classical and world genres into a unified whole.

This amazing band of award-winning musicians combines contemporary calypso from Trinidad (the home of the steelpan), Afro-Cuban and Brazilian beats, with original compositions and contemporary Latin jazz standards. But wait, Panoramic might also treat you to an arrangement of Bartok, Paganini or even 1920’s Ragtime–all the while showcasing the lyrical, rhythmic and improvisatory possibilities of the steelpan. The Chicago Tribune says: “If anyone can elevate the steel drum from the beach to the concert hall, it’s Liam Teague.” But don’t fear, the beach will be here, too! This performance is co-sponsored by 89.5 FM WNIJ.

Tickets are $18 in advance, $20 at the door. Advance tickets are available at: Rockford Area Arts Council, 713 E. State, (815) 963-6765; both Postal Shoppe locations: Edgebrook Center, (815) 397-7301 and 2205 S. Perryville, (815) 484-0940 and JustGoods, 201 Seventh St., (815) 965-8903; New Outlet: Nikki’s Café, 604 Pleasant St., Beloit, Wis., (608) 207-3101; or by mail: send a check and SASE to 306 Theodore St., Loves Park, IL 61111. Please indicate artist or performance date on check. Credit card payment accepted only at www.charlotteswebofrockford.org via PayPal. There is a $1 ticket processing fee included. Print your receipt. Info: Call (815) 964-2238 or visit www.CharlottesWebofRockford.org.

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