As part of the build-up to Madison Opera’s February production of “Charlie Parker’s Yardbird,” http://www.madisonopera.org/performances-2016-2017/charlie-parkers-yardbird/, Madison Music Collective presents a concert by one of Parker’s greatest living disciples, alto saxophonist Richie Cole, along with the 11-piece orchestra founded and led by saxophonist Eric Koppa. Together, they will perform selections from the more than 200 unique big band arrangements that Richie gave Eric upon the orchestra’s formation last year. Eric’s band is one of many Alto Madness Orchestras that Richie helped establish over the past 20 years in major cities around the world. This concert will also include a preview performance of Chan Parker’s aria from “Charlie Parker’s Yardbird” by Madison Opera Studio Artist Anna Polum. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served, and a cash bar will be available. 2:00 PM reception and Q&A, 3:00 PM concert. Madison Opera Center, 335 West Mifflin Street. Tickets and more info at http://www.madisonopera.org/support/events/.
