Weekly free outdoor Jazz music series at the Lake Stage in Polk Bros Park.

ABOUT THIS PERFORMANCE:

Chicago Jazz Orchestra is “Putting the Band Back Together” in Live Concert Tribute to The Blues Brothers

Chicago Jazz Orchestra and Chicago’s Navy Pier is presenting a special “Putting the Band Back Together” tribute to the film The Blues Brothers. Saxophonist Blue Lou Marini from the original Blues Brothers Band and movie joins Chicago singer Opal Staples and the CJO in a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the film’s release.

The Chicago Jazz Orchestra (CJO) is a 17-piece premiere jazz ensemble that has garnered both national and international recognition–is Chicago’s oldest professional jazz orchestra in continuous operation and one of the oldest jazz repertory orchestras in the country. Conductor and Artistic Director Jeff Lindberg is one of the foremost transcribers in jazz. As a result, the Orchestra’s repertoire draws upon his vast library, which includes the works of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Lionel Hampton, Benny Carter, Oliver Nelson, Ray Charles, and many others. 

Opal Staples is a singer, songwriter and actress. As a premiere singer she has garnered industry wide acclaim. Her discography includes work with award winning artists Ramsey Lewis, Seal, David Foster, Stevie Wonder and Toni Braxton and has toured with the top orchestra companies in the country. 

Lou Marini known as "Blue Lou" Marini, is an American saxophonist, arranger, and composer. He is best known for his work in jazz, rock, blues, and soul music, as well as his association with The Blues Brothers. He was a member of the Saturday Night Live house band and appeared in The Blues Brothers movie and its sequel, Blues Brothers 2000, playing the part of "Blue Lou", a moniker given by Dan Aykroyd.

ABOUT WATER COLORS: 

A live jazz music series presented Friday nights at 6:30pm on the shore of Lake Michigan in Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns Lake Stage. Performer schedule subject to change. For accurate listings, please check the Water Colors page.