Culture is Alive and Well in Pelham
August 2, 2010
Last night on 5th Avenue in Pelham, NY, at the town’s gazebo, on their village green, a large enthusiastic crowd of all ages, were entertained by the incomparable Phil Kiame and his Philip James Band. Phil, who plays the drums, while he conducts, was ably assisted by his son Phil Jr., whose day job is touring with US Army Band, assembled a great collection of jazz and big band musicians, along with some lovely young songstresses. Along with others, the O’Leary sisters from Briarcliff Manor and the Nunziata twins; Will and Anthony, entertained the assembled throng, while we watched some improvised dance routines by some very young and charming girls.
Night and Day (Cole Porter), Honeysuckle Rose, (Thomas “Fats” Waller), Summertime, (The Gershwins) Blue Skies, (Irving Berlin), I will Survive (Gloria Gaynor) along with Get Your Kicks on Route 66, (Bobby Troup) were some of the featured songs along with some marvelous jazz riffs.
After 90 minutes of marvelous music that echoed into the cool night air, Linda and I folded our chairs, congratulated Phil and his son, and with the other enthusiasts, we dispersed to our car. It is always a treat to watch accomplished artists playing selections from the “Great American Songbook.”