Big Band Session
with Billy Joe HuelsSaturday, May 11, 2024-7:30 pm
Federal Way Performing Arts & Events Center
Concert Information
PROGRAM NOTES
Under the co-direction of Todd Zimberg and Lonnie Mardis, the Federal Way Symphony Big Band has been performing for more than 20 years. For this final concert of the 2023-24 season, they’ll join forces with vocalist Billy Joe Huels for a concert celebrating the American songbook. Music from Johnny Mercer, Cole Porter, Sammy Chan, Ray Charles and other audience favorites will be featured.
The Soloist
The Musicians
MEET OUR SOLOIST
Billy Joe Huels
Charismatic singer Billy Joe Huels has been performing and entertaining for more than 25 years. He is the founder of the Dusty 45s, and draws inspiration from the roots of rock, rhythm and blues, honky-tonk and jazz. Billy Joe is also known for his critically-acclaimed portrayal of Buddy Holly at the 5th Avenue Theater.
Please visit the Dusty45s website here
Meet the Musicians
Todd Zimberg
A graduate of Federal Way High School, Todd Zimberg earned a Masters in Music from the University of Washington and has been playing drums professionally and teaching in the Seattle area since the early 1980’s. He has worked extensively with blues, jazz, rock and R&B artists, including Northwest blues icons Duffy Bishop, Isaac Scott and ten years with Tom McFarland. Todd currently maintains commitments to The Maggie Laird Band, The Chris Stevens Band and Island Jazz Quintet. He has toured and backed national acts including a Bo Diddley, Fenton Robinson and Sam Andrew. His most recent recording is An Afternoon in Sellwood with pianist Michael Gotz and bassist Perry Thoorsell. Visit Todd’s website here.
Lonnie Mardis
A Northwest native, Lonnie Mardis received his Master’s Degree in Music Performance from the New England Conservatory. He is popular throughout the region as a touring musician and is a staple in the Seattle music scene. His ensembles play a variety of styles including jazz, swing, rock, blues and classical. He has performed with renowned artists Bobby Shrew, Roger Fischer and Pete Christlieb. His most recent recording is About the Day with the Lonnie Mardis Band. Visit Lonnie’s website here.
Maggie Laird
Maggie Laird has had a diverse career as a stage actress, music director for theatrical productions and as a singer and pianist in genres ranging from swing to rock. She hit the Seattle music scene with the New Wave group Blackwood-Laird, spent the 90s working on cruise ships and honing new skills and since 2000 has been the vocalist for the acclaimed Island Jazz Quintet. Maggie has recently released her first solo album, One More Manhattan. The 5-song EP was recorded in Nashville and received a 5-star review from All that Jazz. Visit Maggie’s website here.
