Lorraine Nygaard presents a Tribute to Nina Simone

Event Description

February being Black History Month, and February 21st being the birthdate of the Iconic Nina Simone, it’s important that her work and her story be shared and celebrated.

Born in 1933, by the time Simone was in her mid-thirties, she was an important figure of the civil rights movement, brave in her song lyrics, and bold in her passionate delivery to audiences everywhere. As one of the first classically-trained pianists to move into the jazz realm, her piano work was extraordinary.   She also loved covering pop songs that interested her, letting her unique originality take them to new heights.

Lorraine Nygaard took to the stage again after raising a large family.  At that point in her life, she could not do a show without at least one audience member commenting, “You sound so much like Nina Simone”, or “You remind me of the singer Nina Simone”.  As she began to learn more about this icon, Nygaard soon realized that many of the tunes she was researching were ones from her childhood.  A product of the 60s, the civil rights movement was ingrained in her psyche.  “Black is beautiful” was on posters everywhere, and TV shows and mainstream media were happily spreading the word on equal rights, Love, and Peace. Simone was creating work in reaction to the reality that blacks were facing in America and beyond.  

Joining Nygaard are pianist Attila Fias, Ross MacDonald on bass, and Hans Verhoeven on drums.  Lorraine and Attila have collaborated many times before and always have a ball.  Fias has incredible piano chops and a resume that is full of international experience, whether it’s recording, producing, or performing.  You will love his interpretation of Simone’s work.  www.attilafias.com 

Ross MacDonald has long been playing tours, cruises, and local events in a variety of ensembles, and with the Naden Band.  He is intuitive, interacting with fellow band members to create fabulous interpretations of each piece

Hans Verhoeven is a solid drummer with a diverse background, visiting from up island for this special night.  Frequently chosen for his fabulous energy and passionate performance, Hans is also a delight to work with; you’ll notice the symbiosis amidst the band. www.hansdrums.ca