Two timeless, award-winning a cappella groups come together for The Summit
One group single-handedly brought vocal jazz to the masses. The other’s smooth R&B hits inspired a new generation of a cappella mania, from “The Sing Off ” to “Glee” to “Smash.”
For the first time ever, The Manhattan Transfer and Take 6, two of the most respected singing groups in the world, have joined forces for a worldwide performance tour and recording project called The Summit… and Boulder audiences have a chance to hear them live at Macky Auditorium on Friday, Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m.
Jazz fans can hear the newly reformed Manhattan Transfer singing again with a brand new bass. Founded in 1975 by the late Tim Hauser, the vocal quartet began performing in small New York jazz clubs and quickly rose to fame, becoming a major recording act and “one of the slickest groups in today’s market” (The New York Times). Many still consider their iconic renditions of “Operator,” “Route 66” and “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square” to be the pinnacle of vocal jazz.
Take 6, the most awarded ensemble in vocal history, appeals to soul, and R&B fans alike. Since the release of their 1988 breakout single “Spread Love,” the group has been inseparable and its fans legendarily loyal. The ensemble’s six members effortlessly move together as one through the complex harmonies and cleverly syncopated rhythms of their own pop arrangements and original songs.
With 20 Grammy awards between them and worldwide sales in the millions, their double act has already been widely hailed.
From classic jazz standards to original rhythm and blues, there’ll be a little bit of something for both casual listeners and vocal aficionados. Both groups are set to reprise a few of their old favorites and collaborate on new arrangements.
The Boulder performance takes place on Friday, Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m. in Macky Auditorium. A pre-concert lecture, held by Professor of Jazz Studies John Davis is at 6:45 p.m. across the street from Macky Auditorium in the CU Heritage Center’s Old Main Chapel. A Google map to the lecture location can be found here.
Tickets for this performance start at $20. To purchase, visit the CU Presents box office in person (972 Broadway), call 303-492-8008 during business hours or visit us online anytime. Note: All online and phone orders are subject to a service fee. To schedule interviews or for other media information, contact Jill Kimball at jill.kimball@colorado.edu.