Music lovers occasionally get to enjoy concerts that stand out as unique and unexpected experiences.
This June, the Mesabi Symphony Orchestra is getting funky. Bringing aunique experience to the Northland, the orchestra will be joining forces and partnering with Jumpsuit – a funky, soulful rock band from Duluth – at their annual fundraiser concerts on June 5 in Ely and June 6 in Duluth.
In recent years at these annual fundraisers, the orchestra has performed Broadway classics with local singers, but they’re bringing something new to the community this year.
While it’s nothing new for symphony orchestras to collaborate and perform with rock and pop artists as part of a music series, collaborations like this are still somewhat rare in northern Minnesota. The MSO is excited to join the stage with Jumpsuit and to be able to offer these special concerts to audiences.
From MSO artistic director Benjamin Nilles, “Orchestras are far more versatile than people often realize. In addition to watching orchestras perform classic symphonic works, people love watching a movie or video game on the big screen with a live orchestra playing the soundtrack, listening to the pit orchestra at a Broadway or opera production, listening to jazz singers and crooners with their orchestras, listening to pure symphonic arrangements of classic rock and pop songs, and much more.”
This collaboration aims to provide community members with a distinguished and memorable concert experience, as well as to highlight the exceptional musical talent present in the region.
Doors will open at 6 p.m., accompanied by a cash bar, and the concert beginning at 7 p.m.
Following the performance, guests are invited to attend a reception offering a selection of appetizers and desserts. Additionally, a silent auction will be held during the Ely event.
“You’ll hear music from legends like Stevie Wonder, the Bee Gees, Hall and Oates, Aretha Franklin, Tracy Chapman, and Gnarls Barkley, as well as original songs by Jumpsuit,” said Nilles.
“With the orchestra adding its distinctive sound and Jumpsuit’s unique style, these songs take on a new character. Both MSO and Jumpsuit musicians will join forces for something memorable. Expect the stage to be filled with outstanding musicians having a great time, and hopefully, the crowd will be up and dancing!”
From Jumpsuit, “Holy smokes, we are so excited for this! We are teaming up with the Mesabi Symphony Orchestra for an incredible fundraiser event in Ely and Duluth. The mission of the MSO is to keep orchestral music alive and thriving in the Arrowhead region. This is an incredible opportunity to support the work of the MSO and we really hope you join us on this orchestra meets funk and soul adventure!”
The MSO pops, jazz, and Broadway events have attracted substantial audiences, occasionally reaching full capacity. Advance tickets are priced at $35, with tickets also available at the door for $40.
For further information and ticket purchases, please visit www.mesabisymphonyorchestra. org.
Tickets may additionally be obtained from Schmitt Music in Virginia, Carmen’s Bar and Restaurant in Cloquet, Boundary Waters Kitchen and Market, and Brainstorm Bakery, both located in Ely.
