From the showcases at Arts Midwest I highly recommend these outstanding groups:
Stephanie Bettman (violinist & vocalist) and Luke Halpin (multi-instrumentalist & vocalist) have teamed up to create their own tight and energetic yet still soulful brand of acousitc Americana. www.stephaniebettman.com
Trio Voronezh performs an eclectic mix of jazz, popular songs and, of course, their own arrangements of Russian folk songs. The instrumentation - bayan (button accordion), bass balalaika and domra - creates a perfect sound and energy for jazz presenters or a chamber series looking to diversify. www.triovoronezh.com
April Verch is indeed the star of the April Verch Trio with her mesmerizing tap dance and virtuosic fiddling - and for the final number simultaneously!! This group is a real crowd pleaser and an excellent choice for a university setting. www.aprilverch.com
I'm not usually in the business of reviewing comedy ... but the Chipper Lowell Magic-Comedy Showcase was a riot!
