Keri Johnsrud – Tribute to Fred Rogers Livestream

September 16, 2021 -Keri Johnsrud with special guest pianist Kevin Bales

Featuring
Keri Johnsrud - Vocals
Kevin Bales - Piano
Bass -  Dennis Carroll
Drums - Greg Artry

Chicago-based vocalist Keri Johnsrud and GRAMMY nominated pianist Kevin Bales are coming together again to perform selections from their latest release, Beyond the Neighborhood: The Music of Fred Rogers,  innovative and fresh versions of songs heard by numerous generations on the beloved children’s television program Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Listeners can expect to hear Johnsrud and Bales re-imagine and rearrange Mr. Rogers’ music as beautiful, sophisticated vehicles for improvisation. His music, which up until now was specifically tailored for a child’s ear, is now presented as reinvented gems that are wise and wistful, simple but not simplistic, and even, in some cases, a bit sultry.  Joining them will be acclaimed musicians Dennis Carroll on bass and Gregory Artry on drums.

“It pays tribute to Fred Rogers' music and spirit in a fashion that glows with respect and carries over some of the powerful messages of the show itself. It's delicate and moving and one of the highlights of the year's music so far. “
- Michael Bailey, All About Jazz

 “…there was no mistaking the warmth of her instrument, the radiance of her tone or the buoyancy of her approach to swing rhythm. Add to this Bales’ all-over-the-keyboard technique, and you had proof positive that Rogers’ vignettes could carry a great deal of musical weight.”
- Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune