…sob on the long cool winding saxophones

Go to it, O jazzman! — Carl Sandburg

Saxophonist Lawrence Gibbs and pianist Rod Payne will heed the command of Carl Sandburg when they present “The Big Band Swing Era” at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 13, at the Concordia Bank in Vidalia.

Lawrence Gibbs currently works with three musical groups at Louisiana Tech University—the university band, jazz ensemble and symphonic players. He is also founder and directory of Russ-Town Band, a select community band based in Ruston, La. A former professional musician, he performed for five years in Las Vegas with Bob Hope, Liberace, Connie Francis, Susan Anton, the Nelson Riddle Orchestra and the Martins, a gospel group.

Rod Payne, a familiar face, is the area’s most visible musician. He has performed at hundreds of corporate events, wedding receptions, dances and society affairs. A gifted writer, he has written numerous jingles and theme songs for many groups, including the Lady Techsters, Neville Tigers, First National Bank, National Teenagers Pageant and the National Organization for Women.

Co-sponsored by the Louisiana State Arts Council, the Louisiana Division of the Arts and the Arts Council of Louisiana and hosted by the Concordia Parish Library and Concordia Bank, the “Big Band Swing Era” is free and open to the public.

The employees of the bank and members of the library board will welcome and greet you with a smile as you are seated for another outstanding concert in a series of musical entertainment.

Mark your calendar for 7 p.m. on March 13, to hear the toe-tapping sounds of talented jazzmen Lawrence Gibbs and Rod Payne. You will think of Boots Randolph, Ace Cannon, and Kenny G as you recall the words of Carl Sandburg.

Mary Eidt is supporter of the Concordia Parish Library.