Sponsored by the Les Paul Foundation, this performance features guitarist Russell Malone and vocal soloist and Music Institute Artist-in-Residence Tammy McCann, along with Tom Vaitsas on piano, Eric Hochberg on bass, and Sam Jewell on drums.
The night’s festivities include a pre-concert talk by Les Paul Foundation Program Director Sue Baker, who will share stories of Paul’s life, inventions, music, and time living in Chicago, as well as an exhibit of articles, photos, and music documenting the life of the legendary artist.
Les Paul’s impact on countless artists, from Paul McCartney, Eddie Van Halen, and Slash to Bing Crosby, Tony Bennett, and Chet Atkins, speaks to his status as a music legend whose virtuosic playing extended across all genres, including jazz, country, R&B, and rock. His breakthrough recording, “Lover” (1948), showcased a number of his studio innovations, which led to hits with his wife Mary Ford, including “How High the Moon” and 16 Top Ten songs between 1950 and 1954. In the 1950s and early 1960s, Paul had a highly successful performance and television career with Mary Ford. After a lifetime of recordings, his final, multi-Grammy Award-winning album, American Made, World Played, in 2005 featured Keith Richards, Jeff Beck, Sting, and Eric Clapton.
By purchasing a ticket, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
Nichols Concert Hall is currently operating at full capacity, subject to future changes mandated by the State of Illinois, CDC, or other applicable local authorities. To ensure the safety of all persons on site, the Music Institute of Chicago requires that, upon entry to an event, all visitors over the age of 5 show proof of full COVID-19 vaccination status OR a negative COVID PCR test processed within 48 hours prior to the day of the event. Visitors who have recently traveled internationally are not permitted in Nichols Concert Hall unless they show proof of a negative COVID PCR test taken 3-5 days after returning to the United States.
The Music Institute of Chicago additionally requires all audience members ages 2 and up to wear a mask over their nose and mouth for the duration of the event. Masks will be provided to those who do not have them. If you are exhibiting any symptoms of COVID-19 the day of the performance, including fever, shortness of breath or coughing, do not attend the event. Please note: All artists and staff on site are fully vaccinated. Vaccinated performers and presenters are not required to wear masks while on stage.
Let's keep each other healthy and safe as we enjoy the unforgettable experience of live music together.