Robert Baird, Ebony & Ivory's agent and manager, had this to say about the group's new show:

"I recently received a telephone message from a presenter inquiring about Ebony & Ivory's new show, 'The American Songbook', and I could hear their recently recorded 'American Songbook' demo CD playing in the background! When an artist's work receives such an immediate and enthusiastic response, you know that you have truly 'struck a chord'."

The "American Songbook" demo CD from Ebony & Ivory, featuring such classic songs as "It Don't Mean A Thing, If It Ain't Got That Swing", "Smoke Gets in Your Eyes", "I Got Rhythm", and "Begin the Beguine", has already made an impact in the arts presenting community. There has been intense interest in the new program from east coast presenters and a North Carolina and South Carolina tour is being planned now, with more eastern tours to come.

Andrew Gilpin's unique and engaging arrangements of classics by Cole Porter, George Gershwin and others have created a program which presenters instantly recognize as appealing and audience-friendly.

"The American Songbook" is a delightful evening of familiar tunes performed by the dynamic duo of Fred Jacobowitz on clarinets & saxes and Andrew Gilpin playing piano & keyboards, with the exciting addition of top-flight L.A. musicians Chris Golden on bass and Gordon Peeke on drums.

The Western Arts Alliance convention in Seattle was the jumping-off point for introducing Ebony & Ivory's new "American Songbook program to presenters. Robert Baird of BAM! Baird Artists Management talked to interested presenters and gave away the demo CD, along with copies of last year's very successful "Rhythm & Ragtime" CD.

Interest in the new program came from every quarter, from small performing arts centers to symphony orchestras.

From the interest shown at WAA, Ebony & Ivory will be arranging another Western tour for 2009-2010.

February 25, 2009 - Deloraine, MB

Southwest Showcase

March 15, 2009 - Nevada City, CA

Twin Cities Concert Association