Arts and Life Performance Series to host second-annual Valentine’s dinner and concert

Feb. 4, 2019 | Arts & Life |

Harding University will host the second-annual Arts and Life Valentine’s dinner and concert Tuesday, Feb. 12. Dinner will be served at 6 p.m. in Cone Chapel of the David B. Burks American Heritage Building followed by “My Funny Valentine,” a jazz concert with singer Rosana Eckert and the Harding University Jazz Band at 7 p.m. in the Administration Auditorium. The event is open to the public, and tickets are available for purchase through Feb. 7.

“Many Searcians want to have a special date night for Valentine’s but may not want to drive to Little Rock. That’s why we are excited to host this community event where people can get dressed up for a nice evening of dinner and music,” said Candice Moore, marketing director. “We had such positive feedback following last year’s event, we’re thrilled to be bringing it back. We love inviting our friends and neighbors from the area to enjoy food and entertainment with us.”

Eckert is internationally recognized as a live and studio vocalist, published songwriter and arranger, voice-over actor and master teacher of jazz and voice. As a vocal artist, she has performed with such jazz greats as Lyle Mays, Kenny Wheeler, George Duke, Jon Faddis, Bobby McFerrin, and the renowned vocal quartet New York Voices.

“I can't think of a better fit for this year's Valentine’s themed concert than the Harding Jazz Band performing romantic jazz standards with the internationally acclaimed jazz singer Rosana Eckert,” said Dr. Jay Walls, associate professor of music. “You're going to love her crystal-clear voice with astounding flexibility, and what's more, you'll be delighted by the enthusiastic, heartwarming personality of this world-class musician who has performed with many of the world's top jazz artists."

In addition to leading her own band, Eckert also performs with the Mike Steinel Quintet, and she co-leads Brasuka, a Brazilian-inspired original music project.

Eckert has recorded four solo albums of original songs and jazz arrangements. Her debut album, “At the End of the Day,” was a finalist for Best New Jazz Album in the 2006 Independent Music Awards. Eckert’s highly anticipated new solo album, “Sailing Home,” is scheduled for release in spring 2019.

"If you have been following the Arts and Life Series for a while, you have noticed the consistent lineup of top-quality performers from around the world,” said Walls. “I think this series is one of the things that sets Searcy apart from many other towns of our size.”

Dinner includes a culinary duet of filet mignon and salmon, prepared by new executive chef Anthony Tally. A vegetarian option is also available. Tickets are $25 each ($50 per couple) and can be purchased at hardingtickets.com . For more information about the evening as well as other upcoming shows, visit harding.edu/artsandlife or call 501-279-4343. For more Harding events, go to harding.edu/calendar .