Jersey Shore Pops to play first concert

The Jersey Shore Pops Orchestra makes it debut Oct. 17 at 7:30 p.m. at Middle Township Performing Arts Center.
On Deck attended the orchestra’s first rehearsal Aug. 25 at the PAC Center and found the musicians, all professionals from New Jersey, polished and spirited. The orchestra’s core group of 11, three of which come from world famous rock-n-roll bands, will expand to 14 pieces for the show.
Musical director Linda Gentille, who takes center stage with her grand piano, has assembled a set list of songs ranging from Gershwin to Elton John. The show is entitled “Legends of Song” and includes pieces made famous by Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Irving Berlin and Billy Joel.
Like the Ed Sullivan Show, it has something for every age group.
Gentille, who toured with Liberace, plays with much flair and intensity.
“I’ve taken a little of his style but I think I do a little more rhythmic music,” she said. While Ocean City has a pops orchestra, Gentille said she saw the need for an orchestra more centrally located in the county. She describes the orchestra’s music as “upbeat, popular and very rhythmic.”
Her version of Rhapsody in Blue sounded like a showstopper doing rehearsal.
Drummer Donny Vosburgh beat out a tasty solo on “Sing, Sing, Sing.”
Beginning in Aug. 2010, the orchestra will play four to six shows per year.
Gentille, who has played extensive concert tours in China, described those audiences as reserved. She said they applaud, rise to their feet but no make vocal noises.
“There is nothing like an American audience,” she said.
Tickets are available for the Oct. 17 concert by calling the box office at 609-463-1924 Tickets are $20 for adults and $18 for seniors and students.
Tickets purchased by Sept. 4 offer a $2 discount.
A behind-the-scenes video of the rehearsal is available at www.cmcherald.com.