Courtesy photo.
SANTA YNEZ — The Rona Barrett Foundation is excited to announce the legendary Harry James Orchestra directed by Fred Radke will perform at the Foundation’s Big Band Celebration Ball fundraising gala on Saturday, October 8th. The event will support the needs of vulnerable seniors through the Rona Barrett Foundation’s Golden Inn & Village.
“It is so fitting that the masters of the golden age of swing are bringing their immense talent to help us create golden years for our most vulnerable seniors,” said Rona Barrett, CEO and founder of the Rona Barrett Foundation. “We are overjoyed to welcome the Harry James Orchestra directed by Fred Radke to the Santa Ynez Valley.”
The history of the Harry James Orchestra began when Harry James formed the Music Makers with the financial backing of Benny Goodman. The years that followed for Harry James were an ultimate success that included a recording with the young Frank Sinatra that became a million-record seller. After, James’ interest in movies grew and he served as technical advisor and played all trumpet parts in Young Man with a Horn.
Following James’ death in 1983, the band continued the mellow arrangements and fine rhythmic playing that first made it famous, now under the direction of Harry James’ lead trumpet virtuoso, Fred Radke. The Harry James Orchestra has performed in major venues and continues to tour extensively throughout the world under the direction of Fred Radke, whose trumpet playing is indiscernible to Harry James’ style.
Sponsorship opportunities are available for the October 8th event. To secure a sponsorship or for more information, please contact Darlene Ramirez at (805) 688-8887 or email info@ronabarrettfoundation.org.
The Rona Barrett Foundation is a non-profit organization that seeks to provide a solution to affordable housing and supportive services for seniors in need. The Foundation is celebrating the Grand Opening of the Golden Inn & Village, an affordable, dignified and enriching senior campus in the Santa Ynez Valley, offering senior residency , offering a variety of care that meets their needs as they age in place.
To learn more about the Golden Inn & Village, please visit www.ronabarrettfoundation.org.