StoryPoint of Chesterton welcomed the public to their Concert in the Courtyard Thursday evening. The picturesque courtyard of the senior living community felt like a tropical resort, with top-notch cuisine and entertainment. For their first concert ever, StoryPoint hosted the Midwest Big Band, a 19-piece ensemble with a passion for big band jazz.
According to Judy Kukelka, Business Development Specialist at StoryPoint of Chesterton, the organization plans to host more bands and musicians as part of their Concert in the Courtyard series, for residents and the community to enjoy. Thursday's kick-off proved that the courtyard transformed into a wonderful concert venue.
Brian Ridge, Trumpeter and Personnel Manager of Midwest Big Band, said that the steamy temperatures made for a perfect summer night. He hoped to bring back fond memories of a genre of music that is not heard that often anymore. The band has a large repertoire, but chose to play standard big band favorites for StoryPoint, like Frank Sinatra and George Gershwin songs.
“I think the residents will enjoy some of these songs that they heard in the 40s,” Ridge said. “It’s about the history and keeping this music alive.”
Looking around, anyone could see that Ridge was correct. There were smiles and tapping feet throughout the courtyard. Some residents even broke out in dance.
Steve Biegle, Trumpeter and Business Manager, had a special reason to play his heart out. His mother, Margery Biegle, is a resident at StoryPoint, and was a member of the audience. The band honored Margery by dedicating the song “You Make Me Feel So Young” in her honor.
“It’s neat to be able to share this kind of music with the residents,” Biegle said. “We appreciate the opportunity to play.”
Margery Biegle reminisced about her son playing the trumpet when he was a little boy. She watched him grow as a musician in polka and community bands, and was especially excited to see him perform in her home. Biegle said she appreciates all of the activities that StoryPoint has to offer and looks forward to the rest of the Concert in the Courtyard series.
“It’s always a thrill to see your son to play,” Margery said.For more information on StoryPoint Chesterton and what they have to offer the Region, visit their website https://www.storypoint.com/chesterton-in/.