Dave Bennett Leads The War Memorial’s Winter Jazz Brunch Series as Performer and Curator
GROSSE POINTE FARMS Jan. 13, 2025 – The War Memorial’s Dave Bennett Winter Brunch Series, returns this winter, bringing jazz, swing, and rockabilly to the Alger Center Ballroom at The War Memorial. Running from January to March, the series kicks off on Sunday, Jan. 19, with jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor headlining the opening event. Sean Dobbins takes the stage on Saturday, Feb. 22, and Dave Bennett and his band conclude the series on Sunday, March 30.
A Lineup of Remarkable Performers
The Winter Jazz Brunch Series features a diverse lineup of talent:
Sunday, Jan. 19: Jazz vocalist Olivia Van Goor brings her award-winning voice to The War Memorial stage. Honored as "Best Vocalist" by the Preservation of Jazz Excellence Award in Detroit and recognized by the Detroit Music Awards, Van Goor captivates audiences with her fresh take on jazz standards.
Saturday, Feb. 22: Jazz drummer Sean Dobbins delivers hard-driving rhythms and a melodic sensibility that have made him a favorite in the Detroit jazz scene. A returning performer in the Brunch Series, Dobbins brings an energy that’s both dynamic and soulful.
Sunday, March 30: The series finale features jazz clarinetist Dave Bennett and his band, blending 1930s big-band swing, 1950s rockabilly, and original compositions. Bennett, a multi-instrumentalist and singer, is known for his genre-spanning performances that delight audiences of all ages.
Bennett, reflecting on his return to The War Memorial, shared, “The War Memorial has become my home away from home. The warmth I feel here is unmatched and I’m thrilled to not only bring my music to such an incredible audience but also to share the stage with two amazing artists I’ve personally selected for this series.”
Doors Open for Brunch and Music
Doors open at 11am for a gourmet brunch prepared by The War Memorial’s culinary team. Concerts begin at noon, offering an afternoon of music and dining in the historic Alger House, a setting as rich in history as the music performed.
Tickets and Information
Tickets are available for individual performances or as a subscription to enjoy all three events in the series. Seating is limited, and advance purchase is encouraged. For tickets and additional information, visit warmemorial.org and click on the “Events & Experiences” tab.
Series at a Glance
What: Dave Bennett Winter Jazz Brunch Series
Who: Olivia Van Goor, Sean Dobbins, and Dave Bennett
When: Sunday, Jan. 19; Saturday, Feb. 22; Sunday, March 30
Where: The War Memorial, 32 Lake Shore Drive, Grosse Pointe Farms, MI 48236
About The War Memorial
The War Memorial, located on the shores of Lake St. Clair in Grosse Pointe Farms, is an experiential space open to everyone. For over 75 years, this nonprofit organization has served as a patriotic, cultural, and community center, offering a wide range of innovative programs for all ages. Annually, The War Memorial welcomes thousands of guests for community events, educational programming, and private gatherings in its unique and historic setting. At its core, The War Memorial celebrates the ideas of American democracy while honoring those who have defended these ideals with tireless effort and personal sacrifice. As a dynamic and forward-thinking hub for southeast Michigan, The War Memorial remains committed to inspiring and enriching the community through unparalleled experiences.
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CONTACT:
Alex Szwarc, The War Memorial
Manager of Communications and Marketing
313.881.7514, aszwarc@warmemorial.org