Farmington Bank Community Concert Series Grows to 20 Shows

FARMINGTON — Farmington Bank announced the fifth annual Farmington Bank Community Concert Series, featuring 20 free performances by Simply Swing, a popular, 10-piece swing orchestra based in Connecticut.

“We’re proud to support communities in Greater Hartford and Western Massachusetts by continuing to sponsor free concerts throughout the spring and summer months,” said John Patrick Jr., chairman, president, and CEO of Farmington Bank. “These fun-filled concerts provide wonderful opportunities for families, friends, and neighbors to enjoy time together in their own communities.”

This year’s expanded series includes performances at Pleasant View Senior Center in East Longmeadow on Friday, April 22 at 7 p.m.; the Common in West Springfield on Monday, July 4 at 2 p.m.; plus 18 performances in Connecticut.

Simply Swing specializes in the music of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, and Count Basie; vocalists Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, and Diana Krall; and high-energy swing dance favorites. In 2013, the group released its Dancing to Simply Swing CD, featuring music composed for swing and ballroom dancers by Joe LaRosa, the group’s musical director and drummer.

“Our goal is to engage and entertain audiences throughout the region,” said Vivian LaRosa, Simply Swing’s featured vocalist. “We love seeing people swaying in their lawn chairs, singing along, and getting up to dance.”

For a complete listing of dates, times, and locations, visit www.farmingtonbankct.com/communityactivity and click on ‘Community Concert Series.’