The Haugh Performing Arts Center’s latest livestream event “David Benoit live from the Armstrong Theater” took place at 7 p.m. on April 3.
It was streamed live by the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation as the concert took place at the James R. Armstrong Theater in Torrance, California. 107 people attended the show virtually.
Benoit was accompanied by Dan Scnelle on the drums, Roberto Valle on the bass and Justin Klunk on the saxophone. Klunk was one of Benoit’s students during his time in the Youth Orchestra.
The concert included two never-before-heard songs written during quarantine titled “At Home” and “Generations,” composed and played by Benoit. The songs were written as a tribute to Dave Brubeck, who Benoit has worked with and admired.
“It’s simply called ‘At Home,’ and when I was playing it today it brought me back to that moment almost a year ago when everything had shut down,” Benoit said during the concert.
Benoit also played songs he composed featured on his other albums such as “Freedom at Night,” “Vernazza,” “Dave G” and “Kay’s Song.” Kay’s song was written for and dedicated to his wife.
“Of all the songs I have ever written, I am most proud of this one,” Benoit said. “Since she is in the audience today, I will dedicate this song to my wife Kay: this is ‘Kay’s Song.’”
The new album has yet to be recorded, but Benoit said more details about it will be made available as things progress with its creation.
“I am thrilled to be here on stage,” Benoit said. “I think the guys are excited to be here playing music together again.”
