John Apelgren and the National Jazz Orchestra at the MOB

John Apelgren
Macedonian Opera and Balet
Skopje, Macedonia
February 14, 2024

On Valentine's Day, amid the aura of love and romance, what better way to serenade the hearts of the audience than with the timeless melodies of Frank Sinatra? Macedonian jazz singer John Apelgren, accompanied by the National Jazz Orchestra and conductor Dzijan Emin, delivered a captivating performance on the 14th of February at the Opera House, marking the occasion with a carefully curated selection of Sinatra's jazz classics.

John Apelgren is a celebrated interpreter of the Great American Songbook, boasting a distinguished career spanning four decades. With his exceptional talent and unwavering passion for music, he has become renowned for his masterful performances of classic songs from the Great American Songbook. Throughout his illustrious career, Apelgren has captivated audiences around the world with his soulful renditions and heartfelt interpretations of beloved classics. From intimate jazz clubs to prestigious concert halls, his performances have left an indelible mark on all who have had the pleasure of experiencing his music. With a repertoire that spans genres and generations, he has demonstrated remarkable versatility and depth as an artist. Whether he's crooning romantic ballads or swinging to up-tempo jazz standards, his performances are characterized by impeccable phrasing, exquisite tone, and a profound emotional resonance.

The concert commenced with a Count Basie composition, 'Basie—Straight Ahead,' setting the stage for the evening's musical journey before Apelgren graced the spotlight. With a blend of style and grace, Apelgren took the stage, embodying the essence of Sinatra's musical legacy, and started with 'For Once in My Life.' There was a slight imbalance between the dynamics of the big band and his vocals, as the music slightly overwhelmed the voice. However, this was quickly corrected in the sound department. Each song was preceded by a personal anecdote, offering the audience a glimpse into the fascinating musical journey of the legendary American singer and actor.

Frank Sinatra, with his unparalleled elegance and captivating demeanor, remains an enduring icon of sophistication and charm in the annals of music history. One of Sinatra's most striking attributes was his impeccable sense of style. Whether he was donning a tailored suit on stage or relaxing in casual attire, he exuded an aura of refinement and class. Much like Frank Sinatra, whom he honored with the tribute concert, Apelgren possessed a magnetic charm and effortless coolness that defined his persona as a jazz singer. His suave demeanor and polished appearance, coupled with his smooth vocal delivery, evoked the timeless glamour of a bygone era, transporting the audience to the golden age of jazz.

From Sinatra's iconic hits to lesser-known gems, every rendition was imbued with Apelgren's unique interpretation, breathing new life into familiar melodies. Highlights of the evening included stirring performances of classics such as "That's Life," "The Best Is Yet to Come," "I Get a Kick Out of You," "Tangerine," and "I've Got You Under My Skin," each delivered with heartfelt emotion and unwavering charisma. A standout moment came with the enchanting duet "Something Stupid," featuring the talented vocalist Jasna Trpkova (Jazzna), evoking nostalgic memories of young love and tender moments shared. The concert was further enriched by the captivating performances of ballet soloists from the National Opera and Ballet, adding an exquisite visual dimension to the musical experience.

Both the big band and the singer were at the top of their game. The dynamic range of the 17 songs in the oeuvre added a layer of complexity and depth to the concert, elevating the emotional impact of each performance. Despite being love songs, the songs showcased a nuanced exploration of human emotions, ranging from tender intimacy to impassioned fervor. One of the most intriguing aspects of the song selection was how each song navigated through peaks and valleys, mirroring the ebb and flow of romantic relationships. Some songs may have started softly, with delicate instrumentation and subdued vocals, evoking a sense of vulnerability and longing. As the song progressed, however, the intensity would gradually build, reaching crescendos of passion and desire that swept the audience away in a wave of emotion. Whether crooning a romantic ballad or swinging to an up-tempo rhythm, Apelgren's performance was characterized by precision and finesse. His rich, velvety voice resonated with emotion and depth, carrying the audience on a journey through the heart of each song.

Apelgren's meticulous attention to detail and his thoughtful introductions added depth and richness to each performance, transforming the concert into a captivating journey through the music of Frank Sinatra. With each song introduction, Apelgren not only provided insight into the song's origins and meaning but also created a deeper connection between the audience and the music. Moreover, Apelgren's introductions highlighted the significance of each soloist, acknowledging their contributions and talent. By shining a spotlight on the individual performers, Apelgren underscored the collaborative nature of jazz music, where each musician plays a vital role in bringing the music to life.

As the evening drew to a close, Apelgren concluded with the quintessential anthem of New York, "New York, New York," a song that holds special significance for him and resonates deeply with the audience. With this final performance, the evening reached its crescendo, eliciting thunderous applause and a standing ovation from the enraptured audience. The concert was a celebration of the timeless music of Frank Sinatra, expertly interpreted by John Apelgren and accompanied by the National Jazz Orchestra. It was a night filled with nostalgia, romance, and the magic of jazz, leaving a lasting impression on all who were fortunate enough to witness it.

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