Downtown Greensboro was electric on Friday, April 25, as the Oconee Performing Arts Society presented a powerful and unforgettable tribute to one of America’s greatest composers in Rhapsody in Blue and the Music of George Gershwin.

In true OPAS fashion, the evening featured a lineup of internationally acclaimed talent, led by Tony Award-winning conductor/pianist Stuart Malina. His virtuosic piano performance and his work as the emcee anchored the evening with musical brilliance, depth, and humor. Joining him on the stage for a memorable version of the iconic Rhapsody in Blue was his son, Zev Malina, a gifted young composer and pianist whose intergenerational duet with his father added a layer of emotional resonance that captivated the OPAS audience.

The concert showcased the renowned trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, a jazz icon celebrated for his dynamic presence and breathtaking improvisation on the trombone and the rarely heard soprano trombone. After hearing Gordon, it was clear to the audience why he is widely considered one of the world’s greatest living trombonists.

Baritone Michael Preacely’s long association with “Porgy and Bess” was evident as he delivered rich, powerful interpretations with a commanding voice. Soprano Erica Gabriel added elegance and emotional depth to the stage with her soaring vocals.  Gabriel displayed her versatility by presenting a poignant and pure version of “Summertime” while adding variety with her unexpected jazzy reading of “The Man I Love.” Adding to the variety of the evening was OPAS Scholarship recipient and founding OPAS Youth Chorus member Helen Garcia-Carreras. Her solid vocals and confident stage presence added lightness and fun, and her tap dancing was met with cheers.

“I have been so fortunate to have participated in numerous tributes to Gershwin, and this one truly rose to the top. Having Wycliffe and Stuart on the stage alongside performers of this caliber was a ‘pinch me’ OPAS moment,” OPAS leader Doug LaBrecque said.

This event exemplifies the OPAS commitment to presenting world-class performances in the Lake Country. Beyond the stage, OPAS continues to champion arts education through meaningful initiatives, including scholarships, school outreach programs, and the OPAS Youth Chorus — creating opportunities for the next generation..