Not to make the Bay area's art lovers and concertgoers sound like part of an algebra equation, but it seems there's a lot of overlap among audiences for classical music, jazz and fine art shows.
This subset, if you will, is essentially who The Florida Orchestra is seeking for its newly formed support group VIVO (Vitally Interested Volunteers for the Florida Orchestra).
VIVO hosts a reception recognizing the importance of Tampa's cultural arts organizations at the Tampa Museum of Art from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, July 25, with live jazz by The Valerie Gillespie Quartet.
The ensemble, led by Gillespie on sax, also includes pianist Rick Steuart, drummer Dennis Mones and bassist Lee Ahlin. The band blends vocal and instrumental styles, performing originals as well as covering such artists as Shirley Horn, Diana Krall, Cole Porter and John Coltrane.
VIVO first presented a season of jazz soirees in 2001, partly to attract jazz enthusiasts to the orchestra and partly to benefit the orchestra's music education projects.
At this event, VIVO will announce the dates and venues for its 2002 season of jazz events. The Tampa Museum of Art's popular summer showcase of Bay area artists, underCURRENT/overVIEW 6, is open, as are architectural renderings and a virtual tour of the proposed new museum.
It's the perfect opportunity to eat hors d'oeuvres, indulge at the cash bar and interact with members of VIVO and other support organizations such as Friends of the Arts (FOTA) and Avant Garde.
Tampa Museum of Art is at 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. 813-274-8130.
This article appears in Jul 24-30, 2002.