Deck the Halls is a polished gem, packed with variety from four truly versatile performers. It combines the wow factor of virtuoso musicianship with humorous storytelling and heartfelt expressions of the true spirit of Christmas.
Baritone Steven Marking moves easily between the gorgeous classics like O Holy Night, Silent Night and the sly swing duet Baby It’s Cold Outside, which he sings with JoAnn Funk. Steve combines the qualities of the very best baritones with a charismatic stage presence and a masterful sense of drama and comic timing. With over 40 operatic roles to his credit, Steven has performed with Minnesota Opera, Metropolitan Symphony, Minnesota Chorale and sung a concert of Ives and Hoiby for the Schubert Club, in addition to performing his own shows (Our Mighty Mississippi).
JoAnn Funk is a sultry jazz pianist singer with a style all her own. After many years of performing with Jeff Brueske, this creative team are known for their intelligent arrangements, warm swinging sound and wide range of repertoire. “She’s part Blossom Dearie, part Dusty Springfield, a bit Nellie McKay, a hint of Norah Jones and a splash of Diana Krall...” Bebopified. JoAnn is also an accomplished classical pianist.
Bassist and Vocalist Jeff Brueske is equally comfortable in traditional jazz swing or adding a touch of arco beauty. With a Master's degree in performance and pedagogy from the University of Minnesota, Jeff Brueske has performed and composed for many classical, jazz, fusion, gospel and pop ensembles.
Violinist Gary Schulte is a master of improvisation on the violin. A performance graduate of Indiana University,he is a veteran of "A Prairie Home Companion" and has done everything from classical music to collaborative work with dance and theater groups. Sought after as a jazz violinist, he has performed with the greatest artists of the gypsy jazz genre. He lends each song a joyful beauty, whimsy and spirit.
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For booking information contact Steve Marking 612-293-4067 or email at stevenmarking.com