by Bonnie Reda,

Staff Writer - Democrat and Chronicle

Friday, August 13, 2004

Cool breezes and an overcast day didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the foot-tapping and jitterbug-dancing Thursday afternoon at the Seniorfirst MusicFest on the Lawn at Valley Manor , 1570 East Ave.

More than 265 senior citizens and community members moved to the music of such Big Band artists as Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman and Louis Armstrong.

The Johnny Matt Band played on center stage. After belting out Frank Sinatra's “I've Got You Under My Skin,” vocalist Tom Monte smiled amid the enthusiastic applause.

“I get the biggest thrill out of seeing the look on their faces when I sing certain songs,” Monte said. “It's a nostalgic look, and you just know the song is bringing back a certain memory. I love it.”

Listening to the music did invite a few nostalgic moments for 83-year-old resident Louise Fowler.

“I used to jitterbug when I was in high school. And there was a contest between Rochester and Buffalo on Conesus Lake, and my brother and I won.” she said with a smile. “Maybe I can't dance anymore, but I keep tappin'.”

Resident John Hart, 90, said the music was “fantastic” and he enjoyed the setting with the beautiful gardens.

Big Band music, he added, “is my favorite. It's wonderful and brings back lots of memories of the '20s, '30s, '40s and even '50s.”

Lee Hart, 82, who has been married to Hart for 56 years, said she loves to dance.

The three-day MusicFest also included the sounds of the Alexandrian Woodwind Quintet and the Rochester Opera Factory.

“It's the third year (of the MusicFest) and a great tradition,” said John Hart.

“I hope they keep it up forever.”