It sounds so natural, perhaps the only surprise is that it took so long. The pairing of Bob James on piano and Nancy Stagnitta on flute makes for an alternately evanescent and invigorating evening, even if the only proof thus far is the brief three-song set the duo performed at the City Opera House February 4.
Those songs found the Grammy-winning pianist and Interlochen flute instructor accompanying one another at the conclusion of the Collage Concert celebrating the Opera House’s 125 years. On March 4, audiences at Interlochen will get more of the duo when the two debut their recording In the Chapel, in the Moonlight for two shows, one at 2:30 p.m. and one at 7:30 p.m. Appropriately enough, the shows will take place at Dendrinos Chapel and Recital Hall. “We considered Corson, but felt it was not right for the intimacy of a duo,” says James. Plus, as Stagnitta says, “It’s in the chapel in the moonlight.”
The two musicians were aware of one another, and when the opportunity to work together presented itself they jumped at it. “I am a longtime fan of Bob’s, and it is fulfilling for me to combine classical and my love of playing jazz,” says Stagnitta. James echoes that sentiment. “I have a chance to show the classical side of my playing,” he says. Oh, and one more thing: “My granddaughter is at the academy, and I was looking for an excuse to find more time with her,” says James with a smile.