Opening the 2015-16 season of the Rodeheaver Series for the Performing Arts is the West Central Quartet from Fort Wayne, with an afternoon concert of self-described “rat-pack style jazz” at 3 p.m. Sept. 27. Providing unique live pop-infused jazz, standards and swing music for venues large or intimate, the group lists among their inspiration Sinatra, Michael Buble, Jamie Cullum, Brian Setzer, Nat King Cole, Bobby Darin, Louis Prima Dean Martin and the Beatles, according to a provided press release. Featuring vocalist Andrew Stout, pianist Jim Steele, bassist Patrick Gillan and drummer Tod Ramsey, the West Central Quartet was the brain child of Patrick Gillian. It began in 2003 with regular dates at Henry's and The Thirsty Camel in Fort Wayne. Although the personnel has changed a little over the years, the heart and soul of the group has remained the same, the release states. Admission to the concert is free, with donations to the series accepted. The church is accessible to the physically challenged. The Rodeheaver Series is named for the Rodeheaver family, known for their development and support of Christian music in the early 20th century and members of First United Methodist Church. The Rodeheaver Series has been bringing the highest caliber of musical and theatrical artists to the area since its inception in 1990, according to the release. Directions to the church, located at the northeast corner of Market and Indiana Streets, Warsaw, are available at www.RodeheaverSeries.org, or by calling the church office at 574-267-6933.
