Maud Hixson

THE PLAYERS

Tony Balluff

French 75 illuminates the British, French, and other unexpected foreign-born repertoire from the Great American Songbook.

French 75 performs new arrangements by leader and clarinetist Tony Balluff (Southside Aces, Bill Evans New Orleans Jazz Band). He is joined by guitarist Robert Bell (Twin Cities Hot Club, Southside Aces), saxophonist Gus Sandberg (Jack Brass Band), bassist Steve Pikal (Wolverines Big Band, Bill Evans New Orleans Jazz Band), drummer Nathan Norman and vocalist Maud Hixson. Past events have included the Vita.mn Poolside Fashion Show and Crash The Ball at the Minnesota Orchestra’s Symphony Ball.

A continental jazz sextet, performing songs that got their start abroad and some from here that were popular there. Named for the cocktail.

Robert Bell

Gus Sandberg

The French 75 Cocktail

Created during World War I and named for a 75-millimeter French artillery gun. "Hits with remarkable precision," writes Harry Craddock in "The Savoy Cocktail Book."

The original recipe is reported to have used cognac, but it has become standard to use gin instead.

Ingredients:

1. 1Ice
   

2. 21 ounce gin
   

3. 31/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
   

4. 41/4 ounce simple syrup
   

5. 54 or 5 ounces brut champagne
   

6. 6Twist of lemon peel, for garnish
   

Directions:

Fill a cocktail shaker halfway with ice. Add the gin, lemon juice and simple syrup. Shake vigorously for at least 30 seconds, then strain into a champagne flute. Top with the champagne as needed, and garnish with the twist of lemon peel.

Nathan Norman

Steve Pikal

La Vie En Rose (Louiguy, Piaf)
Performed by French 75