About the Show
Steve Ross mines the treasures of the International Songbooks in this new collection. Classics from the pens of Berlin, Porter, the Gershwins, Dietz and Schwartz, Johnny Mercer, Michel Legrand, Lerner & Loewe and Noël Coward will be heard, plus some newly-minted gems from contemporary American and British composers.
Steve Ross, a Washington DC native, was surrounded by music from an early age, thanks in part to his piano-playing mother. After studying piano and attending Georgetown University, a seminary, and serving in the U.S. Army, he embraced the Great American Songbook. Moving to New York City in the early 1970s, Ross quickly made a name for himself on the cabaret scene. Initially a background pianist, he was encouraged to sing, developing a distinctive style that drew increasing acclaim. His breakthrough came when Ted Hook hired him at Backstage, later opening Onstage in 1979 to feature Ross exclusively. In 1981, he began a celebrated run at the Algonquin Hotel.
