On July 21, the world lost one of the most gifted male singers of all times. As much as the world loved Tony Bennett, Tony had a long-standing connection to Sarasota, Florida. He first visited the city in the early 1960s, and he quickly fell in love with its beauty and charm. He began spending more and more time in Sarasota, and he eventually bought a home there.
In 1999, Bennett founded the Tony Bennett School of Jazz at the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee. The school offers a variety of jazz education programs, and it has helped to nurture the talents of many young musicians.
Bennett also performed frequently in Sarasota. He headlined the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for many years, and he also gave concerts at the Sarasota Opera House and the Sarasota Music Festival.
Bennett’s connection to Sarasota was more than just a personal one. He was also a passionate advocate for the city. He helped to raise money for local charities, and he promoted Sarasota as a cultural destination.
In 2014, Bennett was awarded the key to the city of Sarasota. He was honored for his contributions to the city’s cultural life, and for his dedication to helping young musicians.
Bennett’s connection to Sarasota was a deep and abiding one. He loved the city, and he was loved by the people of Sarasota in return. He will be remembered as a great musician and a great friend to Sarasota.
Here are some additional details about Tony Bennett’s connection to Sarasota:
He performed at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall more than 100 times.
He was a founding member of the Sarasota Jazz Festival.
He donated a collection of his personal memorabilia to the Marie Selby Botanical Gardens.
He was awarded an honorary doctorate from the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee.
Bennett’s connection to Sarasota was a special one, and it will be remembered for many years to come.
Let us pay homage to the remarkable life of Tony Bennett.
Join us on Tuesday, August 15 at 6pm for dinner, and classic songs of the “crooners,” including the late Tony Bennett. Professional singer Andy Marsano, a Tampa transplant from New York, will be singing all the great jazz and pop songs that made the icon famous before his death July 21, 2023 at the age of 96.
Professional singer Andy Marsano will pay tribute to Tony Bennet on Aug. 15, 6pm at Amore Restaurant. All Welcome! But make reservations!
Join us to celebrate his music, share memories, and for women who want to perpetuate a Tony Bennett tradition – they are encouraged to throw a scanty pair of panties at Andy while he sings. Amore Restaurant will offer them a glass of wine au gratis!
The mike will also be open for those who might want to sing with Andy (or solo). For them, we’ll give a lot of applause!
Seating is limited, so please make reservations soon. A diversified full menu is offered, but Savor Sarasota promotion is on and includes a “Savor Sarasota” promotion – a $40 three-course meal. Amore Italian & Portuguese restaurant is located at Colonial Village Shopping Center Address: 180 N Lime Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237. Reservations can be made at 941-383-1111.
I’ll be sure to see you all there, as I am emcee of the night at Amore! Let’s have some fun!
~ Andrea Martone