In the late 1960’s, Chuck Mangione was a member of the band The National Gallery….which in 1968 released the album Performing Musical Interpretations of the Paintings of Paul Klee….while also serving as director of the Eastman jazz ensemble from 1968 to 1972. In 1970, he returned to recording with the album Friends and Love….which was recorded in concert with the Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra and guest performers.
Mangione’s quartet with saxophonist Gerry Niewood….was a popular concert and recording act throughout the 1970’s….when“Bellavia” was recorded during this collaboration….which ended up winning Mangione his first Grammy Award in 1977 in the category Best Instrumental Composition.
Mangione’s composition “Chase the Clouds Away” was used at the 1976 Summer Olympics in Montreal, Quebec. His composition “Give It All You Got”….as heard throughout 1980 Lake Placid Winter Games…. and was actually the theme to the 1980 Winter Olympic Games….which he performed live on global television at the closing ceremonies….as heard in this video herewith….plus, our viewers get to experience the sights and sounds of the closing ceremony…..with none other than legendary Olympics sportscaster Jim McKay behind the mike…..simply put….GREAT STUFF!
