The Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest is exciting to have the Berks Sinfonietta performing during the 35th anniversary celebration.

Since 1991, the fest’s mission has been to create special collaborations to present local musicians and organizations.

Making its inaugural appearance, the local chamber orchestra will present an exciting program -- “Gershwin Comes Alive.”

The music of George Gershwin is a perfect fit for the fest.

Berks Sinfonietta, conducted by Dr. David A. McConnell, will perform music from Gershwin’s songbook, including “Rhapsody in Blue” featuring talented pianist Lars Potteiger, who will put his touch on one of Gershwin's most recognizable creations and a key composition that defined the “jazz age” of the 1920s and early 1930s.

In addition to “Rapsody in Blue,” the program will feature performances of “An American in Paris,” “Funny Face Suite,” Lullaby,” and “Lady Be Good.”

Berks Sinfonietta is a non-profit chamber orchestra dedicated to innovative, engaging programming since 2014. The ensemble is a vibrant tapestry, where seasoned professionals, eager young students, and gifted amateurs come together to explore the vast repertoire of all periods.

Lars Potteiger is known for his ability to engage an audience and take command of a room.

His playing was recently described by George W. Harris of Jazz Today as “always imaginative, adventurous and fully integrated into the music without a wasted note or a flash of virtuosity for its own sake.”

Potteiger maintains an active schedule as a jazz performer. His discography includes several Grammy nominated recordings as well as a myriad of singer collaborations, composition and arranging records, and a solo album.

Potteiger’ resume includes performing with vocalist Carolyn Leonhart (Steely Dan), saxophonist Wayne Escoffery, jazz bassist François Moutin, NEA Jazz Master Phil Woods, flutist Jamie Baum, Frank London of the Klezmatics and Hasidic New Wave, saxophonist Denis DiBlasio, trombonist John Fethock, vocalist Robin Work, saxophonist/composer Bob Belden, vocalist G.C. Cameron (The Spinners and The Temptations), vocalist Glenn Leonard (The Temptations), and steelpan player Othello Molineux.

Potteiger currently serves as Director of Music Ministries at Church of the Apostles UCC in Lancaster, PA.

Opening for the Sinfonietta program will be the Berks High School All-Star Jazz Band.