BLOOMINGTON, Ind. – Award winning and Grammy-nominated musician and singer Michael Feinstein, accompanied by the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, will page homage to the legendary Tony Bennett in his profound and unforgettable performance of Bennett’s greatest hits at IU Auditorium on Friday, November 8 at 8 p.m.

 

Following the show’s spectacular sold-out debut at Carnegie Hall last March, Feinstein will serve as ambassador for the legendary New York City venue, which has been home to some of the most iconic performers in music history, including Feinstein himself, to spread the cultural significance of the Hall, its musical influence, and its big band era history. Performing with the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, Feinstein will visit IU Auditorium and pay tribute to American Songbook master Tony Bennett.

 

“Showmanship, charisma, and a classic repertoire of Tony Bennett’s most beloved songs will be brought to our stage by the endlessly talented Michael Feinstein,” said IU Auditorium Executive Director Maria Talbert. “Mr. Feinstein offers personal anecdotes and insights about Tony Bennett’s career and their relationship, delivering an unforgettable homage to a legend of the music industry.”

 

The performance will feature hits such as “Because of You,” “Rags to Riches,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” “The Best is Yet to Come,” “I Get a Kick Out of You,” “Stranger in Paradise” and many more. Feinstein’s dynamic interpretations, coupled with the grandeur of the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, will create an unforgettable night that honors Bennett’s legacy in all its glory.

 

Feinstein’s close friendship with Tony Bennett—who he calls “one of the most enduring icons of the twentieth century”—will add a profound layer to this tribute, as their shared camaraderie brings depth to each note performed. Not only does Feinstein’s masterful interpretation of Bennett’s timeless repertoire pay homage to an era of classic songwriting, but it also preserves the rich cultural heritage that these songs represent.

 

Following the show's debut, Broadway World stated it was “the first glimpse of what is sure to be a phenomenal US tour of this incredible Big Band!!” and noted that the performance was celebrated with  “rousing standing ovation and vibrant applause reverberated within the iconic venue for the acclaimed musical Tour de Force that is Michael Feinstein and the marvelous Carnegie Hall (Ensemble).” 

 

Feinstein’s dazzling career as a top-selling and critically acclaimed recording artist and a star performer on Broadway, as well as the world’s great concert stages, has earned him five Grammy Award nominations, a special Tony Award for Excellence in Theatre for his Feinstein's New York venue, two Emmy nominations of his television specials, and acclaim for his NPR series.

 

Bennett made his debut at Carnegie Hall in 1961 on a benefit performance for Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Southern Christian Leadership Conference, part of an all-star line-up that included Frank Sinatra, the “Rat Pack,” and many more. Bennett first headlined at Carnegie Hall in 1962 and he went on to perform on the Hall’s illustrious stage more than 20 times. His final appearance was in 2011 when he took to the stage to duet with acclaimed singer-songwriter James Taylor.

 

Michael Feinstein in Because of You: My Tribute to Tony Bennett at IU Auditorium is presented in partnership with the IU Foundation, WFIU, and Lamar Outdoor Advertising. IU Auditorium’s 2024–2025 season is presented by Curry Auto Center, Cook, The Herald Times, Upland Brewing Company, World Arts Inc., and B97.