It’s hard to beat a Glendale Pops show

To anyone who missed the Glendale Pops Orchestra’s free Bossa Nova concert this past Thursday night at the Americana at Brand, I can only say one thing: Your loss! OK, maybe one more thing: Are you crazy?!

The Glendale Pops, led by its talented and charismatic conductor Matt Catingub, continues to astound with its top-notch musical performances and talented guest stars. This time the Pops was joined by Sergio Mendes’ rhythm section (!) and the Brazilian singer Teka.

As someone who regularly attends live music throughout Los Angeles, I can say with confidence that you will not see a more talented, dynamic group of musicians at any venue in Southern California — not at the Hollywood Bowl, not at the Disney Concert Hall, nowhere. And we don’t even have to leave our very own Glendale to enjoy them.

The Glendale Pops’ next concert is on Dec. 9, when one of the great jazz pianists alive today, David Benoit, will join them at the Alex Theatre for a Christmas concert celebrating “A Charlie Brown Christmas.”

This is not to be missed. I encourage everyone to come out and support this fantastic organization. Take a break from all of the amateur music shows on TV for one night and hear in person what truly top-shelf, professional musical talent sounds like. You will not be sorry.

Eric L. Johnston

Glendale