Vogues deliver memorable performance to open SFU Band Concert Series

The SFU Bands are hosting a series of musical acts in 2018-19 and the Vogues opened the “SFU Band Concert Series” on Sept. 30 at JFK Auditorium.

The Vogues are known for their chart-topping singles from the 1960s. The original group was inducted in the Vocal Group Hall of Fame in 2001.

The original members of the group – Bill Burkette, Don Miller, Hugh Geyer and Chuck Blasko – were from the Pittsburgh area. They organized under the name the “Val-Aires” in 1958 before changing their name to “The Vogues.”

The Vogues’ current members include Troy Elich, Royce Taylor and Bo Wagner. Band members include Dean Mastrangelo (lead guitar), Artie Deleonardis (drums), J.R. Wright (keyboards) and Rich Gooch (bass).

“I had no idea who the Vogues were until I heard of the SFU Concert Series,” said student Zach Marker. “I was inspired by the music.”

Many old and new fans turned out at JFK Auditorium to enjoy the show.

“I’m glad we are able to expose the campus to this type of music,” said SFU Assistant Director of Bands Theo Lentz. “I hope we can continue to entertain and inspire young musicians with the remaining performances.”

Both Lentz and SFU Director of University Bands Dan Atwood hope the concert series will become an SFU tradition. They also hope the series can expand to include local musicians.

The next act in the series is a “Grease Sing-A-Long” featuring Eddie Deezen (Eugene from the movie “Grease”) on Oct. 20 at JFK Auditorium at 7 p.m.

For additional information or to order tickets, contact Dan Atwood at datwood@francis.edu or by calling 814-471-1182.