I first met Ella in 1968 while she was appearing in New Orleans. What you saw and heard, represented Ella as a person, to a "T." I had been a fan of hers for many years prior to that time. Her uncanny ability to absolutely memerize an audience without ANY "gimmicks," etc., was always something to behold. The timing, absolute perfect "pitch," phrasing and musicianship could never be disputed. Luckily, this concert in Montreaux, taped in 1969, has preserved Ella as she truly was. She was also much more comfortable singing with a trio, rather than a big band, as it allowed her the freedom to do ANYTHING (vocally) that she wanted. This particular concert featured Ed Thigpen (formerly with Oscar Peterson) on Drums, Frank DeLarosa on Bass (who just completed a stint with Sarah Vaughan) and Tommy Flanagan on Piano (who stayed with Ella for most of the rest of her life). They and Ella, complemented each other so well that, no band was ever needed to bring out the best of her talent. The only negative comment would be that it was taped in B&W and consisted of some shoddy camera work. Other than that...GET THIS DVD!!!!!!!! Very well worth the money and then some!!!!

Ella fitzgerald showcases Her classic Instrument which moved so many peoples. Her range is amazing here. She incorperates so many styles here and make them all work. now she does the standards,but then takes on the Modern feel of the times. and her Riff Runs near the end of the show are magical. Ella Fitzgerald reminds you of what Greatness can truly feel like un-cut on a stage. the musicianship was fantastic.arrangements went into almost every direction that you could imagine and yet ella stayed on point.a Must have.

I am Manuel De Sica, the composer of the song included in this DVD 2"A place for lovers"(lyrics by Norman Gimbel). Thanks God to receive this unique gift to be sung(I was twenty, that year)from the greatest female singer of all times.

Seeing her perform live is the best way to see Ella Fitzgerald perform. Since she has now passed, the second best way is to her on video performing live. Great songs, and even better performances. Don't miss her rendition of "Hey Jude."