Opening Nights at FSU hosts exclusive salon concert featuring the music of Billy Joel and Elton John

Opening Nights at Florida State University will host an exclusive Salon Concert featuring the music of Billy Joel and Elton John starring Michael Cavanaugh at the FSU President’s House.

Cavanaugh, a renowned singer, songwriter and pianist, will perform an intimate concert featuring the timeless classics of Billy Joel and Elton John. The performance will take place at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 22.

“Opening Nights is thrilled to continue this new tradition of an exclusive concert hosted by the FSU President and First Lady at their home,” said Jennifer Wright, director of Opening Nights at FSU. “This is an exciting and unforgettable way to enjoy a world-class concert and connect with FSU’s greatest supporters and university leadership.”

Cavanaugh is a charismatic performer and musician renowned for his piano/lead vocals in the Broadway musical Movin’ Out. Handpicked by Billy Joel, Cavanaugh appeared in the show for three years for more than 1,200 performances and received multiple accolades. The show culminated in 2003 with both Grammy and Tony award nominations.

Considered one of the hottest artists in the private events market, Cavanaugh performs worldwide for company and charity functions as well as sporting events, including the PGA tour, the Super Bowl and the Indy 500. His interpretation of the modern rock/pop songbook led to Billboard calling him “The New Voice of the American Rock and Roll Songbook,” and Reuters recognized him as Entertainer of the Year for the private events market.

This exclusive event at the FSU President’s House will offer a limited number of tickets for sale. The event includes a pre-performance reception with hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. Tickets are $175 each. Opening Nights sponsors and members may purchase tickets in advance beginning 11 a.m. Friday, Dec. 8. The public on-sale date for this event is 11 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 9.

“Don’t miss this unforgettable evening in the most unique setting in town — the arts are thriving at FSU,” Wright said.

The mission of Opening Nights at Florida State University is to present compelling and distinguished artists who provide extraordinary experiences that educate, inspire and connect diverse audiences on and off campus.

This event is being sponsored by Prime Meridian Bank.

For more information about the concert, visit openingnights.fsu.edu or contact the box office at (850) 644-7670.