Ford Orchestra returns to Jeff City

For Jerry Ford, Jefferson City is almost like a second home.

During legislative sessions, he spends his time in the capitol as a lobbyist for the parents of Missouri's mentally handicapped children. And 25 years ago, he was spending much of his time in the capitol as a legislator representing the Cape Girardeau area.

So when his Jerry Ford Orchestra takes the stage at the legislative inaugural ball Jan. 3, it will be just another day in Jefferson City -- one that will see Ford's group play for about 4,000 people.

Ford remembers the feeling when he was inaugurated, and he's proud to provide the entertainment for such an important day.

"This is, in many cases, the biggest single event in someone's life up to that point," Ford said.

The Jan. 3 event will mark the third consecutive inaugural ball Ford's band has played. The orchestra first performed at the 2002 inaugural for legislators, and Gov. Matt Blunt brought them back last year for the gubernatorial version. This year, the ball was organized by House Speaker Rod Jetton, who brought the Ford Orchestra back for its local ties and by popular demand. Jetton was not available for comment, but Sen. Jason Crowell said having Ford's orchestra perform at the inaugural is a point of pride for Southeast Missouri.

"Number one, they are wonderful musicians that take a back seat to no one," Crowell said. "Their talent is just wonderful, and it's good that Jerry's a former legislator. I know it's neat for him, it's steeped in tradition and he understands the richness of that tradition.

"And he knows how to play the 'Missouri Waltz.'"

Ford's orchestra will play during the Grand March, at which each of the elected legislators is introduced in the capitol rotunda and then provide musical background for the festivities that follow until about midnight. Last year, Ford said many legislators wanted the party to go on longer.

"Two years ago, when it was time to quit, instead of chanting 'Four more years,' they were all chanting 'Four more songs,'" Ford said.

Ford said a large contingent of the crowd is from the orchestra's home area. But even those that aren't are important, Ford said.

"It's like playing for 4,000 or 5,000 of our closest friends," he said.

msanders@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 182