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"Tied to the Tracks"
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC CALENDAR & NEWS
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BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS:
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Events from September 10, 2008, through March, 2009
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Posted September 10, 2008
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Our regular listings contain all the Acoustic Americana music events in and around Los Angeles. We have, for a long time, been including out-of-town events in that same chronology, but we’re hearing that you don’t always find them in time to plan the trip. So, here’s a comprehensive list (sure to grow) of festivals and other events beyond L.A.
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Wed, Sep 10; in Joshua Tree:
6 pm PINT & DALE perform an “OCEAN TO THE DESERT” Concert for The Sun Runner Magazine (www.thesunrunner.com) at The Art Queen Complex, 61855 Twenty-Nine Palms Hwy, Joshua Tree; www.thesunrunner.com; 760-366-2700. This, and the Dana Point Tall Ships Festival, Sep 6 & 7, are the only Southern Cal shows by the Seattle-based maritime / folk-Americana music performers on this tour. Info, www.pintndale.com and www.myspace.com/williampintfeliciadale.
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Thu, Sep 11, on satellite radio:
5 pm THE REFUGEES do a performance-interview on XM Satellite radio. They have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Now, those with XM can listen to a one hour concert taped in April. The Refugees are top hit & Grammy-winning songwriters WENDY WALDMAN, CINDY BULLENS, and DEBORAH HOLLAND. The show is “The Loft.” Here is the schedule: Thu, Sep 11 at nnon; Fri, Sep 12 at midnight; Sat, Sep 13 at 4 pm; Sun, Sep 14 at 9 am. All are PDT (Pacific Daylight Time).
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Fri-Sun, Sep 12-14; N of Bishop, CA:
Annual “MILLPOND MUSIC FESTIVAL” at Millpond County Park in Little Round Valley, Friday evening through Sunday dusk, several miles N of Bishop off Hwy 395; follow signs; info, www.inyo.org/millpond or 760-873-8014.
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Millpond Music Festival is a family-friendly event. They describe themselves as “a small intimate festival in a relaxed setting at the base of the Eastern Sierra mountains. In addition to main stage performances, we offer a workshop tent for a chance to interact with the musicians in a more informal setting, and children's activities including arts and crafts, a bounce house, facepainting and special music performances. There is also a playground and pond for swimming. Crossing ethnic and cultural lines in a celebration of life in all its diversity, you can immerse yourself in an exotic mix of music, surrounded by the stunning mountains at autumn's first blush.” In addition to the scheduled festival events, informal jams happen throughout the weekend. Be sure to bring your instrument. Due to county regulations, no dogs are allowed. If you are camping inside the campground area (Site I or Site II), dogs are allowed in your campsite only, but are not allowed outside the campground at any of the festival sites.
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Fri, Main Stage schedule:
6:10 pm BOB & BARBARA MORA
6:45 pm CLAIR HERRERA
7:45 pm SLAID CLEAVES (www.slaid.com)
9:10 pm MARLEY'S GHOST (www.marleysghost.com)
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Sat, Main Stage schedule:
12:15 pm SOUL REASON
1:25 pm WAYNE "CHOJO" JACQUES with BILLY BRIGHT (www.chojo.net & http://billybright.com)
2:40 pm THE SANTA CRUZ RIVER BAND (www.santacruzriverband.com)
4 pm PETER ROWAN BLUEGRASS BAND (www.peter-rowan.com)
6 pm JP CORMIER (www.jpcormier.com)
7:30 pm GANDALF MURPHY & THE SLAMBOVIAN CIRCUS OF DREAMS (www.slambovia.com)
9:15 pm THE SUBDUDES (www.subdudes.com)
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> Sun, Main Stage schedule:
9 am XITLAHAUC ESTRELLAS DE MEXICO
9:50 am DAN CONNOR (www.danconnormusic.com)
10:35 am MAMADOU DIABATE (http://mamadoukora.com)
11:40 am RAY BONNEVILLE (www.raybonneville.com)
12:45 pm JOE CRAVEN TRIO (www.joecraven.com)
2:10 pm FEUFOLLET (www.feufollet.net)
3:40 pm KEVIN BURKE and CAL SCOTT (www.kevinburke.com)
5:15 pm DEL CASTILLO (www.delcastillomusic.com)
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Workshop Tent events:
> on Sat:
CHOJO & BILLY, SLAID CLEAVES, MARLEY'S GHOST, THE SANTA CRUZ RIVER BAND, FEUFOLLET, RAY BONNEVILLE
> on Sun:
THE SUBDUDES, JP CORMIER, KEVIN BURKE, MAMADOU DIABATE, GANDALF MURPHY & THE SLAMBOVIAN CIRCUS OF DREAMS
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Camping & admission: Festival has four campgrounds, one is sold-out; prices are $35-40 for two nights, Fri & Sat. Three-day-festival pass (does not include camping) adults at the gate, $85. Single Day Pass: Fri, all adults $25; Sat or Sun, all adults $35; student tix, any single day, Inyo & Mono resident students only, through grade 8, are admitted free with adult. All other students are $10 for any single day.
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Sep 12-14; near Portland, OR:
14th Annual “ZYDECO DANCE CAMP” featuring BRIAN JACK AND THE ZYDECO GAMBLERS and the TOO LOOSE CAJUN BAND, at Mt Hood Kiwanis Camp, 55 miles E of Portland, OR in the beautiful Mt Hood National Forest. Dance instruction by MICHAEL SEIDER & FLORY KATZ. Event info, www.cascade-zydeco.com. Questions? msgmorgan@aol.com or cascadezydeco@gmail.com.
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Fri-Sun, Sep 12-14; in Iowa:
“CENTRAL IOWA TRADITIONAL DANCE & MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Ames, IA; info, http://danceames.org. Performers include LISSA SCHNECKENBURGER playing with PHANTOM POWER.
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Fri, Sep 12; in Tehachapi:
7 pm LOREN, KEN & FRIENDS at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Loren was a jazzy-bluesy torch singer in Kansas City, Santa Fe, L.A. and the Bay Area, ’til she returned to her folksy roots in Santa Barbara in the ’80s, performing in different venues around Santa Barbara County before she moved to Tehachapi. Ken started playing harmonica at such an early age that, at age 7, his father "sold grandpa Sam's cello" and bought Ken a trumpet. Ken studied with the "maestro", JOSEPH VALENTI, for several years, until he gave up the horn after an unfortunate "dental accident." Besides, guitar was “way cooler" in 1970! Ken discovered acoustic music while working at Shenanigan's in Hermosa Beach. He took up banjo, studied with ALAN WOLD and the late, great STEVE LIBBEA. A few years later, Ken moved to Fish Camp, and became "Campfire Ken," the banjo-sing-along guy. Between 1986 and 1998, he performed more than 1000 shows at Sierra Sky Ranch, Yosemite Mountain Ranch, Yosemite Trails pack station, and later at Bamboola in San Jose. In 1998, Ken lost his voice for a summer. This turned out to be a blessing in disguise because it led him to develop "Guitarmonica" as he calls it, “the art of playing guitar and harmonica simultaneously - actually banjomonica at the time.” Later, Ken met Mr. Vern Smith, a mechanical engineer who invented the hands-free chromatic harmonica. Ken and Loren have entertained and made fans from Santa Cruz to Northern Italy, where they toured with the popular CIOSI BAND last summer. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Fri, 2nd Fri, every month in 2008; in Seaside:
7-9 pm “KIKI WOW & FRIENDS” play an acoustic concert at Borders Books & Music, 2080 California St, Seaside 93955. For all of you have clamored to know “Whatever happened to Kiki Wow?” – just take a drive up the coast, and you can see and hear for yourself.
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Fri, Sep 12; in Seattle:
8-10 pm “NORTHWEST SEAPORT CHANTEY SING” aboard the historic tugboat Arthur Foss*, docked at the Historic Ships Wharf at Lake Union Park, just N of the Armory Building at 860 Terry St North, Seattle, 98109; www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Anchors of Seattle’s folk scene STAN JAMES & PERCY HILO are the September leaders of the monthly event. Chanteys are work songs and foc’sle ditties with great choruses that join present-day maritime traditions and lore with those of the past. Come and lead a song of the sea or just join in on the chorus. Chanteys and sea songs are easy to learn and fun to sing. Hosted by Matthew Moeller. Bring warm clothing as Sep nights in Seattle can be chilly. Refreshments available. All ages. Free, donations welcome. * - Arthur Foss was working in Pearl Harbor, during the attack on Dec 7, 1941.
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Sat, Sep 13; in Kansas:
Annual “COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Jewell, Kansas (relocated this year from its longtime home in Ionia, Kansas). CURT SHOEMAKER, who produces the festival, was recently inducted into the Kansas Steel Guitar Hall of Fame. Les Gilliam of the THE LES GILLIAM TRIO tells us, "The folks down the road in Jewell, Kansas have invited Curt to move the show this year to Jewell. Ionia has no alternate location in case of rain whereas Jewell has such a back up facility. Jewell also offers other advantages for the fans. Jewell is located just a few miles N of Beloit, Kansas on Highway 14. Call 785-786-3361 for more information. There will be country music all day long and I'll be on around noon and 3:30 pm."
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Sat & Sun, Sep 13 & 14; in Boston:
“ICONS FESTIVAL” with SOLAS, others. Info, www.iconsfestival.com.
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Sat, Sep 13; in Lake Elizabeth, CA, & web simulcast:
4 pm-midnight “EAST OF NOWHERE JAM & POTLUCK” at a private residence in Lake Elizabeth 93532; call for info & directions, 661-724-1064. Sponsors say, “Bring your axe, your voice, your ears and something to eat and/or drink. We’ll have a ball!” For the first time, the monthly event will be simulcast on the web, at http://lakesandvalleys.camstreams.com.
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Sat, Sep 13 on satellite radio:
4 pm THE REFUGEES do a performance-interview on XM Satellite radio. They have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Now, those with XM can listen to a one hour concert taped in April. The Refugees are top hit & Grammy-winning songwriters WENDY WALDMAN, CINDY BULLENS, and DEBORAH HOLLAND. The show is “The Loft.” Here is the schedule: Thu, Sep 11 at nnon; Fri, Sep 12 at midnight; Sat, Sep 13 at 4 pm; Sun, Sep 14 at 9 am. All are PDT (Pacific Daylight Time).
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Sat, Sep 13; in Santa Barbara:
6-10 pm “DINNER AND HOEDOWN” with PETER FELDMANN, MICHAEL MENDELSON, & JIM WIMMER performing the music, and CARL MAGAGNOSC as the caller, in a benefit for Hearts Adaptive Riding Center in Santa Barbara. Call 805 964-1519 for reservations, location, and info.
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Sat, Sep 13; in Santa Barbara:
6:30 pm TIM FINN & BRANDI SHEARER play SOhO Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-962 7776; www.sohosb.com. It’s a joint tour, sponsored by Amoeba Records. TIM FINN has enjoyed a varied and remarkable career, from his days as founder of legendary 70's/80's art-pop group SPLIT ENZ to his time in CROWDED HOUSE with brother (and former Split Enz band mate) NEIL FINN, as well as an outstanding solo career, an eclectic album project (ALT) and two FINN BROTHERS albums. Amoeba presents the California leg of Tim’s tour with BRANDI SHEARER opening and road-testing songs for her next album. Check-out episodic interviews with Brandi, as she records the new album, at www.brandishearer.com. To celebrate the tour, Tim Finn has released an 8-song CD, “Rarities/Demos/Live Performances Vol. 1,” available exclusively at Amoeba; www.amoeba.com/content/tim_finn.html. Other local stops on the tour: Sep 10 at Anthology in San Diego; Sep 11 at the El Rey in L.A. Also a 10 pm show. All ages, $20.
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Sat, Sep 13; in Tehachapi:
7 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY returns to Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. JAMES LEE STANLEY has performed live several times on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and is a true renaissance man of acoustic music. He has been recording and performing since age 14. James has toured consistently since he returned from the USAF (as a Chinese linguist) and now performs up to three hundred dates a year, with such diverse acts as BONNIE RAITT, ROBIN WILLIAMS, NICOLETTE LARSON and even BILL COSBY. Comedian STEVEN WRIGHT chose JAMES LEE STANLEY as his opening act three years in a row; a testament to his professionalism and talent.
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James’ original songs, coupled with his outrageously hilarious repartee, make for an evening of hilarity and tenderness and one of the most entertaining concerts on the circuit. He has been hailed as one of the few all time greats and undisputed geniuses among singer-songwriters. FI Magazine listed his album, “Freelance Human Being,” as one of the finest recordings of 1998 and one of the “Top 200 Recordings of All Time” - FI Magazine, March 1999. More at www.jamesleestanley.com. Catch one of James’ performances on YouTube at www.mamahillybeans.com/calendar.html#083008. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Adv tix $12, $15 at door.
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Sat, Sep 13; in Northern Cal:
7:30 pm JANIS IAN with DAN NAVARRO (Lowen & Navarro) opening, at Cal State Chico, in Laxson Auditiorium, 400 W 1st St, Chico (85 miles N of Sacramento); tix & info, 530-898-6333 or cpmarketing@csuchico.edu. Janis Ian is legendary for her five decades of deeply personal songwriting, including the Grammy winning "At Seventeen." Dan is opening, performing a mixture of L&N tunes and solo originals. More at http://lownav.c.topica.com/maamcVoabKifnbPhQnzbaehoil. All ages; tix $18-$23.
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Sun, Sep 14 on satellite radio:
9 am THE REFUGEES do a performance-interview on XM Satellite radio. They have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Now, those with XM can listen to a one hour concert taped in April. The Refugees are top hit & Grammy-winning songwriters WENDY WALDMAN, CINDY BULLENS, and DEBORAH HOLLAND. The show is “The Loft.” Here is the schedule: Thu, Sep 11 at nnon; Fri, Sep 12 at midnight; Sat, Sep 13 at 4 pm; Sun, Sep 14 at 9 am. All are PDT (Pacific Daylight Time).
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Wed-Sat, Sep 17-20; in Nashville:
9th annual “AMERICANA MUSIC CONFERENCE & FESTIVAL,” 818 3rd Ave S (at Lindsley), Nashville, TN; www.americanamusic.org. This has panels, workshops, awards, a trade show, and an amazing lineup of wall-to-wall evening performances that include artists who have performed on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” including ROSIE FLORES, BEN SOLEE, ANNE McCUE, DIANA JONES, & MARK OLSON (from the Jayhawks).
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In addition to the full conference, the event offers an evening “Music Festival,” accessed with wristbands that admit the wearer to ALL venues on ALL four nights, for just $35. The evening Music Festival lineup is:
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> Wed, Sep 17:
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Basement venue:
9 pm The Belleville Outfit
10 pm The everybodyfields
11 pm The Dedringers
12 am Patrick Sweany
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Station Inn venue:
9 pm Donna Beasley
10 pm Dailey & Vincent
11 pm Randy Kohrs
12 pm SteelDrivers
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3rd & Lindsley venue:
9 pm Robin & Linda Williams
10 pm Nels Andrews
11 pm Anne McCue
12 am Patty Hurst Shifter
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Mercy Lounge venue:
9 pm Romantica
10 pm Kane Welch Kaplin
11 pm Marcia Ball
12 am Kim Richey, Will Kimbrough, Mando Saenz
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> Thu, Sep 18:
(showcases follow Honors & Awards show at the Ryman)
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Basement venue:
10 pm Laura Cantrell
11 pm Malcolm Holcombe
12 am Luke Doucet & Melissa McClelland
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Station Inn venue:
10 pm Ben Sollee
11 pm Crooked Still
12 am Diana Jones
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3rd & Lindsley venue (Presented by the City of Austin):
10 pm Rosie Flores
11 pm Joe Ely
12 pm Band of Heathens
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Mercy Lounge venue:
10 pm Langhorne Slim & the War Eagles
11 pm Jason & the Scorchers
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Cannery Ballroom:
TBA
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> Fri, Sep 19:
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Basement venue (presented by the Aquarium Drunkard and My Old Kentucky Blog):
8 pm Blair
9 pm Those Darlins
10 pm Jason Isbell
11 pm O'Death
12 am Le Switch
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Station Inn venue:
8 pm Chatham County Line
9 pm Bruce Robison
10 pm Kathy Mattea
11 pm Dave Peterson & His Old Time Country Review
12 am Jim Lauderdale
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3rd & Lindsley venue:
8 pm Jim White
9 pm Red Stick Ramblers
10 pm Peter Bradley Adams
11 pm Mike Farris
12 am The Coal Men
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Mercy Lounge venue (presented by R&R):
8 pm TBA
9 am Girls Guns & Glory
10 pm Paul Thorn
11 pm James McMurtry
12 am The Gougers
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Cannery Ballroom:
9 pm SHURMAN
10 pm The Boxmasters
11 pm Cross Canadian Ragweed
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> Sat, Sep 20:
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Basement venue:
8 pm Jennifer Niceley
9 pm Christopher Denny
10 pm Ben Kweller
11 pm Reverend Peyton's Big Damn Band
12 am Band of Annuals
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Station Inn venue:
8 pm The Farewell Drifters
9 pm Sierra Hull & Highway 111
10 pm Peter Cooper
11 pm Justin Rutledge
12 am The Wrights
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3rd & Lindsley venue:
8 pm Kylie Harris
9 pm John Cowan Band
10 pm Folk Uke
11 pm Randall Bramblett
12 am Have Gun Will Travel
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Mercy Lounge venue:
8 pm The Duhks
9 pm Ricky Young
10 pm Buddy Miller
11 pm Gary Louris & Mark Olson (from the Jayhawks)
12 am Chuck Mead
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Cannery Ballroom:
8:30 pm Sin City Presents “Starspangled Rodeo” A Salute To Glen Campbell featuring Glen Campbell
9:45 pm surprise guest
11 pm Raul Malo
12:45 am Thirty Tigers & Sin City's Closing Night Hootenanny
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Wed-Sun, Sep 17-21, in Winfield, Kansas:
Annual “WALNUT VALLEY FESTIVAL” with numerous contests for national championships on nu,erous folk/traditional instruments, in Winfield, Kansas 67156; www.wvfest.com; 620-221-3250. Many favorites from radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” are among the many featured acts, including DAVE STAMEY; SMALL POTATOES; THE WIYOS; THE GREENCARDS; JOHN MCCUTCHEON; BYRON BERLINE BAND; MARLEY'S GHOST; STILL ON THE HILL; TOM CHAPIN WITH MICHAEL MARK; also performing are BILL BARWICK; STEPHEN BENNETT; ROZ BROWN; DAILEY & VINCENT; JULIE DAVIS; DIAMOND W WRANGLERS; BEPPE GAMBETTA; BUDDY GREENE, RON BLOCK & JEFF TAYLOR; MICHAEL RENO HARRELL; PETE HUTTLINGER; CHRIS JONES & THE NIGHT DRIVERS; RANDY KOHRS BAND; ANDY MAY; ADAM MILLER; MISTY RIVER; MOUNTAIN HEART; DAVID MUNNELLY BAND; THE OLD 78'S; BARRY PATTON; ROCKIN' ACOUSTIC CIRCUS; THE KENNY & AMANDA SMITH BAND; DOUG SMITH; JOHNNY STAATS & ROBERT SHAFER; THOMAS/DELANCEY TRIO; LINDA TILTON.
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EIGHT INSTRUMENTAL CONTESTS are part of this festival. These are the International Autoharp Championship; International Finger Style Guitar Championship; National Flat Pick Guitar Championship; National Mountain Dulcimer Championship; National Bluegrass Banjo Championship; National Hammer Dulcimer Championship; plus, the Walnut Valley Mandolin Championship; and the Walnut Valley Old Time Fiddle Championship. Several “big name” artists today, including MARK O'CONNOR, ALISON KRAUSS, CHRIS THILE, & PETER OSTROUSHKO, can point to being a “Winfield winner” in their earlier years.
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Five-day full festival pass, w/ camping, is $80 adv, $90 at festival; one-day pass, Thu, Fri, Sat, is $35; Sun only is $15.
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Wed, Sep 17; in Ojai:
7 pm “LADIES COUNTRY NIGHT OUT” with CINDY KALMENSON & KAREN TOBIN at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com.
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CINDY KALMENSON, from Nashville, has a gypsy spirit and a sense of adventure. She's a delight as she sings her sometimes funny, sometimes sad, sometimes high energy and sometimes tear-jerking songs. Seeing her live, you witness the charm of a true artist born to be on stage.
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KAREN TOBIN, from Pennsylvania, is a powerful and sensitive singer-songwriter and former recording artist with Arista and Atlantic Records. She displays control and versatility with her mezzo-soprano vocal style. She touches your soul with her intensely emotional songwriting.
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Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. This show is part of the “2fer offer” from the series; contact them for info. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $15 adv, $18 door.
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Wed, Sep 17; in Santa Barbara:
8 pm GRUPO FALSO BAIANO, Brazilian choro quartet, plays a CD release show, with special guest flutist REBECCA KLEINMANN, at SoHo, 1221 State St, Santa Barbara. The Bay Area-based Brazilian Grupo is touring in support of their new CD, “Viajando: Choro e Jazz,” on Massaroca Records. Music samples are available at www.grupofalsobaiano.com/music. REBECCA KLEINMANN’s music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” $10 cover.
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Wed, Sep 17; in Nashville:
9 pm (local time) ROBIN & LINDA WILLIAMS play a concert at the “AMERICANA MUSIC CONFERENCE & FESTIVAL,” 818 3rd Ave S (at Lindsley), Nashville, TN; www.americanamusic.org. It’s just a day after their new studio album, “Buena Vista,” hits stores, and they’re showcasing the tracks at the Festival. They’ve been at it for over 30 years, and you’ll love these quotes: “half of the hacks on Music Row should sit at this act’s feet for song-writing lessons. This is that legendary thing. The Real Deal.” - Music Row. And, “no-frills, boiled down country” - Houston Press. If you don’t go to Nashville for the AMA Conference, you can still check-out the new record: it was produced by Grammy winning artist TIM O’BRIEN in Nashville and is a radio-friendly mix of traditional country, Americana roots and bluegrass. Tim lent his own superior fiddle, mandolin, guitar and bouzouki talents to the project and also brought together some of the hottest Americana players, including JERRY DOUGLAS (dobro, lap steel), DENNIS CROUCH (bass), KENNY MALONE (drums, percussion) and fellow Red House artist RAY BONNEVILLE (harmonica). Red House Records Ellen Stanley says the new record is, “An exploration of life’s hard times and unexpected joys, this new collection of songs takes us down south to country’s bumpy back roads and mountain views. ‘Buena Vista’ showcases their finest songwriting to date and is destined to become a country/roots classic.” More at www.redhouserecords.com.
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Thu, Sep 18, on web radio:
7 pm LILA DOWNS & GREGORY ALAN ISAKOV do a live performance-interview on “Etown” from the Boulder (Colo) Theater. Depending where you are, it airs on a local station, or on a web simulcast from a station somewhere. Check www.etown.org and the specific page www.etown.org/findstation.php for local stations and times. In L.A., etown airs on KSWD 100.3 FM, Sunday mornings at 6 am. You can find a more civilized hour with a web simulcast from elsewhere, using the station finder, or go the main site and get a free podcast or MP3 from their archive after it airs. We had a news feature about “Etown” in the Aug 28 edition of Acoustic Americana Music News (story #4), available in the archive at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-august-28-edition.html.
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Fri-Sun, Sep 19-21; in Big Bear, CA:
Annual “BIG BEAR COWBOY GATHERING” with GARY ROBERTSON, RED STEAGALL, others, at Big Bear Lake; www.bigbearcowboygathering.net.
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Fri-Sun, Sep 19-21; in Tehachapi:
3:30 pm 32nd Annual “FIDDLIN’ DOWN THE TRACKS” Old Time Fiddle Contest, presented by the California State Old Time Fiddlers Association District #3, in West Park Auditorium, 410 West D St, Tehachapi, CA; www.tehachapi.com/fiddlecontest. Check out the different musical categories - not just fiddle. (Site has clickable links for each aspect, and printable contest flyer, schedule, & rules); more info, email schoenbergzoo@sbcglobal.net or call Leslie at 661-821-0800.
Day 1: Fri, Sep 19, 3:30 pm Senior Divisions, Adult Band Scramble, Contra Dance.
Day 2: Sat, Sep 20, 9 am Small Fry-to-Adult, Junior Band Scramble, All Other Divisions.
Day 3: Sun, Sep 21, 11 am Gospel Inspiration Hour.
Event includes cash prizes, trophies & medals, food, raffle prizes, “Orange Blossom Special Division;” Quilts on display by the Tehachapi Mountain Quilters. Public welcome. The 2008 contest is dedicated to Chubby Wise.
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Fri, Sep 19; in Seattle:
7:30 pm KEVIN BURKE & CAL SCOTT in concert at Dusty Strings (34th & Fremont), Seattle. Traditional and contemporary music from two of the most recognizable talents in Irish music today. In addition the concert there are upcoming workshops at Dusty Strings with KEVIN BURKE, CAL SCOTT, & LISA ORNSTEIN. Info, www.nwfolklife.org.
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Fri, Sep 19; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm THE LETTERMEN at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, downtown Lancaster 03534; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. The Lettermen have been called the `"greatest male romantic group of all time" by Billboard Magazine. Since 1961 and their first hit, “The Way You Look Tonight,” they have embodied the essence of romance. After selling over $100 million in records, tapes and CDs, The Lettermen know how to please. www.thelettermen.com. $27.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 20 & 21; E of San Diego:
Annual “JULIAN BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” at Frank Lane Field, Julian; www.julianbluegrassfestival.com. A variety of music, NOT JUST bluegrass, is included in the lineup with TRAILS & RAILS, SCOTT GATES, HIGHLAND WAY and others on Saturday. JUDY TAYLOR, SARA PETITE, CHRIS CLARKE and others on Sunday. There will be an open mic stage all day - both days - and lots of jamming under the trees. The Julian Bluegrass Festival is the oldest Bluegrass Festival in California. Participants tell us, “Many of the finest bluegrass artists today started on this stage in contests and in performances.” (Special note: The audience hill has been terraced to comply with water district requirements, which also makes it more friendly for chairs and picnics.)
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Sat & Sun, Sep 20 & 21; in Northern Cal:
“AMERICAN RIVER MUSIC FESTIVAL” at 950 Lotus Rd, Coloma, CA 95651; 503-622-6044; www.americanrivermusic.org. Artists include KEITH GREENINGER & DAYAN KAI. Keith Greeninger is a seasoned troubadour, political activist, award-winning songwriter, and unforgettable performer. With nothing more than a guitar in hand and a song with a story to tell, Keith can completely captivate an audience. From the deep laid back grooves of a soulful ballad to the righteous intensity of a hard-driving anthem, his rich vocal range conveys strength tempered with vulnerability, political struggle reflected in personal experience, and the deep connection to earth, sky, community, and family. His masterfully crafted tunes and powerful presence have earned him the top songwriting awards at the Telluride Blue Grass Festival, The Kerrville Folk Festival and The Napa Valley Folk Festival. With three critically acclaimed CD’s to date Greeninger’s newest release , Glorious Peasant, may be his strongest yet, showcasing his strengths as both artist, and producer. Although the folk music roots are evident, Glorious Peasant is a full-fledged journey into the land of groove and soul. “I field calls on countless artists, and no one has captured my listeners more than Keith" Brian Terhorst, KVMR, Nevada City, CA. “One of our Favorites here at the PIG!" - Laura Ellen Hopper - Legendary founder and program director of KPIG Radio. Artist info, www.keithgreeninger.com and www.myspace.com/keithgreeninger.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 20 & 21; in Georgia:
Annual “NORTH GEORGIA FOLK FESTIVAL” in Athens, GA; info, www.athensfolk.org and www.sandycreekpark.com. Artists include PACKWAY HANDLE BAND, a Georgia-based bluegrass-roots band that made good impressions when they toured California.
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Sat, Sep 20, on web radio
7 pm (Pacific) JOAN BAEZ & BRETT DENNEN do a live performance-interview on “Etown” from the Chautauqua Auditorium. Depending where you are, it airs on a local station, or on a web simulcast from a station somewhere. Check www.etown.org and the specific page www.etown.org/findstation.php for local stations and times. In L.A., etown airs on KSWD 100.3 FM, Sunday mornings at 6 am. You can find a more civilized hour with a web simulcast from elsewhere, using the station finder, or go the main site and get a free podcast or MP3 from their archive after it airs. We had a news feature about “Etown” in the Aug 28 edition of Acoustic Americana Music News (story #4), available in the archive at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-features-august-28-edition.html.
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Sat, Sep 20; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm PETER SPRAGUE & FRED BENEDETTI play the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. PETER SPRAGUE formed his first group, the Minor Jazz Quartet, when he was in high school. Peter's group, Blurring the Edges, was awarded best contemporary jazz recording for their 1994 CD in the San Diego Music Awards. His own CD “Nikki's Rose” was nominated for Best Jazz CD in 2000 by SDMA, and he was voted Best Jazz Musician of the Year 2000 by SDMA. His group, Pass The Drum, was nominated for CD of the year by the SDMA in 2003. The San Diego Reader voted Peter the Best Jazz group of 2002 in their “Best Of” issue. Artist info, www.peterspraguemusic.com/main/index.html.
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FRED BENEDETTI has performed for the master classes of Andrés Segovia, Pepe Romero, Christopher Parkening, Federico Moreno-Torroba, George Sakellariou, and David Grimes. Fred has performed internationally and with the San Diego Symphony, the San Diego Opera, the Starlight Opera, the American Ballet Company, the Old Globe Theatre, Luciano Pavarotti, and jazz artist Dave Brubeck. Presently, he is full-time professor of music at Grossmont College, chair of guitar studies, and member of the guitar faculty at San Diego State University with George Svoboda, Robert Wetzel and Celin Romero. Equally at home playing classical music or contemporary music, he records on the SBE label and DOMO records with four noted ensembles: Keltik Kharma (a celtic band); The Odeum Guitar Duo, honored by Acoustic Guitar magazine as having one of the ten best independently-produced guitar CDs for the year 2000, "Blurring the Edges" also a recipient of the 1994 San Diego Music Awards "Best Pop-Jazz" album of the year. Fred has worked as a studio musician for 20 years, and his playing is featured on over 60 CDs, numerous movie soundtracks, and TV commercials. He has shared the stage with Art Garfunkel, Basia, Michael Franks, Mark O'Connor, Michael Hedges, and Ottmar Liebert, and has recorded with Willie Nelson, Juice Newton, Paul Overstreet, Patty Loveless, Tom Barabas, Big Mountain, Matthew Lien, Ronny Robbins and William Lee Golden. He has performed for dignitaries including the King & Queen of Malaysia, Mikhail Gorbachev and President Jimmy Carter. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Sep 20; in Seattle:
8 pm GEOFF KAUFMAN plus SHANGHAIED ON THE WILLAMETTE play the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, in Seattle’s new Lake Union Park; info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html.
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GEOFF KAUFMAN is “a special performer from the East Coast.” One of today’s great voices in maritime music, Geoff has been called “one of the finest and strongest tenor voices on the folk scene.” His music of the sea has been honed over the last twenty-four years during his employment at Mystic Seaport as a chanteyman, Foreman of Interpretive Music Programs and Director of the annual Sea Music Festival. Artist info, http://geoffkaufman.com.
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SHANGHAIED ON THE WILLAMETTE is “A Great Act from South of the Border” – that’s the Washington-Oregon Border. They are the lively musical duo of JONATHAN LAY & GORDY EULER. They perform songs and tunes "plundered from land and sea," including traditional Celtic, English, and Old-Time American music, especially music of the sea and waterways, accompanying their vocal harmonies with a fleet of acoustic instruments, including fiddle, bodhran (Irish drum), guitar (6- and 12-string), mandola, tin whistles, harmonicas and banjo. Artists’ info, http://shanghaied.biz.
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Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Sun, Sep 21; in Ojai:
4 pm Grammy nominee ROBBEN FORD, with JONATHAN McEUEN opening, plays a benefit concert at Matilija Auditorium, Matilija Jr High School, 703 El Paseo Rd, Ojai. Guitar great Robben Ford was named one of the “Top 100 Guitarists in the World” by Musician Magazine. Although Ford is best known for his eight solo recordings that have brought him five Grammy nominations, he has also played with music luminaries MILES DAVIS, JONI MITCHELL, MICHAEL MCDONALD, PHIL LESH, DAVID SANDBORN, GEORGE HARRISION, CHARLIE MUSSLEWHITE, BONNIE RAITT, and many others. The benefit concert provides a rare opportunity to catch Robben Ford performing in his hometown between international tours. Ford is joined onstage by TOSS PANOS on drums and TRAVIS CARLTON on bass, and the opening act is guitarist / singer-songwriter JONATHAN McEUEN, son of Nitty Gritty Dirt Band founding member John McEuen. Ford and his band play this benefit to raise funds for friend TARA JEFFERY's medical expenses, due to breast cancer. Tara Jeffery is a much-loved member of the Ojai community who owns Ojai Pilates and Wellness Center and also performs as a singer. Info, www.robbenford.com. Tix available at Ojai Creates, 606 East Ojai Av, Ojai, 805-640-6558; Cardiinali Brothers Music Store, 139 W El Roblar Dr, Ojai, 805-646-2098; or www.brownpapertickets.com. $35.
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Sun, Sep 21; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm JIM MESSINA at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, downtown Lancaster 03534; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Guitarist-vocalist Messina’s impact on seminal bands BUFFALO SPRINGFIELD, POCO, & LOGGINS & MESSINA is reflective of his musical legacy and indicative of his innovative standards. From tight, intricate rock to sensitive ballads, Jim Messina combines the expressiveness of country music with the energy of rock and roll. www.jimmessina.com. $40 & $35.
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Mon, Sep 22; in Apple Valley, CA:
7 pm ACOUSTIC EIDOLON plays the “Lynch Legacy” House Concert series in Apple Valley; reservations get directions at 760-953-9983 or 760-220-3706 or LynchLegacy@aol.com. They’re excellent and innovative Colorado-based musicians. Artists' info, www.acousticeidolon.com.
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Wed-Sun, Sep 24-27; in Oklahoma:
The annual “GENE AUTRY, OKLAHOMA FILM AND MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Gene Autry, Oklahoma, www.geneautryokmuseum.com, begins with a Wed night open mic show. Thu, Fri & Sat there are two stages of booked artists. Several Hollywood Movie Stars will be there during the event for panel discussions and autograph sessions. Les Gilliam of the SILVER LAKE BAND tells us, "My band and I will be the headliners for the Sat night show, presenting a 90 minute concert, with Don Long on drums, Kenny Glasgow on bass, Jerald Ritter on fiddle and the unbelievable Smiley Weaver on steel guitar."
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Wed, Sep 24; in Bakersfield:
RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE play the RaboBank Arena Theater, Bakersfield. Info, www.ridersofthepurplesage.com.
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Fri-Sun, Sep 26-28; in Sanger, CA:
Annual “HOBBS GROVE BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Hobbs Grove Park, Sanger, CA; info, www.krblue.net/index.html. Info, Henry or Nancy Zuniga, at 559-338-0026. Performing are THE DEL WILLIAMS BAND, THE KATHY KALLICK BAND, ERIC UGLUM & SONS, THE GRASSKICKERS, DALTON MOUNTAIN GANG, SAM CRISWELL AND GROUNDSPEED, KENNY HALL & THE LONG HAUL STRING BAND, BALONEY CREEK, HEARTLAND HARVEST, SMILEY MOUNTAIN, KINGS RIVER GOSPELAIRES, THE GRASS LESS TRAVELLED, FRANK SOLIVAN & KIDS ON BLUEGRASS, & COUNTRY GRASS. It’s on a beautiful site with lots of shade, lots of jamming, workshops, concessions and fun. Also a Sunday morning Bluegrass Church, and an instrument raffle to raise money for kids programs. Ice, food, drink and concessions on site. Free camping Fri, Sat & Sun; showers available. There's plenty of room for RV's (no hookups), and lots of shade for tent campers (dry camping only). Music runs Fri 3-10 pm, Sat 10 am-10 pm, Sun 10 am-4 pm. Rain or shine, no refunds. Tix at gate, 3 day pass $40. One day only: Fri $15; Sat $20; Sun $10.
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Fri-Sat, Sep 26-27; in Canada:
“DEEP ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Wolfville, Nova Scotia, with HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN, others.
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Fri-Fri, Sep 26-Oct 3; in Colorado & New Mexico:
“FRED EAGLESMITH'S ROOTS ON THE NARROW GAUGE” with guests CORB LUND, WASHBOARD HANK and LANCE LOREE (others tba). Deep into the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Albuquerque, NM - Durango, CO - Pagosa Springs - Chama, NM - Albuquerque. "Let's get our own train and go someplace great. I don't mean a fancy one, I mean an old one, with steam and dust and cinders." - Fred Eaglesmith. Journey with the Fred Eaglesmith Band (www.fredeaglesmith.com) with guests Corb Lund (www.corblund.com), Washboard Hank (www.washboardhank.com) and Lance Loree (others tba) to travel into the San Juan mountains of southwestern Colorado and Northern New Mexico. Ride the last great, scenically spectacular examples of steam-era railroading in North America. The legendary Durango & Silverton (www.durangotrain.com) deep through Las Animas Canyon, then to the wild country of the Cumbres & Toltec www.cumbrestoltec.com), North America's longest, highest and most remote narrow gauge railroad. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net, or call 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Info, www.rootsontherails.com. $1,989 per person.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Tehachapi:
11th Annual “BEAR VALLEY BUCKAROOS GATHERING” with DAVE STAMEY and LARRY MAURICE, in Tehachapi; 661-821-6615. Champion cowboy poet Larry Maurice and multiple-award-winning cowboy singer-songwriter Dave Stamey do a delightful, but rare, duo show. Larry tells us, “This show sells out every year. If you are in that area and think you would like to try for a ticket, make sure you call ahead. It is a guarded-gate equestrian facility and ya can't get in without a pass. No tickets at the door. Some of you folks, this might be your opportunity to see Dave and I together again.”
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Sat, Sep 27; in Vinton CA (near Reno):
Annual “VINTON COWBOY POETRY FESTIVAL” in Vinton CA; info, Betty Ramelli, 530-993-4692, or bramelli@gotsky.com. JUNI FISHER tells us, “There is a charming Grange Hall in the northeast corner of California, not far from Reno, and it is the site of a delightful Cowboy Poetry Gathering. I will be so happy to join my friends, poets GARY ROBERTSON and JIM PARSONS. Cowgirl singer JUNI FISHER (www.junifisher.net) has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and she is touring her new album, “Gone For Colorado.” She holds more awards than we can count, but here are some: 2007 WMA Song of the Year Songwriter; 2006 WMA Female Vocalist of the Year; 2005 AWA Western Female Performer of the Year; 2005 WMA Crescendo Award.
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Sat, Sep 27; in South Carolina:
“THE ALBINO SKUNK FESTIVAL” in Greer, SC, 4063 Jordan Rd, Greer, SC 29651. With I SEE HAWKS IN L.A., more.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm COUNTRY JOE McDONALD’s “TRIBUTE TO WOODY GUTHRIE” plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. In his highly-entertaining Tribute to Woody Guthrie, Country Joe McDonald deftly conveys all the charm, talent, and social and political consciousness of the legendary folksinger from Oklahoma. McDonald, whose father Worden shared Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl roots with Guthrie in the ‘20s & ‘30s, opens the tribute with a moving performance of Woody’s best-known tune, “This Land is Your Land,” and ultimately sings 13 Woody Guthrie songs, all in a strong clear voice that doesn’t mimic Guthrie’s style, but conveys the emotion and energy that defines Guthrie. Artist info, www.countryjoe.com/cjmbio.htm. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $22 gen’l, $18 mbrs.
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Sat, Sep 27; in Ojai:
MICHAEL HURWITZ, from Wyoming, plays a cowboy/western music show at the Thacher school in Ojai (open to the public; Don Edwards and Dave Stamey have both played there); info when we have it, or check his website, www.mikehurwitz.com. He was a hit at the Santa Clarita Cowboy Festival.
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Sun-Tue, Sep 28-30, in Mammoth:
“MAMMOTH LAKES PACK OUTFIT FALL HORSEDRIVE” with award-winning cowboy singer-songwriter DAVE STAMEY; info, 888-475-8747; www.mammothpack.com.
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Sun, Sep 28; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC EIDOLON plays Mama Hillybeans, 426 E. Tehachapi Blvd, Tehachapi, 93561; info & adv tix, 661-750-3261; www.mamahillybeans.com. They’re excellent and innovative Colorado-based musicians. ACOUSTIC EIDOLON performs from the Vancouver Island MusicFest to the Kerrville Folk Festival, from the Kennedy Center in D.C. to St. Paul's Cathedral in London and the Spandau Theatre in Berlin, Germany, where people praise their sound. They are JOE SCOTT & HANNAH ALKIRE and they combine their musical talents to create an exciting new acoustic sound. Joe plays an instrument he invented, the double-neck guitjo, a custom acoustic guitar with two necks, each with 7 strings, built exclusively for him. This one-of-a-kind instrument has incredible range and tonal qualities, sounding at times like a piano, dulcimer or harp. Combine that with Hannah's stunning tone and impeccable cello, and you have the ingredients for some very moving music. Swallow Hill Music Association says, "...an evening of brilliant instrumentality." Artists' info, www.acousticeidolon.com.
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Mon-Sun, Sep 29-Oct 5; in Nashville:
INT’L BLUEGRASS MUSIC ASSOCIATION “WORLD OF BLUEGRASS” at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel, Nashville; info & tix, www.ibma.org; 888-438-4262. This is THE big, weeklong, annual event of the BG world. It’s structured to be three events in one:
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(a) “IBMA BUSINESS CONFERENCE” Sep 29-Oct 2, at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel. The annual business conference for the bluegrass music industry with artist showcases, an exhibit hall with more than 100 booths, professional development seminars, member constituency meetings, one-on-one industry networking and much more.
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The “Business Conference” includes “Official” and “After Hours” (also official) showcases that include some big names, including KATHY MATTEA. If you go, here are some to catch at the late-night shows, including some who have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks:” APRIL VERCH BAND, JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET / JOHN JORGENSON BLUEGRASS BAND, MISSY RAINES AND THE NEW HIP, CHARLIE SIZEMORE (solo) / CHARLIE SIZEMORE BAND, THE PACKWAY HANDLE BAND (from Georgia), LONESOME RIVER BAND (from Virginia), CLAIRE LYNCH BAND, DAVID GRIER, PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD, ALECIA NUGENT, STEEP CANYON RANGERS, MOUNTAIN HEART & TONY RICE, CHERRYHOLMES, RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER, J.D.CROWE & THE NEW SOUTH, THE BROMBIES, TONY TRISCHKA, ROBIN & LINDA WILLIAMS, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, GRASSTOWNE, RUSSELL MOORE & IIIRD TYME OUT, MARK JOHNSON / MARK JOHNSON & EMORY LESTER.
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(b) “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS SHOW” Oct 2, at the historic Ryman Auditorium. This is the most anticipated night of the bluegrass music year, akin to Grammys or Emmys. The envelopes are opened to salute the year's most outstanding achievements amid a fast paced evening of performances and the music's top awards.
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(c) “BLUEGRASS FAN FEST” Oct 3-5, at Nashville Convention Center / Renaissance Hotel. More than 60 artists from around the globe perform on multiple stages. Fan Fest has been called the “indoor bluegrass music festival of the year.” It features performances by the industry's top acts on the Masters Workshop Stage, Roots & Branches Stage, and in the exhibit hall, and there scores of jam sessions. Artists include: THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS, SIERRA HULL & HIGHWAY 111, TONY TRISCHKA, JOSH WILLIAMS BAND, GRASSTOWNE, BLUE HIGHWAY, DALE ANN BRADLEY, RUSSELL MOORE & IIIRD TYME OUT, DOYLE LAWSON & QUICKSILVER, CHERRYHOLMES, THE DAN TYMINSKI BAND, THE GRASCALS, TONY RICE & MOUNTAIN HEART, MICHAEL MARTIN MURPHY, THE GREENCARDS, RALPH STANLEY II, VINCE GILL, KATHY MATTEA, THE LONESOME RIVER BAND, DAVID PARMLEY & CONTINENTAL DIVIDE, CODY SHULER & PINE MOUNTAIN RAILROAD, THE APRIL VERCH BAND, THE FREIGHT HOPPERS, MIKE SEEGER, THE RED DESERT RAMBLERS, ROBIN AND LINDA WILLIAMS & THEIR FINE GROUP, THE TENNESSEE MAFIA JUG BAND, LARRY CORDLE & LONESOME STANDARD TIME, DENNIS CASH AND FRIENDS, THE SONGCATCHERS, THE MAYBELLES, and many more.
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Prices vary, from a 7-day full-event pass for $385 mbr / $480 non-mbr, to a one-day pass for $150 mbr / $170 non-mbr. Single-day conference passes are $50 adult, $30 student. Awards Show tix are $110-$70. The 3-day “Fan Fest” has adv tix (before Sep 5) for $70 mbr / non-mbr $85; at gate, they are $90; children under 16 are free at Fan Fest, with an adult.
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Mon, Sep 29; on web radio:
12:30 pm (Pacific) “BLUEGRASS BREAKDOWN” Radio Show with host Dave Higgs does a special “IBMA Edition,” for the International Bluegrass Music Awards, featuring PACKWAY HANDLE BAND, a Georgia-based bluegrass-roots band that made good impressions when they toured California. Live broadcast on WPLN 90.3 FM in Nashville, simulcast at www.wpln.org.
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Mon, Sep 29; in Nashville:
11:30 pm “BLUEGRASS ASSOCIATION OF MAINE IBMA SHOWCASE” during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. In Nashville Convention Center 1st Floor (Lowest level), Room 104. If you’re going, see www.bmam.org/cfm/bmam/index.cfm and see www.ibma.org/events.programs/wob/afterhours.asp for info on the “After Hours Showcases.”
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Mon, Sep 29; in Nashville:
1:30 am (yes, am!) “VIRGINIA BLUEGRASS IBMA SHOWCASE” during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. In Nashville Convention Center 1st Floor (Lowest level), Room 109. If you’re going, see www.vabluegrass.com and see www.ibma.org/events.programs/wob/afterhours.asp for info on the “After Hours Showcases.”
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Tue, Sep 30; in Nashville:
11:30 pm “DEERING BANJOS IBMA SHOWCASE” during the annual “INTERNATIONAL BLUEGRASS MUSIC AWARDS” in Nashville, TN; www.ibma.org. In Nashville Convention Center, Music City Ballroom. Info, www.deeringbanjos.com
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Wed-Fri, Oct 1-3, in Mammoth:
“MAMMOTH LAKES PACK OUTFIT FALL HORSEDRIVE” with award-winning cowboy singer-songwriter DAVE STAMEY; info, 888-475-8747; www.mammothpack.com.
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Thu-Sun, Oct 2-5; in Arizona:
“REX ALLEN DAYS” in Wilcox, AZ, is an event that includes western music, and it’s now being planned. Info when we have it, or check www.julieannream.com.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 3-5; in San Francisco:
8th Annual “HARDLY STRICTLY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Golden Gate Park, San Francisco; info, www.hardlystrictlybluegrass.com. This FREE three-day event has become a landmark of live music performance and the unofficial season closer of the nationwide festival season. Here’s the thoroughly amazing lineup; enjoy its plentiful “oh-wow” discoveries as you read it:
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Friday:
SHARON LITTLE, MC HAMMER, ROBERT PLANT & ALISON KRAUSS featuring T BONE BURNETT, RUBY JANE, THE JERRY DOUGLAS BAND.
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Saturday:
RICHARD THOMPSON, THE GOURDS, LOS CENZONTLES FEATURING SANTIAGO JIMENEZ, MARK OLSON & GARY LOURIS (from the JAYHAWKS), DRY BRANCH FIRE SQUAD, THE DEL MCCOURY BAND, NICK LOWE, LAURIE LEWIS & FRIENDS, JIMMIE DALE GILMORE, MARTY WILLSON-PIPER (of the CHURCH) & THE MOOD MAIDENS, MIKE FARRIS & THE ROSELAND RHYTHM REVUE, BAD LIVERS, ODETTA, ROBERT EARL KEEN, JOE PURDY, THE DESERT ROSE BAND, SAMANTHA ROBICHAUD, PETER ROWAN BLUEGRASS BAND, WACO BROTHERS, DAVE ALVIN & THE GUILTY WOMEN, JERRY JEFF WALKER, ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL, SONS & BROTHERS, CARLENE CARTER, TIFT MERRITT, THREE GIRLS & THEIR BUDDY, THE ROAN MOUNTAIN HILLTOPPERS, GLOBAL DRUM PROJECT featuring MICKEY HART & ZAKIR HUSSAIN, JOHN JORGENSON QUINTET, GUY CLARK & VERLON THOMPSON, STEVE EARLE & THE BLUEGRASS DUKES, HOT RIZE, BAND JOE & THE WHYTE LAYDIE, CYNDI HARVELL.
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Sunday:
IRIS DEMENT, BILL KIRCHEN, GOGOL BORDELLO, IRON & WINE, BONNIE "PRINCE" BILLY, RIDERS IN THE SKY, ALISON BROWN QUARTET with JOE CRAVEN, GREG BROWN, RICKY SKAGGS & KENTUCKY THUNDER, EMMYLOU HARRIS, THE INFAMOUS STRINGDUSTERS, KEVIN WELCH & KIERAN KANE & FATS KAPLIN, HAZEL DICKENS, THE OPERA DUKES, RED WINE, LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III, JON LANGFORD'S SKULL ORCHARD featuring SALLY TIMMS & THE BURLINGTON WELSH MALE CHORUS, ELVIS COSTELLO'S HIGH WHINES & SPIRITS, HEAVY TRASH, EARL SCRUGGS, RALPH STANLEY & THE CLINCH MOUNTAIN BOYS, THE WRONGLERS, HEIDI CLARE & ATAGALLOP, POOR MAN'S WHISKEY, PEGI YOUNG, JUSTIN TOWNES EARLE, MOONALICE, THE WAYBACKS, BILL EVANS STRING SUMMIT with MEGAN LYNCH, BEN KWELLER, DARRELL SCOTT BAND, TEA LEAF GREEN, MAURA O'CONNELL.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 3-5; in Tennessee:
Annual “NATIONAL STORYTELLING FESTIVAL” at the International Storytelling Center, 116 W Main St, Jonesborough, TN; www.storytellingcenter.net; 800-952-8392. This is a fine, culturally rich event in a charmingly historic pioneer town that’s fun to visit anytime. There is much to see and do. Peruse their website.
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Fri, Oct 3; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III and LEO KOTTKE perform a double-bill of acoustic guitar sets at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Each is a concert favorite, each is a cult figure, and tonight they show they are kindred spirits, as LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III and LEO KOTTKE come together for an engaging night of acoustic folk music, featuring individual solo guitar performances. Wainwright performs material from his four-decade recording career and his original songs from the soundtrack of the hit movie, “Knocked Up.” Guitar legend Kottke’s unique fingerpicking style and virtuosity on the six- and 12-string guitars make way for intelligent and meaningful lyrics, and he delivers all of that. Artists’ info, Wainwright, www.lwiii.com and Kottke, www.leokottke.com. Order tix promptly, this promises to be quite a show. $40 & $35.
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Sat-Sun, Oct 4-5; in Moorpark:
“COWBOY WEEKEND” at the “HARVEST FESTIVAL” in Moorpark, with SOURDOUGH SLIM and others. Details when we get ‘em.
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Sat, Oct 4; in Wyoming:
Annual “PINEDALE COWBOY POETRY ROUNDUP” in Pinedale, WY; info, www.pinedalecowboyroundup.com. JUNI FISHER tells us, “For several years, I’ve been working on getting up to Pinedale Wyoming, and sharing the stage with poets JESS SMITH, and my as-close-to-a brother-as-I’ll- ever-find pal ANDY NELSON, two of the best reasons to go to Wyoming! And a wonderful bonus: my former band mates from the early 1980’s, JERRY HALL and TRICK SHOT, will be there, too. It’s like a family reunion.” Cowgirl singer JUNI FISHER (www.junifisher.net) has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and she is touring her new album, “Gone For Colorado.” She holds more awards than we can count, but here are some: 2007 WMA Song of the Year Songwriter; 2006 WMA Female Vocalist of the Year; 2005 AWA Western Female Performer of the Year; 2005 WMA Crescendo Award.
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Sat, Oct 4; in Poway (San Diego):
10 am-4 pm 11th Annual “TRAIN SONG FESTIVAL” at Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-668-4576; SDFH@san.rr.com. Hear the sweet sounds of train songs and whistles. The sounds of the railroad, the pounding of the steel wheels on the steel rails and the blast of the steam whistle flood the mind with musical inspiration. The California Parks and Recreation Society gave an award to this event, co-sponsored by San Diego Folk Heritage and the City. It features live traditional music inspired by the history and culture surrounding railroads. Features a full line-up of live entertainment throughout the day, train-related vendors, Poway Station Model Railroad Club display, craft displays by Poway Arts & Crafts Guild artists, mock train robberies by the Apache Canyon Gang and the Shadow River Regulators, and a free children's craft area. Using their 1907 Baldwin steam locomotive, the Poway Midland Railroad offers train rides for a nominal fee on the park's half-mile track. There exists a special connection between trains and music. Children’s railroad and hobo costume contest, for prizes, at 12:45 pm in the park’s gazebo, all kids welcome to participate. Family event. Free.
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Fri-Sat, Oct 10-11; in Lone Pine, CA:
Annual “LONE PINE FILM FESTIVAL” in Lone Pine, with plenty of Western music, and DAVE STAMEY headlining. Info, www.lonepinefilmfestival.org. Events include "Concert at the Dow" series with Fri & Sat evening concerts at 7 pm at The Dow Villa.
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Sat-Mon, Oct 11-13; in Ventura:
Annual “SEASIDE SCOTTISH HIGHLAND GAMES” with music on three stages, at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, in Ventura. This is a very good event, with the top Celtic musicians, and there is also a separate-tix Saturday evening concert at a nearby hotel. Info, www.seaside-games.com.
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Sat, Oct 11; in Aspen, Colorado:
“JOHN DENVER TRIBUTE” concert with MACK BAILEY & RACHEL LEVY, others. Info, www.mackbailey.com and www.myspace.com/mackbaileyandrachellevy.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 11 & 12; in Denver:
“SWALLOW HILL FESTIVAL” in Denver, Colorado; www.swallowhillmusic.org; 303-777-1003. Includes STEVE GILLETTE & CINDY MANGSEN, HARRY TUFT and guests in a concert of ballads, others.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 11 & 12; in Palmdale:
9 am-6 pm Annual “PALMDALE FALL FESTIVAL” at Marie Kerr Park, 2723 Rancho Vista Bl (at 30th St West), Palmdale 93551; info, 661-267-5611 (M-F). Music includes MARIACHI DIVAS, ALTURAS, NUNS FOR FUN. Dubbed "California's Finest Family Festival" as the 2007 bronze winner of the International Festivals & Events Association “Grand Pinnacle Award” for best event. Two days of international entertainment, 148 crafts and fine arts vendors, a farmers market, impressive aerospace expo, the “Enchanted Fairy Garden,” “Living Garden,” and “Living Statues” shows, “Dragon's Lair,” pop-up entertainers and more. Free parking. Gen’l $8; kids, srs, active military $4; under age 5 free.
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Sun, Oct 12; in Lancaster, CA:
7 pm RANDY TRAVIS at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. After returning country music to its roots with his first album in 1986, Travis has carried the torch lit by the likes of Merle Haggard and George Jones, straight through to today. The heartfelt country and gospel vocals of this down-to-Earth, all-American artist, have earned him six Grammys. More at www.randytravis.com. Order tix promptly, this will sell-out.
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Thu-Sat, Oct 16-18; in Alberta, Canada:
“HE-HO-HA MUSIC WORKSHOP” in Edmonton Alberta, Canada, with Chris Stuart & Backcountry, and Eric Uglum teaching and performing.
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Thu, Oct 16; in Ojai, CA:
7 pm SARA GREY & KIERON MEANS at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Sara Grey and Kieron Means are a singing duo on guitar & banjo. This mother and son sing native American ballads and songs of Ireland and Scotland. Sara's voice is powerful and sweet with a distinctive and lovely tremolo. She also plays a mean (claw hammer style) 5 string banjo. Kieron's voice is as smooth as silk, rich and mellow, and he is also a virtuoso finger style guitarist. Together they will captivate you with their excellent singing of old-timey ballads and a wonderful repertoire of contemporary folk songs from here and across the pond. Writing in Prittle Prattle, Molly Nudds says, "singing by turns restrained, triumphant, gentle, strong, fun and deeply emotional, but always with that beautiful rhythmic vitality ..." Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $15 adv, $18 door.
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Fri-Sat, Oct 17-18; in Descanso, CA:
Annual “VAQUERO DAYS” with DAVE STAMEY, RODGER MAXWELL, at Merrrigan Ranch in Descanso (that’s the town of Descanso, NOT Descanso Gardens). More info when we get it.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 18 & 19; in Joshua Tree:
The 3rd Annual “JOSHUA TREE ROOTS MUSIC FESTIVAL” offers discounted early bird festival tix for $60 (limited number); info, www.joshuatreemusicfestival.com. The lineup, so far, includes the STAIRWELL SISTERS, NATHAN, TRAMPLED BY TURTLES, DEVIL MAKES THREE, BELLEVILLE OUTFIT, the STARLINGS, HILLSTOMP and the THRIFT STORE ALL STARS. More artists tba soon.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm THE FOLK COLLECTION plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. THE FOLK COLLECTION has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and delighted listeners. They are a Southern California-based three-part-vocal harmony string quartet, performing musical tributes to the songs made famous by The Kingston Trio, The Limeliters, Peter Paul & Mary, John Denver and the other great artists of the folk era. TONY UNGER, ED LABOWITZ and MIKE SIROTA, along with bass man BOB PACKHAM, grew up in the 1960's, when they fell in love with the story songs and 3-part harmonies of that acoustic era. Ed and Tony have been a duo on and off since their days at Hollywood High School. www.thefolkcollection.com/topframe.htm. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Fallbrook:
DAVE STAMEY plays the “Americana Music Series” at Hilltop Center, 331 E Elder, Fallbrook (San Diego); 760-723-2563; JMW94@aol.com. Event info, 760-415-9026.
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Sat, Oct 18; in Seattle:
8 pm GEOFF HOLDSTOCK & MACLEOD play the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, in Seattle’s new Lake Union Park; info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Fri-Sun, Oct 24-26; in Mesa, (Phoenix) Arizona:
5th Annual “FOLK ALLIANCE REGION WEST CONFERENCE” at the Marriott Mesa Hotel, Mesa, AZ; www.FAR-West.org. Many performances on stages and in hotel suites, officially-sanctioned by the conference and both sanctioned and unsanctioned “guerilla” showcase performances, together with annual awards, panels and workshops on acoustic performance, bookings, career promotion, jam sessions, and more. Many attend to promote their careers or find bookings, others attend simply to enjoy many wonderful performances in one place over three days. Organization’s web site has all info for attending, and registering at the host hotel; discount room rates expire Sep 30.
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A highlight is the Saturday night RED HOUSE RECORDS 25TH ANNIVERSARY CONCERT with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES, as well as a full schedule of panels and workshops on Friday and Saturday, and a full day on Sunday of Master Classes and Songwriting One on One's.
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Here’s the conference schedule, not yet on the FAR West website when posted here:
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> Thursday:
7:30-9:30 pm Pre-conference concert at Arizona State University
10 pm-midnight Tote Bag Stuffing Party & Jam, following concert
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> Friday:
8:30-11:45 am Registration
9-10 am Intro class
8:30-10:30 am Exhibit Hall setup
10:15-11:30 am Panels & Workshops
11:30 am-1:15 pm Exhibit Hall opens
1-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
11:45 am-1 pm Lunch (dine arounds)
1-4:30 pm Registration continues
1:15-2:30 pm Panels & Workshops
2:45-4 pm Panels & Workshops
2:30-4:15 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
4:15-5:15 pm Welcome Reception in Exhibit Hall (no competing activities)
5:15-6 pm Registration open
5:30-7 pm Red House Records concert with ROSALIE SORRELS and THE PINES
7-8 pm Registration open
7 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
7:30-10:30 pm Main Showcases
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Saturday:
9-11:45 am Registration open
9-10:30 am Exhibit Hall opens
10 am-noon Instrument Check open
10:30-11:45 am Panels & Workshops
noon-2 pm Awards Luncheon
2:15-5 pm Registration open
2:15-4:30 pm Instrument Check open
2:15-5 pm Private Guerilla Showcases (available to artists at hosts’ option)
2:15-3:30 pm Panels & Workshops
3:30-6:30 pm Exhibit Hall open
3:45-5 pm Conversation with Special Presentation
4:30 pm-6:30 pm Dinner break
6:30 pm-midnight Instrument Check open
6:30-7:30 pm Registration open
6:45-10:15 pm Main Showcases
8-10 pm Contra Dance
10:30 pm-1:30 am Suzanne Millsaps Memorial Coffeehouse
10:30 pm-2 am Private Guerilla Showcases
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> Sunday:
10-11 am Breakfast & Board Meeting
10 am-noon Exhibit Hall open
11 am-12:30 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
1:30-3 pm Master Classes & One on Ones
Noon-2 pm Exhibit Hall breakdown
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Sat & Sun, Oct 25-26; in Tucson, AZ:
Annual “TUCSON BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL” in Tucson, Arizona, with CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY, ERIC UGLUM, and others.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Palmdale, CA:
6 pm ELIZA GILKYSON at the Larry Chimbole Cultural Center, 38350 Sierra Hwy (at Palmdale Bl, E of 14 Fwy), Palmdale. Eliza has just released a new CD, "Beautiful World." Concert sponsored by WORD AV, a local coalition of nonprofit agencies whose mission is to promote and expand literacy awareness in the Antelope Valley. Could be the start of a singer-songwriter series sponsored by WORD AV, if this one is successful. You can purchase and donate tix for low-income and at-risk clients of various WORD AV agencies. Adv tix $15, by mail, to Rod Williams, Palmdale Library Literacy Program, 700 E Palmdale Bl, Palmdale, CA 93550. Write check to "WORD AV." Info, 661-267-5682 or 661-947-4172.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Lancaster, CA:
7 pm KRIS KRISTOFFERSON at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Guitar, harmonica and distinctive vocals prominently figure in this solo acoustic performance by influential Americana & country music songwriter, singer and movie star Kris Kristofferson. Best-known musically for hits including "Me and Bobby McGee," "Sunday Mornin' Comin' Down," and "Help Me Make It Through the Night," Kristofferson is an icon. www.kriskristofferson.com Order tix promptly, this will sell-out. $60 & $55.
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Sun, Oct 26; in Phoenix, Arizona:
7 pm KEN O'MALLEY plays a solo acoustic show, bringing traditional and original Irish music to the Irish Cultural Center, 1106 N Central Av, Phoenix, AZ; 602 258 0109; www.azirish.com. KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS recently played for 2,000 people at a “Concert in the Park” in Santa Clarita, CA. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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Mon-Fri, Oct 27-31; across Canada:
“2008 COWBOY TRAIN” with IAN TYSON, TOM RUSSELL and ELIZA GILKYSON. A journey across Canada from Vancouver to Winnipeg on board a private section of Via Rail's Canadian. Includes all Cowboy Train activities, all meals on board, sleeper accommodations (upper or lower semi-private berth accommodations: bench seat by day, roomy single bed by night), shower in each car, private dome car/lounge, concerts and workshops in Performance Car, kickoff and farewell concerts in Vancouver and Winnipeg, hotel room at the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver and hotel TBA in Winnipeg. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net
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Tue, Oct 28 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Wed, Oct 29 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Thu, Oct 30 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Fri, Oct 31-Sun, Nov 2; in Arizona:
Annual “TOMBSTONE WESTERN MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Tombstone, AZ, with THE DUE WEST TRIO, GEORGE DICKEY, RODGER MAXWELL, MARVIN O’DELL, JOE BETHANCOURT, PATTY CLAYTON, BILL BARWICK; info, www.tombstonewesternmusicfestival.com.
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Fri, Oct 31 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Sat, Nov 1:
Annual “INTERNATIONAL CREATIVE PERSON'S DAY” honoring creative people all around the world. This year was proclaimed as a tribute to and focus on the music of BILLY JOEL. Info, www.lvcreativehalloffame.org.
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Sat, Nov 1 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY play six nights at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Sun-Sun, Nov 2-9, 2008; in Canada:
“POLAR BEAR TRAIN” With FRED EAGLESMITH, GURF MORLIX, JON DEE GRAHAM and friends Winnipeg-Churchill, MB and return. Music, a 900 mile train ride, and lots of Polar Bear watching. Includes all Polar Bear Train activities, all meals on board when train is enroute, sleeper accommodations (upper or lower semi-private berth accommodations, shower in each car, private dome car/lounge, concerts and workshops in Performance Car, farewell concert in Winnipeg, hotel room in Winnipeg 11/8. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net
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Sun, Nov 2 (Oct 28-31 & Nov 1-2); in Laughlin, Nevada:
RIDERS IN THE SKY conclude a six night run at the Riverside Resort Hotel & Casino, Laughlin, NV.
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Wed-Sun, Nov 5-9; in Death Valley Nat’l Park:
Annual “DEATH VALLEY 49ERS ENCAMPMENT” with DAVE STAMEY, KEN GRAYDON, many others performing.
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Sat, Nov 8; in Texas:
“REDNECK FESTIVAL” with lots of music, a truck show with prizes for “Best Redneck Truck” & “Worst Redneck Truck,” a pool tournament with “8-Ball Break” (they spelled it “brake”) contest, a “Washer Pitching Tournament” (no, we don’t know if that’s nut-bolt-washer, or washing machines, and we’re not gonna ask), a horseshoe tournament, and an array of contests, including hot-dog-eating, lawn-mower-racing, watermelon-seed-spitting, together with the crowning of the “Redneck Royal Court,” prizes for “Best Dressed Redneck” (man & woman), a “Miss Redneck” contest (they said “contest,” not beauty pageant, so be warned), and probably more. Live music (scheduled bands) noon-midnight, plus indoor acoustic jams noon-9 pm. Regis & tix on sale for the "Redneck Coupon" price of $13. Specify if a band refers you, so they’ll get paid for their performance. Info, www.myspace.com/redneckfestival.
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Sat, Nov 8; in Poway (San Diego):
7 pm JOEL RAFAEL plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at Templar's Hall, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. Joel’s CD tracks have been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He is an award-winning, internationally-recognized songwriter from San Diego County. Among his accomplishments are winning the Kerrville Folk Festival "New Folk Emerging Songwriter Award" in 1995. Artist info, www.joelrafael.com. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Nov 8; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm DEBBIE REYNOLDS at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. For a lengthy era, Debbie Reynolds was ceratinly America’s sweetheart. The veteran singer, dancer and star of more than 30 films performs an evening of music and comedy as she shares stories and performs the music of her lifetime. www.debbiereynolds.com. Tix $57 & $50.
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Mon-Fri, Nov 10-14; across Canada:
“2008 SONG TRAIN” Toronto to Vancouver with TOM RUSSELL and THE FLATLANDERS - JOE ELY, BUTCH HANCOCK & JIMMIE DALE GILMORE. Ride across Canada on the rails that built a nation. Seventy avid music fans and amazing musicians make a non-stop rolling festival from Toronto to Vancouver. Three days and nights of music on board the last great long-distance streamline train still operating in North America - Via Rail's “Canadian.” Open mics and workshops every afternoon and on-board concerts every evening in our intimate Performance Car, where the scenery and music never stop. Includes all Song Train activities, all meals on board, sleeper accommodations (upper or lower semi-private berth accommodations: bench seat by day, roomy single bed by night), shower in each car, private dome car/lounge, concerts and workshops in Performance Car, kickoff concert in Toronto, hotel room at the Fairmont Royal York in Toronto. E-mail Roots on the Rails at trains@sover.net or call 866-484-3669 (toll free in the US & Canada) or 802-258-1397. Info, www.rootsontherails.com. $2929.00 CN per person.
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Thu-Sun, Nov 13-16; in New York State:
“NORTHEAST REGIONAL FOLK ALLIANCE CONFERENCE” (NERFA) in Kerhonkson, NY.
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Thu, Nov 13; in Ojai:
7 pm DANA & SUE ROBINSON play the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Publicity on this one says, "In a Dana and Susan Robinson concert you'll hear two rich, intimate voices, intricate and powerful guitar, mandolin, banjo and fiddle-playing. Dana writes songs and tells stories about America, the land and its people. They bring to their performances an understanding of America's musical heritage and convey its significance to our culture.
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Dirty Linen says, "Many songwriters have been heralded as modern day Woody Guthries or keepers of the American rural spirit, but that mantle might be better entrusted to musicians like Dana Robinson who embody both the heart and the soul of folk music." The Asheville Citizen-Times writes, "...rural America explored with elegant simplicity. Their music and cleanly poetic songwriting bring to mind the great folksingers of our times." Artists info, www.robinsongs.com. Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $15 adv, $18 door.
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Sat, Nov 15; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm MEN OF WORTH plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. This folk-music duo was formed by JAMES KEIGHER (Ireland) and DONNIE MacDONALD (Scotland) in 1986. Both exiles, it was through the Celtic music scene in Southern California that James and Donnie first met, and within a couple of years a partnership developed that was simultaneously serious and fun. Geographical changes now find James and Donnie living in Southern Oregon and Northern California respectively. Whilst remaining true to their Gaelic roots, Men of Worth have successfully evolved as marvelous entertainers. Artist info, www.menofworth.com. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Nov 15; in Seattle:
8 pm TANIA OPLAND & MIKE FREEMAN plus WATCH THE SKY! play the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, in Seattle’s new Lake Union Park; info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Tue-Wed, Nov 18-19; in New Mexico:
Annual “WESTERN MUSIC SONGWRITERS COLLEGE” with JUNI FISHER and others teaching; in conjunction with the WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION FESTIVAL in Albuquerque, Aug 20-23. Info at www.westernmusic.org or 661-297-5955. [NOTE: Festival dates have been changed from those previously announced.]
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Thu-Sun, Nov 20-23; in New Mexico:
Annual “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION FESTIVAL” with performances by JUNI FISHER, SONS OF THE KONZA PRAIRIE, PATTY CLAYTON, RODGER MAXWELL, THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, YAMPA VALLEY BOYS, STAMPEDE, BILL BARWICK, and others, in Albuquerque, with annual awards, panels, workshops, performances, and more. Info at www.westernmusic.org or 661-297-5955. LOTS of L.A. area "western" people attend this every year. [NOTE: dates have been changed from those previously announced.]
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Sat, Nov 22; in Palm Desert:
3 pm RIDERS IN THE SKY at the McCallum theater for the Performing Arts, in Palm Desert.
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Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7; in Monterey:
Annual “MONTEREY COWBOY POETRY & MUSIC FESTIVAL” with DAVE STAMEY, BAXTER BLACK, JUNI FISHER, PATTY CLAYTON, at the Monterey Conference Center, Monterey; www.montereycowboy.com; 800-722-9652.
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Sat, Dec 6; in Poway (San Diego):
7 pm TRAILS & RAILS plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at Templar's Hall, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. WALT RICHARDS & PAULA STRONG have enjoyed performing together for over twenty years in various groups, including Bow Willow and Mandolin Madness. Trails & Rails has appeared at many Western Music Events over the last couple of years, carrying on the grand tradition of Western music. In Nov, 2005, Trails & Rails won the Duo Harmony competition at the Western Music Association Music Festival and annual gathering in Albuquerque. Collecting and sharing cowboy and train songs, along with information about the history of the West, is just one of their many passions. Artist info, http://members.cox.net/trailsandrails. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Dec 6; in Seattle:
8 pm THE CUTTERS & FRIENDS play the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at a special location, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1215 Thomas Street (5 blks S of Lake Union Park at the intersection of Thomas & Pontius), Seattle; map at www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Seattle&state=WA&address=1215+Thomas+Street&zipcode=98109. Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Mon, Dec 8; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm “WYNONA: A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC” at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Spreading festive cheer across the country, WYNONNA JUDD brings soulful renditions of traditional holiday classics like "White Christmas" and "Winter Wonderland," alongside her own country hits. www.wynonna.com Tix $77 & $70.
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Fri, Dec 12; in Visalia:
SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN play their annual Fan Club Dinner in Visalia; info & tix, 928-757-9030.
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Sat, Dec 13; in Visalia:
SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN play their Christmas Concert at the Fox Theater, in Visalia.
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Sun, Dec 14; in Victorville:
“CURLY’S COWBOY CHRISTMAS” with BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE in a benefit for the Happy Trails Foundation in Victorville.
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Mon, Dec 22; in Ojai:
7 pm Second Annual “IRISH CHRISTMAS SHOW” with Portland’s HANZ AKARI BAND and Irish step dancers at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com.
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It’s a celebration of Christmas with songs of the season, Irish step dancers, and a fresh new take on Irish traditional music with a Celtic / Japanese fusion quartet that series sponsors say “will knock your socks off the chimney.” Last year’s show was a complete sell-out, so order early.
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HANZ AKARI BAND has created a singularly original new sound, a Celtic / Japanese hybrid, that honors both styles and their traditions while adding a fresh new element to both. For the past five years they have been exciting concert goers across the country and around the world. Also Featured are CARY NOVOTNY on guitar and vocals, EDDIE PARENTE on fiddle and JOEY ABARTA (Ciunas) on bodhran, and featuring two young Irish step dancers. "The next generation of traditional music" winner of liveireland.com's 2005 Male Newcomer of the Year.
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Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $18 adv, $20 door.
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Sat, Jan 10, 2009; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm APRIL VERCH plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. When you see twenty-seven year old April Verch perform, the first thing that strikes you is the pure energy that infuses her fiddle playing and stepdancing. When you listen to “Take Me Back,” her third disc for Rounder Records, heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” what draws you in are more subtle things - her confident, winsome singing, the finely detailed elegance of her fiddle phrasing and the depth of a repertoire that ranges through material from Americana mainstays Buddy and Julie Miller, to simple country songs and rollicking tunes from her native Ottawa Valley to sparkling original instrumentals. Artist info, www.aprilverch.com/bio.php. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $22 gen’l, $19 mbrs.
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Jan 14, 2009; in Ojai:
7 pm CROWFOOT at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. CROWFOOT is from Canada and the East Coast, an Appalachian /Quebecois fusion trio sensation. Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix $, tba.
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Fri, Jan 16; in Lancaster:
8 pm OZARK JUBILEE at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Ozark Jubilee serves up an all-new variety show of country and western, bluegrass and gospel music with a huge helping of classic hillbilly humor. Starring the outrageous Doofus Doolittle (aka world-class fiddler RANDY NEWMAN), this performance is straight out of “The Grand Ole Opry.” It’s feel-good family fare that leaves audiences hungry for more. Tix $25 & $20.
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Sun-Sat, Jan 18-31, 2009; in Elko, NV:
25th Annual “COWBOY GATHERING” in Elko, Nevada. Expect an extra-special shebang for their big anniversary year.
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Tue, Jan 20, 2009:
PRESIDENTIAL INAUGURATION in Washington, D.C., when the nation finally gets a new Chief Executive; followed that evening by numerous celebratory balls.
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Fri, Jan 30; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm THE NEVILLE BROTHERS at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Groove to the hybrid mix of blues-soaked jazz, funk, soul, gospel and Southern street music created by “The First Family of Funk.” Brothers ART, CHARLES, AARON. & CYRIL NEVILLE proudly carry the torch of their native New Orleans' rich R&B legacy around the world and into downtown Lancaster. www.nevilles.com. Tix $56 & $49.
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Sat, Jan 31, 2009; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm TERRI HENDRIX with LLOYD MAINES play the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. When Terri Hendrix walked away from her opera scholarship in college, it was only because she found the classical music path too narrow for her free spirit. But there was just no shaking her love of music. Armed with the Mississippi-John-Hurt-style guitar chops she learned from her mentor, Marion Williamson, in exchange for milking goats on the philanthropist’s Wilory Farm, Hendrix began hauling her own P.A. in the back of her beat-up pick-up to gigs throughout the Texas Hill Country. From her native San Antonio to the live music hotbed of Austin and every small town honky-tonk and coffee shop in Texas, it wasn’t long before the fans started adding up and Hendrix had to recruit some of them to help her keep up with her mailing list. All this in the pre-email/Web site dark ages of the early ’90s.??By the time she got around to recording her debut album, 1996’s Two Dollar Shoes, Hendrix did what most artists still did at the time, and shopped around for a record label. She was turned down by three, none of which are still in business. She released the record independently, and never looked back. Now, nine self-released albums later, Hendrix is still thriving — and grateful she made the fateful decision more than a dozen years ago to not only follow her own path through her music career, but to ultimately “own her own universe.” Artist info, www.terrihendrix.com. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Fri, Feb 6, 2009; in Ojai:
5:30 & 7:30 TOM CHAPIN, celebrated Grammy-winner, plays two completely different shows at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. The brother of 80s folk legend HARRY CHAPIN, he is a renowned children’s musician who hosted TV’s “Make a Wish” children’s show with original songs and positive, self-esteem-building, go-learn-about-new-things messages. TOM CHAPIN plays two shows in Ojai: First, an early show at 5:30 pm, where he will play his 3-time Grammy-winning children's songs. Then, at 7:30, he performs an adult-themed show. On-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix $, tba.
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Sat, Feb 15, 2009; in Lancaster:
7 pm “INTERNATIONAL GUITAR NIGHT” at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. This show promises “Four of the world’s finest acoustic guitarists – each completely different culturally and musically – unite to present music created in private pre-tour jam sessions. It is a not-to-be-missed experience that literally will not be found anywhere else.” More at www.internationalguitarnight.com Tix $27 & $22.
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Feb 22, 2009; in San Diego:
7:30 pm STEVE GILLETTE & CINDY MANGSEN play the San Diego Folk Heritage series, location tbd. The review of Steve and Cindy's latest album “Being There” in Sing Out magazine, says, "Steve and Cindy have hit on a combination that consistently produces high quality recordings and entertaining stage shows. Their voices and styles meld seamlessly with a gentleness and a maturity that is unmatched in the world of folk duos." Their web page includes a wealth of information about the duo, including sound files, a full one-hour concert video recorded at the Kennedy Center, an infamous jokes page, plus a wealth of links to other folk music resources. www.compassrosemusic.com.
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Feb 24, 2009; in Encinitas (San Diego):
7:30 pm WOODS TEA COMPANY play the San Diego Folk Heritage series at San Dieguito United Methodist Church, 170 Calle Magdalena, Encinitas; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. They are an acoustic group that performs fiery Celtic tunes, bluegrass, sea shanties, and American folk songs with ease and skill. During a performance they use as many as a dozen instruments. They are Howard Wooden on vocals, bass, guitar, bodhran; Mike Lussen on vocals, five string banjo, bodhran, bouzouki, guitar; Tom MacKenzie on vocals, hammered dulcimer, banjo, guitar, ukelele; and often, a fourth “guest” artist. Band info, www.woodstea.net. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Feb 28, 2009; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm PHOEBE SNOW at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Delta blues, Broadway show tunes and Dixieland jazz inspire an eclectic, career-defining concert by vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Phoebe Snow. Her signature earthy voice, and great songs like “Poetry Man,” earned her Platinum records, the cover of Rolling Stone, and legions of fans. More at www.phoebesnow.com. Tix $45 & $40.
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Sat, Mar 14, 2009; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm DANÚ brings Irish folk music to the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Take a musical journey to Ireland with one of today’s leading traditional Irish folk ensembles. Hailing from historic County Waterford, and collectively named after a Celtic goddess, these seven performers will keep you in good humor with live music, song, dance and Irish humor. www.danu.net. Tix $32 & $27.
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Sat, Mar 21, 2009; in Lancaster, CA:
8 pm LADYSMITH BLACK MAMBAZO at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. The stirring bass, alto and tenor harmonies of Ladysmith Black Mambazo carry the traditional a cappella music of South Africa to audiences around the globe. Hand-picked by Paul Simon to provide backing vocals for his Grammy-winning album “Graceland” in 1986, the group was catapulted into the spotlight of a resurging interest in world music. www.mambazo.com. Tix $42 & $37; youth $20.
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Apr 3, 2009; in Ojai:
PAUL STOOKEY of PETER, PAUL & MARY plays two completely different shows at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com. Series presenters Shane & Kelli Butler tell us, “We are very fortunate to be hosting one of the icons of folk music from the ‘60s & ‘70s. He will be doing TWO shows on the same day, with a kids show - Puff the Magic Dragon was one of his early hits – first, and then a show for the grown-ups later in the evening.” On-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix $, tba.
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, as chronological date listings, and longer “looks ahead” to May, 2009. The Acoustic Americana Music Calendar updates often, and News Features post weekly. Current chronological date listings, to May, 2009, are available for (1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana music events, and (2) festivals and other events of great note throughout the US and Canada (and sometimes beyond) in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which also updates often. If you don’t see the dates you need in the first window, browse-around on the site. If you are exploring our Myspace page, use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore the archives. The calendar’s most recent info, both events and news, lives at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and news of the “Tied to the Tracks” radio & TV shows is at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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