Acoustic Americana Music Guide, mid-week update, Nov 17 to 24…..

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Full NEW edition coming Friday – meanwhile, here’s an update to the Nov 11 edition…
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“You can see a lot just by looking.” – Yogi Berra, baseball’s legendary wordsmith
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“The earth has a context in the universe. You want to know where we fit in the universe? You don’t get the answer to that just by studying the earth.” – Neil De Grasse Tyson, astronomer
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Tied to the Tracks
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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NOVEMBER 17 to 24, mid-week update:
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With Some ADDED events that were booked late… and, a “trimmed” version of the Nov 11 edition – what’s already happened is removed
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The Guide featured a special piece ~
VETERANS DAY was originally ARMISTICE DAY, to celebrate peace. It was observed in the Guide. It has a fascinating history. Read our special feature at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/veterans-day-armistice-day-november-11.html
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QUICK ACCESS TO NEWS FEATURES IN THIS EDITION…
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1) “How to Work the Media” Workshop – returning, November 20
2) Mike + Ruthy (from The Mammals): CD Release Tour Hits So Cal
3) Caltech Folk Music Society Announces Winter Season Shows
4) Change – and a Comment – for “L.A. County Holiday Celebration”
5) “Red Horse” – Touring Trio, and #1 CD by Top Songwriters
Eliza Gilkyson, John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky
6) NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS Are Still at it, in Various Ensembles
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[These originally appeared in the Nov 11 edition, with other News Features that are deleted here, because they covered things that have already happened. You can still read those deleted stories in the archive, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/acoustic-americana-music-guide-nov-11.html ]

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Here are these feature stories…
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1) “How to Work the Media” Workshop – returnING, November 20
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This highly acclaimed workshop by award-winning journalist, editor and radio host / producer and music biz consultant LARRY WINES was presented in July at the Autry National Center (Autry Museum) and in October at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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This workshop takes artists, songwriters, promoters, producers, bookers and others in the arts & music biz, step-by-step, through the techniques and processes to build your individual game plan, including the materials you must have and the knowledge you’ll need to “work” the media effectively.
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Larry’s workshop covers getting media attention and publicity for gigs and CDs, for festivals and charity benefits, for important “opening” slots for name acts. He teaches how to get airplay and reviews of your CDs, and what to do before you release your CD. He teaches you how the media works, and what you need to do to get positive attention. He covers getting guest spots on radio and TV shows. He teaches, with examples, how to prepare all the critical materials – including how to write press releases that get attention, how to craft a dynamite one-sheet and bio (and why you need new ones with every new CD and important career event), building and maintaining your web presence and EPK, how to build your physical press kit, how to establish a relationship with people in the media, and lots more. It is a very full two hours! Larry’s workshop presents much of what he teaches artists in individual consultations, and he teaches many of the techniques he uses when he’s hired to prepare materials for artists, venues, festivals, and other events.
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Following the workshop’s previous presentations at the Autry and the Backstage, it created lots of buzz among musicians and other artists who were there. In fact, all that buzz produced demand from those who missed it – so it’s coming back, months sooner than expected.
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Musician, concert promoter, and workshop series presenter DUANE THORIN booked Larry for this return engagement, the last time this year the workshop will be offered.
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It’s Saturday, November 20, at 11 am, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. This time, the two-hour workshop will start promptly at 11 am and take a lunch break / intermission halfway through. It will conclude by 1:30-2 pm, following closing Q&A, depending on the length of the break.
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You need to register in advance to get a take-home copy of presentation materials on disc (at the conclusion of the workshop). If you don’t pre-register, you may not get the take-home materials, and you run the risk that the workshop will be full, based on reservations. Call the Backstage reservation number, 626-794-2424.
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The workshop is $30. A $5 ADVANCE REGISTRATION discount is available to members of a number of songwriter and nonprofit music organizations. When you call to register, ask if you are a member of a group that qualifies for the discount. (No discounts without pre-registration.)
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2) CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY ANNOUNCES WINTER SEASON SHOWS
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When their current season started, we celebrated (in an August 12 edition News Feature) the autumn offerings of the long running – if unlikely – series at the California Institute of Technology – Caltech – California’s peer of M.I.T. Now that they’ve brought us that fall season with ELIZA GILKYSON, MARLEY'S GHOST, & PATRICK BALL, they’ve let us know what will follow. Series bookers Rex Mayreis and Nick Smith have just announced the winter lineup for their highly-regarded nonprofit series’ for December through February. All three winter offerings earn immediate “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks in the Guide. And all three are in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus in Pasadena, on Saturdays at 8 pm.
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Here’s the quick look, followed by info on each show.
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RONNY COX plays the series December 11. Tix, $15; $5 for Caltech students and children.
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KATY MOFFATT plays there January 29. Tix, $15; $5 for Caltech students and children.
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February 26 brings a “WOODY GUTHRIE TRIBUTE,” the signature show by COUNTRY JOE McDONALD (Country Joe & the Fish) whose pedigree famously includes his performance at the original Woodstock. Tix, $20; $5 for Caltech students and children.
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Here’s a bit on each artist.
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RONNY COX is a famous screen and TV actor who played Woody Guthrie’s sidekick in “Bound for Glory,” and he’s known to millions from his first film role, which included playing the “Dueling Banjos” guitar part in “Deliverance.” More recently, Ronny Cox played slithery corporate snakes in “RoboCop” and “Total Recall.” He’s played the President of the United States 20-some times, and had the recurring role as the Senator who kept trying to shutdown TV‘s “Stargate.” Ronny is a fine songwriter and folk singer who earned “Listener Favorite” honors on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He charms crowds with self-teasing humor, tart progressive insight, and a lulling Southwestern folk sound. His repertoire is a smart mix of witty ditties, bluesy swing tunes, heart-on-sleeve Romances, and real-life anthems. Ronny’s newest CD, "Songs... with Repercussions" was reviewed in FolkWorks (www.folkworks.org/content/view/36151/167) by the Guide’s editor, en-route to its reaching # 1 on the Folk DJ playlist, and finishing as # 48 for the entire year. Ronny’s all-star accompanists – award-winning musicians in their own rights – join him for this performance. They are Austin-based KAREN MAL on mandolin, and RADOSLAV LORKOVIC on accordion and keyboards. More at www.ronnycox.com.
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KATY MOFFATT is a genuine folk star who plays too seldom in L.A. Though she lives in Southern Cal, she’s constantly on the festival and prestigious-venue circuit, performing all over the world. She’s been called both “America's Queen of the West” and praised as one of the originators of country rock. Katy got her start on the road as an opener for blues legend MUDDY WATERS, and she’s been the subject of a major feature story in the Wall Street Journal (how many musicians get ink there?) She continues to be a most formidable vocal powerhouse, plus a masterful guitarist and finger-picking phenom. With over 15 albums to her credit, Katy sings classic acoustic country rock songs of fractured love, plus country blues, western classics and originals, and heartfelt ballads. She’s performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and debuted an album there. Her newest CD, "Cowboy Girl," on Western Jubilee/Shanachie, has received rave reviews.
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COUNTRY JOE McDONALD has been touring his “TRIBUTE TO WOODY GUTHRIE” for the past few years to strong audience acclaim. In his highly-entertaining tribute, Country Joe deftly conveys the charm, talent, and social and political consciousness of the legendary folksinger from Oklahoma. It helps to know that McDonald’s father, Worden, shared Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl roots with Guthrie in the ‘20s & ‘30s. Country Joe opens the tribute with a moving performance of Woody’s best-known tune, “This Land is Your Land,” and takes the audience through a journey of 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. More at www.countryjoe.com.
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The venue for each of these three shows is Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”), on the Caltech Campus at 322 S Michigan Av (S off Del Mar) in Pasadena.
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Caltech Folk Music series info is available at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu.
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In addition, other very notable musical performances are offered through the academic year in the “Caltech Presents” / “Caltech Public Events” series, in various venues on the campus, usually “Big Beckman,” a venue that compares favorably with many ’60s-vintage big city performing arts centers. You get $5 off each ticket for the other Caltech shows if you mention the Folk Music Society when you make your purchase. Their schedule and info is available at www.events.caltech.edu.
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The campus ticket office handles the Folk Music Society’s advance tickets, takes credit cards, and is open Noon-5 pm, Monday-Friday. Their number is 626-395-4652 or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). Tickets for each of the three shows should be available by the time you read this. As the dates gets closer, each will likely sell-out.
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3) CHANGE – AND A COMMENT – FOR “L.A. COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION”
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For half a century, it’s been an annual big deal for indie musicians, youth performance troupes, and seasoned touring pros fresh off the road and home for the holidays. On Friday, December 24, the 51st Annual “L.A. County Holiday Celebration” brings 23 music and dance acts to the Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in downtown L.A.
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You can attend free, or catch it on KCET TV (broadcast channel 28, or check your local cable listings or www.kcet.org); it’s live on radio on KPFK (90.7 FM, or www.kpfk.org ).
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The musicians and dancers are from across L.A. County – one of the few times each year that the local talent pool is showcased in a major media event – and the broadcast of the show has been nominated for an Emmy. For many years through this year, a condensed version of the previous year’s show airs nationally on PBS (that’ll change when KCET goes indie on January 1). The performance is produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and lighting, sound, sets and broadcast sound and visual images are first-rate, even if the hosts are always an uneven mix of seasoned mic jockeys and embarrassingly awkward anointed “celebrities.”
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But it’s what’s on stage that matters. Since 1964, the program “honors the spirit of many cultures and holiday traditions through music, song and dance.” In recent years, the lineup has included notable folk-Americana artists like Grammy-nominee Lisa Haley & the Zydecats and bluegrass and blues acts. Some years are more “folky” than others, and some feature more acoustic renaissance singer-songwriters and bands than other years. There are always acts that can be called “world folk.”
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Acts performing this year are:
(* denotes first-time participants in the show)
Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers
Antics PeRformances
Christian's Community Center Cathedral Choir
Colburn Children’s Choir
Elliot Deutsch Big Band *
Gabriella Axelrad Education Foundation *
Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles
Halau O Lilinoe *
Harmonic Bronze Handbell Ensemble
Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy
Loch and Key *
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus Young Men’s Ensemble *
L.A. City Elementary School Music Association Women’s Chorale *
Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez
Mr. Vallenato *
NDM Bollywood *
Pacifico Dance Company
Palmdale High School Choral Union
Philippine Chamber Singers of Los Angeles
Salvation Army Tabernacle Children’s Chorus
Santa Monica Chorus *
South Bay Children’s Chorus
Young Angels Choir
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The show runs 3-6 pm, and it’s free, but you can’t just show up and expect to get in. No, we don’t know why this year’s show is cut back from the usual six hours to just three. It’s still a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick, because this is free and the Dorothy Chandler is a wonderful place to enjoy live music – even if, unlike past years, we don’t see Grammy noms and winners in the lineup. Still, we are certain if you want to get into the Music Center to see it live, you’ll need to get there earlier than you think.
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This year, wristbands are required for entry. Limit is one wristband per person. They’re available free at the site, first-come, first-served, starting at 11:30 am. Expect a very long line early, mostly because of the sprinkling of children’s performing troupes in which parents want to see their kids on stage. Once you have your wristband, you “do not have to wait in line.” There is a second chance to get in, though it will involve uncertainty and requires waiting in a different line: producers say, “When all wristbands have been distributed, standbys will be tracked in order of arrival and admitted if seats are vacated.” Doors open at 2:30 pm.
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The Guide suggest this: get in line early to get your wristband at 11:30, then ride the Red Line subway to the ice rink in Pershing Square; rent skates (cheap) and take a few turns on the ice; then walk through the subway station and out the other end to grab a bite at Grand Central Market (a landmark since 1917); catch the subway back before the 2:30 door opening at the Music Center. You’ll escape the elbowing crowds in the suburban shopping malls and make a fun day of it downtown.
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Now, for our comment. It’s needed, because politicians are, once again, seeking to exploit the contributions of artists to the community.
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We’re supposed to tell you that the Holiday Celebration is “a gift from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors” – but we are revolted by the idea that the media is asked to help a bunch of self-aggrandizing politicians pat themselves on the back. The five-member Board of Supervisors are, after all, the same crowd who routinely names public buildings after themselves, every time a multimillion-dollar facility is constructed using taxpayers’ money. In one case, a large new five-story courthouse bears the name of a sitting County Supervisor – and contains a “family museum” to his sireage and offspring, housed in a marble-floored-and-columned space paid for by the people.
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So, we’d like to know how it is that sitting politicians are allowed to give themselves, at taxpayer expense, the daily presence – and advantage at election time – of important public facilities, individually named and dedicated to themselves?
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Shouldn’t THAT kind of thing be a genuine honor, one reserved for, like, after they’re dead, or least retired, and only IF the honoree’s career had gone unblemished? Examples abound of office-holders leaving a bad smell, so why should ANY sitting politician be given the ego trip of any tax-supported monument to him or her self?
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But this is a piece about a holiday show, so we’ll be charitable and not rant further – now that you have the picture on what the politicians wanted us to tell you about “their gift to you” – without their noting that the participating acts perform for free.
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Parking for the annual holiday show is free in the Music Center parking garage (a big deal where parking is usually $7 a half-hour). There will be free entertainment on the Music Center Plaza outside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion before the show, starting at 12:30 pm. Beginning at 3, the Holiday Celebration will be screened live on the JumboTron in the Music Center Plaza, where folding chairs are available for those who can’t get inside. The big Christmas tree towers above the plaza, so it’s a nice setting if the weather is pleasant.
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There’s more info at www.HolidayCelebration.org or on their hotline at 213-972-3099. The Music Center’s Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is located at 35 N Grand Av, downtown L.A. 90012.
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4) “Red Horse” – TOURING trio, AND #1 CD by TOP SONGWRITERS
Eliza Gilkyson, John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky
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Eight of the album’s songs made the Top 20 within a few weeks of its release. The “Red Horse” album and the Red Horse trio are three of Red House Record's top songwriters – Eliza Gilkyson, John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky.
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Immediately featured when it first debuted this past summer on NPR's “Weekend Edition,” the album quickly became the #1 Folk Album on both iTunes and Amazon. It topped the Folk Radio Charts as early as July. It debuted at #6 on the Billboard Folk Chart, outranking recordings by Natalie Merchant, Brandi CarliSle, and the Indigo Girls.
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Eliza, John and Lucy are playing select dates, nationwide, as the Red Horse trio – but none of those dates (so far) are in Southern Cal. The Guide is featuring their closest shows, all in Northern Cal, for those lucky enough to be in those areas.
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Their Northern California dates are:
* Fri, Nov 19, 8-10 pm, at Grass Valley Center for the Arts, 314 W Main St, Grass Valley, CA; 530-274-8384; www.thecenterforthearts.org.
* Sat, Nov 20, 8-10 pm, at the Sebastopal Community Center, 390 Morris St, Sebastopol CA; 707-823-1511; www.cumuluspresents.com.
* Sun, Nov 21, 8-10 pm, at the Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley CA; www.freightandsalvage.org; 510-664-2020.
* Mon, Nov 22, 7:30-10 pm, at the Sierra Nevada Brewery’s Big Room, in Chico CA; 530-345-2739.
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More on the #1 folk album, “Red Horse,” is at www.redhouserecords.com and there’s tour info – with additional dates as they’re added – at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456.
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5) NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS ARE STILL AT IT, IN VARIOUS ENSEMBLES
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Randy Sparks, the founder of the uber-famous folk revival group, does from time-to-time reassemble as many of the alumni as will fit on one stage. Not that it’s always the same group. When your members have included the likes of BARRY McGUIRE (famous for his banned-on-the-radio ’60s anthem, “Eve of Destruction”), and KENNY ROGERS (pre FIRST EDITION), and an underage pre-Emmy and Peabody Award-winning TRACY NEWMAN, and so many more who graduated to lead or star in their own bands or groups or as solo folk or rock acts, you could craft an entire season of “Where Are They Now?” just tracking-down former band members.
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Randy Sparks is himself quite a character. For Randy, the presumed radicalism of the ’60s often takes the form these days of comedic ditties from a decidedly conservative perspective; some are blatant in their “politically incorrect” expressions. Perhaps some of that can be explained when you know he was the best-known protégé of the late BURL IVES, and he cared for Ives in his final declining months. Ives was the Disney-movie-favorite folksinger who famously (or infamously) cooperated with HUAC – the House Un-American Activities Committee – during the McCarthy Era.
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Randy Sparks is a complex guy. He is devoted to his music charity. He still gets ’60s folk revival-era Baby Boomers singing along with big smiles, when he plays the group’s classics instead of his own newer material. And he is possessed with the artist’s penchant for a certain measure of disorganization, telling us, “I'm generally communicating with media people at the last minute, but this time I'm early,” as, for the first time ever, he sends us info a full three to four months (gasp) in advance.
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His smaller show, is a reprise (with who-knows-who-will-sign-on-at-the-last-minute-to-perform) as “Randy Sparks & Friends” on December 5 at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, no doubt owing to his ancient and continuing association with Bob Stane, pre-dating Bob’s years running the Ice House as a combination folk music haven / comedy shop.
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Those wanting to experience a (perhaps) larger cast, officially bearing the name of The New Christy Minstrels, can get tickets for their show at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center on January 9, 2011.
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In typically Randy Sparks fashion, he adds, “I suppose I ought to mention The McCallum Theater in Palm Desert on the 16th of January, also.”
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But what of the storied New Christy Minstrels -? Randy tells us, “My restored group is phenomenal these days. We have not been in concert anywhere that we haven't been asked back, and that’s gratifying. I'm 77 years old and likely couldn't get a job at Burger King, but I'm still gainfully employed, albeit we all work for a non-profit organization these days: The ‘New Christy Minstrels Foundation.’ Our goal is to give back to the schools; we NEVER charge schools for our performances.”
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He continues, “Our concert at Cerritos is a return visit. We were there on a Sunday afternoon in November of 2007, and we sold EVERY seat. We're looking to repeat that accomplishment, and we're already pretty far along, as all of the main floor $60 seats are gone. Half the house has already been sold, and we have [three] months to go. We are very quietly big business these days. We had 19 concerts in the month of October alone. What recession?”
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Randy Sparks & Friends is, he says, “a lesser offering, and we'll be holding court at Bob Stane's place on the 5th of December.”
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Lesser offering? Randy undoes that notion rather quickly. He says, “That's the day that Jennifer Lind, our new superstar (she is one of the ladies in the NCM, but also has an ongoing career as a soloist, and has the BEST self-produced CD that I have EVER heard!)”
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Randy points out that Jennifer Lind is opening for The Sons Of San Joaquin at The Gene Autry Theater that same day, in the afternoon.
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At the December 5th show in Altadena, Randy tells us, “Becky Jo [BENSON] and I may join Jennifer onstage for a couple of songs. The '& Friends' part of my smaller group consists of Becky Jo Benson, Jennifer [LIND], & Chuck Cole [plus RANDY SPARKS himself, of course]. We're unrestricted at Bob's [Coffee Gallery Backstage] showroom, so our program is wildly entertaining and great fun for me. I'm able to sing my best stuff: ‘Sluts With Tattoos,’ ‘The Man In The Moon Mooned Me,’ and ‘The Only Thing More Ferocious Than A Polar Bear Is A Bi-Polar Bear.’ Of course, we also perform the songs that the people come to hear.”
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We did mention Randy’s “politically incorrect” songs.
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As for the audiences Randy Sparks draws – with both his “& Friends” show and his New Christy Minstrels reunion productions – he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
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There’s more at www.thenewchristyminstrels.com.
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RECENT NEWS FEATURES (in the past 30 days):
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November 11 edition’s News Features are available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/acoustic-americana-music-guide-nov-11.html
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The topics are…
1) Weekend “Show-of-the-Week” Picks, Friday-Sunday, Nov 12-14…
2) This Weekend’s Festival Scene: A Saturday of Fun Choices…
3) SHERYL CROW to Play Free Show in L.A., November 16
4) Mike + Ruthy (from The Mammals): CD Release Tour Hits So Cal
5) Acoustic Eidolon Returns for Three Shows this Weekend
6) Caltech Folk Music Society Announces Winter Season Shows
7) Change – and a Comment – for “L.A. County Holiday Celebration”
8) “Red Horse” – Touring Trio, and #1 CD by Top Songwriters
Eliza Gilkyson, John Gorka & Lucy Kaplansky
9) NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS Are Still at it, in Various Ensembles
10) “How to Work the Media” Workshop – returning, November 20
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November 5 edition’s News Features are available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/acoustic-americana-music-guide-nov-5-to.html
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The topics are…
1) Weekend “Show-of-the-Week” Picks, Friday - Sunday, Nov 5-7…
2) This Weekend’s Southern Cal Festivals, Friday - Sunday…
3) Renowned Storyteller, Battling Deadly Disease, Does Book Signing Of His Life’s Work, with Readings; a Triumph of Community, Sunday, Nov 7
4) Free Weekly Series with Recording Stars Makes Move to SFV
5) Tix Alert: Tom Paxton to Play L.A. in January
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November 1 edition’s News Features are available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/acoustic-americana-music-guide-nov-1-to.html
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The topics are…
1) “The Guide’s” Guide to the California Ballot Propositions
2) $3 Billion on a Midterm Election, but Nothing for the Arts?
3) Politics, & That Halloween Candy: Is Either Digestible?
4) Free Weekly Series with Recording Stars Makes Move to SFV
5) Independent Music Awards Has Friday Deadline
6) Leslie Perry Book Signing: Triumph of Community, November 7
7) Tix Alert: Tom Paxton to Play L.A. in January
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October 28 edition’s News Features are available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/10/acoustic-americana-music-guide-oct-28.html
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The topics are…
1) Lotsa Halloween Events (Grab Christine O’Donnell’s Broom…)
2) This Weekend’s “Show-Of-The-Week” Picks
3) Politics & Halloween – A Strange & Appropriate Meeting
4) $3 Billion on a Midterm Election, but Nothing for the Arts?
5) “The Guide’s” Guide to the California Ballot Propositions
6) And Now for Something Completely Different: Oct 30
7) Booksigning is a Triumph of Community, Coming November 7…
8) Deadline is October 31: (Extended From Oct 27) Songwriters, Enter Your “Fire Songs”
9) Top Western Group is Southern Cal-Based, & Releasing New CD
10) Sign-Up now to Join Celebrities: Holiday Caroling for Shut-Ins
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October 22 edition’s News Features are available at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/10/acoustic-americana-music-guide-oct-22.html
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The topics are…
1) “How to Work The Media: A Workshop for Artists,” on Saturday
2) Weekend-at-a-Glance: “Show-of-the-Week” Picks, Friday-Sunday
3) This Weekend’s Festivals, October 22-24…
4) And Now for Something Completely Different: Oct 23 & 30
5) Booksigning Is a Triumph of Community, Coming November 7…
6) Deadline is October 27: Songwriters, Enter your “Fire Songs”
7) Top Western Group is So Cal-Based, & Releasing New CD
8) Sign-Up Now to Join Celebrities in Holiday Caroling for Shut-Ins
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THE LATEST FULL EDITION of the Acoustic Americana Music Guide is always available at
www.acousticmusic.net or at
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com or by links from the News-only edition at www.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
or by following any of MANY links on the web to get to one of those sites.
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2010, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Partial update to the November 11, 2010 edition; FULL UPDATE coming Friday, Nov 19. All “recurring events” are included in this edition through November 24, with MANY additional listings of upcoming events through the rest of 2010 and into 2011.
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Each weekly edition is designed to be useful not just for the current week, but well beyond. Each edition focuses on ALL THINGS ACOUSTIC for a span of a week or so – AND adds MORE events to those days’ listings than we had the previous week – PLUS, it’s updated with more events, farther into the future, as we learn of them.
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Now, here’s what’s happening…
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 17
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“Oh, the Joy!” – Lewis & Clark reached the Pacific Ocean on this day in 1805, extending the claim of the Louisiana Purchase by the young United States, and occasioning the celebratory passage, as quoted from the expedition’s journal.
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(1) Wednesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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Check back later…
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Wednesday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/wednesdays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Wednesday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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None reported for today.
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(4) Wednesday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Wednesday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Check back later…
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(5b) Wednesday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
+
THERE ARE 27 (Twenty-seven!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
+
Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/08/wednesday-third-wednesday-every-month.html
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18
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The Daguerreotype was the first practical method of photography, and its inventor, Louis Jacque Mandé Daguerre, a French painter and physicist, was born on this day in 1789.
+
MICKEY MOUSE was “born” on this day in 1929, with the debut screening of the black and white cartoon, “Steamboat Willie” at the Colony Theater in New York City. (Others cite different, earlier birthdays for Mickey, based on Walt Disney’s creation of the character…)
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(1) Thursday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
KATHERINE JENKINS performs at the Wiltern Theatre in L.A.
+
8-10:30 pm weekly "POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE" this week with musical guest NICOLE GORDON, plus all-star house band with DEBRA DOBKIN, DAVE FRASER, MARK "POCKET" GOLDBERG & special guest LARRY TREADWELL, at Arnie's Café in Sherman Oaks.
+
8 pm “A NIGHT AT THE CASBAH FEATURING CHRISTIE DIVINE & FRIENDS” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena. Will Bob Stane really import camels tonight?
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Thursday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/thursdays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Thursday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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None reported for today.
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(4) Thursday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Thursday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Thu, Nov 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
KATHERINE JENKINS performs at the Wiltern Theatre, 3790 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 213-380-5005. She’s done a spectacular special for PBS, and her version of Sarah McLaughlin’s “Angel” is the best we’ve heard – and seen, with a dancer - suspended from traveling slings - who takes her aloft then brings her back to earth, mid-song. Her voice, through all of it, is magnificent, as is her choice of songs.
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Thu, Nov 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8-10:30 pm weekly "POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE" this week with musical guest NICOLE GORDON, plus all-star house band with DEBRA DOBKIN, DAVE FRASER, MARK "POCKET" GOLDBERG & special guest LARRY TREADWELL, at Arnie's Cafe, 15245 Burbank Bl, Sherman Oaks 91411; 818-781-7009; www.arniescafe.com.
+
This is a fine weekly series with one or more recording artist guest performers, different each week. Mark "Pocket" Goldberg has plenty of film score credits and he knows lots of "A" list musicians whom he taps to play his shows. This is the same series that began when the venue - Arnie's - was in Tujunga. And note the change to an 8 pm start.
+
The series takes a week off for Thanksgiving, so no show on Thu, Nov 25. No cover, though venue has tasty Italian dinners and coffeehouse treats.
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Thu, Nov 18; world music & dance; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “A NIGHT AT THE CASBAH FEATURING CHRISTIE DIVINE & FRIENDS” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
+
CHRISTIE LYNN LAWRENCE, aka CHRISTIE DIVINE, joins members of the dance troupe UNDULATE and other belly dance friends to take the audience on a dancing journey to the Casbah. No, we don’t expect any sightings of Humphrey Bogart & Ingrid Bergman – they’re across the way at Rick’s Café Americaine. This one looks more indigenous to the fun side of North African & Middle Eastern culture. CGB impresario Bob Stane tells us, “There will be Middle Eastern music, veils, zills, live doumbek, shimmies, hip drops, camels and more.” Camels? Really, Bob? Bactrian or dromedary? Tix, $15.
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(5b) Thursday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
+
Newly added…
Thu, every Thu:
8-11:45 pm “ACOUSTIC THURSDAYS” presented by HollowBody L.A., with a different lineup each week, at the Viper Room, 8852 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-358-1881. Shows have included local and out-of-town artists playing a variety of folk, blues, Americana, all on acoustic instruments.
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==============
.
THERE ARE 35 (geez, Thirty-five!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
+
Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/recurring-events-thursday-third.html
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 19
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President ABRAHAM LINCOLN delivered the Gettysburg Address on this day in 1863. It is only 300 words long, was memorized by generations of American school children until the past 40 years or so, but it remains one of the greatest speeches in the English language, transcending the Civil War and defining the meaning of democracy.
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(1) Friday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT plays the Gelencser House Concert series in Claremont.
+
8 pm SEVERIN BROWNE & JILL FREEMAN play the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
+
8 pm RICHARD BERMAN (from Amherst, Massachusetts) and STEVE MECKFESSEL play a double-bill at the “CAMARILLO CAFÉ CONCERT SERIES,” at Camarillo Community Center, Camarillo.
+
8 pm “RICHARD THOMPSON’S CABARET OF SOULS” featuring HARRY SHEARER, JUDITH OWEN, PETE ZORN & special guests at UCLA Live in Royce Hall, on the UCLA campus in Westwood.
+
JANET ROBIN with THE BANGLES, 5 o'clock Shakedown, The Dolly Rots, & Sassafrass, play a benefit at The Roxy in West Hollywood.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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.
(2) Friday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/fridays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Friday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
Fri, Nov 19, in Northern Cal:
8-10 pm RED HORSE - ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Grass Valley Center for the Arts, 314 W Main St, Grass Valley, CA; 530-274-8384; www.thecenterforthearts.org. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com
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(4) Friday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Friday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Fri, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT plays the Gelencser House Concert series in Claremont; reservations get directions at 909-596-1266 or singfolk@yahoo.com. More at www.gelencserhouseconcerts.com
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Fri, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SEVERIN BROWNE & JILL FREEMAN play the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
+
Severin Browne continues to enchant audiences with his clear voice, masterful guitar playing and finely crafted songs. After leaving Motown in the mid seventies, Severin spent his time writing and playing in the Los Angeles area where his songs were recorded by Thelma Houston, Patti Dalstrom, Colin Blunstone, Twiggy, The Dillards, and Pamela Stanley - who had a Billboard #15 Hit with Severin's “I Don't Want To Talk About It.”
+
His two post Motown CDs, “From The Edge of The World,” released on Moo Records in 1996, and “This Twisted Road,” self-released in 2001, have both earned great reviews. With roots in pop, jazz, country, rock and R&B, Severin surprises his acoustic audiences with melodies and grooves not usually heard in folk circles, and he continues to write new songs in each of those genres. (He’s a respected songwriting teacher, as well as a guitar teacher and performer from a very talented musical family.) More at www.severinbrowne.com
+
JILL FREEMAN has been a professional singer-songwriter for over 20 years. Her solo album, "Songs about Sex and Depression", released on Magic Records, received rave reviews and resulted in placement of her songs in several motion pictures. One of these is a featured recording by ONCE BLUE *(EMI recording artists) of her song "Kisses Good" that was used in Touchstone Pictures’ "Mister Wrong", starring Ellen Degeneres.
+
Jill's songs and singing voice have been heard on television, on a list of shows that include “Roswell,” “The Young and the Restless,” “Providence,” “Melrose Place,” “Chelsea Lately,” “Better Off Ted,” and more. Jill says she enjoyed collaborating with blues guitar legend ROBBEN FORD for his CD, "Keep on Running." She continues to write and perform with her husband, songwriter-producer JOEL WACHBRIT. Jill and Joel are joined onstage for this performance by musicians DAVID DERGE on drums and percussion, TOMMY REEVES on keyboards, and STEVE NELSON on bass. More at www.jillfreeman.com. Tix, $15.
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==============
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Fri, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RICHARD BERMAN (from Amherst, Massachusetts) and STEVE MECKFESSEL play a double-bill at the “CAMARILLO CAFÉ CONCERT SERIES,” at Camarillo Community Center, 1605 E Burnley St (NE corner, Carmen & Burnley), Camarillo; info, 805-523-2682, email WhatsHappening@CamarilloCafe.com and website, www.CamarilloCafe.com. Sponsored by Pleasant Valley Recreation & Parks District. Produced by Gary & Kathy Lynch.
+
Schedule:
7:30 pm - doors open - open mic signups begin
8 pm – open mic
8:40 pm – first headliner.
9:15 pm – break (refreshments and snacks available)
9:40 pm – second headliner.
+
Get there early for a good seat; this series often sells-out. $10 at door (no presale).
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Fri, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “RICHARD THOMPSON’S CABARET OF SOULS” featuring HARRY SHEARER, JUDITH OWEN, PETE ZORN & special guests at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, Westwood; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
+
Direct from London's Royal Festival Hall, this show marks the West Coast premiere of Richard Thompson's stunning “Cabaret of Souls.” Featuring all-new songs and an original score composed by Thompson himself, “Cabaret of Souls” is a witty musical satire on human foibles, inviting the audience to cross over into darkness for an evening of entertainment staged in the Underworld. Featuring Richard Thompson with musical and theatrical cohorts Harry Shearer, Judith Owen, Pete Zorn, Debra Dobkin, David Piltch and the Idyllwild Arts Academy Orchestra, conducted by Peter Askim. More at www.richardthompson-music.com. Tix, $28-53 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Fri, Nov 19:
8 pm CURT SMITH of TEARS FOR FEARS at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Nov 19:
8 pm KIRK FLETCHER plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. KIRK FLETCHER at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175620&s=93914888. Tix, $10.
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Fri, Nov 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
JANET ROBIN with THE BANGLES, 5 o'clock Shakedown, The Dolly Rots, & Sassafrass, play a benefit at The Roxy, 9009 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-276-2222; www.theroxyonsunset.com. Link to buy advance tix (it’ll sell-out) http://daisyrock.com/pip
+
Yes, this does look like a big rock show. We’re listing it because JANET ROBIN, who has performed live with ANNE McCUE on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” is an amazingly wonderful guitar player (acoustic & electric) with great vocal chops.
+
Janet says it’s a “benefit for a good cause, Covenant House California and Nikki Sixx's ‘Running Wild in the Night.’ My friends over at Daisy Rock are presenting this event, and I've been before – it's always fantastic.”
+
Janet adds, “Meanwhile, still promoting my new CD, ‘Everything has Changed,’ and a big thanks to the great article in Taylor's ‘Wood & Steel Magazine,’ which brought on a lot of new fans. :) We will continue promotion through 2011 in the USA and still in Europe where it’s currently distributed… I've been brewing on some new songs and will be featuring them soon on the road. Plans for 2011 include UK/Germany tour in March, [US] East Coast in April, and Europe and Czech Republic again in the summer and fall months. Somewhere in there will be a good ol' fashioned L.A. show as well.” More info, www.janetrobin.com.
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Fri, Nov 19:
10 pm KEN O'MALLEY brings his authentic and original Irish music, 6 and 12 string guitars, and marvelous baritone vocals to the Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach 90802; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com. More at www.kenomalley.com
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(5b) Friday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
+
THERE ARE 23 (yep, Twenty-three!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
+
Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/08/friday-third-friday-every-month.html
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 20
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.
Senator ROBERT FRANCIS “BOBBY” KENNEDY was born on this day in 1925. He was assassinated in 1968, en-route to winning the Democratic nomination for the Presidency. Had he lived and been president, the tragedy of Vietnam would have ended years earlier.
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.
(1) Saturday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT & PHIL CHRISTIE play the The Living Tradition concert series at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center.
+
7:30 pm RICHARD BERMAN plays the Gelencser House Concert series in Claremont.
+
8 pm Grammy-winning guitarist LAURENCE JUBER at The Fret House in Covina.
+
8 pm FREEBO & FRIENDS at “Russ & Julie’s House Concert” series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks / Agoura Hills area).
+
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at Boulevard Music in Culver City.
+
8 pm JUDITH OWEN at McCabe’s in Santa Monica.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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.
.
(2) Saturday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/saturdays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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.
(3) Saturday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
.
.
Sat, Nov 20, in Northern Cal:
8-10 pm RED HORSE - ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Sebastopal Community Center, 390 Morris St, Sebastopol CA; 707-823-1511; www.cumuluspresents.com. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com
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(4) Saturday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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.
.
(5a) Saturday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
.
.
Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick, in OC:
7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT & PHIL CHRISTIE play the The Living Tradition concert series at the Anaheim Downtown Community Center, 250 E Center St, Anaheim; 714-955-3807 or 949-646-1964; www.thelivingtradition.org. More at www.davidmallett.com
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Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm RICHARD BERMAN plays the Gelencser House Concert series in Claremont; reservations get directions at 909-596-1266 or singfolk@yahoo.com. Series info, www.gelencserhouseconcerts.com. More at www.richardberman.net
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==============
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Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm Grammy-winning guitarist LAURENCE JUBER at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Doors at 7:30 pm for best seats. As a young working musician in London, England in the 1970s, Laurence Juber got an extraordinary, life-changing break when PAUL McCARTNEY picked him to become WINGS’ lead guitarist. Juber spent three years recording and touring with the band. During that time he won a Best Rock Instrumental GRAMMY® for the track "Rockestra" from the Wings album “Back To The Egg.” His instrumental prowess is dazzling. More at www.laurencejuber.com. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm FREEBO & FRIENDS at “Russ & Julie’s House Concert” series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks / Agoura Hills area); reservations get directions at 818-707-2179 or houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com. Series and show info, www.houseconcerts.us. More at www.freebomusic.com
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Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm SLIGO RAGS at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. Venue’s web site has a helpful local dining guide. More info later. Tix go on sale Nov 6; $15.
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Sat, Nov 20; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JUDITH OWEN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. More at www.judithowen.net. Tix, $15.
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Sat, Nov 20:
8 pm JOHN LISI & THE DELTA FUNK, from New Orleans, do a live video shoot of their set, plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening, at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. JOHN LISI AND THE DELTA FUNK at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175621&s=93914888. Tix, $10.
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Sat, Nov 20:
8 pm JOHN DOE & THE SADIES at Plaza del Sol Performance Hall - California State University, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge 91330. This genre-bending collaborative performance by John Doe and The Sadies includes classic tunes by Merle Haggard and Waylon Jennings and "late-night ballads" written by Tammy Wynette and Roger Miller. The promo says, "By innovatively melding contemporary sounds with traditional country music, timeless themes emerge. John Doe and The Sadies have found the perfect blend of the reverent and the experimental, resulting in a fusion of traditional country songs with a modern sound which stretches the boundaries of conventional music classifications." Tix, $54.
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Sat, Nov 20:
8 pm MENAHEM PRESSLER and RICHARD STOLTZMAN with THE NEW YORK CHAMBER SOLOISTS ORCHESTRA at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
+
Two of chamber music’s finest appear for an evening featuring Menahem Pressler performing Piano Concerto No. 17, K. 453 and Richard Stoltzman performing Mozart’s Clarinet Concerto, K. 622. Together the duo will present Brahms’ Sonata No. 2 for Clarinet and Piano, Op. 120.
+
MENAHEM PRESSLER, one of classical music’s most distinguished and honored pianists, was co-founder of the revered BEAUX ARTS TRIO.
+
RICHARD STOLTZMAN, a two-time Grammy winner, is considered one of the world’s foremost clarinetists and is known for bringing the instrument to the forefront of modern classical music. Tix, $38-68 ($15 for UCLA students).
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.
.
(5b) Saturday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
+
THERE ARE 31 (wow, Thirty-one!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
+
Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
.
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/08/saturday-third-saturday-every-month.html
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 21
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.
(1) Sunday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
+
11 am The HOLLOW TREES play the “Kid's Matinee” series at McCabe's in Santa Monica.
+
2 pm matinee brings DUO LARÉ to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, Altadena.
+
4 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN & LUKE HALPIN play the “Acoustic Voices” series at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts in Whittier.
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7 pm LOAFER'S GLORY the all-star ensemble of HERB PEDERSEN, BILL BRYSON, TOM SAUBER, & PATRICK SAUBER, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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7 pm JOHN WESLEY HARDING “Sings to a Small Guitar” plus MATT THE ELECTRICIAN at McCabe’s in Santa Monica.
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7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT plays the Noble House Concert series in Sherman Oaks.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Sunday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/sundays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Sunday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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Sun, Nov 21, in Northern Cal:
8-10 pm RED HORSE - ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Freight & Salvage, 2020 Addison St, Berkeley CA; www.freightandsalvage.org; 510-664-2020. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com
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(4) Sunday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Sunday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
11 am The HOLLOW TREES plays the “Kid's Matinee” series at McCabe's, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com. This band is very capable of entertaining well beyond the small fry. So if you know some kids who need exposure to real music, take ‘em, and you’ll enjoy the show, too. More at www.thehollowtrees.com
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm matinee brings DUO LARÉ to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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They describe themselves as “A four-member duo, playing classical and jazz with a bit of folk.” Uhh, a four-piece duo?
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DUO LARÉ is centered as a mandolin and guitar duo, performing contemporary music influenced by jazz, contemporary classical and eastern European folk traditions.
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The duo was formed by classical mandolinist, Chris Acquavella and jazz guitarist, Nathan Jarrell, in order to create new innovative music combining techniques from both worlds. Additional musicians for this performance will be Steve Haney, world percussion and Harley Magsino, double bass.
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Duo LaRe is a live incarnation of Chris & Nate’s compositions where the traditions of contemporary classical, modern jazz and Eastern European folk music meet the solid rhythmical traditions of contemporary music styles. Their music is a myriad of tones and moods ranging from high-energy pieces, played with fluidity and immense technical ability, to beautifully measured songs with inspiring melodies that lift audiences from their seats. Their music is a celebration of creative composing and professional musicianship. Duo LaRe’s debut album, “In Other Words” was just released in October.
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Christopher Acquavella graduated “First Class Honors” from Trinity College of Music in London, England. He studied under the instruction of Alison Stephens and participated in Master Classes & private lessons with Caterina Lichtenberg. Chris won the Wolfsan Foundation Music Award in 2004 and the TCM Trust Silver Medal for String Studies in 2006. Aside from chamber music, Chris concertizes as a soloist & orchestral musician with various orchestras such as Blackheath Halls Orchestra (UK), Dartington Festival Orchestra (UK), E.G.M.A. (DE), Camarada Chamber Ensemble (USA), New City Sinfonia (USA), Cashel Entertainment (USA) and the San Diego Symphony (USA). As well as performing, Chris is also a guitar/mandolin instructor at Old Time Music in San Diego and Buffalo Brothers in Carlsbad. He recently released his latest CD, “Letters from London, EP.”
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Guitarist Nathan Jarrell can be seen performing at major venues throughout Southern California, from solo guitar gigs to larger jazz ensembles. Although now primarily a jazz guitarist, Jarrell first gained experience performing and recording with various rock groups and toured extensively throughout the US. He has since worked in numerous genres including jazz, blues, Latin, and Celtic music. He holds a Masters degree in jazz studies from San Diego State University and is an active music educator. Jarrell is the Assistant Director of the west coast campuses of the National Guitar Workshop and directs jazz ensembles. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
4 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN & LUKE HALPIN play the “Acoustic Voices” series at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
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With their impending move to Denver, this is a great opportunity to catch these two rising stars before the big wide world keeps ‘em too booked to get back here. Lots has been happening in their musical universe for the past year.
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Early 2010 had Stephanie excitedly reporting, “… my album, ‘Get Close To Me,’ has charted at #8 on the Folk DJ chart, and my track, ‘Evening Prayer Blues,’ came in at number #6 - I BEAT ROBERT PLANT AND ALISON KRAUSS! Now, I suppose, I can die.” To which we replied, “Yikes, Stephanie, don’t say THAT!”
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STEPHANIE BETTMAN & LUKE HALPIN have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and the radio show brought the world premiere of her recorded tracks from that celebrated album even before its release. Since then, Stephanie was named in FolkWorks among the “Best of 2008 / Top Ten” Female Singer-Songwriters in Los Angeles, in Larry Wines’ annual round-up for the magazine.
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There’s a lot to this singing fiddle-player. Former theater actress and trapeze artist Stephanie Bettman is an award-winning singer-songwriter and fiddler. She and her band were the Grand Prize winners in the 2008 “Southern California Live Acoustic Music Competition” and among the winners in the 2007 “Topanga Banjo Fiddle conteSt”
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In March 2010, a radio show in New Zealand named her CD “Album of the Week,” saying, "How can such a classy performer go wrong with quality moments channeling Emmylou? My album of the week ... without question." - Eddie O’Strange, Town & Country, Lower Hutt, New Zealand
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Want a US media quote? Stephanie is "A fiddle playing charmer with a set of pipes she knows how to use and gift of gab that regularly amuses her audiences" - Jesse Lilly, Mondo Cult Magazine.
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When they played the Sedona Bluegrass Festival, buzz on the street labeled her "the next Alison Krauss." Stephanie’s accompanist is multi-instrumentalist LUKE HALPIN, late of BORDER RADIO. Luke was pegged early-on as a "musical phenom" by the Southern Cal press, and he brings beautiful harmonies and fine pickin' (on several instruments) to the ensemble, and the two perform some of his original songs. More at www.stephaniebettman.com and www.myspace.com/stephaniebettman. Tix, $15.
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The Shannon is a wonderful theatre, a truly fine place to enjoy acoustic music. Tix, $20; seniors & students, $15.
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm LOAFER'S GLORY plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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Wow. HERB PEDERSEN on guitar and vocals. BILL BRYSON on bass and vocals. TOM SAUBER on fiddle, banjo, and vocals. PATRICK SAUBER on banjo, mandolin and vocals.
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This one truly features legends of pickin' & grinnin'. Venue impresario Bob Stane calls this, “A unique engagement of the finest of bluegrass players. A show that will be talked about for years to come.” And he adds, “Treat you and yours to historical fun.”
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HERB PEDERSEN is among the very, very few in American music who has been there, done that, as a guitarist, banjo player, and singer-songwriter, playing with a “who’s who” of roots-Americana and more, in a variety of musical styles over the past forty years. Pedersen is a founding member of the legendary DESERT ROSE BAND. He fronted his own band, the LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS. He’s worked with the PINE VALLEY BOYS, EARL SCRUGGS, THE DILLARDS, SMOKEY GRASS BOYS, OLD AND IN THE WAY, DAVID GRISMAN, PETER ROWAN, VASSAR CLEMENTS, GRAM PARSONS, EMMYLOU HARRIS, TONY RICE, DAN FOGELBERG, STEPHEN STILLS, LINDA RONSTADT, KRIS KRISTOFFERSON, JOHN PRINE, JACKSON BROWNE, JOHN DENVER, JOHN JORGENSON, and LELAND SKLAR.
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TOM SAUBER brings his stellar talents on fiddle, banjo and vocals. A native of Southern California, Tom has helped bring authentic traditional music to the film industry. In 1980, along with RY COODER & DAVID LINDLEY, he played the music for the motion picture “The Long Riders.” He appeared in “Bound for Glory,” “Geronimo,” and numerous TV movies and series. He’s among the best known and most respected purveyors of “old time” music, anywhere.
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PATRICK SAUBER joins the group on banjo, mandolin and vocals. Patrick, son of Tom, has mastered the old-time pre-bluegrass styles on banjo and mandolin, as well as the classic approach to good solid Scruggs-style 5-string banjo and mandolin, Bill Monroe and more current styles. He’s still a young player, and it’s always thrilling to see where he’s carrying his talent (he’s already played Japan). Patrick sings all the needed parts in the good trio and quartet numbers.
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BILL BRYSON, on upright bass and vocals, comes from a long discography of bluegrass and country music. One of the most skilled of the upright bass players in the business, has been or is with such great groups as THE BLUEGRASS CARDINALS, THE COUNTRY GAZETTE, THE LAUREL CANYON RAMBLERS, THE DESERT ROSE BAND, and BLUEGRASS ETC. Bill is a wonderful lead singer, one of the best “in-demand” baritones today. In addition to the bass, he plays guitar and minstrel 5-string banjo. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm JOHN WESLEY HARDING “Sings to a Small Guitar” plus MATT THE ELECTRICIAN at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. More at www.johnwesleyharding.com and www.matttheelectrician.com. Tix, $17.50.
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Sun, Nov 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm DAVID MALLETT plays the Noble House Concerts, 5705 Noble Av, Sherman Oaks. Reservations get directions at 818-780-5979. Series and show info, www.jrp-graphics.com/noblehouse. More at www.davidmallett.com .
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(5b) Sunday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
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THERE ARE 41 (wow, Forty-one!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
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Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/08/sunday-third-sunday-every-month.html
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 22
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On this day in 1963, our future was stolen, never to be put back on track as it might have been. President John Fitzgerald Kennedy, a singularly visionary leader who established the Peace Corps, who, a century after the Civil War, used the power of the federal government to bring civil rights for all Americans regardless of the color of their skin, and whose challenge would take mankind to walk on the surface of the moon, was murdered while riding in a parade through enthusiastic cheers in the streets of Dallas, Texas. Despite our best hopes and hard work in many political campaigns and social movements, America has yet to again see the likes of such a national leader.
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Ironically, the international distress signal, “SOS,” was adopted on this date in 1906, though it’s …---… would not see its first Morse telegraphic radio use until the night that RMS Titanic struck an iceberg, and began sinking in the frigid waters of the North Atlantic.
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(1) Monday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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Check back later…
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Monday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/mondays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Monday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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Mon, Nov 22, in Northern Cal:
7:30-10 pm RED HORSE - ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Sierra Nevada Brewery, Big Room in Chico CA; 530-345-2739. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com
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(4) Monday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Monday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Check back later…
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(5b) Monday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
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THERE ARE 22 (yep, Twenty-two!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
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Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/08/monday-fourth-monday.html
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 23
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(1) Tuesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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8 pm JESSICA FICHOT plus COCO & LAFE at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Tuesday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/tuesdays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Tuesday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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None reported for today.
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(4) Tuesday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today.
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(5a) Tuesday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Tue, Nov 23; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JESSICA FICHOT and COCO & LAFE at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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We were disappointed when JESSICA FICHOT’s show here was previously postponed, in October. We’re thrilled it’s happening tonight, and with a second headline act added.
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Accordion chanteuse JESSICA FICHOT is charming and oh-so musical, the result of an international cultural heritage spanning avant-garde cabaret, French and Spanish standards, Chinese poetry, and American pop influences. Her jazzy mezzo-soprano, indie-style accordion and relaxed backing band light up a program ranging from heartbreaking torch songs to European supper-club standards. Her band includes upright bass, guitar, clarinet, saxophone, vocals and accordion.
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We usually don’t use an unattributed quote, but this one is too good: "Globalization may have its critics, but surely none would object to one of its finer imports of late: multiethnic, multilingual chanteuse and songwriter JESSICA FICHOT... The well-traveled troubadour makes music that is truly international in its sound, style and spirit. In her debut album, Fichot takes listeners on a musical excursion that begins with the French chanson tradition and moves with ease into gypsy jazz, Chinese and Latin folk music and classic American song... This breezy confidence in her ability to cross boundaries, both linguistic and musical, shines through on her stunning debut."
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Plus,
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COCO & LAFE have both won songwriting awards. Coco has been on “Conan O'Brien” twice as a backup singer for the talented and wonderful Rebecca Pidgeon, who recorded one of Coco’s songs. Coco hit both Billboard and the Country charts with a bullet for her award-winning composition "New England Song." She was in the original Boston cast of "Hair."
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Coco and Lafe, wrote Jessi Rose Productions, are “Premier American Songwriters you should hear live.” They are completing a 100+ gig tour here tonight, at the Coffee Gallery.
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Their tour has brought accolades, including, “Two hours just melted away.” - Steve Brockway, KRFC Radio, Fort Collins, Colorado. And the San Diego Troubadour said of them, “A pinch of Pete Seeger, a dose of Cat Stevens, and a heavy heaping of James Taylor.” “No one else does what they do.” - Canyon Folk House Concerts.
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An acoustic modern songwriting duo with a heavy blues edge, Coco is the harmony queen, Lafe (rhymes with “waif”) is the harmonica wizard, and the two write character-based songs with toe-tapping philosophy, sarcasm, and laugh-out-loud wit. Examples are their originals, “You Can’t Sue God” and “I Love You More (than they do).” Songs like those prompted Jacques Fluery, CCTV host in Boston to say, “Don’t drink milk while listening to them and don’t miss this once-in-a-year opportunity to see the ‘Coziest Crazies.’” His once-a-year reference is about right – they tour non-stop, and they’ve released 5 CDs in 3 years and won those songwriter awards along the way.
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Their latest studio CD is being played on 172 radio stations in five countries. Tix, $15.
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(5b) Tuesday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
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THERE ARE 28 (Yep, Twenty-eight!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
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Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/11/recurring-events-tuesday-fourth-tuesday.html
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 24
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SCOTT JOPLIN, the great pianist-composer and impresario of a genre with a new tempo called “ragged time” music – Ragtime – was born on this date in 1868 in Texarkana, Texas. In 1899, music publisher John Stark released the sheet music for the young Joplin’s “Original Rag” – the first published piece of ragtime music – creating a nationwide sensation. Stark quickly followed with publication of Joplin’s “Maple Leaf (Rag)” which remains one of the all-time most famous jazz compositions. Scott Joplin may have been the first person of color in American history to have his music published under his own name. In our time, Joplin is recognized worldwide as a genius, though he would die in New York City on April 11, 1917, without ever hearing a single recorded piece of his wonderful, revolutionary music.
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(1) Wednesday’s “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” picks:
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7 pm “BATTLE OF THE BLUES HARPS” with KIM WILSON, ROD PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS, JAMES HARMAN, DOUG MacLEOD, DARRELL MANSFIELD, and more, at Golden Sails Best Western Hotel, Crystal Ballroom, Long Beach.
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See the complete listings below for all the details.
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(2) Wednesday’s RADIO & TV SHOWS
~ that feature live performance-interviews with acoustic musicians, and selected other acoustic music shows (mostly on-line, simulcast from radio stations elsewhere) are listed, in all their abundance, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/wednesdays-radio-web-radio-tv-acoustic.html
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(3) Wednesday’s “BEST OUT-OF-TOWN EVENTS”
~ beyond the region covered by the Guide’s usual listings:
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None reported for today.
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(4) Wednesday’s LOCAL FESTIVALS:
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None reported for today, though the “BATTLE OF THE BLUES HARPS” tonight at 7 pm looks mighty darn close to a festival-in-an-evening…
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(5a) Wednesday’s TODAY-AND-TONIGHT-ONLY
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events:
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Wed, Nov 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “BATTLE OF THE BLUES HARPS” with KIM WILSON, ROD PIAZZA & THE MIGHTY FLYERS, JAMES HARMAN, DOUG MacLEOD, DARRELL MANSFIELD, and more, at Golden Sails Best Western Hotel, Crystal Ballroom, 6285 E Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach 90803; 562-498-6942. Event info & tix, www.southlandblues.com/harpbattle.htm
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Wed, Nov 24:
8 pm TAYLOR MADE, the JAMES TAYLOR Tribute Band, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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This is a group of musicians “dedicated to bringing the uplifting, soulful and memorable sounds of legendary singer-songwriter JAMES TAYLOR to be enjoyed in any setting.” They add, “Paying close attention to the details of each song, we have crafted a sound that captures the live and recorded experience of listening to James Taylor in concert. The next best thing to JT himself.”
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JAMES TAYLOR is STEPHEN BOCK on lead vocals and acoustic guitar, DARRYL LIEBERSTEIN on bass and vocals, SHERYL BRAUNSTEIN on vocals, PRESTON GOULD on horns and vocals, DEV DOSAJ on keyboards and vocals, HUGH LAXINETA on electric guitars, and CLARK PARDEE on drums.
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CGB impresario Bob Stane says, “Whether you are listening to the full band or the ‘unplugged’ version, you will be hearing classic JT tunes like ‘Fire and Rain,’ ‘Mexico,’ and ‘Shower the People,’ or his famous cover tunes like ‘You've Got A Friend’ and ‘How Sweet It Is.’ We believe you will close your eyes and marvel at the way TAYLOR MADE brings the music of James Taylor and his band to life!” Tix, $15.
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(5b) Wednesday’s RECURRING
“LOS ANGELES AREA ACOUSTIC MUSIC PERFORMANCES” and related events.
+
THERE ARE 29 (wow, Twenty-nine!) ADDITIONAL EVENTS, TODAY & TONIGHT!
+
Included are today & tonight’s weekly and monthly residencies, series, showcases, workshops, open mics and other acoustic music events that are scheduled in advance to happen today and tonight, from northern Santa Barbara County to south Orange County, from downtown L.A. to the valleys to the Inland Empire, from the desert to the sea.
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/10/wednesday-fourth-last-wednesday-of.html
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BEYOND THE CURRENT EDITION…
Coming up, through the remainder of autumn, the coming winter, and waaaay into next year…
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(6) EARLY ANNOUNCEMENTS / UPCOMING EVENTS / BUY TIX NOW
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(Updated November 11 - Check back frequently for more.)
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HELP KEEP THE GUIDE GOING! Send us $25 and get great goodies in return! Find out WHAT you get, and more, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/support-guide-and-get-some-great-dvds.html )
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UPCOMING SHOWS – GET TIX EARLY…
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Thu, Nov 25:
HAPPY THANKSGIVING!
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Fri, Nov 26:
8 pm B.B. CHUNG KING plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. B.B. CHUNG KING at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175622&s=93914888. Tix, $15.
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Fri, Nov 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “SONGS FROM THE DAYS OF THE BYRDS AND BEYOND,” by JOHN YORK (the BYRDS) with BILLY DARNELL (The EVERLY BROTHERS), at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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It’s a rare chance to see a singer-songwriter and former member of the legendary folk-rock band, The Byrds, together with another top-drawer musician of the era, again performing the BYRDS legendary catalogue.
+
JOHN YORK is an ex-Byrd, having played with ROGER McGUINN, CLARENCE WHITE and GENE PARSONS in the “Easy Rider” period of that legendary band. Later he played with ex-Byrd GENE CLARK in a band that included RICK DANKO and RICHARD MANUEL from THE BAND and NICKY HOPKINS, piano player for the ROLLING STONES. Prior to joining the Byrds, John was a member of the SIR DOUGLAS QUINTET and then he was the bass player for THE MAMAS AND THE PAPAS. He is proud of the fact that he played bass for blues legend LIGHTIN' HOPKINS. Over the years, JOHN YORK has been a constant musical creative force in support of acts like DR. JOHN, JOHNNY RIVERS, RICHARD MANUEL, and ROLLING STONES keyboardist NICKY HOPKINS. Recently, John completed a new solo album, “Fanfare For 2,” and a second album, “West Coast Revelation,” a collaboration with rock legend KIM FOWLEY. He is currently touring with BARRY McGUIRE in the "Trippin' the Sixties" show.
+
Joining John on stage is veteran performer BILLY DARNELL. Billy played guitar with THE EVERLY BROTHERS, DOUG KERSHAW, DR. JOHN AND ROGER McGUINN, and was a member of the GENE CLARK version of the BYRDS that featured JOHN YORK. The show at the Coffee Gallery is a special treat because these two very musical friends recently played together here for the first time in many years.
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CGB impresario Bob Stane says, “The show is filled with familiar Byrds tunes for sing-along, fine original songs and great interpretations of songs from the era, and the best music this side of Bob Dylan and The Band. Come join us for an evening of great artistry and entertainment.” Tix, $15.
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Sat, Nov 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm CHRISTOPHER BURGAN TRIO at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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Singer, songwriter, and instrumentalist CHRISTOPHER BURGAN returns to the venue with his acoustic trio. The music features a dynamic mix of guitars, vocals, piano, and percussion over a wide range of musical styles.
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A familiar face to Coffee Gallery patrons, Christopher has been lead guitarist with 1965 GRAMMY nominated We Five (San Francisco sound mega hit "You Were On My Mind") since 1998. Along the way he has developed the reputation as a must-hear "player’s player, singer and songwriter." Venue impresario Bob Stane says, “Christopher’s easygoing nature, subtle humor, and stirring music provide the atmosphere for an evening out that is sure to please.”
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His latest CD, “Breakfast In The Sunroom,” was awarded a rare CD Baby “Editor’s Pick” in both “Fingerstyle” and “Folk Rock” categories. In addition, he is an ASCAPlus award winner, and his song "Run To Mama," from the CD “Love, Hope Faith,” is a staple at Dodger Stadium during Dodgers baseball home games.
+
The music media celebrates him and his records. “Burgan is his own man musically” – Pasadena Weekly; “Reminiscent of the late Michael Hedges‘ best works” – San Diego Troubadour; “Inspired” – San Gabriel Valley Tribune; "Integrity, honesty, and powerful guitars” – San Gabriel Valley Examiner; “A feast for the ears... melodic and moving” – GC News.
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More at www.chrisburgan.com. Tix, $15.
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Sat, Nov 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BERNIE PEARL BLUES BAND plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. BERNIE PEARL BLUES BAND at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175623&s=93914888. Tix, $10.
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Sat, Nov 27; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm Surf guitar legend DICK DALE and his musician son JIMMY DALE play an acoustic evening at The Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; frethouse@earthlink.net; www.frethouse.com. Doors at 7:30 pm for best seats.
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Sun, Nov 28:
7 pm BOBBY KIMMEL & BK SPECIAL at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. More at www.bkspecial.com. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Nov 28; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm "THE GENERATIONS TRIO" and "THE LINDY SISTERS" bring a veritable “USO Show” to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
+Venue impresario Bob Stane raves, “Blended and perfected is what many refer to as the harmony of the two older guys and ‘the kid.’ Now add to the mix three beautiful and talented ladies know as THE LINDY SISTERS who reminisce in song, dance and costume with the same harmonic excellence as the Andrews Sisters and the McGuire Sisters and now you have a show that radiates with ‘CHARMONY.’”
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THE GENERATIONS TRIO and THE LINDY SISTERS combine their two unique individual performances into one big USO-type show, making sure there is plenty to enjoy for all generations. The show features a variety of vocals as sung with the big bands and plenty of songs from the ’40s, ’50s and ’60s, as well as a blend of patriotic and country favorites.
+
Bob Stane adds, "THE GENERATIONS TRIO emulates the style of those famous harmony groups, like The Letterman, The Vogues, and the Statler Brothers, singing tunes that stick in your mind long after the show is over, with words you can actually understand and sing along to. We can't fit a ’40 Ford Coupe or a 1957 Chevy into The Coffee Gallery Backstage, but just hop into the back seat and the music will be there. Two groups, one price!” Tix, $20.
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Mon, Nov 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm FOY WILLING'S RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE featuring CODY BRYANT return to their favorite corral (chorale?) at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reservations, 626-794-2424; info, www.coffeegallery.com. More at www.codybryant.com and www.ridersofthepurplesage.com
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December:
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Wed, Dec 1:
7 pm “CLASSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE CONCERT SERIES” begins its 6th season tonight with “TROUBLED WATERS: THE ROMANTIC & CLASSICAL SONATAS OF MOZART & SCHUMANN” performed live by musicians (tba) in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Series runs three Wednesday night concerts, tonight, March 2, and April 20, all at 7 pm. Info on this program and the series, 626-821-5569.
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This is a free series, no reservations, but seating is limited to the first 150 people in line to enter. Doors at 6:30 pm.
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Wed, Dec 1; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm “AN IRISH CHRISTMAS IN AMERICA” at the “AMSD” concert series, 4650 Mansfield St, San Diego; info & tix, 619-303-8176 or www.acousticmusicsandiego.com. More on the show and the tour at www.irishchristmasinamerica.com
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Wed, Dec 1:
8 pm JOHN McLAUGHLIN & THE 4th DIMENSION at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
+
Considered by many critics and fans to be one of the greatest guitar players of all time, JOHN McLAUGHLIN has famously performed with MILES DAVIS and also with his own historic bands, THE MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA, SHAKTI, and THE GUITAR TRIO. Through a career spanning four decades, McLaughlin’s reputation and artistry as a virtuoso guitarist and adventurous improviser has remained constant. For the 4th DIMENSION, he has enlisted multi-instrumentalist GARY HUSBAND to play percussion and keyboards along with Jeff Beck drummer MARK MONDESIR. Plus, there’s ETIENNE MBAPPÉ, an extraordinary young bassist from Cameroon, to complete the rhythm section. Tix, $43-83 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Fri, Dec 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm RONNY COX plays the Sherman Oaks Presbyterian Church concert series, at 4445 Noble Av, Sherman Oaks; 818-788-3330; www.shermanoakspc.org. More at www.ronnycox.com
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Fri, Dec 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick; good event for children:
7:30 pm “RUMPELSTILTSKIN” with puppets, as the old German folk / fairy tale is presented by “Tears of Joy” at Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz at Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles, 10361 W Pico Bl, L.A. 90064; info & tix, www.theatreraymondkabbaz.com; 310-0286-0553.
+
Jacob and Wilhelm, the Brothers Grimm, collected many old folk / fairy tales. Much as the Lomax’s would do a hundred years later with American folk song, the brothers sought, heard and wrote down the old tales, enhancing the excitement of the story lines and characters. The brothers published three books of these stories between 1812 and 1822. Tears of Joy theatre company performs the play here, one night only, with bunraku style puppets. More at www.tojt.com
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Fri, Dec 3; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BORDER RADIO at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
+
Remember those great days of radio from across the border, when the music was great, and the people who programmed it understood that listeners’ musical sensibilities were most attuned to hearing music that was good, rather than easy to pigeon-hole in a narrowly-defined genre? Well, that’s the premise of this band.
+
KELLY McCUNE & her all-star band evoke the days when radio had you anticipating each song, especially if you could hear it during those halcyon days of mega-mega-wattage radio from across the border. They mix Southwestern folk, Appalachian bluegrass, strong instrumentals, and Kelly’s marvelous vocals. They were a festival favorite before taking a three-year hiatus, and they’re back as wonderful as ever, with new originals that shine alongside their previous favorites.
+
A well-loved acoustic band, they began playing in the Los Angeles area in 2000. Then there was a hiatus of a few years. They’ve been making a return to their stomping grounds at the Coffee Gallery Backstage every few months since this past spring, when they reformed the band. They’re as good as ever, ready to resume their place on the festival circuit, and ready to charm you with their handwritten songs, soulful folk and bluegrass style, tinged with cowboy swing, all backed up with some serious instrumental prowess.
+
Border Radio is KELLY McCUNE on sweet lead vocals, Mike Stromberg on dobro and guitar, movie soundtrack fave Mark Indictor on smokin' fiddle, and Robert Staron on bass.
+
There’s more at www.border-radio.com, on Facebook, and on MySpace at www.myspace.com/kellymccuneborderradio, Tix, $18.
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Fri, Dec 3:
8 pm Shawn Jones plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Shawn Jones at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175624&s=93914888. Tix, $15.
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Fri, Dec 3:
8 pm JACKSH*T & FRIENDS perform "A Very Sh*tty Christmas," which is, says the venue, the group’s “Yuletide Extravaganza, featuring those three wise men from Cotochtan, plus their special friends,” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. This runs two nights, Dec 3 & 4.
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Fri, Dec 3:
9:30 pm KEN O'MALLEY brings his authentic and original Irish music, on 6 and 12 string, and withy his powerful vocals, to the Cock N Bull Pub, 2947 Lincoln Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-399-9696; www.cocknbullbritishpub.com. More at www.kenomalley.com
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Sat, Dec 4; festival:
9 am-2 pm annual “HOLIDAY SNOW FESTIVAL” at Arcadia Community Center, 375 Campus Dr, Arcadia 91007; 626-574-5113; www.ci.arcadia.ca.us. Features live music, holiday entertainment, crafts, “trolley train” rides, dual sled runs and two snow play areas. Carl’s Jr food available 11:30 am-1:30 pm. Event info, 626-574-5113. Free parking and shuttle service from Santa Anita Race Track (enter Gate 4). Free event.
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Sat, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings AARON SALA at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
+
AARON SALA was such a hit when he last played this series a few years ago that they’ve been trying to get him back ever since. He played then NATALIE ALI & BARRY KIMOKEA, in the ensemble that’s been recognized as “The Three Tenors of Hawaii.” This time, Aaron does a solo show.
+
The annual series brings seven shows for its 2010-2011 season. Tix, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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Sat, Dec 4, in San Diego:
7 pm ROBIN HENKEL & ALLEN SINGER play the “San Diego Folk Heritage” series in Templars Hall in Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway (San Diego); 858-566-4040; www.sdfolkheritage.org. More at www.robinhenkel.com and www.allensinger.com
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Sat, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm MOSCOW NIGHTS play the “Ojai Concert Series” in Matilija Auditorium, 703 El Paseo Rd, Ojai; tix & info, 805-646-8907; www.ptgo.org. They are amazing, having delighted audiences all over the world. More at www.russianfolk.com
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Sat, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. Venue’s web site has a helpful local dining guide. More info later, or check www.jamesleestanley.com. Tix go on sale Nov 20; $15.
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Sat, Dec 4; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings AARON SALA at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org. Shows at 3 & 8 pm; see 3 pm listing for details.
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Sat, Dec 4:
8 pm Chris Duarte plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Shawn Jones at 10:30 pm, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175625&s=93914888.
Chris Duarte at 10:30, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Dec 4:
8 pm JACKSH*T & FRIENDS perform "A Very Sh*tty Christmas," which is, says the venue, the group’s “Yuletide Extravaganza, featuring those three wise men from Cochtotan, plus their special friends,” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. This runs two nights, Dec 3 & 4.
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
12:45 & 3 pm PETER HIMMELMAN plays the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A.; 310-440-4578; www.skirball.org. More at www.peterhimmelman.com
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm annual "COWBOY CHRISTMAS CONCERT" with THE SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN and JENNIFER LIND in the Wells Fargo Theatre at the Autry National Center / Autry Museum of the American West, 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park, L.A. 90027; 323-667-2000; www.theautry.org. Tix, $15 for Autry or WMA members, $20 gen'l admission.
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 pm PETER HIMMELMAN plays the Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N Sepulveda Bl, L.A.; 310-440-4578; www.skirball.org. More at www.peterhimmelman.com. (Shows at 12:45 & 3 pm.)
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Sun, Dec 5; an “EVENT-OF-THE-WEEK” for Artists:
4 pm 29th annual “LOS ANGELES HOLIDAY CAROLING” for shut-ins, at four senior care centers and a restaurant, all in the West San Fernando Valley.
+
This event always brings out many top award winning musicians and stars of film, TV, and stage, who are all there, in the words of event founder VINCENT LEINEN, “to bring happiness and/or enlightenment to the elderly, to care-givers, and to participants in the event itself during the holiday season. He adds, Together we have the power to make a difference and to make the world a better place!”
+
Vincent says, “The tradition of caroling for the elderly began for me in high school while singing at local senior care centers with the St. Mary Catholic Youth Association in Dow City, Iowa (pop. 498). It then continued while attending the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Now, as a resident of Los Angeles, the tradition has since evolved, grown, and expanded into a series of festivities celebrated across the country. This includes the large-scale, must-attend holiday event (est. 200 participants) in Los Angeles. This enjoyable and rewarding community service project is open to entertainers, singers and musicians of all talent levels and ages.”
+
Vincent continues, “It is a very fulfilling opportunity to give and to receive joy, happiness, and holiday spirit to and from the elderly residents, care-givers, and participants, while enhancing one’s own perspective or appreciation of life, health, and family. Bottom line: Everyone greatly benefits from the festivities.”
+
A full media blitz promoting this event will be launched to many major Los Angeles Metro radio, television, and newspaper outlets, local church bulletins etc., to promote the festivities and overall theme during the holiday season.
+
Vincent’s invitation to the arts community contains an element of urgency: “All effort given to support, promote, and participate in this heart-warming activity would be especially appreciated, since your contribution and presence would greatly enhance the festivities for all involved. Please RSVP ASAP!”
+
So many artists take part that an RSVP is needed so you CAN take part. You can get more details at www.ReachfortheStars.com/caroling and you can reach Vincent at 818-342-9336.
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “ALICE COLTRANE TRIBUTE” with a host of all-star musicians, to pay tribute to jazz legend Alice Coltrane at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
+
It’s appropriate this is at UCLA, the site of ALICE COLTRANE’s historic 1976 recording “Transfiguration.” Led by KYP MALONE (TV on the Radio, Rain Machine) and co-curated by famed record producer IAN BRENNAN, the night will feature inspirational and improvisatory music via mini sets and onstage collaborations from legendary saxophonist PHAROAH SANDERS, guitarist NELS CLINE (Wilco), acclaimed Dutch free-improvisation drummer HAN BENNINK, free jazz saxophonist DANIEL CARTER, and others. Lineup subject to change. Tix, $28-48 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm “Randy Sparks & Friends” plus Jennifer Lind opening, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
+
Randy Sparks, the founder of the uber-famous folk revival group The New Christy Minstrels, does from time-to-time reassemble as many of the alumni as will fit on one stage. Not that it’s always the same group. When your members have included the likes of BARRY McGUIRE (famous for his banned-on-the-radio ’60s anthem, “Eve of Destruction”), and KENNY ROGERS (pre FIRST EDITION), and an underage pre-Emmy and Peabody Award-winning TRACY NEWMAN, and so many more who graduated to lead or star in their own bands or groups or as solo folk or rock acts, you could craft an entire season of “Where Are They Now?” just tracking-down former band members.
+
Randy Sparks is himself quite a character. For Randy, the presumed radicalism of the ’60s often takes the form these days of comedic ditties from a decidedly conservative perspective; some are blatant in their “politically incorrect” expressions. Perhaps some of that can be explained when you know he was the best-known protégé of the late BURL IVES, and he cared for Ives in his final declining months. Ives was the Disney-movie-favorite folksinger who famously (or infamously) cooperated with HUAC – the House Un-American Activities Committee – during the McCarthy Era.
+
Randy Sparks is a complex guy. He is devoted to his music charity. He still gets ’60s folk revival-era Baby Boomers singing along with big smiles, when he plays the group’s classics instead of his own newer material. And he is possessed with the artist’s penchant for a certain measure of disorganization, telling us, “I'm generally communicating with media people at the last minute, but this time I'm early,” as, for the first time ever, he sends us info a full three to four months (gasp) in advance.
+
His smaller show, is a reprise (with who-knows-who-will-sign-on-at-the-last-minute-to-perform) as “Randy Sparks & Friends” on December 5 at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, no doubt owing to his ancient and continuing association with Bob Stane, pre-dating Bob’s years running the Ice House as a combination folk music haven / comedy shop.
+
Those wanting to experience a (perhaps) larger cast, officially bearing the name of The New Christy Minstrels, can get tickets for their show at the Cerritos Performing Arts Center on January 9, 2011.
+
In typically Randy Sparks fashion, he adds, “I suppose I ought to mention The McCallum Theater in Palm Desert on the 16th of January, also.”
+
But what of the storied New Christy Minstrels -? Randy tells us, “My restored group is phenomenal these days. We have not been in concert anywhere that we haven't been asked back, and that’s gratifying. I'm 77 years old and likely couldn't get a job at Burger King, but I'm still gainfully employed, albeit we all work for a non-profit organization these days: The ‘New Christy Minstrels Foundation.’ Our goal is to give back to the schools; we NEVER charge schools for our performances.”
+
He continues, “Our concert at Cerritos is a return visit. We were there on a Sunday afternoon in November of 2007, and we sold EVERY seat. We're looking to repeat that accomplishment, and we're already pretty far along, as all of the main floor $60 seats are gone. Half the house has already been sold, and we have [three] months to go. We are very quietly big business these days. We had 19 concerts in the month of October alone. What recession?”
+
Randy Sparks & Friends is, he says, “a lesser offering, and we'll be holding court at Bob Stane's place on the 5th of December.”
+
Lesser offering? Randy undoes that notion rather quickly. He says, “That's the day that Jennifer Lind, our new superstar (she is one of the ladies in the NCM, but also has an ongoing career as a soloist, and has the BEST self-produced CD that I have EVER heard!)”
+
Randy points out that Jennifer Lind is opening for The Sons Of San Joaquin at The Gene Autry Theater that same day, in the afternoon.
+
At this evening’s show in Altadena, Randy tells us, “Becky Jo [BENSON] and I may join Jennifer onstage for a couple of songs. The '& Friends' part of my smaller group consists of Becky Jo Benson, Jennifer, & Chuck Cole. We're unrestricted at Bob's [Coffee Gallery Backstage] showroom, so our program is wildly entertaining and great fun for me. I'm able to sing my best stuff: ‘Sluts With Tattoos,’ ‘The Man In The Moon Mooned Me,’ and ‘The Only Thing More Ferocious Than A Polar Bear Is A Bi-Polar Bear.’ Of course, we also perform the songs that the people come to hear.”
+
We did mention Randy’s “politically incorrect” songs.
+
As for the audiences Randy draws – with both his “& Friends” show and his NCM reunion productions – he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
+
There’s more at www.thenewchristyminstrels.com. Check venue’s website for tix $.
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Sun, Dec 5; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm THE DITTY BOPS return for “one very special show” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497.
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Fri, Dec 10; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
ANAIS MITCHELL & THE HADESTOWN ORCHESTRA and their “folk opera” makes its McCabe's debut, plus opening act NeeMA, at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. Anais Mitchell is presenting the music of Hadestown featuring Thao Nguyen, Sean Hayes, John Elliott, and the Hadestown Orchestra/Michael Chorney sextet. Opening the evening is NEeMA, the Canadian chanteuse and protege of Leonard Cohen, who produced her debut.
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Fri, Dec 10:
8 pm Joe Walla plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Joe Walla at 10:30, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. More at http://srv.ezinedirector.net/?n=4175626&s=93914888. Tix, $10.
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Sat, Dec 11, a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, top award-winning Western group, touring their brand-new CD, "Blaze Across the West," at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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The group launched their career at this world-famous little venue, and any time they return, it’s a celebration for those who saw their first show, and for those on stage.
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If the real west is a state of mind, it should surprise no one that not a herd of Texans, but rather a Southern-California-based outfit, THE TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, are the current holders of the top awards bestowed by both entities who recognize the best in Western music. The Tumbleweed’s growing fan base will be happy to know the sophomore CD is set for release on Saturday, November 13 (as of the Guide’s October press time).
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The group won top honors from both the Academy of Western Artists and the Western Music Association following release of their debut album in 2008. Even before arrival of the new CD, the group is currently nominated for the 2010 Western Music Association "Outstanding Entertainer-Group Award" of 2010. With no Grammy specifically for western music, those are the top honors in the genre.
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They’ve been performing the material from their brand-new “Blaze Across the West” album for the past few months, including their new originals when they headlined the “National Day of the Cowboy & Cowgirl” this summer, which set attendance records at the Autry Museum in L.A.’s Griffith Park.
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To simply call this group a charming throwback to the SONS OF THE PIONEERS (complete with matching outfits) denies the originality the Tumbleweeds inject. Sure, they began as a tribute to that classic cowboy group. But they’ve grown their own identity. Among those who celebrate their music and performance? "Great Harmony, creative arrangements, keeping the tradition alive!" raves “RANGER DOUG” (aka DOUGLAS B. GREEN), of the Grammy-winning RIDERS IN THE SKY.
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Band members “TUMBLEWEED ROB” WOLFSKILL, “BIG CADE” PARENTI, CHRIS ACUFF and “BABYFACE” R.J. MILLS, are accompanied on the new CD by featured players JEAN SUDBURY on fiddle and “SMOKIN’ DAN” DUNGAN on bass.
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The group’s second album is being released both as a CD and digital download. The physical CD is available at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com, and on www.CDBaby.com, and digital download is available on iTunes and CDBaby.
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The new album includes five of their original tunes, “The Mighty Santa Fe,” ”Lazin’ Down the Trail,” “Sleepin’ on a Mountain,” “California,” and “So Now You’ve Gone,” each co-written and arranged by the group. As with their debut album, The quartet of Tumbling Tumbleweeds vocalists (and practitioners of fancy footwork) are accompanied on the recorded tracks by Sudbury on fiddle and Dungan on bass. In addition, the album features some notable musical guests.
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TUMBLEWEED ROB says, “We… wanted to go for a more lavish sound on this album and we are thrilled to have some of our friends in the western music world join us on this recording to add to our sound.”
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The result of these collaborations has produced the swing tune, “The Mighty Santa Fe,” featuring the group’s western music pal RIC STEINKE of OPEN RANGE on steel guitar; “Sleepin’ on a Mountain,” featuring “Harmonicowboy” GARY ALLEGRETTO on harmonica (he’s up for a “Grammy consideration”); “California,” a rollicking ranchera-styled homage to the group’s home state, featuring “conjunto norteno” style accordion master OTONO LUJAN of LOS POCHOS. And there’s a medley of swing classics, “You’re Getting Tired of Me” and “You Waited Too Long,” connected with an original Tumbleweeds tune, “So Now You’ve Gone,” making up the album’s “Lost Love Medley” and featuring Steinke once more on steel guitar.
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“We feel strongly about continuing to present the classic songs of the West that folks have come to expect from us,” asserts TUMBLEWEED ROB. He says the group wants to, “share our own thoughts and feelings about what the West means to us. That’s why we included a selection of both classic and original songs on this album.” Tix price, tba.
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Sat, Dec 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm BAYOU SECO plays the “SongTree” concert series at 820 N Fairview Av, Goleta; 805-403-2639. Show and series info, www.songtree.org. More at www.bayouseco.com
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Sat, Dec 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 & 10 pm DAN HICKS & THE HOT LICKS present "HOLIDAZE IN HICKSVILLE" - CD release concert for the upcoming “Crazy For Christmas” album, at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497. This band is an-star outfit, with standout fiddler RICHARD CHON (SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN, SADDLE CATS), songs that were hits, and more that should’ve been. Highly musical, highly entertaining, even before we hear their “Hicksville” take on Holiday material. More at www.danhicks.net. Tix, $26.50.
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Sat, Dec 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm CHRIS STUART & BACKCOUNTRY bring their splendid West Coast bluegrass to Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. Venue’s website has a helpful local dining guide.
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With a repertoire of classics and fine originals by Chris Stuart and banjo master JANET BEAZLEY, it’s no wonder they play a far-flung circuit of bluegrass festivals. Remember to request “50 Naked Pentecostals in a Pontiac.” It’s based on a true story that coulda come right out of Keith Olbermann’s “Oddball” feature. More at www.chrisstuart.com
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Sat, Dec 11; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RONNY COX plays the “Caltech Folk Music Society” series at the CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY series in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). More on the Caltech Folk Music Series at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu - and check-out other music on campus at Caltech Presents / Caltech Public Events series at www.events.caltech.edu.
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RONNY COX is a famous screen and TV actor who played Woody Guthrie’s sidekick in “Bound for Glory,” and he’s known to millions from his first film role, which included playing the “Dueling Banjos” guitar part in “Deliverance.” More recently, Ronny Cox played slithery corporate snakes in “RoboCop” and “Total Recall.” He’s played the President of the United States 20-some times, and had the recurring role as the Senator who kept trying to shutdown TV‘s “Stargate.” Ronny is a fine songwriter and folk singer who earned “Listener Favorite” honors on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He charms crowds with self-teasing humor, tart progressive insight, and a lulling Southwestern folk sound. His repertoire is a smart mix of witty ditties, bluesy swing tunes, heart-on-sleeve Romances, and real-life anthems. Ronny’s newest CD, "Songs... with Repercussions" was reviewed in FolkWorks (www.folkworks.org/content/view/36151/167) by the Guide’s editor, en-route to its reaching # 1 on the Folk DJ playlist, and finishing as # 48 for the entire year. Ronny’s all-star accompanists – award-winning musicians in their own rights – join him for this performance. They are Austin-based KAREN MAL on mandolin, and RADOSLAV LORKOVIC on accordion and keyboards. More at www.ronnycox.com.
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The campus ticket office handles the Folk Music Society’s advance tickets, takes credit cards, and is open Noon-5 pm, Mon-Fri; their number is 626-395-4652. As the date gets close, this will likely sell-out. Tickets are $15, $5 for children and Caltech students.
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Sat, Dec 11:
8 pm Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers plus BOBBY BLUEHOUSE opening at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rod Piazza & The Mighty Flyers at 10:30, Bobby Bluehouse at 8. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Dec 17; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “SONGS FROM THE DAYS OF THE BYRDS AND BEYOND,” with ex-BYRDS JOHN YORK & Billy Darnell, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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They just did this show here, a couple months back, and created such a buzz that venue impresario Bob Stane had to find a way to bring them back. Hence, a second rare chance to see two former members of the legendary folk-rock band, The Byrds.
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JOHN YORK played bass for blues legend Lightin' Hopkins. Over the years, as a performing singer-songwriter, John has been a constant musical creative force in support of acts like The Mamas & the Papas, Dr. John, Johnny Rivers, Rick Danko, Richard Manuel, Sir Douglas Quintet, & Rolling Stones keyboardist Nicky Hopkins. Recently, John completed a new solo album, “Fanfare For 2,” and another CD, “West Coast Revelation,” a collaboration with rock legend Kim Fowley.
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Billy Darnell joins John on stage. A veteran performer, Billy was with John in a later Byrds band with Gene Clark. He has also played guitar for The Everly Brothers, Dr. John and Doug Kershaw.
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The show is filled with familiar Byrds tunes for sing-along, fine original songs and great interpretations of songs from the era, and, adds Bob Stane, “The best music this side of Bob Dylan and The Band. Come join us for an evening of great artistry and entertainment.” Tix, $15.
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Sat, Dec 18; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm THE WITCHER BROTHERS, perhaps the top bluegrass / newgrass act to develop from West Coast roots, performs at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583.
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Getting this band back together isn’t easy, because its members are in demand for tours with their other bands. Noted for their powerfully energetic instrumental solos, tight 3-part harmonies, and heartfelt original material by guitarist TONY RECUPIDO, there’s still no question that THE WITCHER BROTHERS deliver one hot show. They’ll bring their fine repertoire of traditional and contemporary bluegrass, original compositions and bluegrass gospel. The band features top fiddler GABE WITCHER, a member of the PUNCH BROTHERS with CHRIS THILE, and MICHAEL WITCHER, that hot Dobro player from MISSY RAINES & THE NEW HIP (who had their radio debut a few years back on “Tied to the Tracks”). It’s an evening with masters of the mandolin, bass, banjo, fiddle and guitar, and a rare reappearance of the group playing together.
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Venue’s website has a helpful local dining guide. This will surely sell-out. Tix go on sale Dec 4; $15.
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Sun, Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm Murry Hammond plus Murry Hammond at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001; reservations 626-794-2424; venue phone 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. (“the venue named in FolkWorks as L.A.’s best intimate acoustic listening room venue”).
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Alexa Woodward is a banjo-playing singer-songwriter whose last album charted in the top 200 college radio charts in the United States and was played on numerous National Public Radio programs. She’s been likened to Sufjan Stevens, Judy Garland, and Neko Case. Her songs have been aired on national television in the US and in Australia (Fox’s “So You Think You Can Dance” and feature documentary "Twilight in Forks" in the US and “The Wall” in Australia). She received acclaim as a semifinalist in New York's largest songwriting contest, Jezebel Music's “Williamsburg Live Songwriter Competition.”
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Alexa Woodward’s haunting banjo songs blend her southern roots with the urban folk sounds of Boston and New York. With a distinctive banjo playing style and lyrics that carry the listener into stories of raw human experience, Woodward is well received by audiences across the US – having played over thirty states – and in Scandinavia.
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She’s been celebrated in the local media: "Woodward’s songs are like mountain music with an MFA... [she] impresses both in concert and on disc, making her someone for Americana connoisseurs to keep an eye on." – Michael Berrick, LA Weekly
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More at www.myspace.com/alexawoodward and www.alexawoodward.org
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Plus,
Murry Hammond, practitioner of railroad and train songs.
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"I wonder which came first for Murry Hammond, his fascination with trains or his love of country music. Locomotives have inspired scores of country and western songs from ‘Waiting for a Train’ to ‘Let the Train Blow the Whistle,’ which have made them metaphors for loneliness, wanderlust, death, freedom, imprisonment, and so on and so forth. Possibly only zombies have more allegorical potential. Hammond's day-job band, the Old 97s, is named after a train song (‘Wreck of the Old 97’), and his first album as a solo artist, ‘I Don't Know Where I'm Going But I'm on My Way,’ is a collection of originals and mostly covers that employ trains as vehicles for a spiritual journey, casting life's tribulations (the death of his father, the hard times in the Old 97s) as treacherous mountain passes and arduous treks along miles of tracks until it reaches a heavenly destination. It can be heavy listening, but Hammond's ear for odd, droning soundscapes, his fondness for shuffling brushed-snare beats, and his liberal take on old songs lend it a sense of real discovery." – Stephen M. Deusner, February 20, 2009, in Pitchfork.com.
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You can hear Murry Hammond at www.old97s.com . Tix, $15.
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Sun, Dec 19; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm annual “BOULEVARD MUSIC FREE HOLIDAY SHOW” at Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City; www.boulevardmusic.com; 310-398-2583. It’s a fun-filled evening as staff, music teachers, families and friends congregate for “the one evening” when the music store and concert venue transforms into “the house of schmooze,” as proprietor Gary Mandell says. Gary promises and surprises and repeatedly mentions free cookies, along with something called “Kathy’s Kholesterol Krunch.” Venue’s website has a helpful local dining guide, but save room for the free cookies. Free event.
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Tue, Dec 21; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7 pm SCOTT GATES & NATHAN McEUEN play the “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR” series sponsored by the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC) at Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana; 818-705-8870.
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Fri, Dec 24; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3-6 pm 51st Annual “L.A. COUNTY HOLIDAY CELEBRATION” brings 23 music and dance groups to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion of the Music Center, 135 N Grand Av, downtown L.A. 90012, for a free live performance. Attend free or catch it on KCET TV broadcast channel 28, or check your local cable listings (or www.kcet.org) and it’s live on radio on KPFK 90.7 FM. Info, www.HolidayCelebration.org; hotline, 213-972-3099.
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For half a century, it’s been an annual big deal for indie musicians, youth performance troupes, and seasoned touring pros fresh off the road and home for the holidays. The musicians and dancers are from across L.A. County – one of the few times each year that the local talent pool is showcased in a major media event – and the broadcast of the show has been nominated for an Emmy. For many years through this year, a condensed version of the previous year’s show airs nationally on PBS (that’ll change when KCET goes indie on January 1). The performance is produced by the Los Angeles County Arts Commission, and lighting, sound, sets and broadcast sound and visual images are first-rate, even if the hosts are always an uneven mix of seasoned mic jockeys and embarrassingly awkward anointed “celebrities.”
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But it’s what’s on stage that matters. Since 1964, the program “honors the spirit of many cultures and holiday traditions through music, song and dance.” In recent years, the lineup has included notable folk-Americana artists like Grammy-nominee Lisa Haley & the Zydecats and bluegrass and blues acts. Some years are more “folky” than others, and some feature more acoustic renaissance singer-songwriters and bands than other years. There are always acts that can be called “world folk.”
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Acts performing this year are:
(* denotes first-time participants in the show)
Albert McNeil Jubilee Singers
Antics PeRformances
Christian's Community Center Cathedral Choir
Colburn Children’s Choir
Elliot Deutsch Big Band *
Gabriella Axelrad Education Foundation *
Gay Men's Chorus of Los Angeles
Halau O Lilinoe *
Harmonic Bronze Handbell Ensemble
Jung Im Lee Korean Dance Academy
Loch and Key *
Los Angeles Children’s Chorus Young Men’s Ensemble *
L.A. City Elementary School Music Association Women’s Chorale *
Mariachi Sol de Mexico de Jose Hernandez
Mr. Vallenato *
NDM Bollywood *
Pacifico Dance Company
Palmdale High School Choral Union
Philippine Chamber Singers of Los Angeles
Salvation Army Tabernacle Children’s Chorus
Santa Monica Chorus *
South Bay Children’s Chorus
Young Angels Choir
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The show runs 3-6 pm, and it’s free, but you can’t just show up and expect to get in. No, we don’t know why this year’s show is cut back from the usual six hours to just three. It’s still a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick, because this is free and the Dorothy Chandler is a wonderful place to enjoy live music – even if, unlike past years, we don’t see Grammy noms and winners in the lineup. Still, we are certain if you want to get into the Music Center to see it live, you’ll need to get there earlier than you think.
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This year, wristbands are required for entry. Limit is one wristband per person. They’re available free at the site, first-come, first-served, starting at 11:30 am. Expect a very long line early, mostly because of the sprinkling of children’s performing troupes in which parents want to see their kids on stage. Once you have your wristband, you “do not have to wait in line.” There is a second chance to get in, though it will involve uncertainty and requires waiting in a different line: producers say, “When all wristbands have been distributed, standbys will be tracked in order of arrival and admitted if seats are vacated.” Doors open at 2:30 pm.
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The Guide suggest this: get in line early to get your wristband at 11:30, then ride the Red Line subway to the ice rink in Pershing Square; rent skates (cheap) and take a few turns on the ice; then walk through the subway station and out the other end to grab a bite at Grand Central Market (a landmark since 1917); catch the subway back before the 2:30 door opening at the Music Center. You’ll escape the elbowing crowds in the suburban shopping malls and make a fun day of it downtown.
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Now, for our comment. It’s needed, because politicians are, once again, seeking to exploit the contributions of artists to the community.
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We’re supposed to tell you that the Holiday Celebration is “a gift from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors” – but we are revolted by the idea that the media is asked to help a bunch of self-aggrandizing politicians pat themselves on the back. The five-member Board of Supervisors are, after all, the same crowd who routinely names public buildings after themselves, every time a multimillion-dollar facility is constructed using taxpayers’ money. In one case, a large new five-story courthouse bears the name of a sitting County Supervisor – and contains a “family museum” to his sireage and offspring, housed in a marble-floored-and-columned space paid for by the people.
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So, we’d like to know how it is that sitting politicians are allowed to give themselves, at taxpayer expense, the daily presence – and advantage at election time – of important public facilities, individually named and dedicated to themselves?
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Shouldn’t THAT kind of thing be a genuine honor, one reserved for, like, after they’re dead, or least retired, and only IF the honoree’s career had gone unblemished? Examples abound of office-holders leaving a bad smell, so why should ANY sitting politician be given the ego trip of any tax-supported monument to him or her self?
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But this is a piece about a holiday show, so we’ll be charitable and not rant further – now that you have the picture on what the politicians wanted us to tell you about “their gift to you” – without their noting that the participating acts perform for free.
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Parking for the annual holiday show is free in the Music Center parking garage (a big deal where parking is usually $7 a half-hour). There will be free entertainment on the Music Center Plaza outside the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion before the show, starting at 12:30 pm. Beginning at 3, the Holiday Celebration will be screened live on the JumboTron in the Music Center Plaza, where folding chairs are available for those who can’t get inside. The big Christmas tree towers above the plaza, so it’s a nice setting if the weather is pleasant, even if you don’t get inside.
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Fri, Dec 31:
“New Years EVE” with blues bands Corey Stevens, Bobby Bluehouse, Dave Melton, Howard Deere, Walter Thompson and Friends, at the Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Venue is now taking reservations for this annual “New Years Eve / Fan Appreciation Night” music party. Advance tix are only $20.
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2011 ~
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January
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Tue, Jan 9, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
The New Christy Minstrels reunite to play the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; info, 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com. Tix now available, and going fast.
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Randy Sparks, the founder of the uber-famous folk revival group The New Christy Minstrels, does from time-to-time reassemble as many of the alumni as will fit on one stage. Not that it’s always the same group. When your members have included the likes of BARRY McGUIRE (famous for his banned-on-the-radio ’60s anthem, “Eve of Destruction”), and KENNY ROGERS (pre FIRST EDITION), and an underage TRACY NEWMAN, and so many more who graduated to lead or star in their own bands or groups or as solo folk or rock acts, you could craft an entire season of “Where Are They Now?” just tracking-down former band members.
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Randy Sparks is himself quite a character. For Randy, the presumed radicalism of the ’60s often takes the form these days of comedic ditties from a decidedly conservative perspective; some are blatant in their “politically incorrect” expressions. Perhaps some of that can be explained when you know he was the best-known protégé of the late BURL IVES, and he cared for Ives in his final declining months. Ives was the Disney-movie-favorite folksinger who famously (or infamously) cooperated with HUAC – the House Un-American Activities Committee – during the McCarthy Era.
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Randy Sparks is a complex guy. He is devoted to his music charity. He still gets ’60s folk revival-era Baby Boomers singing along with big smiles, when he plays the group’s classics instead of his own newer material. And he is possessed with the artist’s penchant for a certain measure of disorganization, telling us, “I'm generally communicating with media people at the last minute, but this time I'm early,” as, for the first time ever, he sends us info a full three to four months (gasp) in advance.
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In typically Randy Sparks fashion, he adds, “I suppose I ought to mention The McCallum Theater in Palm Desert on the 16th of January, also.”
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But what of the storied New Christy Minstrels -? Randy tells us, “My restored group is phenomenal these days. We have not been in concert anywhere that we haven't been asked back, and that’s gratifying. I'm 77 years old and likely couldn't get a job at Burger King, but I'm still gainfully employed, albeit we all work for a non-profit organization these days: The ‘New Christy Minstrels Foundation.’ Our goal is to give back to the schools; we NEVER charge schools for our performances.”
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He continues, “Our concert at Cerritos is a return visit. We were there on a Sunday afternoon in November of 2007, and we sold EVERY seat. We're looking to repeat that accomplishment, and we're already pretty far along, as all of the main floor $60 seats are gone. Half the house has already been sold, and we have [three] months to go. We are very quietly big business these days. We had 19 concerts in the month of October alone. What recession?”
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In addition to this full group show, Randy is out there from with what he calls Randy Sparks & Friends, which he says, is “a lesser offering.”
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We have an idea that the “lesser offering” has a decidedly different character. He noted, in advance of the “& Friends” show on December 5, “We're unrestricted at Bob's [Coffee Gallery Backstage] showroom, so our program [there] is wildly entertaining and great fun for me. I'm able to sing my best stuff: ‘Sluts With Tattoos,’ ‘The Man In The Moon Mooned Me,’ and ‘The Only Thing More Ferocious Than A Polar Bear Is A Bi-Polar Bear.’ Of course, we also perform the songs that the people come to hear.”
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We did mention Randy’s “politically incorrect” songs.
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As for the audiences Randy draws with both his “& Friends” show and his NCM reunion productions, he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
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As for the audiences Randy Sparks draws with both his “& Friends” show and his New Christy Minstrels reunion productions, he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
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There’s more at www.thenewchristyminstrels.com.
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Wed, Jan 12, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm MURIEL ANDERSON & TIERRA NEGRA play the “Acoustic Voices” series at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org. Tix, $20; seniors & students, $15.
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Wed, Jan 12. 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
Round Mountain “New Mexico's two-man singing folk orchestra” play the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts, 12700 Center Court Dr, Cerritos; info, 562-916-8501; 800-300-4345; tix, 562-467-8818; www.cerritoscenter.com. They don’t often get to Southern Cal, and they always impress and make fans when they do. More at www.roundmountainmusic.com & www.myspace.com/roundmountainmusic
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Fri, Jan 14, 2011:
7:30 pm DOYLE DYKES plays the Grace First Presbyterian Church concert series, at 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach; 562-420-3393.
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Sat, Jan 15, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings THE MAKAHA SONS at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
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These guys make an annual trip to play this series, where they are known for delivering “mirth, mayhem, and magical harmonies.”
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The annual series brings seven shows for its 2010-2011 season. Tix, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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Sat, Jan 15, 2011:
8 pm JEFF LARSON & FRIENDS play “Russ and Julie's House Concert” series in Oak Park (in the Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area); Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sat, Jan 15, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings THE MAKAHA SONS at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org. Shows at 3 & 8 pm. See 3 pm listing for details.
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Sin, Jan 16, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
The New Christy Minstrels reunite to play the McCallum Theater in Palm Desert. Tix now available, and going fast. Info, www.thenewchristyminstrels.com.
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Randy Sparks, the founder of the uber-famous folk revival group The New Christy Minstrels, does from time-to-time reassemble as many of the alumni as will fit on one stage. Not that it’s always the same group. When your members have included the likes of BARRY McGUIRE (famous for his banned-on-the-radio ’60s anthem, “Eve of Destruction”), and KENNY ROGERS (pre FIRST EDITION), and an underage TRACY NEWMAN, and so many more who graduated to lead or star in their own bands or groups or as solo folk or rock acts, you could craft an entire season of “Where Are They Now?” just tracking-down former band members.
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Randy Sparks is himself quite a character. For Randy, the presumed radicalism of the ’60s often takes the form these days of comedic ditties from a decidedly conservative perspective; some are blatant in their “politically incorrect” expressions. Perhaps some of that can be explained when you know he was the best-known protégé of the late BURL IVES, and he cared for Ives in his final declining months. Ives was the Disney-movie-favorite folksinger who famously (or infamously) cooperated with HUAC – the House Un-American Activities Committee – during the McCarthy Era.
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Randy Sparks is a complex guy. He is devoted to his music charity. He still gets ’60s folk revival-era Baby Boomers singing along with big smiles, when he plays the group’s classics instead of his own newer material. And he is possessed with the artist’s penchant for a certain measure of disorganization, telling us, “I'm generally communicating with media people at the last minute, but this time I'm early,” as, for the first time ever, he sends us info a full three to four months (gasp) in advance.
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But what of the storied New Christy Minstrels -? Randy tells us, “My restored group is phenomenal these days. We have not been in concert anywhere that we haven't been asked back, and that’s gratifying. I'm 77 years old and likely couldn't get a job at Burger King, but I'm still gainfully employed, albeit we all work for a non-profit organization these days: The ‘New Christy Minstrels Foundation.’ Our goal is to give back to the schools; we NEVER charge schools for our performances.”
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He continues, “Our concert at Cerritos is a return visit. We were there on a Sunday afternoon in November of 2007, and we sold EVERY seat. We're looking to repeat that accomplishment, and we're already pretty far along, as all of the main floor $60 seats are gone. Half the house has already been sold, and we have [three] months to go. We are very quietly big business these days. We had 19 concerts in the month of October alone. What recession?”
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In addition to this full group show, Randy is out there from with what he calls Randy Sparks & Friends, which he says, is “a lesser offering.”
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We have an idea that the “lesser offering” has a decidedly different character. He noted, in advance of the “& Friends” show on December 5, “We're unrestricted at Bob's [Coffee Gallery Backstage] showroom, so our program [there] is wildly entertaining and great fun for me. I'm able to sing my best stuff: ‘Sluts With Tattoos,’ ‘The Man In The Moon Mooned Me,’ and ‘The Only Thing More Ferocious Than A Polar Bear Is A Bi-Polar Bear.’ Of course, we also perform the songs that the people come to hear.”
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We did mention Randy’s “politically incorrect” songs.
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As for the audiences Randy draws with both his “& Friends” show and his NCM reunion productions, he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
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As for the audiences Randy Sparks draws with both his “& Friends” show and his New Christy Minstrels reunion productions, he says, “They are most kind to us wherever we work, and it's thrilling to actually be in demand.”
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Fri & Sat, Jan 21 & 22; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
TOM PAXTON, the legendary folk star, plays two nights at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica 90405; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403; tix, 310-828-4497.
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THIS WILL SELL-OUT VERY EARLY, SO GET TIX RIGHT AWAY.
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Sat, Jan 22, 2011:
8 pm “WALLACE SHAWN: REAL WORLD, FAKE WORLD, DREAM WORLD” is a spoken word performance at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Writer and actor Wallace Shawn delivers a reading and interpretation from his most recent work, alongside an offering of excerpts from the works of writers and thinkers he admires. Known to stage and film audiences as an extraordinary character actor, Shawn is an Obie Award-winning playwright and best-selling author. His celebrated works include “The Designated Mourner,” and “The Fever,” along with the poignant film “My Dinner with Andre,” which Shawn co-wrote. His most recent work, “Essays,” released in 2009, is a highly personal, often self-deprecating collection of Shawn’s perspective on life, politics, morality and the power of art. Tix, $28-48 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sun, Jan 23, 2011:
3:30 pm CLAREMONT TRIO with NOKUTHULA NGWENYAMA, viola, plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.
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Fri-Sun, Jan 28-30, 2011:
“CEAIT FESTIVAL ~ ‘IANNIS XENAKIS: NOW & TOMORROW’” at REDCAT, The Roy & Edna Disney CalArts Theater, at the L.A. Music Center, 631 W 2nd St (at Hope St), inside the Walt Disney Concert Hall complex, downtown L.A. 90012; www.redcat.org; 213-237-2800; www.redcat.org/sites/redcat.org/files/REDCAT_Fall10_Brochure.pdf.
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This is described as “Three scintillating concerts by the legendary pioneer of music and architecture and composers he inspired.”
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Sat, Jan 29; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm KATY MOFFATT plays the CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY series in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). More on the Caltech Folk Music Series at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu - and check-out other music on campus at Caltech Presents / Caltech Public Events series at www.events.caltech.edu.
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KATY MOFFATT is a genuine folk star who plays too seldom in L.A. Though she lives in Southern Cal, she’s constantly on the festival and prestigious-venue circuit, performing all over the world. She’s been called both “America's Queen of the West” and praised as one of the originators of country rock. Katy got her start on the road as an opener for blues legend MUDDY WATERS, and she’s been the subject of a major feature story in the Wall Street Journal (how many musicians get ink there?) She continues to be a most formidable vocal powerhouse, plus a masterful guitarist and finger-picking phenom. With over 15 albums to her credit, Katy sings classic acoustic country rock songs of fractured love, plus country blues, western classics and originals, and heartfelt ballads. She’s performed live, multiple times, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and debuted an album there. Her newest CD, "Cowboy Girl," on Western Jubilee/Shanachie, has received rave reviews.
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The campus ticket office handles the Folk Music Society’s advance tickets, takes credit cards, and is open Noon-5 pm, Mon-Fri; their number is 626-395-4652. As the date gets close, this will likely sell-out. Tickets are $15, $5 for children and Caltech students.
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February:
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Thu, Feb 10, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “THE ONION EDITORS” bring their satirical spoken word to UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Deadpan satire and journalistic skill collide in the phenomenon that is “The Onion.” Founded in 1988 at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, the “fake news” newspaper is the notable precursor to such biting, faux-news programs as "The Daily Show" and "The Colbert Report." Last year, “The Onion News Network,” an online send-up of 24-hour cable TV news, was named a Peabody Award winner and praised as “hilarious, trenchant and not infrequently hard to distinguish from the real thing.” In their UCLA Live debut, current Onion editor JOE RANDAZZO and fellow staffers present a multimedia discussion on the state of media, politics and pop culture, as they offer insight into how the paper’s culture-skewering stories and hilarious headlines are created. Tix, $28-48 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Feb 11, 2011:
8 pm DANIEL HOPE & JEFFREY KAHANE at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Britain's versatile violinist DANIEL HOPE, the youngest person ever to perform as part of the prestigious BEAUX ARTS TRIO, is joined on piano by JEFFREY KAHANE, music director of the LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA. The duo appears for a stirring performance of Brahms’ Sonata No. 1 in G Major, Op. 78, Regenlied, O. Messiaen’s Théme et Variations, Schulhoff’s Sonata No. 2, Sz. 76 and Franck’s Sonata in A Major.
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DANIEL HOPE is one of the most sought-after violin soloists in music today and has been described by The New York Times as “...a violinist of probing intellect and commanding style.”
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JEFFREY KAHANE is a multitalented conductor and pianist who made his debut at Carnegie Hall in 1983 and regularly appears as a soloist with leading orchestras around the world. Tix, $28-58 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Feb 12, 2011:
8 pm “COLEMAN ORCHESTRA CONCERTS” brings the COLBURN SCHOOL ORCHESTRA, SIR NEVILLE MARRINER, conductor, to Ambassador Auditorium, 131 S St John St, Pasadena 91105. Program is Ravel’s “Suite from Ma Mer l’Oye (Mother Goose);” Korngold’s “Violin Concerto;” Bartok’s “Concerto for Orchestra.” Info, 213-621-2200 or www.colburnschool.edu. Tix, $10, gen’l admission.
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Sat, Feb 19, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm MAYA ANGELOU at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Inspiring poet, feminist, author, actress, director and activist Maya Angelou is one of the most recognizable and beloved names in contemporary American literature and one of the most powerful voices in American culture. Her work is vigorous, elegant and wields the power to blur racial and socioeconomic lines. Angelou’s influential “I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings” is a classic that transcends generations. Her prolific career includes a litany of best-selling works of poetry and prose, and this appearance is a rare chance to celebrate this extraordinary woman in her own notable presence.
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Angelou recited her original poetry at President Bill Clinton’s Inauguration in 1993. Not since John F. Kennedy took office in 1961 was a poet invited to take part. (Kennedy chose Carl Sandberg.) President Barack Obama revived the tradition again at his Inauguration in 2009 (the poet was Elizabeth Alexander, though most people remember that ARETHA FRANKLIN sang, and JOHN WILLIAMS conducted ITZHAK PERLMAN, YO-YO MA, GABRIELA MONTERO, & ANTHONY McGILL). Tix, $33-63 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sun, Feb 20, 2011:
3:30 pm BORODIN QUARTET plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.
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Wed, Feb 23:
8 pm JOHN WATERS: “THIS FILTHY WORLD GOES HOLLYWOOD,” plus opening act ELVIS PERKINS, is an evening of music and one-man theatre at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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As a screenwriter, director, artist, actor, and all-around filth elder, John Waters has become a rotten renaissance man of unprecedented cultural influence. Not only was his movie “Hairspray” turned into a wildly successful Tony Award-winning musical, his recently published memoir, “Role Models,” has been called “alarmingly refined.”
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Waters’ one-man vaudeville act, “This Filthy World Goes Hollywood,” sends up show business, the art world, and his own lunatic career in a rapid-fire performance. Dynamic modern-rock recording artist ELVIS PERKINS opens the show with a solo set, and actor MATTHEW GRAY GUBLER hosts as the evening’s emcee. Tix, $28-48 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Feb 26; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “WOODY GUTHRIE TRIBUTE,” the new show by COUNTRY JOE McDONALD (Country Joe & the Fish) at the CALTECH FOLK MUSIC SOCIETY series in Beckman Institute Auditorium (“Little Beckman”) on the campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832). More on the Caltech Folk Music Series at www.folkmusic.caltech.edu - and check-out other music on campus at Caltech Presents / Caltech Public Events series at www.events.caltech.edu.
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COUNTRY JOE McDONALD has been touring his “TRIBUTE TO WOODY GUTHRIE” for the past few years to strong audience acclaim. In his highly-entertaining tribute, Country Joe deftly conveys the charm, talent, and social and political consciousness of the legendary folksinger from Oklahoma. It helps to know that McDonald’s father, Worden, shared Oklahoma’s Dust Bowl roots with Guthrie in the ‘20s & ‘30s. Country Joe opens the tribute with a moving performance of Woody’s best-known tune, “This Land is Your Land,” and takes the audience through a journey of 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. More at www.countryjoe.com.
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The campus ticket office handles the Folk Music Society’s advance tickets, takes credit cards, and is open Noon-5 pm, Mon-Fri; their number is 626-395-4652. As the date gets close, this will likely sell-out. Tickets are $20, $5 for children and Caltech students.
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Sun, Feb 27, 2011:
2 pm WOVEN IMAGE plays the Grace First Presbyterian Church concert series, at 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach; 562-420-3393.
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March:
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Wed, Mar 2, 2011:
7 pm “CLASSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE CONCERT SERIES” continues its 6th season tonight with special guest LESLIE GILBERT-LURIE and other performing musicians (tba) in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Series has one remaining Wednesday night concert, April 20, at 7 pm. Info on this program and the series, 626-821-5569.
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This is a free series, no reservations, but seating is limited to the first 150 people in line to enter. Doors at 6:30 pm.
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Fri, Mar 4, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm NOEL PAUL STOOKEY (of Peter, Paul & Mary) plays McCabe's, 3101 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica; 310-828-4403 or 310-828-4497; www.mccabes.com
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Sat, Mar 12:
2:30 pm “SHAMROCK TALES” celebrates St. Patrick’s Day with stories and crafts of the Emerald Isle, in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Info on this program, 626-821-5566. All ages, free.
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Sat, Mar 19, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
11 am & 2 pm DAN ZANES & FRIENDS make their annual return for two shows at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Don’t dismiss this as a kids’ show. He has a CD that won a Grammy and got airplay on radio’s “Tied to the Trtacks.”
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UCLA Live series favorite Dan Zanes and his band perform exuberant, handmade music for enthusiastic crowds of kids and kids at heart. Filled with irresistible grooves drawn from a wealth of musical traditions, Zanes, his Brooklyn-based band and his surprising and eccentric special guests, create a rollicking Woodstock for kids, including American traditional songs, dance classics, and smart, inventive originals. The audience is invited to sing along with gusto before things heat up and ultimately evolve into an all-ages dance party. Tix, $18-28 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sun, Mar 20, 2011:
3:30 pm SCHUMANN TRIO plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.
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Sat, Mar 23, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
7:30 pm SLIGO RAGS plays the Grace First Presbyterian Church concert series, at 3955 Studebaker Rd, Long Beach; 562-420-3393.
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Sat, Mar 26:
2:30-4 pm “TOLKIEN DAY” celebrates with live music, readings and more, in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Info on this program, 626-821-5566. The L.A.-based “Tolkein Society” presents this afternoon of dramatic readings, musical interludes and costumed characters from “The Hobbit,” “The Lord of the Rings,” and other works by J.R.R. Tolkien. All ages, free.
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April:
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Sat, Apr 2, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm BILL FRISELL TRIO: “SELECTED WORKS OF BUSTER KEATON” plays the first of two different shows today at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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The matinee is family-friendly, and the show tonight takes a different focus. Incomparable guitarist BILL FRISELL, along with his bandmates TONY SCHERR and KENNY WOLLESEN, create a live score to the Buster Keaton classics “Go West,” “The High Sign,” and “One Week.” Rediscover the timeless charm of Keaton’s magic, as re-imagined with live music, in an afternoon of film and music the whole family can enjoy. The trio plays another show here tonight at 8 pm, with an adult focus; it, too is a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick. See listing. Tix, $18-28 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 2, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings Grammy winners GEORGE, MOSES & KEOKI KAHUMOKU at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
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The three Kahumokus bring a triple dose of great guitar. They’ve won Grammys among the three of them, run a renowned music camp for slack key guitar and ukulele, plus recorded for GEORGE WINSTON’s respected Dancing Cat label. George & Keoki have played the series before, but getting Moses here to perform on one of his rare trips to the Mainland is extra special.
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The annual series brings seven shows for its 2010-2011 season. Tix, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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Sat, Apr 2, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm BILL FRISELL TRIO: “SELECTED WORKS OF BUSTER KEATON, JIM WOODRING AND BILL MORRISON” is the second of Frisell’s two different shows today at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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The show tonight takes a different focus, unlike today’s family-friendly matinee. Geniuses collide as iconic guitarist BILL FRISELL and his bandmates TONY SCHERR and KENNY WOLLESEN play original compositions to a truly fantastic collection of visuals that includes classic slapstick comedy from a trio of Buster Keaton classics, the bold illustrations of Seattle animator JIM WOODRING and selections from avant-garde filmmaker BILL MORRISON’s “The Mesmerist.” Frisell’s trio sets this eclectic footage to music with a thrilling live score. The trio plays a matinee here at 11 am today, with a different focus and cheaper tix, intended for families; it, too is a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick. See listing. Tix, $28-43 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 2, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm RONNY COX & JACK WILLIAMS play “Russ and Julie's House Concert” series in Oak Park (in the Agoura Hills/Westlake Village area); Reservations get directions at 818-707-2179.
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Sat, Apr 2, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings Grammy winners GEORGE, MOSES & KEOKI KAHUMOKU at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; www.shannoncenter.org; 562-907-4203. Shows at 3 & 8 pm. See 3 pm listing for details.
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Fri-Sun, Apr 8-10, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“ARLO GUTHRIE - A WEEKEND OF GUTHRIE IN REDLANDS” is a festival, venue tba. Info, www.BodieHouse.com.
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Fri, Apr 8, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm ARLO GUTHRIE & FRIENDS at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Son of the illustrious WOODY GUTHRIE and current patriarch of folk music’s most notable family, Arlo Guthrie returns to UCLA Live for an evening of American music tinged with humor, warmth and his endearing and often meandering storytelling style. Guthrie shares timeless tales and unforgettable classic songs as he carries on the Guthrie family legacy. With his singular voice as both a singer-songwriter and social commentator, he has maintained a dedicated fan base that spans the globe. His artistic ventures leave lasting impressions of hope and inspiration, and his inimitable musical ingenuity leaps to new creative heights as he perseveres through the times. Tix, $33-58 ($15 for UCLA students) (310) 825-2101, www.uclalive.org.
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Sun, Apr 10, 2011:
3:30 pm REBEL plays the “SUNDAYS WITH COLEMAN” 107th season (2010-2011), presented by the Coleman Chamber Music Association in Caltech’s Beckman Auditorium, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; series info 626-793-4191; www.colemanchambermusic.org. Season subscription (6 concerts) $108-$234; single-event tix $24-45.
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Apr 14, 2011:
CANCELLED: Poet SEAMUS HEANEY’S spoken word engagement at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101. Event cancelled due to Visa issues. Full refunds or exchanges are available at the point of purchase to patrons who purchased tickets to this event during UCLA Live’s subscription-sales window.
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Apr 15, 2011, in Washington State:
7:30-10 pm RED HORSE - ELIZA GILKYSON, JOHN GORKA & LUCY KAPLANSKY – play the Washington Center for the Performing Arts, 512 Washington St, SE, Olympia WA; 360-753-8586; www.washingtoncenter.org. More at www.facebook.com/pages/Red-Horse/100743976643456. Check out the #1 folk album of October 2010, “Red Horse,” at www.redhouserecords.com
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Apr 16, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm JOHN FLYNN & JOHN WORT HANNAM play the “Bodie House Music Series at the Thousand Oaks Library,” at Grant R. Brimhall Library, 1401 E Janss Rd, Thousand Oaks 91362; 818-621-8309; info, www.BodieHouse.com. Canadian singer-songwriter JOHN WORT HANNAM took L.A. by storm when he toured a number of local venue in October, 2009. At home in the Great White North, he’s won just about every acoustic music award there is.
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Wed, Apr 20, 2011:
7 pm “CLASSICAL KALEIDOSCOPE CONCERT SERIES” concludes its 6th season tonight with special guests RAYNOR CARROLL & AFRICAN AMERICAN DRUMMING and other performing musicians (tba) in the Cay Mortenson Auditorium at Arcadia Public Library, 20 W Duarte Rd, Arcadia 91006; www.library.ci.arcadia.ca.us; 626-821-5567. Info on this program and the series, 626-821-5569.
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This is a free series, no reservations, but seating is limited to the first 150 people in line to enter. Doors at 6:30 pm.
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Sat, Apr 23, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
2 pm CHRISTOPH BULL performs a stirring BACH ORGAN RECITAL for UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Bull is a UCLA Live favorite. This is a delightful afternoon of classical music on Royce Hall’s glorious Skinner organ from acclaimed organist Christoph Bull, known for his energizing and often eclectic musical interpretation of organ repertoire. Bull will perform a thrilling and ethereal program of Bach on the UCLA campus treasure, which is known as one of the country’s great musical devices of its kind. Tix, $23/28/33 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, Apr 23, 2011:
8 pm BILLY COLLINS and KAY RYAN, two former U.S. Poet Laureates in a spoken word event, at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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The two Poet Laureates share the stage for an evening of readings from their acclaimed work and Q&A with the audience.
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BILLY COLLINS, winner of the 2004 inaugural Mark Twain Prize for Humor in Poetry, served as America’s Poet Laureate from 2001-2003. Beloved for his ironic style, Collins is one of the top-selling modern poets and author of nine collections including “Questions about Angels”,” The Art of Drowning,” and “The Trouble With Poetry and Other Poems.”
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KAY RYAN, California native and UCLA alumna, was U.S. Poet Laureate from 2008-2010 and is revered for her complex and rueful style. Her work includes “The Jam Jar Lifeboat & Other Novelties Exposed,” a delightful collection inspired by stories from “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!,” as well as “Flamingo Watching”, a finalist for both the Lamont Poetry Selection and the Lenore Marshall Prize. In 2004, Ryan was awarded The Ruth Lilly Prize—the Poetry Foundation’s highest honor.
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In conjunction with this event and April’s National Poetry Month, UCLA Live will launch a poetry-writing contest for the Los Angeles community, with winning submissions to be read onstage in Royce Hall. More details will be available closer to the event. Tix, $28-53.
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May:
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Thu, May 12, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
8 pm PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND and THE DEL MCCOURY BAND in a stellar double-bill at UCLA Live, Royce Hall, 340 Royce Dr, on the UCLA campus at Royce Dr between Westwood Bl and Hilgard Av, West L.A.; www.uclalive.org; info 310-825-4401; UCLA ticket office 310-825-2101.
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Two pillars of American music from two distinct lineages come together for an unforgettable evening to celebrate the glory of tradition and the power of newfound collaboration. Starting as a sideman for the legendary “father of bluegrass” Bill Monroe nearly 50 years ago, McCoury has broadened the audience for the genre. During that same period, the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band has defined the tradition of New Orleans jazz. Now, they have converged to record and perform an unforgettable mix of bluegrass and traditional jazz. Each band will play individual sets, followed by a soul-stirring joint finale. Tix, $38-63 ($15 for UCLA students).
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Sat, May 21, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
3 & 8 pm “ALOHA CONCERT SERIES” brings THE BROTHERS CAZIMERO at the Ruth Shannon Center for the Performing Arts, on the campus at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier; 562-907-4203; www.shannoncenter.org.
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ROBERT & ROLAND, being brothers, naturally perform as THE BROTHERS CAZIMERO. The venue tells us, “No group has made more of a contribution to Hawaiian music then they have, and the season wouldn’t be complete without them. Every season they put on a different show and they never cease to amaze.”
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This closes the annual series of seven shows for the 2010-2011 season; contact them regarding discounts for buying tix to next season’s entire series. Tix, for today, including new “facilities surcharges,” $48.
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May 22, 2011; a “SHOW-OF-THE-WEEK” pick:
“L.A. ACOUSTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL” returns after a year of hiatus, with ELLIS PAUL, ELIZA GILKYSON, JIMMY LaFAVE, SARAH LEE GUTHRIE & JOHNNY IRION. This year, it’s a one-day event at the Broad Stage Theatre at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica; 310-434-3200; www.thebroadstage.com; www.events.smc.edu. Even before we knew the lineup, we were comfortable recommending it as a “Show-of-the-Week” pick, given the talent that Renee Bodie booked the first year, and the fact that this is a MUCH more manageable venue where costs can be contained and ticket prices should be kept to reasonable limits. The festival is a benefit for the nonprofit California Acoustic Music Project.
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More info:
LA Acoustic Music Festival, www.laacousticmusicfestival.com
California Acoustic Music Project, www.californiaacousticmusicproject.org
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June:
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Jun 5-10, 2011, in New Orleans:
Annual “NEW ORLEANS TRAD JAZZ CAMP” for all enthusiasts of traditional and New Orleans-style jazz. The first discount price-break deadline for registration is Oct 31, 2010.
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Jun 12-16, 2011:
22nd annual “NORTH AMERICAN JAMES JOYCE CONFERENCE” at the Huntington Library, Art Collections, and Botanical Gardens in San Marino, and at Caltech in Pasadena. This event takes place in a different locale each year, and this year, Southern Cal fans of James Joyce have it right here at home. Info, www.joyceconference2011.com.
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(7) MORE STUFF >>>>>>> Other News, Resources, etc…
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Our frequently updated VENUE DIRECTORY is available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/04/venue-directory-from-tied-to-tracks_16.html
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HELP KEEP THE GUIDE GOING! Send us $25 and get great goodies in return! Find out WHAT you can get, and more, at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/support-guide-and-get-some-great-dvds.html )
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Updated editions bring more (always more -- as we have time to organize all of it).
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We do all we can to bring you news and notices of all the many, many, acoustic music events in and around Los Angeles.
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Plus, we tell you about RADIO SHOWS with acoustic music, focusing on those with live acoustic performances. (They’re available mostly on the web, of course, since we are in acoustic-music-radio-deprived Los Angeles.)
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And, we bring news and reviews of the many acoustic music FESTIVALS near and far, hither and yon, here, there and everywhere! With you help, we’ll keep doing it!
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In FOLKWORKS: you can check out Larry Wines’ most recent “SOMEWHERE OUT THERE” column in every issue, available free online at www.folkworks.org
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RADIO NEWS: the return from hiatus of the syndicated TIED TO THE TRACKS radio show is delayed, due to the producer / host’s ongoing recovery from eye surgeries. (At least he has time to listen to all those submitted CDs that arrive daily!) We’ll keep you posted.
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NEED TO KNOW MORE about the GUIDE and its companion, THE ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS,
or
HOW TO SUBMIT YOUR GIG FOR INCLUSION?
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Our “stuff ya wanna know “ (FAQs) page is available at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2009/10/guide-faqs-and-more.html
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Questions? Comments? Contact us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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The editor continues to readapt to the computer following his eye surgeries, and is once again able to read - even if he sees everything like it’s in a funhouse mirror…
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PLEASE HELP!
Submit your gigs in our format! Otherwise, it takes many, many, MANY hours just to convert what you send into listings we can use, and we may not be able to unscrew the inscrutable in time to include your gig. Look at ANY write-up in the Guide, and follow the format you see there!
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WANT TO HELP KEEP THE GUIDE GOING? Send us $25 and get great goodies in return! Find out WHAT you can get, and more, at
+
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2010/03/support-guide-and-get-some-great-dvds.html )
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THE LATEST EDITION OF THE GUIDE, the News, current events, “heads up” notices to buy tix for upcoming events, and more – is available 24/7 (& frequently updated!) at ~
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www.acousticmusic.net or at
www.acousticamericana.blogspot.com or by links from the News-only edition at www.nodepression.com/profile/TiedtotheTracks
or by following any of many links on the web to get to one of those sites.
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2010, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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