NEWS FEATURES - Nov 27 edition, Acoustic Americana Music News, 2008

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"Tied to the Tracks"
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC NEWS
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NEWS FEATURES edition for November 27, 2008
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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WELCOME to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC NEWS, our weekly news feature companion to the ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE (formerly called the calendar). Here, you’ll find news for artists and music fans alike, ranging from the immediately useful to the merely informative, from gig opportunities and festival deadlines to early bird discounts, from venue openings and closings to career tips, and hot tips for acoustic music fans.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide (formerly called the calendar) with frequently updated posts of upcoming events well into 2009, is available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com and various other places around the web. We post links for current editions on our Myspace page, but new editions of the calendar are no longer there. Myspace has made changes that limit the size of posts, and that makes it far too time-consuming and ponderous to post the calendar there in far too many small pieces.
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Our myspace site, www.myspace.com/laacoustic is still the place to go for news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and its new TV counterpart that launches soon.
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LATEST NEWS FEATURES always post separate from the Acoustic Americana Music Guide (formerly called the calendar).
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MOST RECENT previous News Features posted NOVEMBER 19, at
http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2008/11/news-features-nov-19-edition-acoustic.html
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Recent weeks and months’ editions are available on Blogspot at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com; older archived editions are available on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), by using the “View All” button and scrolling, and if you don’t see what you want, then journey farther back by using the “older entries” button and scrolling, as many times as necessary. You can go all the way back to when acoustic music was made by trees crashing to the floor of the primeval forests when the dinosaurs got too rambunctious.
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COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Music Guide & News, or “Tied to the Tracks,” at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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Please don’t send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, can’t be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. So, communicate through the above address.
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NEWS FEATURES:
November 27, 2008
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*** IF YOU’D LIKE TO RECEIVE A NOTICE when we update the Acoustic Americana Music Guide, and when we post fresh NEWS FEATURES, send your email address to tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com - don’t worry, we won’t sell or distribute your address.
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1) THANKSGIVING MORNING RADIO BROADCAST IS A “MUST-HEAR”
Thursday, Nov 27 – Thanksgiving morning – brings the first event the Acoustic Americana Music Guide has recommended as a “Show of the Week” pick that isn’t a show you can go see, performed live. So we think it’s quite significant.
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From 9 am-noon, “THE HISTORY OF McCABE’S GUITAR SHOP” is celebrated on KCRW 89.9 FM in Los Angeles, simulcast at www.kcrw.com. The 3-hour show includes lots of music and interviews. News of this has traveled organically, since that station has not broadcast folk or acoustic renaissance music in years. Rex & Nick, from the Caltech Folk Music Society, observe, “McCabe's has long kept live acoustic music alive in the L.A. area and was an inspiration to Brian Toby when he started the Caltech Folk Music Society.” They add, “Thanks to Roger, our former sound man, for the tip on this program.”
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THIS could make a HUGE difference for the future of L.A. radio. If you listen, and then email KCRW with your accolades for the program, you can encourage them to do more. You may not know that their longtime Music Director, Nic Harcourt (the sole hand who’s been hand-picking the station’s “hand-picked” music) was just replaced. The multitudes of us who have long found KCRW’s music programs unlistenable may have an opening here. So create a trail of your approval for the “McCabe’s special,” and encourage the station to broadcast more programming with acoustic Americana / acoustic folk music!
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You’ll be stunned at all the info, the scrolling timeline, and links to folk-Americana / acoustic Americana artists and their music on the station’s own page, at www.kcrw.com/music/mccabes-at-50 especially since they’re all artists who haven’t been heard on KCRW in years, if ever. Check-out the link for the info, the joy of seeing it there, AND to post a comment on the page’s dedicated blog.
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2) THIS WEEK’S VIDEO: “PLAYING FOR CHANGE: PEACE THROUGH MUSIC”
We usually put our music video picks near the end of each edition. Not this time. This one is remarkable, and memorable, and you’ll share it all over the planet. It epitomizes the transformative power of music. The link is for a segment from the PBS series, “Bill Moyers Journal.” You’ll see the segment from the show’s October 24 edition in which Moyers interviews MARK JOHNSON, the filmmaker and co-director of the remarkable documentary, “PLAYING FOR CHANGE: PEACE THROUGH MUSIC.” Johnson is a Grammy award-winning producer and engineer and a film director who has worked with some of the most renowned musicians and producers in the field.
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When this was posted on the FolkWorks magazine web group, editor LEDA SHAPIRO wrote, “Don't ignore this video and don't stop in mid-stream. The opening sermon by Bill Moyers is fine, but once you get to the music part and interview, it's eye opening (or ear opening).”
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Someone else posted the old axiom, “Since the beginning of humankind, the hours between the coming of night and the coming of sleep belong to the tellers of tales and the makers of music.”
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We think it’s so perfect for Thanksgiving that we couldn’t have gone looking and done any better with anything else. This speaks to the heart of everyone who understands the power of music to transform, to foster instant comprehension and understanding without equivocation or negotiation or intimidation or any need to maneuver or posture for power or control or anything but the sense of unity in spirit that music can enable.
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If you don’t have tears of joy streaming down your face when you hear and watch a single, unifying piece of music performed by many artists through seamless clips from around the world, as close as Santa Monica, as far as anyplace distant you know, then we will be surprised. There are street musicians who play for the most elemental kind of change, and some far more prominent others, playing for profound change, and all of them singing “Stand By Me” as you’ve never heard it. Even if you sing that song as part of your own show, trust us, you’ve never really heard it until now.
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Following Moyers’ compelling conversation with Johnson, you’ll get another song, and we won’t spoil the surprise by telling you what that is. Of course, the entire film has a lot more music, and you can explore the site (www.playingforchange.org) built to spread the word about it, and about the developing string of little, internet-connected music schools being built because of it, around the world.
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But first, watch Moyers and Johnson and all those artistically perfect edited parts that magnify the power of the music, at www.pbs.org/moyers/journal/10242008/watch3.html
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Happy Thanksgiving.
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3) HOLIDAY EVENT BRINGS FREE MUSIC SEMINAR & FREE CONSULTATIONS
On Sat, Dec 6, from 9 am-5 pm, you can attend a FREE MUSIC SEMINAR with panels, performances, one-on-one consultations, and holiday gift shopping, at the annual “LAWIM HOLIDAY GIFT BAZAAR, BOUTIQUE SALE, & SEMINARS EVENT.” It’s sponsored by Los Angeles WoMen in Music as a LAWIM fundraiser (from the merchandise sales), at Professional Musicians Local 47, 817 Vine St (S of Willoughby Av), Hollywood 90038; www.promusic47.org/contact.htm; 323-462-2161.
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It’s a full-plate day of music workshops and panels with major industry presenters (coordinated by Just Plain Folks, www.justplainfolks.org), holiday gift shopping, networking, and raffles of prizes from the vendors, including the grand prize, a Daisy Rock Guitar. Over 60 vendors, including jewelry, books, baby clothing, scarves, art, music services, skincare, musical instruments, CDs, dolls, health services (yoga, meditation, aromatherapy), chimes, handcrafts, and more. Bring the kids and have their picture taken with Santa.
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Musicians should note the panel, “PLACING SONGS ON RADIO,” moderated by BERNARD BAUR (Music Connection magazine), with panel members ERIC J. LAWRENCE (KCRW Music Librarian), JOHN FLANAGAN (Radio Promotions), and LARRY WINES (Tied to the Tracks Radio), from 10:30-11:45 am.
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Event includes “Pitch-A-Song”™ critique of your recorded song by a professional panel, from 6-8 pm, only $15 to get that critique. More info, and downloadable submission / entry forms at www.lawim.com. A portion of all event proceeds benefits the local music community. Event includes raffles and prizes to benefit LAWIM and the Local 47 Relief Fund. Admission is FREE.
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4) NO WESTERN GRAMMY, BUT TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS LASSO TRIFECTA
Wasn’t so long ago that the TUMBLING TUMBLEWEEDS, a Southern Cal-based western harmony quartet, was playing their first real gig at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, with fine vocal harmonies, one guitar, and an uncanny channeling of the Sons of the Pioneers from an era long gone. Then came world-premiere tracks heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” from the group’s yet-to be-released CD. Finally came the CD itself, and a stampede of nominations for the biggest awards in Western music.
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This summer in Texas, the group won the 2008 Academy of Western Artists “Western Music Duo/Group of the Year” Award. Last Saturday in Albuquerque, they won the 2008 Western Music Association “Crescendo Award,” for “Most Promising Talent.”
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NARAS still hasn’t seen fit to have even a single GRAMMY for Western music – not even one that would amalgamate the very different genres of traditional cowboy, modern western singer-songwriter, traditional and contemporary western band, and western swing – say, one patterned-after the new GRAMMY that amalgamates Cajun and zydeco all lumped-together. So, that leaves it to the AWA and the WMA to separately and collectively determine the best music from the best talent each year. Needless to say, the two entities operate independent of one another, so winning major awards from both AWA and WMA is a very big deal.
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The band is singing “Tumbleweeds” ROB WOLFSKILL, CADE PARENTI, CHRIS ACUFF (yes THAT family of Acuff’s, but distant), and fellow singer and the group’s only guitar player, R.J. MILLS, all usually joined by fiddler JEAN SUDBURY and upright bass player DAN DUNGAN. They just wrote to tell us, “It was an unforgettably exciting night as we sat during the awards show, awaiting the results, and we were so glad that all of us Tumbleweeds were able to be there together to accept the award!
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“The show itself was a star-studded event with many of Western Music's most luminous stars, and we were so deeply honored to have been presented the award by none other than Miss Juni Fisher herself! It was an evening packed with incredible performances by folks like Dave Stamey, The Texas Trailhands, R.W. Hampton, Joyce Woodson, Juni Fisher & Patty Clayton and a trio consisting of Judy Coder, Audrey McLaughlin and the legendary Marilyn Tuttle!”
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Did we say, a trifecta for them?
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They continue, “We were… named ‘Best of Show’ in the Harmony Contest in which we were presented the 2008 ‘Marilyn Tuttle Harmony Award of the Year!’ Marilyn has been a firm guiding force for us, so to receive an award that bears her name is an honor we will always cherish!”
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Marilyn is the widow of the late Wesley Tuttle, a western music icon.
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Awards are forever. There’s another distinction that’s theirs right now, for an unknown duration. They are currently #1 in “The Western Way” magazine’s Top 10 Cowboy / Western CD chart.
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More on the group and their CD at www.thetumblingtumbleweeds.com and www.myspace.com/tumbleweeds4 and www.cdbaby.com/tumblingtumbleweeds
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5) PEACE THRU MUSIC, DENISE VASQUEZ, DAISY ROCK TEAM FOR BENEFIT
On Dec 5 at 1:30 pm, the winner of an essay contest for students sponsored by “PEACE THRU MUSIC” (www.myspace.com/peacethrumusicorg) will be revealed at Portola Elementary School, 6700 Eagle St, in Ventura 93003. Singer-songwriter DENISE VASQUEZ will present the winner with a new "Butterfly Fantasy" guitar, donated by Daisy Rock Guitars. There will be performances by musicians DENISE VASQUEZ & RANDY MARTINEZ, who both attended Portola, TONY BARNES, and others.
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Denise is founder of “WO+MEN 4 A CAUSE” (www.myspace.com/women4acause) and she has, for years, worked to make a difference utilizing her music, art and spirit. For her, this is all about helping to make a difference in a child’s life.
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“Peace Thru Music” is a nonprofit, dedicated to enriching the lives of children by providing access to music educations, music appreciation and musical instruments. As Denise says, “In many schools and communities, the teaching of music has been deemed a luxury which they cannot afford. Peace Thru Music partners with school districts, communities and other nonprofits to identify their needs. They provide the children in these programs with musical instruments and music education.”
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More on Denise Vasquez at www.denisevasquez.com. To learn about the event, contact Tony Barnes of “PEACE THRU MUSIC” at tonybarnesmusic@yahoo.com.
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6) SINGER-SONGWRITER ODYSSEY TO BE A DOCUMENTARY FILM
Never Die Records of Bowie, Texas (www.neverdierecords.com), has just announced that “NEVER DIE - THE DEAN STRICKLAND STORY” will begin filming in January, 2009 on South Padre Island, Texas. The film is a project by award winning film director and writer, DEAN J. AUGUSTIN. It’s a pair of Deans in this project.
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Musician DEAN STRICKLAND (www.deanstrickland.com) has been hitchhiking from gig to gig in Texas, Arkansas, Tennessee, and California for more than three years. He has written twenty songs from his experiences while hitchhiking, and thirteen of them comprise his album, "Hitchhiking Guitarman."
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Strickland performed some of his originals on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” after characteristically hitchhiking to L.A. from Texas with his guitar case and backpack.
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Filmmaker Dean J. Augustin is an award-winning Texas-based writer and director. After winning the American Cinema Foundation Screenwriting Contest, Dean started “The Good Fight - Digital Motion Pictures” (www.mygoodfight.com) to create and promote his unique method of filmmaking. His first film, “The Secret Journal of Benny Travis,” won a Platinum Remi Award at WorldFest in Houston. Augustin’s second film, “The Enemy,” won the prestigious Golden Lion Award for Best Documentary at the 2004 UNA George Lindsey Film Festival.
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We’ll keep you posted on the project, and whether Dean Strickland hitchhikes to the film’s premiere…
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7) DEADLINE AGAIN EXTENDED FOR “INT’L SONGWRITING COMPETITION”
Back in October, we reported that the 2008 International Songwriting Competition (ISC) had extended its deadline for entries through Nov 30, 2008.
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Now, they’ve extended it again, but only slightly. It’s now Dec 1, at 11:59 pm EST. Here’s some of what we reported about it previously:
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This is a well-known annual songwriting arena, which the NY Times has called "the competition to take note of." It offers $150,000 in prizes, including $25,000 cash for the grand prize winner. It boasts “the best judges for any songwriting competition in the world.”
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This year's judges include both prominent recording artists and music industry execs. Among them are Rob Thomas (Matchbox 20); Chaka Khan; Tom Waits; KT Tunstall; Robert Smith (The Cure); Loretta Lynn; Neil Finn (Crowded House); Jon Secada; Ricky Martin; Buckcherry; T-Pain; James Cotton; Jerry Lee Lewis; Craig Morgan; Ray Davies (The Kinks); Darryl McDaniels (Run DMC); Michael W. Smith; Chris Hillman (The Byrds); John Scofield; Mario; Black Francis (The Pixies); Natalie Grant; Matt Thiessen (Relient K); Pitbull; Sandra Bernhard; David Brenner; Jeremy Camp; Angelique Kidjo ; McCoy Tyner; Youssou N'Dour; John Mayall; DJ Tiësto; "Weird Al" Yankovic; and Paul Van Dyk.
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Judges from the music industry are Monte Lipman (President, Universal Records); Nick Burgess (Head of A&R, Virgin Records UK); Renee Bell (Executive VP A&R, SONY BMG Nashville); Rick Krim (Executive VP Talant and Music Programming VH1); Angel Carrasco (Sr. VP of A&R, Latin America Sony BMG and President, Discos 605); Cameron Strang (President, New West Records); Amy Doyle (Sr. VP of Music and Talent, MTV); Kim Buie (VP of A&R, Lost Highway); Jon Pikus (Director of A&R, MySpace Records); Mitchell Cohen (VP of A&R, Verve Music Group); Bruce Iglauer (Founder/President, Alligator Records); Dan Storper (President, Putumayo World Music); Peter Strickland (Senior VP, Jack Records/Warner Bros.); Steve Lillywhite (Producer - credits include U2, The Rolling Stones, Morrissey, Peter Gabriel, and more); Douglas C. Cohn (Sr. VP, Music Marketing & Talent, Nickelodeon); Cory Robbins (Founder/President, Robbins Entertainment); Betty Pino (DJ, WAMR Miami); Paul Majors (CEO/Founder Majors Music); Leib Ostrow (CEO, Music for Little People); and Dr. Demento (Radio Host of The Dr. Demento Show).
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Info on ISC and contest entry rules are at www.songwritingcompetition.com
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8) HOLIDAY SHOWS: IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE YOU-KNOW-WHAT…
At least we didn’t start talking about CHRISTMAS SHOWS right after the Halloween decorations came down. But it is time to think about getting tix before they’re sold-out.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide is chockfull of holiday concerts and events, but, as seasonal things tend to be, they’re scattered all over December. So, we decided to prepare what we expected would be a catalog of all those shows.
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Well, it seemed like a good idea at the time. Turns out there are so many events that if we wanted to say anything at all about ‘em, it was way too much to fit here. So use this as a quick and handy reference to guide you to the detailed write-ups for each event, over in the Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Call it a road map, and start your engines.
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Here are the barest of bare-bone factoids, extracted from the Guide:
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Sat, Dec 6 in Santa Clarita (Hart Park), daytime:
“HERITAGE JUNCTION CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS KICK OFF” with JOHN BERGSTROM and others.
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Fri, Dec 5 in El Cajon, 7:30 pm:
KRUGER BROTHERS play the “HOLIDAY WEEKEND AT DEERING” concert. Workshops and tours, all weekend, at Deering’s Spring Valley factory.
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Sat, Dec 6 in Granada Hills (Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor), 7-10:30 pm:
“BLUE RIDGE ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTLUCK & OPEN JAM.”
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Sat, Dec 6 in Rialto, 7 pm:
KEN O’MALLEY performs his Irish-themed “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH.”
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Sat, Dec 6 in Ojai, 7:30 pm:
PATRICK BALL brings “THE CHRISTMAS ROSE” to “Performances to Grow On.”
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Sun, Dec 7 in Santa Monica, 11 am:
JACKIE BREGER plays A “HOLIDAY MATINEE KIDS SHOW” at McCabe’s.
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Sun, Dec 7 in South Pasadena, 2 pm:
“SOUTH PASADENA ARTS BENEFIT” includes BRAD COLERICK solo acoustic, and the SOUTH PASADENA STRINGS ORCHESTRA to benefit Katrina victims
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Sun, Dec 7 in Altadena, 7 pm:
“CELTIC CHRISTMAS” with DRUID at the Coffee Gallery Backstage.
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Sun, Dec 7 in North Hollywood, 7 pm:
KEN O’MALLEY performs his Irish-themed “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH.”
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Mon, Dec 8 in Lancaster, 8 pm:
“WYNONA: A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC” at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center.
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Fri, Dec 12 in L.A., 7:30 pm:
PERLA BATALLA performs “A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS LATIN MUSIC.”
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Fri, Dec 12 in Pasadena (Caltech), 8 pm:
FLAMENCO VIVO CARLOTA SANTANA performs “NAVIDAD FLAMENCA.”
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Sat & Sun, Dec 13 & 14 in La Canada Flintridge (Descanso Gardens), 9 am-4:30 pm:
“WINTER WEEKEND AT DESCANSO GARDENS” with song, festivities, fun, and art.
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Sat, Dec 13 in Pasadena, 8 pm:
“CHRISTMAS WITH THE MAESTRO, AND SANTA TOO!” Cal Phil, with conductor VICTOR VENER, plus guest solo vocalists, and the California Philharmonic Chorus.
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Sat, Dec 13 in downtown L.A. (Colburn School of Performing Arts), 8 pm:
MUSICA ANGELICA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA with guests THE TÖLZER KNABENCHOR from Germany, performs “CHRISTMAS ORATORIO” by J.S. BACH.
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Sat, Dec 13 in Santa Monica (Parlor Performances), 8:30 pm:
ROY ZIMMERMAN with “HAPPY CHRISTMA-HANU-RAMA-KA-DONA-KWAANZA!”
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Sat, Dec 13 in San Pedro (Grand Annex), 9 pm:
“CHRISTMAS CONCERT” w/ I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. & CLIFF WAGNER & OLD #7.
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Sun, Dec 14 in City of Industry (Homestead Museum), 1-5 pm:
“A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHRISTMAS” w/ 100 years of holiday traditions.
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Sun, Dec 14 in Griffith Park, L.A. (Autry Museum), 2 pm:
“CHRISTMAS ON THE RANGE” with TOM HIATT & THE SUNDOWN RIDERS, JOYCE WOODSON, JOE HERRINGTON, JOHN BERGSTROM, CLYDE LUCAS and “Tied to the Tracks” host LARRY WINES as the emcee, in the Wells Fargo Theatre.
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Sun, Dec 14 in Covina (Fret House), 3 pm:
“FRET HOUSE EMPLOYEES CHRISTMAS SHOW.”
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Sun, Dec 14 in Santa Monica (Santa Monica City College), 4 pm:
MUSICA ANGELICA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA with THE TÖLZER KNABENCHOR from Germany, performs “CHRISTMAS ORATORIO” by J.S. BACH.
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Sun, Dec 14 in Victorville (Ambassador Hotel), 4-7:30 pm:
“CURLY’S COWBOY CHRISTMAS” with BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE and the TUMBLING TUMBLWEEDS; benefit for the “Happy Trails Childrens Foundation.”
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Sun, Dec 14 in Burbank (Viva Cantina), 5:30-9 pm:
WESTERN MUSIC ASSOC. “CHRISTMAS PARTY & JAM” everyone welcome.
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Sun, Dec 14 in Whittier (Shannon Ctr for Performing Arts, Whittier College), 7 pm:
“NAVIDAD EN WHITTIER” benefit performance by DANZA FLORICANTO USA with guest artists CESAR CASTRO, and MARIACHI MEXICAPAN, led by RAY MEDINA.
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Sun, Dec 14 in Simi Valley (Simi Valley Cultural Art Center), 7:30-9 pm:
“HOLIDAY SEASON BLUEGRASS CONCERT” with THE BROMBIES, HIGH HILLS, KATIE NAKAMURA.
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Tue, Dec 16 in Altadena (Coffee Gallery Backstage), 8 pm:
“SABRINA & CRAIG’S ACOUSTIC L.A. LIVE! CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR” with TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS, STEPHANIE BETTMAN.
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Wed, Dec 17 in L.A. (The Mint), 7 pm:
“SONGSALIVE! 10 YEAR ANNIV. CELEBRATION & XMAS / HOLIDAY PARTY.”
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Fri, Dec 19 in Anaheim (Honda Center), 7 pm:
SARAH BRIGHTMAN touring her first Christmas CD, “A Winter Symphony.”
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Fri, Dec 19 in Santa Monica; 7:30 pm:
“CELTIC CHRISTMAS” with MOLLY’S REVENGE and MOIRA SMILEY.
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Sat, Dec 20 in City of Industry (Homestead Museum), 4-8 pm:
“EVENING HOLIDAY TOURS” to enjoy 1840s-1920s period decorations by moonlight.
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Sat, Dec 20 in Inglewood (The Forum), 7 pm:
SARAH BRIGHTMAN touring her first Christmas CD, “A Winter Symphony.”
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Sat, Dec 20 in Pasadena, 7:30 pm:
“CELTIC CHRISTMAS” with MOLLY’S REVENGE and MOIRA SMILEY.
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Sun, Dec 21 in Venice (Venice High School), 5-8 pm:
“WINTER SOLSTICE AT THE LEARNING GARDEN,” at The Learning Garden.
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Sun, Dec 21 in San Pedro (Grand Annex), 7 pm:
“HAWAIIAN HOLIDAY CONCERT” with JIM "KIMO" WEST, & THE POLYNESIAN PARADISE DANCERS & and optional music workshops.
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Sun, Dec 21 in Altadena (Coffee Gallery Backstage), 7 pm:
RENAISSANCE performs “A CELEBRATION OF A CAPELLA CHRISTMAS.”
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Mon, Dec 22 in Ojai (Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club), 7 pm:
“CELTIC CHRISTMAS SHOW” w/ Portland’s HANZ AKARI BAND & Irish dancers.
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Sat, Dec 27 in Gardena (Elks Lodge), 8 pm-midnight:
“ZYDECO DANCE SERIES CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR'S EVE DANCE” w/ ANDRE' THIERRY band.
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Is that all? All for now. More is bound to be revealed as more venues and acts get booked. We’ll do our best to keep you informed.
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9) ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE BANS A WORD
It may appear to be censorship. It’s really a simple act of retiring the most annoyingly overused word of 2008. That word is “also.”
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There are other candidates – candidates for words and phrases, that is – from which all of us desperately need a break. For example, musicians are always distributing bios and one-sheets that list others with whom they have performed, and too often their otherwise helpful, sometimes dazzling, lists end with that oops-can’t-think-of-anything-else phrase, “to name a few.” It’s silly, and it’s overused. So, stop it.
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Still, by far the single most annoying, most generically applied and ubiquitous word of 2008 is the word, “also.” And we (all of us) can identify the solitary mega-violator, the one who killed the continued use of the word for everyone else. Of course, that person is the Alaska Governor and former candidate on the Republican ticket as the GOP choice for Vice President of the United States. And we are being careful not to include her name in the same sentence with the title of that national office.
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Her name is Sarah Palin.
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It would be easy to write something here, like “Alaska Governor and also former Vice-Presidential candidate,” or “Clothes horse who also cooked for Matt Lauer while wearing swag far too expensive to expose to the kitchen,” or “picked by McCain in a last-minute act of desperation because the Religious Right wing of the Republican base rejected his choices of Mitt Romney and also Joe Lieberman, and did so with open hostility,” or best of all, “Tina Fey, in addition to her writing and acting duties on ’30 Rock,’ also made appearances on SNL as Palin’s doppelganger, in the best political parodies in decades.” Certainly, we could find myriad opportunities to continue to use the word, “also,” and to use it in ways that could contribute to actual communication.
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But we just can’t take it anymore. The word has been ruined. We reviewed two hours of taped TV coverage of Palin on the campaign trail, and she said “also” 63 times in those various news pieces. No, that was not inclusive of any compilation that may have been made for Comedy Central or Jay Leno or David Letterman or Jimmy Kimmel. That count was simply the result of a score sheet to keep track of how many times Palin used the word over the course of two hours of campaign trail and post-campaign utterances with cameras running (including the infamous turkey interview). The two hours’ worth of recordings were simply played back without editing, in random selections of what had been recorded from TV and cable TV news, including MSNBC, CNN, and Fox News. A simple count was kept of Palin’s use of her trademark, usually-appended-to-the-end-to-connect-to-something-else-that’s-wholly-incongruous word, “also.”
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The sound of that word – you know the one – is now as toxic to us as that thug noise that masquerades as music. The last straw came the week before Thanksgiving, when Sarah Palin pardoned a turkey from becoming someone’s holiday banquet. That was goofy enough, considering she chose the scruffiest and dirtiest turkey there, a fowl so foul she didn’t want to touch it.
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But then Palin babbled on and on and on in a rather aimless and characteristic exercise of oral diarrhea. That happened with the TV cameras running and turkeys being slaughtered close behind her throughout her endless babble. Palin continued to apply the word “also” to connect a disconnected series of unrelated quips, ad nauseum. So, we have compiled a “Best and Worst Also of Sarah Palin Alsos,” as our final use, for a long time to come, of the word, “also.” Here it is:
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“Well, there ya go again also, gosh darn it… pointing fingers backward at Bush and John McCain also… doncha know and also how he talks there also… and Joe the Plumber and Tito the builder also said it sounds like socialism to them also… and gee, I'm cooking dinner for Thanksgiving and it’s a turkey also after I pardoned this turkey here...”
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Certainlt, it’s one more reason to feel good about the pardon the rest of us received on November 4. By the way, if you send us something as a news item, and it contains a quote with that offending word in it, and we use that quote, expect to see “…” in place of that offending word. We have purged it from this and future editions.
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That’s it, for this edition of News Features. We’ve heard that some of you print it out and read it on the light rail or the bus, and some of you read it on those itty bitty PDA screens. While we don’t know how anybody can do the latter, we do appreciate that you include us in your quest to be informed and entertained. Drop us a note, and let us know what you like and don’t like about what’s here or in past editions. (Email address below.)
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NEXT WEEK, we’ll bring lots more news and features.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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Be sure to check EVERY WEEK for
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+ the extensive and always huge ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE’s event listings at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, or at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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+ news of the “TIED TO THE TRACKS” radio & TV shows coming soon in syndication.
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+ the latest NEWS FEATURES from the acoustic music universe!
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WANT TO CONTACT US?
tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com
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December events, Acoustic Americana Music Guide, Nov 27 edition 2008

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With a SPECIAL COMMENT for December 7…
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“Tied to the Tracks”
ACOUSTIC AMERICANA
MUSIC GUIDE
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December, 2008 through July, 2009 events
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Updated November 27, 2008; recurring events currently included through Dec 9.
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EDITOR’S NOTE…
You may notice that we are including a number of concerts that are usually found only under the headings of “Classical Music.” We’re happy to bring you the info about these, not only because some of the best holiday music often includes classical music, but because people who love real music tend to love all real music, whether, for example, a fiddle is called a violin or a viola or just a fiddle.
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It is all quite consistent with letting you know about music and musicians doing live performances that we know you’ll enjoy. We are, of course, true to the nature of live acoustic music, “keeping it real.” So, if you’re looking for that Britney Lohan sh-thump-thud, revolving-door-rehab, pop-tart-du-jour junk that infests the radio and is recorded one note at a time, you’ll need to look elsewhere. THIS is the place for acoustic music that’s REAL MUSIC, from blues-to-bluegrass-to-borderlands, Cajun-to-cowboy-to-Celtic-to-Cape-Breton-to-Quebecois, new-old-trad-alt-post folk, and the exciting artists of today’s acoustic renaissance!
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WELCOME! And after reading this little section of relevant stray facts, if you feel lost or mystified about any of this, BE SURE to read our “Welcome” post (find it in the list, at left) – it’s a good idea to do that if you are new to the Guide & News. It’ll help you understand how all this works!
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The GUIDE and the NEWS FEATURES post separately.
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IF YOU USED A SPECIFIC URL to reach this edition of the Guide, and more than a few days have passed since the date it posted, THERE MAY BE A NEWER EDITION. Use the basic url - http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com - and check the side bar on the left, to look for more recent editions with additional and updated events.
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THE MOST RECENT GUIDE, with its detailed calendar of events, is identifiable by the date it was posted at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. We DO post future months separate from the current month, so the next time you come to the site to find “long looks ahead,” remember that they may get buried under updates to the current month; use the list on the left side for guidance. And we occasionally post a Guide / calendar of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.)” events, for those great festivals and special happenings in other parts of the country, and to help everyone include music with travel plans.
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THE MOST RECENT NEWS FEATURES, as well as other recent news posts that are often still relevant, are always available at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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WHAT’S IN THE NEWS THAT WE COVER? Our latest news features always include things of interest to acoustic music fans AND artists (musicians and songwriters). Topics include trends in the industry, radio, internet radio, music conferences, artists who have recently won awards and recognitions, charity benefits, festival lineups and booking information, our picks for on-line music videos, music-related books, things that are fun to know, and more – but NEVER any “who’s-sleeping-with-who” gossip crap. (That’s YOUR business, and it’s not the public’s business just because you work in show biz.) Current and recent news editions are found at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com. Old archived editions are on the myspace page (www.myspace.com/laacoustic), accessible by using the “View All” and the “older entries” button and scrolling all the way back to when acoustic music happened because dinosaurs got rambunctious.
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UPDATES TO THE CURRENT MONTH’S GUIDE / CALENDAR are made at least weekly, because MORE acoustic and folk-Americana music events get booked into a vast number of venues, with more added all the time. And, we include events as we learn of them from artists, presenters, venues, festivals, workshop presenters, etc.
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FUTURE EVENTS are currently posted into mid-2009, and will soon go farther than that.
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RECURRING EVENTS include residencies, series, showcases, and open mics, and all these are numerous in the Southern California acoustic music universe. We generally add them to the Guide’s calendar one week at a time, as dates approach, because there are so many of them, AND because it gives us a chance to learn who is playing. These are currently included through –
Tuesday, December 9.
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GETTING YOUR GIG LISTED: We welcome your feedback, and news of your acoustic Americana music shows (send us gig notices in our format, please; see any listed show for an example) please DON’T expect us to re-type info that you have locked into a jpg – send us plain text, so we can work with it! Send to us at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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WE’RE ON BLOGSPOT.COM after a long presence on MySpace, because that site now accepts only short posts. The Guide is waaaay too comprehensive to fit anywhere that imposes limitations. We began posting to Blogspot in early 2008.
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Our MYSPACE PAGE (www.myspace.com/laacoustic) has current news of the syndicated “Tied to the Tracks” radio show, and what’s happening with its TV counterpart. And it’s where you can find archived Acoustic Americana Music News editions published prior to Spring, 2008.
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PLEASE DO COMMUNICATE WITH US about anything related to the Acoustic Americana Music Guide and / or the Acoustic Americana Music News, at tiedtothetracks@hotmail.com.
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PLEASE DON’T send us anything through myspace email. It’s esoteric, it cannot be auto-forwarded into a “real” email account, and we just can’t keep up with it. (Myspace “friends” are great, and we DO welcome you there!) But, communicate through email only at the above address. And, yes, we get HUNDREDS of emails every week, so please give us as much advance notice as possible for your event!
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Entire contents copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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DECEMBER 2008
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Updated November 27, 2008; recurring events currently included through Dec 9.
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The name of the final month of the year comes from the Latin :decem,” meaning “tenth.” December was the tenth month of the ancient Roman calendar.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 1
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Mon, every week:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon; every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon; 1st (and 3rd) Mon, every month:
7-10 pm DALE LaDUKE & FRIENDS play a twice-a-month singer-songwriter showcase night, with different guests each time, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; http://arniescafe.com; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, it’s “a new little coffee house that is becoming quite a scene.” Dale gets major-league songwriters; a recent edition featured HAROLD PAYNE, & FREEBO. No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Mon, every week:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com.
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Mon, every week:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676.
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Mon, Dec 1; in the OC:
7:30 pm RIDERS OF THE PURPLE SAGE play the North Orange County Concert Association series at the Fullerton First United Methodist Church, 114 N Pomona, Fullerton. Series info, www.northocconcerts.org. The Riders of the Purple Sage are one of the very best bands in Southern California, across all genres. They are one of the most historic western bands in the world, and their superb musicianship easily exceeds whatever you think you know about western music. They often perform with symphony orchestras, and they are as much at home there as in a honky-tonk dance hall. They’ve performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where today’s Riders received the on-air endorsement of Sharon Foy Willing, widow of the band’s founder, FOY WILLING. The group is loaded with accomplished multi-instrumentalists. Expect a solo set from the band’s fiddler, EVAN MARSHALL, on his quite magic mandolin. Not that we want to slight anyone else in the lineup. Band info, www.ridersofthepurplesage.com
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Mon; repeats every first Mon:
7:30-9 pm “LAMN JAM” at The Scene, 806 E Colorado St (x-st Everett), Glendale 91205; 818-241-7029. L.A. Music Network Jam is billed as a place where “artists, musicians, singers and songwriters play for the pros.” Only LAMN Members perform by registering at 818-769-6095 or tara@lamn.com. Info: www.lamn.com. Performers receive constructive criticism in the areas of music, lyrics and performance. No cover.
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Mon, every week:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Hosted by LISA TURNER. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Sign-ups 7-7:15 pm, show at 7:30 pm. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Dec 1:
8 pm COW BOP at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. You heard ‘em perform live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” between their tours along the rough alignment of the old Route 66 to Chicago and back. As bandleader and USC Artist-in-Residence BRUCE FORMAN says, “Come out and experience what would've happened if Bob Wills, Charlie Parker, Django Reinhardt, Ella Fitzgerald and Patsy Cline were locked in a room for the weekend! Wahoo!” Cow Bop is BRUCE FORMAN, guitar; PINTO PAMMY, vocals; PHIL SALAZAR, fiddle; DEVIN HOFFMAN, bass; JAKE REED, Drums.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Mon, every week:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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Mon, every week:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by singer-songwriter Chris Mathieu at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, “Open-Mic on Mondays is now for MUSIC ONLY.” Two songs, and if time allows, performers may get to go up a second time. Venue adds, “The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.” Sign-ups at 8 pm.
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, every week:
9-11:30 pm "IRISH MUSIC SESSION" weekly at Celtic Arts Center’s new shared location, Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Schedule every week is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon; most Mondays:
10 pm PRESTON SMITH plays solo acoustic at The Bridge, 3256 Caheunga Bl (at Barham), Universal City / Hollywood area, one mile N of the Hollywood Bowl. Romantic, loungy, acoustic room. Preston sings “blues & beyond,” soul and jazz. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger July 28, ‘06 Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, every week:
10:30 pm MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Social, 6525 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. No cover.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 2
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Tue-Sun, Dec 2 through 7; in San Francisco:
“FIRST INTERNATIONAL BODY MUSIC FESTIVAL” in Oakland and San Francisco features body musicians performing traditional and contemporary pieces from the U.S., Brazil, Indonesia, Turkey, Canada's Arctic, and other corners of the world. Includes artists who perform Americana hambone, arctic throat singing, body percussion, much more. Complete and up-to-date schedule at www.crosspulse.com/html/ibmf-schedule.html.
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Tue, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, Dec 2:
11:30 am “HOW CAN I KEEP FROM SINGING?: THE BALLAD OF PETE SEEGER,” is author DAVID DUNAWAY’s new book, and he will discuss it at a luncheon and program for “The Friends of the Caltech Libraries,” in The Atheneum on the Caltech campus in Pasadena. Dunaway will speak about the great performer, composer, and activist. See www.yelp.com/events/pasadena-friends-of-caltech-libraries-present-holiday-luncheon-at-the-athenaeum-featuring-author-david-dunaway to find out more, but act quickly. Call 626-395-6411 for any remaining tix.
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Tue; first Tue, every month:
12:30-2:30 pm monthly “TUESDAY MUSICALE CLUB RECITALS” in the Pasadena Central Library Auditorium, 285 E Walnut St, Pasadena 91101; www.ci.pasadena.ca.us/library/events. Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Program & performer info, contact Celeste French, 818-790-1739.All ages, free.
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Tue, Dec 2; not music, but cool:
2:30 pm “FRED BLANCO’S STORIES OF CESAR CHAVEZ” at Cal State Northridge Student Union, University Center Complex. Blanco has been a hit at the Parlor Performances series. Info and directions to parking available at 818-677-4390. More at www.storiesofcesarchavez.com. Parking costs, program is free.
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Tue, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm “SOUP JAM,” Don Rowan’s country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, contact Don, 562-883-0573. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice; soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is 1st entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue; first Tue, every month:
6:30-10 pm HAMMERED DULCIMER PRACTICE GROUP at a private home in Downey; first Tue, every month. Round-robin format, all levels welcome. No dues or fees. Contact Bea Romano for loc: celticanamusic@yahoo.com.
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Tue, 1st Tues, every month; in Camarillo:
6:30-10 pm SONGMAKERS “ROUND TABLE PIZZA SONG CIRCLE,” at Round Table Pizza, 889 Arneill Rd (near Ponderosa; in Longs, K-Mart, Vons shopping center), Camarillo; 805-484-8900. Get 20% off your order during the Songmakers event. You can call to order ahead at 805-484-8900. Info, TJ Zeiler, Songmaker93010@gmail.com or 805-482-0029; www.songmakers.org.
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Tue, every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing guest host PAUL ZOLLO. (Longtime host GARRET SWAYNE is out of town for a few weeks, but the series continues without interruption.) The two featured artists are followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com. MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue; first & third Tue, every month:
“BACK PORCH AT THE UNURBAN” hosted by swamp grass band KILLING CASSANOVA, on the back porch at the Unurban Coffee House, 3301 Pico Bl (at 33rd), Santa Monica. The back porch is “a night of acoustic singer-songwriters, folk and freak folkers” sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova. The Unurban is a free thinking, all ages, speakeasy-style coffee house, with food for vegeterians and deli lovers alike, and the usual coffeehouse fare. The hosts add, “Please contact us if you're interested in sharing the stage with Killing Cassanova,” through www.myspace.com/killingcassanova .
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Tue, first Tue, every month:
8 pm-1 am “RONNIE MACK'S BARN DANCE” with a full lineup of guest performers and THE BARNDANCE BAND at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, L.A. 90029; contact venue for set times, www.elcidla.com/ronnymack.html; 323-668-0318. No cover.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly summer series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, every week; in Laguna Beach:
8 pm weekly “SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” features guest artists and BETH FITCHET WOOD, who plays the opening set each week, at the The Marine Room Tavern, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027.
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Tue, every Tue:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 3
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Wed; every week; in Yucaipa:
12:30 pm “YUCAIPA UKERS,” THE YUCAIPA UKULELE GANG, an ‘off-shoot’ of the Loma Linda Ukulele Strummers (LLUS), meets every Wed (recently changed; was 10:30 am). Info, loc, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org.
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Wed, 1st & 3rd Wed, every month:
7-11 pm 7-11 pm OPEN MIC, followed by “WESTSIDE SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND” at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. The Open Mic is 7-9 pm (6:45 pm sign-ups) and it’s hosted by ALLAN COMEAU. The pre-booked songwriters follow, 9-11 pm, hosted by JEFF KOSSACK & JOHN STOWERS. “They usually have a song circle with 4 or 5 songwriters,” says SEVERIN BROWNE and he continues, “For those of you who like a good open mic night, my friend Allan Comeau is hosting. The location for this wondrous event is not far from McCabe’s. For those of you on the West Side, this may become your regular Wednesday night outing! John and Jeff are talking about having the very best singer-songwriters that they know join them every two weeks. And the food is good.”
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Wed, every week:
7-10 pm weekly OPEN MIC at the Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Alternating hosts TOM & BYRON or ELLEN. Sign-ups at 6:45 pm. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. All ages, no cover.
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Wed, Dec 3; in the OC:
7 pm SOMETHIN’ ELSE at Java Joe's, 4973 Yorba Ranch Rd, Yorba Linda 92887.
Bandmates Danny & Wooley are acoustic players who tell us, “[we play] folk numbers at least 20 years older than ourselves, we do like to impress our style on artists who are more recent and / or from different genres than you would normally find a banjo in. You won't find any smoke machines, light shows or ridiculous costumes at one of our shows, but you'll hear some good music, get a few surprises and probably walk away thinking, ‘that was really Somethin' Else!’"
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Both come from punk bands and “a quickly aborted hard rock attempt,” but express a “mutual preference towards old timey or folky music [that] led us to collaborate first on covers, then on our own folk-influenced originals.” They add, “We'll be playing three half-hour sets. The venue does serve food, beer and wine, but there is no cover charge and no drink / item minimum.”
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Wed, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "musicians, poets, writers, thinkers, and audiences." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm “SINGER-SONGWRITER NIGHT” with STRUFF & TERRY, and Musical Guests at Tango D'Amore, 19524 Nordhoff St #3, Northridge 91324; shared parking with Guitar Center; 818-727-7399; www.tangodamore.com. Lineup always includes hosts Struff & Terry (www.struffandterry.com) and others, sometimes unknown, sometimes rather well-known. $5 cover.
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Wed, 1st Wed, every month:
7:30-10 pm monthly “SONGWRITER'S NETWORK SEMINAR” with a music industry guest speaker, at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91001. Songnet’s monthly seminar brings an assortment of accomplished music industry insiders, from traditional record label execs to the gurus of new media. It provides musicians and songwriters the opportunity to get inside information on the business side of music, to help their creative endeavors and careers. Info on night’s program, the organization, articles, links to the music business, and CGB impresario BOB STANE’s "boilerplate," explaining why some artists do not get booked on a regular basis, are all at www.thesongnet.org. Coffeehouse fare available. Free entry, $5 suggested donation.
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In addition, every THIRD Wednesday, SongNet’s performance showcase is held here, with lots of musicians, plenty of songs and fun. (Register on their website to perform.)
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Wed, 1st & 3rd Wed every month:
7:30-9:30 pm twice-monthly “COWBOY WESTERN JAM” at El Trocadero, 24274 Main St (at Market), Newhall 91321; 661-284-6615; www.eltrocaderosteakhouse.com. (Many maps show the street name as San Fernando Rd; the part where the venue is located was renamed Main St in 2007.) Event moved to this venue in Sep, 2008. This is the event that was held at Rattlesnake Slim’s until that venue had a fire, and before that, it was held for years at Vincenzo’s Pizza. All pickers invited. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
7:30-10 pm OPEN MIC at Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Cyn Bl, Canoga Park 91303; 818-884-5905. Every Wednesday, hosted by Melinda Gibson. 7 pm sign-ups. Get your set recorded on CD for $10 (optional). Snacks and drinks available. No cover, tip jar for artists.
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Wed, every week; in Simi Valley:
7:30-11:30 pm SONGMAKERS “SIMI VALLEY HOOT” jam session in Simi Valley; for location, contact M. Gregory, info@songmakers.org or 805-579-6416. More at www.songmakers.org/hoots/simi_valley_hoot.htm.
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Wed, Dec 3:
8 pm “PARLOR PERFORMANCES” presents comic singer-songwriter RONNIE JAYNE plus DARRYL HENRIQUES in a benefit show at Steinway Hall, 12121 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica. (1 door W of Bundy, under Fields Pianos, on Level P2; park free in lot.) Info, reservations, 310-471-3979 or Jeannine@FrankEntertainment.com. $5 discount if you reserve tix at least a week in advance by email to Jeannine.
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RONNIE JAYNE began her professional career performing at the popular Catskill Mountain Resorts and throughout the East Coast region. Her versatile talents as a singer-pianist-comic and songwriter then took her to Las Vegas for a seven-year run. She has been on international tours and a featured performer with Bob Hope.
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DARRYL HENRIQUES has been described by the L.A. Times as "all three Marx Brothers rolled into one,” and by the San Francisco Chronicle as, "an amalgam of Lenny Bruce, Paul Krassner and Robin Williams: social commentary mixed with off-the-wall fantasies and philosophical speculations, and a razor sharp wit." As founder of “The People's Think Tank (Where We Do Your Thinking for You!),” Henriques reveals the hidden truths behind the headlines by channeling various characters from the not-so-disparate worlds of politics, religion and swimming.
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Tonight’s show is a benefit fot the Culver City Democratic Club. Tix, $25.
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Wed, 1st Wed, every month:
8 pm THE BROMBIES bring bluegrass to Viva Fresh Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank (next to L.A. Equestrian Center); 818-845-2425. They have a residency there, the first, third (and occasional fifth) Wed of every month.
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Wed, 1st Wed, every month:
8 pm monthly “ACOUSTICALLY SPEAKING” show with performing host PoetRoniGirl and a full evening’s lineup, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea, L.A. $6 at door with a flyer, or $6 if you say "Flyer" (otherwise, it’s more).
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Wed, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC CORDIALE” SERIES at Café Cordiale, 14015 Ventura Bl, Sherman Oaks; 818-789-1985. One recent lineup included Heather Waters & Duane Jarvis and Micheal Ann & Alexandra Bustamante. Manda has played the series, as well. Hosted by singer-songwriter DONOVAN LYMAN (Blue Meridian) performing a song or two between each act. Dinner served all evening; plenty of private tables. All ages, free parking, no cover.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Talking Stick, 1630 Ocean Park Bl, Santa Monica; www.thetalkingstick.net.
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Wed, recurring:
8 pm OPEN MIC at The Pig 'n Whistle, 6714 Hollywood Bl, Hollywood 90028; www.pignwhistle.com. Sign-ups at 7:30, show at 8 pm.
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Wed, every week:
8 pm ACOUSTIC JAM at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Wed; repeats every Wed:
8 pm OPEN JAZZ JAM at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. Beautiful venue, serves food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy.
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Wed, every Wed:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Kathy, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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Wed, every week:
8:30 pm-midnight “JAZZ JAM SESSION” at The Smokehouse Restaurant, 4420 W Lakeside Dr (at Barham), Burbank 91505; www.smokehouse1946.com; 818-845-3731. New home for the long-running weekly series formerly at the Sportsman’s Lodge; hosted by CATHY SEGAL-GARCIA, President of the California Pop & Jazz Council (www.capopandjazzcouncil.org). Event info, www.cathysegalgarcia.com. No cover.
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Wed, every Wed:
8:30 pm “SPOKEN WORD & POETRY OPEN MIC” at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). It’s "Real Talk," a night of self-expression, hosted by Moses, a native of New Orleans who has performed at many venues across the country, from neighborhood lounges to the Kennedy Center. Moses seeks “to create and rekindle a form of ‘Spoken Word’ familiar to everyone.” Venue adds, “If you have the desire to express yourself but feel you don't rhyme like everyone else, then this is the place for you. But for those that are as polished-as-chrome, make Wednesday nights at Café Muse your home, and you'll be delighted you didn't spend it alone.” Sign-ups at 8 pm.
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) happens every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Wed, 1st & 3rd Wed, every month:
9-11 pm “WESTSIDE SONGWRITERS IN THE ROUND” hosted by JEFF KOSSACK & JOHN STOWERS with pre-booked guests, at Santa Monica Bar & Grille, 3321 Pico Bl, Santa Monica. Usually a song circle with 4 or 5 accomplished songwriters. See 7 pm listing for more.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 4
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Thu, every week:
11 am-2 pm “VAN NUYS FARMER'S MARKET,” brand new in October ’08, with live music performances, in the Van Nuys Civic Center behind the Los Angeles City Hall annex building and in front of the City Library, 14410 Sylvan St, Van Nuys 91401.
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Thu, every week:
4:30-5:30 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113.
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Thu, every week; in Santa Barbara:
5:30-7:30 pm THE SALT MARTIANS play bluegrass for Happy Hour at the Tupelo Junction Cafe, 1218 State St, Santa Barbara; 805-899-3900 for dinner reserv. The band is TIM MULLINS, KEN GASTON, AARON DOUGLAS and often MIKE MULLINS. Artists’ info, www.saltmartians.com. Full bar & food. No cover.
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Thu, 1st and 3rd Thu, every month; in the OC:
6-9 pm “BLUEGRASS JAM IN THE OC” at Orange County Archery, 18792 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley 92708; 714-965-1125. It’s described as “Open Mics and Jams,” and as an “open bluegrass jam, all pickers welcome, all grinners welcome!” Event info, Shelah Spiegel, 714-962-5083 or ifiddler@yahoo.com. Free.
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Thu, recurring; in Idyllwild:
6-9 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & KEVIN HAMBY at Café Aroma, 54750 N Circle Dr, Idyllwild; 951-659-5212. Acoustic blues, bluegrass, swing, folk, more; Sandii Castleberry with guitar, vocals, harmonica; Kevin Hamby on bass, vocals.
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Thu, Dec 4:
7 pm AMERICA at Club Nokia, 777 Chick Hearn Ct, downtown L.A. 90015; www.nokiatheatrelalive.com. They were ‘70s folk-rock icons, with hit songs “Sister Golden Hair” and “Horse with No Name.” Doors at 7 pm. More at www.goldenvoice.com and www.myspace.com/goldenvoice. Tix $45, $30, $20. Tix on sale Nov 20 at 10 am.
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Thu, Dec 4:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists OSCAR JORDAN (TJ Sullivan), and TJ SULLIVAN (Thelonius James), at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, every week:
7 pm CHARANGOA SALSA DANCE at Steven's SteakHouse, 5332 Steven's Pl, City of Commerce; 323-723-9856; Fay@charangoa.com; www.charangoa.com. Every Thu. Includes dance class with Miguel, 7-8 pm; dancing to live music, 9 pm-1:30 am. It’s reported that there are lots of great dancers & surprises. Free.
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Thu, every week:
7-11 pm OPEN MIC NIGHT on “The Main Stage” at Highland Perk Coffeehouse, 5930 York Bl, L.A. The inaugural event was Apr 12. Sponsors say, “This event repeats every Thursday night. Singers, spoken word, guitar players, drum soloists, almost anything that makes the crowd applaud...”
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Thu, every week:
DISCONTINUED; ENDED IN NOVEMBER: 7 pm WEEKLY ZYDECO DANCE in Long Beach, every Thursday at Golden Sails Hotel, PCH Club, 6285 E Pacific Coast Highway, Long Beach; 562-596-1631. Info, Karen, 562-438-1255, karinovations@verizon.net.
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Thu; every week; in Lancaster:
7-10 pm “CEDAR OPEN MIC” at Cedar Center, 44345 Cedar Av (at Lancaster Bl), Lancaster 93534; www.myspace.com/cedarcenteropenmic. Hosted by Ms. Shell Marie and Cleen. It’s open to all ages, however there is no censorship rule. It welcomes poets, spoken word, “freestylers,” and acoustic musicians. Free.
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Thu, every week:
OPEN MIC / SONGWRITER SHOWCASE at Primo Pizza, 28200 Bouquet Cyn Rd, Saugus. Mike Dill hosts. He's a fine fingerstyle blues picker.
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Thu, every week:
7:30-9:30 pm IRISH SET DANCING CLASSES in Los Feliz area; social dancing for adults every Thursday. Info & location: www.michaelpatrickbreen.com.
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Thu, Dec 4:
8 pm “MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. This unlikely collaboration of world champions formed in the spring of 2006 when California-based Tsugaru shamisen performers KEVIN KMETZ and MIKE PENNY, both shamisen players for the cross-pollinated gypsy group FISHTANK ENSEMBLE, joined forces with Japan-based shamisen virtuoso and two-time tournament champion MASAHIRO NITTA. (FISHTANK ENSEMBLE has performed several times at the venue, and on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and both the shamisen and the accordion are signatures of that group’s music.)
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“MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” offers audiences a most exciting and innovative exposition of modern music performed on an instrument called the “Tsugaru shamisen.” Indeed, the performance from this trio is one of the best in the world. Pooling their respective musical backgrounds, the “monsters” draw inspiration from a wide variety of musical styles, including baroque/classical, Balkan gypsy, American bluegrass, Irish folk music, and even modern rock/pop. To see their live performance is to experience a fortunate fusion, not only of east and west, but, these three tell us, “of past and future, good and evil!”
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MASAHIRO NITTA is arguably the best shamisen player in the wold. He was inspired to play the instrument at age 14, by his father. Masahiro won the Junior High School National Championship title for Tsugaru Shamisen in 1998, after playing for only seven months. In 2000 and 2001, he was awarded the championship title at Japan’s National Tournament in Kanagi, and he again won the championship title in 2002 in Tokyo. In addition, he’s had a film role, starring in 2004 as Oishi Seichiro in the motion picture, “Overdrive.”
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KEVIN KMETZ became the first foreigner in history to win the honorary “Daijo Kazuo Award” at the Tsugaru Shamisen Championship Competition in 2005, held in Kanagi, Japan. Kevin took the "Judges Choice" Award at the Hirosaki Championship tournament the same year. In both 2006 and 2007, Kevin placed “Nyusho” (runner-up) at Hirosaki, and “Jyun Yuusho” (2nd place) at Kanagi.
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MIKE PENNY is the second foreigner ever to win an award in the national Tsugaru Shamisen Tournament held annually in Kanagi, Japan. In the 2006 competition, Mike won 3rd place in his class, out of more than 200 competitors. Mike performs with accordionist AARON SEEMAN (aka DUCKMANDU) in the accordion / shamisen duo, SHAMALAMACORD.
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Hear their music at www.myspace.com/monstersofshamisen. Tix, $15.
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Thu, 1st and 3rd Thu, every month:
8-10 pm WINDY RIDGE brings bluegrass to the Coffee Cartel, 1820 S Catalina Av, Redondo Beach 90277; 310-316-6554. Info, contact Frank Bayuk at 310-567-6321 or windyridgeband@aol.com. Band info, www.windyridgebluegrass.com. No cover.
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Thu, recurring:
8-11:30 pm RICK SHEA AND THE LOSIN' END at Arcadia Blues Club, 16 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia 91006; 626-447-9349; www.arcadiabluesclub.com. Rick and his honky-tonk blues band’s Thursday series, with guests. Rick & co play 8-9, then from 10-12. At 9 is the guest band, different each week. Artists’ info: www.rickshea.com. Venue serves dinner, has drink specials most nights. $5 cover.
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Thu & Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play their residency at the Tam O' Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz. The boys say, “Come down for great music, dancing and a green beer!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com.
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Thu, recurring:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Thu, Dec 4; not music, but cool:
8 pm B. GENTRY LEE: “EXTRATERRESTRIALS IN FACT AND FICTION” in the “Voices of Vision” series in Beckman Auditorium, on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); event info, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5603.html. Presented by Caltech Committee on Institute Programs. B. GENTRY LEE is Chief Engineer for the Planetary Flight Systems Directorate at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory. He is an active science fiction novelist, television producer, computer game designer, media columnist, and lecturer. A book signing will follow the lecture. Speaker info, www.apbspeakers.com.
FREE; no tickets or reservations required
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Thu; repeats every Thu:
CALJAS ARTISTS WEEKLY JAZZ PERFORMANCE NIGHT at Hip Kitty Jazz / Fondue, 502 W First St (in the Packing House complex), Claremont 91711; www.hipkittyjazz.com; 909-447-6700. It’s a new venue, said to be beautiful, serving food, beer & wine, 25 mins E of Pasadena off the 210 Fwy. The venue is part of the newly-renovated Claremont Packing House. Proprietress Nancy Tessier’s father, Refugio "Coco" Lopez, plays alto, and she wanted her club to feature an array of jazz singers. This led to a fortuitous connection with Dale Boatman, founder and president of the California Jazz Arts Society. CalJAS is a powerful force in bringing some of the best jazz artists in Southern California, especially singers, to restaurants, clubs and other performance spaces in eastern Los Angeles County and the Inland Empire, an area that previously had relatively few opportunities for jazz musicians to perform.
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Thu, most Thursdays:
8:30 pm THE WATKINS FAMILY HOUR at one of the two Largo locations, either the original “little stage” venue at 432 N Fairfax Av, LA; 323-852-1073, or the new “big stage” Largo at the Coronet, 366 N La Cienega Bl, L.A. 90048; http://largo-la.com; 310-855-0350. They are alumni of NICKEL CREEK. Cover is $15 in the small venue, $25 in the big venue.
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Thu, every week:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-8:30 pm. Happy hour 4-7 pm, M-F. No cover.
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Thu, Dec 4:
SOLD OUT: 9 pm MIKE NESS BAND, plus GUANA BATZ at the El Rey, 5515 Wilshire Bl, L.A.; 323-936-4790; www.theelrey.com.
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Thu, every Thu; on web radio:
9 pm “FREIGHT TRAIN BOOGIE” radio show from Northern Cal, on KRCB 90.9 and 91.1 FM on Sonoma County’s only public radio station; features live performance-interviews; simulcast on the web at www.krcb.org/listen/listen.html. You can ask the host or the guests questions or make comments at frater@freighttrainboogie.com.
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Thu, every week:
9 pm BEGINNERS SON JAROCHO CLASS with CESAR CASTRO from VeraCruz, at Cal Poly Downtown Center, 300 2nd St, Pomona (Arts Colony). Learn to play jarana, string instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose sones (songs); gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music. For children, teens & adults. Venue has a mic and stage lights. Info, www.myspace.com/besskepp. $3 cover.
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Thu; every Thu:
9:30 pm PRESTON SMITH & THE CROCODILES at Bartwist, 48 E Huntington Dr, Arcadia; www.bartwist.com. Expect a good time and dancing’, from honky-tonk to Elvis. Venue has food and full bar. No cover.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5
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Fri-Sun, Dec 5-7; in Monterey:
Annual “MONTEREY COWBOY POETRY & MUSIC FESTIVAL” with DAVE STAMEY, BAXTER BLACK, JUNI FISHER, PATTY CLAYTON, at the Monterey Conference Center, Monterey; www.montereycowboy.com; 800-722-9652.
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Fri, Dec 5:
PETER ALSOP plays a benefit holiday party at UCLA in Westwood, for the “FULFILLMENT FUND” for disabled youth. Artist info, www.myspace.com/peteralsop2 and www.peteralsop.com.
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Fri, every week:
6-9 pm DAVE OSTI and DEANNA COGAN jam-out on acoustic classic rock tunes every Friday at the Mayan Bar, 311 W Foothill Bl, Monrovia.
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Fri, every week:
6-8 pm OPEN MIC at Fendi's Café, 539 East Bixby Rd (near Atlantic), Long Beach; 562-424-4774.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
6:30-10 pm “JAVA WITH JAVELYN INDIE MUSIC NITES” is a featured act / OPEN MIC monthly event at the The Talking Stick, (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Includes music and raffles of merchandise from indie artists and sponsors, including massage, life coaching, and acting coaches. Venue has coffeehouse fare and good sandwiches. Javelyn holds a companion event every 3rd Sat at another venue, at 8 pm; see that calendar listing. Info, www.javawithjavelyn.com. $2 cover.
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Fri, 1st & 3rd Fri, every month:
7-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays piano at Vitello’s Restaurant 4349 Tujunga Ave., Studio City 91604; 818-769-0905. Marc says, “Great place for Italian grub.” He delivers fine piano (and elsewhere, vocals). Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in Lancaster:
7 pm SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCE CLASS in Lancaster, meets the 1st and 3rd Fridays of every month, at the Lutheran Church of the Master, 725 E Avenue J, Lancaster. Call Walter or Paula at 942-6893 for info. Organizers say, “If you can walk, you can do this social dance. It's great fun, and beginners are welcome.”
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Fri, Dec 5; in Tehachapi:
7 pm LAURENCE JUBER, two-time Grammy Award-winner, Fingerstyle "Guitarist of the Year," former lead guitarist for PAUL McCARTNEY’s band, WINGS, plays at Mama Hillybean's, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi 93561; 661-822-2326; www.hillybeans.com. LAURENCE JUBER fuses folk, jazz, pop and classical styles, creating a multifaceted performance that belies the use of only one instrument. Among his many honors, Juber won the “Best Rock Instrumental” Grammy for the track, “Rockestra” on the WINGS album "Back to the Egg." Juber has developed a reputation as a world-class guitar virtuoso solo artist, composer and arranger, voted #1 by “Fingerstyle Guitar” magazine. LAURENCE JUBER has released 12 critically acclaimed solo albums, including "LJ Plays the Beatles," "Guitarist," "One Wing," and "I've Got the World on 6 Strings." Artist info, www.laurencejuber.com. $15.
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Fri, every 1st & 3rd Fri; in San Clemente:
Blues legend BERNIE PEARL’s residency at Iva Lee's in San Clemente. Switching his four-year residency there to alternate Fridays; on second Saturdays, Bernie will continue to play electric with pianist Dwayne Smith. He was great performing live on “Tied to the Tracks” in March, ‘07. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Fri, first Fri, every month:
7:30 pm “SONGSALIVE! FIRST FRIDAYS LOS ANGELES SHOWCASE” at Hallenbeck's & Cahuenga General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood 91601; www.hallenbecks.net. Featuring talented songwriters from around the globe, and held around the globe, Songsalive! Showcases are a cozy, intimate and acoustic environment where media and music industry representatives often drop-by to check-out the latest talent. Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches & salads. Info on sponsoring organization at www.songsalive.org/losangeles. $8 cover at the door.
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Fri, Dec 5; on cable TV:
7:30 pm “BACKSTAGE L.A.” with guest CLAY EALS, author of “STEVE GOODMAN: FACING THE MUSIC,” broadcast tonight in Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Brentwood, Bel Air, Encino, Beverly Hills, Sherman Oaks, Woodland Hills, North Hollywood, Los Feliz and Eagle Rock, variously on cable Chs 43, 77 and 98, Recorded in July, it’s a half-hour. More at www.clayeals.com and www.backstagelosangeles.net
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Fri, Dec 5; in San Diego area:
7:30 pm KRUGER BROTHERS play a concert sponsored by Deering Banjo at Cuyamaca College, 900 Rancho San Diego Pkwy, El Cajon 91019. With the move of the Kruger Brothers from Europe to the USA 2004, Double Time Music has been acting as the business backend for the Kruger Brothers. The label has been releasing the Kruger Brothers recordings since 1998. Doors at 7 pm. Advance tix at www.doubletimemusic.com/index.php?option=com_wrapper&Itemid=68. Tix $32 ea, or 2 tix for $56.
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Fri, Dec 5:
8 pm LAWRENCE LEBO at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. She is “a lovely traditionalist spinning melodies [that we] haven’t heard quite like this since those romantic, turbulent thirties and forties,” says Dick Crocket, host of radio’s “Still Another Jazz Show” on THE VOICE, 88.7 FM, in Sacramento. West Coast vocalist-composer-arranger LAWRENCE LEBO straddles the boundaries of traditional American music. During her lengthy career, Lawrence has explored writing and performing many styles of roots music, from western swing and country to jazz and big band to the blues. John Bobey wrote in “Dirty Linen” magazine, "She sounds like what a daughter spawned by Ella Fitzgerald and Bob Wills might have." In fact, Bobey cited some of the same greats that Lawrence herself acknowledges as key influences. Add the blues into that mix, and you have Americana roots artist LAWRENCE LEBO. Her CDs "Don't Call Her Larry,” Vol. 1, and Vol. 2, have brought rave international reviews, college airplay, live performances on radio, including L.A. stations KCRW FM - and even KPCC FM, which has no music shows - and Lawrence got the attention of NPR, where she performed on the “Weekend Edition” show hosted by Liane Hansen.
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“Tuneful, assured singing.” – JazzTimes; "Lebo swings, has a good sense of voice color and a fine grasp of the mechanics of selling a classic pop tune." -The Mississippi Rag; "She's hard to catagorize, and that's good!" - L.A. Jazz Scene. More at www.lawrencelebo.com
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Tonight, Ms. Lebo is accompanied by bassist DENNY CROY, and a surprise guest.
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Ever the Renaissance Woman, LAWRENCE recently returned to traditional academia. She graduated from UCLA in summer of 2005, where she had been named a prestigious Regents Scholar and an Alumni Scholar. Tix, $15.
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Fri, Dec 5; 1st Fri, every month:
8-10 pm monthly “FIRST FRIDAY” show with guests “SONGS OF SHILOH,” the thematic duo of MARTY AXELROD & NICOLE GORDON, hosted by SEVERIN BROWNE at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; live simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. The series features performing guests (one or more recording artists) and the “First Friday Band,” with SEVERIN BROWNE, MIKE BISCH, DAVID STONE, JEFF KOSSACK, AARON WOLFSON, ALEX DEL ZOPPO and GARY POPENOE. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, every week:
8-10:30 pm THE PLOUGHBOYS play an every-Friday residency at the Tam O'Shanter, 2980 Los Feliz Bl, Los Feliz 90039; www.lawrysonline.com/tamoshanter_gen_info.asp; 323-664-0228. Band member Mark Romano says, “Great food, drinks, dancing, and of course, music!” Info & directions, www.theploughboys.com. All ages, no cover.
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Fri, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Fri, 1st Friday, EVEN-numbered months only:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “NORTH COUNTRY HOOT,” in Northridge; for location, contact Ann, NorthCountryHoot@songmakers.org or 818-993-8492; www.songmakers.org.
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Fri, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Marie, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6
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Sat & Sun, Dec 6 & 7; in Indio:
“TAMALE FESTIVAL” sponsored in and by the City of Indio, CA, includes a parade, fun, food, children’s activities, and music. Diverse entertainment includes traditional Mexican Folklorico Dancing and live music on 4 different stages. Info, www.tamalefestival.net.
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Sat, Dec 6:
9 am-5 pm FREE MUSIC SEMINAR with panels, performances, one-on-one consultations, and holiday gift shopping, at the annual “LAWIM HOLIDAY GIFT BAZAAR, BOUTIQUE SALE, & SEMINARS EVENT” sponsored by Los Angeles WoMen in Music, at Professional Musicians Local 47, 817 Vine St (S of Willoughby Av), Hollywood 90038; www.promusic47.org/contact.htm; 323-462-2161.
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It’s a full-plate day of music workshops and panels with major industry presenters (coordinated by Just Plain Folks, www.justplainfolks.org), holiday gift shopping, networking, and raffles of prizes from the vendors, including the grand prize, a Daisy Rock Guitar. Over 60 vendors, including jewelry, books, baby clothing, scarves, art, music services, skincare, musical instruments, cd’s, dolls, health services (yoga, meditation, aromatherapy) chimes, handcrafts, and more. Bring the kids and have their picture taken with Santa.
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Musicians should note the panel, “PLACING SONGS ON RADIO,” moderated by BERNARD BAUR, with panel members ERIC J. LAWRENCE (KCRW Music Librarian), JOHN FLANAGAN (Radio Promotions), and LARRY WINES (Tied to the Tracks Radio), from 10:30-11:45 am.
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Event includes “Pitch-A-Song”™ critique of your recorded song by a professional panel, from 6-8 pm (advance submission deadline was Nov 24; $15 at the door for the critique. More info, and downloadable submission / entry forms at www.lawim.com. A portion of all event proceeds benefits the local music community. Event includes raffles and prizes to benefit LAWIM and the Local 47 Relief Fund. Admission is FREE.
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Sat, Dec 6:
10 am-5 pm “FAMILY FESTIVAL” with a Mediterranean theme at The Getty Villa, 17985 Pacific Coast Hwy, Malibu; 310-440-7300; parking, $10. Travel back in time with a day of family-friendly activities at the Villa. Explore the ancient world with a day of music, storytelling, and art-making inspired by the Greek, Roman, and Etruscan antiquities in the permanent collection of the J. Paul Getty Museum at the Getty Villa. Enjoy the music of the Mediterranean, thrill to a theatrical version of The Odyssey, hear Greek myths and Italian folktales, Meet the Cyclops and other mythical characters in a theatrical version of Homer's Odyssey, and create your own jewelry based on ancient models at hands-on art workshops. Make antique-inspired headgear, explore the music of North Africa, and even help build Rome in a day.
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Music:
SOUK-SONIK performs music from the Medina, a blend of North African Gnawa rhythms and Middle Eastern melodies. Featuring AVI SILLS and ALEX SPURKEL on percussion and TIM ABDULLAH on gumbri, clarinet, and oud. Performance times are 11:15 am-noon, 1:15-2 pm, and 2:45-3:30 pm, in the Herb Garden.
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CIGANSKI VOLCAN bringsmusic of the Eastern Mediterranean and Balkans, served in a unique and worldly musical melange. With Romanian folk music at its center, the band melds flamenco, Swedish folk music, and klezmer reminiscent of the smoky cafés of Bucharest and of Gypsy caravans. Performance times are Noon-12:45 pm, 2-2:45 pm, and 4-4:45 pm, in the Inner Peristyle.
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Storytelling:
BOXTALES brings the epic poems of Homer. Join Greek hero Odysseus as he tells of his ten-year journey home from the Trojan War, including his encounters with Poseidon, Athena, Zeus, the Cyclops, and the Sirens. Performance times are 11-11:45 am and 2:15-3 pm, in the Auditorium.
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MICHAEL KATZ regales his audience with wild stories from the Italian folklore tradition, as well as classic Greek myths. Performance times are 1-1:45 pm and 3:30-4:15 pm, in the Auditorium.
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Admission is free, with a required advance, timed ticket. Each ticket allows you to bring up to three children ages 15 or under with you in one car. Tix at 310-440-7300 or use the "Get Tickets" button on the venue’s website.
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Sat, Dec 6:
“HERITAGE JUNCTION CHILDRENS CHRISTMAS KICK OFF” at the community of historic buildings in Hart Park, on San Fernando Rd in the Newhall section of Santa Clarita. Western/cowboy entertainer JOHN BERGSTROM perfoms from 11 am-12:30 pm, and he says he will “entertain those waiting to see Santa and other attractions at the Hart Park Heritage Junction. HO HO HO.”
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Sat, Dec 6; in Spring Valley:
10:30 am-12:30 pm “GREG DEERING BANJO WORKSHOPS” with Greg and special guest JENS KRUGER highlight the annual “HOLIDAY WEEKEND AT DEERING,” at the Deering Banjo Factory, 3733 Kenora Dr, Spring Valley 91977; 619-464-8252 or 800-845-7791. Reserve a spot in advance. Workshops for different levels, with different instructors include a “Pre-Beginner” workshop from 10:30-12:30 offered again, 1:30-3 pm. Workshop fee $5.
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Today’s events follow last night’s annual concert (see 7:30 pm Fri). Factory tours offered throughout the day today from 10 am-4 pm. More at www.deeringbanjos.com
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Sat, repeats every week:
11 am-12:30 pm “PACIFIC SONGWRITERS WORKSHOP” with G. F. MLELY, at Theater & Cabaret, 1535 Termino Av, Long Beach 90804. Info, Billie Kalua, songwriters@jazcraft.net or 562-494-9627. Ongoing, began Mar 31, 2007. $15 per workshop, minimum 4 workshops payable in advance; pre-registration required.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-2 pm “CONTINENTAL DRIFT” Celtic and British Isle folk show, on KUSP in Santa Cruz, includes live performance-interviews with host CINDY ODOM on her long-running show. From the highlands of Scotland to the midlands of England and beyond, it’s traditional and contemporary music from Ireland and the other British Isles, with Celtic lore and Celtic-influenced folk and ethnic music from Europe and North America. Info, playlists, and web simulcast at www.kusp.org.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
Noon-1 pm “UNSIGNED MUSIC SHOW” on WPMD with TEE-M and MIKE STARK is “a genre-busting show, where the UNsigned Revolution is on.” On the web at http://wpmd.org. Mike and TEE-M spin CDs 11 am-noon “from cutting-edge indie artists and bands,” (acoustic and electric) then welcome guests at noon, usually for all-acoustic live performances. The show rebroadcasts through the week; check site for details.
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Sat, Dec 6:
12:30 pm GUY VAN DUSER, the guitar great, plays the featured concert at the Association of Fingerstyle Guitarists Seminar at Grand Central Art Center Theater, 125 N Broadway (2nd Street Plaza, between 1st & 3rd), Santa Ana 92701. Event info, www.afg.org or call Norman, 949-836-4487. Guy Van Duser (born 1948) is an American folk-jazz guitarist. He recorded for Rounder Records extensively from the 1970s to the 1990s, and has often appeared on NPR's “A Prairie Home Companion.” His guitar arrangement of “Stars and Stripes Forever” was covered by Chet Atkins. Guy is currently a part-time professor in the guitar department at Berklee College of Music. Tix, $15.
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Pre-concert entertainment begins with an AFG Member Open Mic at 11 am. The seminar features a guitar workshop at 2:45 pm.
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Saturdays, alternate Saturdays, on web radio:
2 pm (Pacific) “ACOUSTIC HARMONY,” hosted by Mark Michaelis, from WGDR at 91.1 FM in the Green Mountains of Vermont, simulcast at www.wgdr.org. Mark sometimes hosts folk and acoustic renaissance artists in-studio for all-acoustic performance-interviews. He says, “The focus is on contemporary and traditional folk, singer-songwriters and local artists, but a little of anything and everything might creep-in. Whether it's Celtic, bluegrass, world music or even rock or blues, as long as it's got beautiful harmonies and melodies you might here it here on a Saturday afternoon.” More info, playlists, and archived performance-interviews at www.acoustic-harmony.com.
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Saturdays, on web radio:
3-5 pm (Pacific) “A PRAIRIE HOME COMPANION” always features live performances and skits and stories with host GARRISON KEILLOR, a regular cast of recording artists, and guests, whether broadcasting from various live venues across America, or from its home base in Minnesota. This initial “live” broadcast tiume each weekend is standard everywhere, though repeat times vary by station. In L.A., the show is broadcast on KPCC 89.3 FM, and repeats Saturday night, 6-8 pm and Sunday Noon-2 pm. But if you’re in L.A., it’s much better to find a web simulcast from somewhere; that’s because KPCC has no other music shows and they do not know how to control the levels for music performances, causing frequent peaking and signal cut-out.
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Sat, recurring:
4-6 pm SHAPE NOTE / SACRED HARP, “The Learners Group” in Santa Monica. Call Laura for location: 310-450-3516.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
4 pm “CHARITY AUCTION” at Amoeba Music, 6400 Sunset Bl, Hollywood; 323-245-6400. Host Brently Heilbron presides over the event, bringing a good time and money for a variety of charitable causes.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
6-10:30 pm monthly “PICKIN’ NIGHT” at the Blue Ridge Pickin' Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills; www.pickinparlor.com; 818-282-9001. Beginner’s Jam 6-7:30 pm (main store); Intermediate Jam 6-7:30 pm in their additional space at 17824 Chatsworth St, 2 doors E of the main store; Open Jam 7:30-10:30 pm in main store.
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Sat, 1st Sat, every month; in the OC:
6 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” in Mission Viejo; for location, contact David Borger & Ann Carroll, OrangeCountyHoot@songmakers.org; www.songmakers.org.
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Sat; 1st Sat every month; in Oak Glen:
NO SHOW THIS MONTH; returns Jan 3: 6 pm monthly “HOMETOWN JAMBOREE” show & jam at Riley’s at Los Rios Rancho, in the beautiful hills of Oak Glen above Yucaipa and Beaumont; info & tix, 909-797-1005 or www.losriosrancho.com.
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Sat, Dec 6:
6:30-9:30 pm “WESTERN STATE OF MIND” show with JOHN BERGSTROM & SCOTTY V, at Primo Pizza Sports Zone, 28200 Bouquet Canyon Rd (just N of Plum Canyon), Santa Clarita; 661-263-3258. They’ll play western, country, and a little blues.
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Sat, every week:
6:30-10:30 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS CONCERT at Me n’ Ed’s Pizza Parlor, 4115 Paramount Bl (at Carson), Lakewood; 562-421-8908.
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Sat, Dec 6:
7-10:30 pm “BLUE RIDGE ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTLUCK & OPEN JAM” at The Blue Ridge Pickin Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth St, Granada Hills 91344; 818-282-9001; www.pickinparlor.com. As they do every year, they say, “start your holidays with the Blue Ridge tradition! Bring your favorite dish - bring your favorite instrument - bring your favorite family & friends!” This is always a lot of fun!
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Sat, Dec 6:
7 pm “BALL & SULTAN” is the Americana roots duo of TOM BALL & KENNY SULTAN, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Tom and Kenny have been bringing their unique blend of guitar and harmonica blues, rags and good time music to widely diverse audiences for more than 25 years. They play concerts, clubs and festivals all over the world, and they were the only musical act in America to play all four venues of the 1984 Olympic Games.
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Together and separately they have made the music for countless film scores, TV soundtracks, commercials and sessions. They've appeared on television internationally, were featured on the "Levi's 501 Blues" commercials, have played for audiences of 300 million via “Voice of America” and are frequent guests of National Public Radio. Their eight duo albums have garnered critical acclaim throughout the world, and their music from the film, "Over The Edge," won them the prestigious “Telly Award” in 1994.
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At home wherever they go, Tom and Kenny fit-in, headlining blues, folk, bluegrass and jazz festivals. Because their music is a blend of American roots styles, they are regulars overseas, drawing rave reviews wherever they go.
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Over the years they have shared the stage with some of the very best, including the likes of THE ALLMAN BROTHERS, THE BEACH BOYS, NORMAN BLAKE, BOBBY "BLUE" BLAND, THE BLUES BROTHERS, DAVID BROMBERG, GATEMOUTH BROWN, JACKSON BROWNE, RAY CHARLES, CLIFTON CHENIER, RY COODER, LUTHER ALLISON, ALBERT COLLINS, ELVIS COSTELLO, JAMES COTTON, ROBERT CRAY, CHRISTOPHER CROSS, BO DIDDLEY, WILLIE DIXON, DONOVAN, BOB DYLAN, FREDDY FENDER, VINCE GILL, NANCY GRIFFITH, DAVID GRISMAN, JOHN HAMMOND, EMMYLOU HARRIS, JOHN HARTFORD, JEFF HEALY, DON HENLEY, BILLY IDOL, IRON MAIDEN, ETTA JAMES, CHAKA KHAN, ALBERT KING, B.B. KING, LEO KOTTKE, ALISON KRAUSS, FELA KUTI, DAVID LINDLEY, LIVING COLOR, KENNY LOGGINS, LYLE LOVETT, TAJ MAHAL, KATHY MATTEA, JOHN MAYALL, MICHAEL MCDONALD, BROWNIE MCGHEE, JIM MESSINA, BILL MONROE, VAN MORRISON, NASHVILLE BLUEGRASS BAND, WILLIE NELSON, NEVILLE BROTHERS, NEWGRASS REVIVAL, RANDY NEWMAN, JOHNNY OTIS, QUEEN IDA, BONNIE RAITT, TONY RICE, SELDOM SCENE, PAUL SIMON, SIMPLE MINDS, MICHELLE SHOCKED, RICKY SKAGGS, KOKO TAYLOR, GEORGE THOROGOOD, TOTO, BIG JOE TURNER, STEVIE RAY VAUGHAN, EDDIE "CLEANHEAD" VINSON, DOC & MERLE WATSON, JUNIOR WELLS, and many others. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Dec 6:
7 pm KEN O’MALLEY performs his Irish-themed “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH” at the Rialto Playhouse, 150 E. San Bernardino Ave., Rialto, CA 92376. It’s “Memories of Ireland's winter nights and the Holy season,” brought to life through song and story. Ken is doing only two of these shows, for the holidays, Dec 6 in Rialto and Dec 7 in NoHo. Known for his band, KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS, his most recent solo CD, "Ómáille," had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Ken O'Malley is the recipient of the "LA Treasures Award" from the City of Los Angeles and the California Traditional Music Society. This grant will provide partial support for two solo performances in the next few months. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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Sat, every week; in Tehachapi:
7 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; www.mamahillybeans.com; 661-822-BEAN. Venue has great ambience, and food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." Traveling acts have varying admission prices; check venue's web site.
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Sat, Dec 6; in Poway (San Diego):
7 pm TRAILS & RAILS plays the San Diego Folk Heritage series at Templar's Hall, Old Poway Park, 14134 Midland Rd, Poway; 858-566-4040; SDFH@san.rr.com. WALT RICHARDS & PAULA STRONG have enjoyed performing together for over twenty years in various groups, including Bow Willow and Mandolin Madness. Trails & Rails has appeared at many Western Music Events over the last couple of years, carrying on the grand tradition of Western music. In Nov, 2005, Trails & Rails won the Duo Harmony competition at the Western Music Association Music Festival and annual gathering in Albuquerque. Collecting and sharing cowboy and train songs, along with information about the history of the West, is just one of their many passions. Artist info, http://members.cox.net/trailsandrails. Adv tix, www.ticketweb.com; $18 gen’l, $15 mbrs.
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Sat, Dec 6:
7:30 pm I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. plus THE CHAPIN SISTERS in an all-acoustic show at the Folk Music Center & Museum, 220 Yale Av, Claremont; 909-624-2928.
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I SEE HAWKS have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” between national tours and gigs and festivals in the UK. We’ve yet to hear THE CHAPIN SISTERS, but we have heard lots about them that’s excellent. Doors at 7 pm. $15.
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Sat, every week:
7:30-10:30 pm GRATEFUL DUDES weekly bluegrass concert at Vincenzo’s Pizza, 24500 Lyons Ave, Newhall; 661-259-6733. (Lyons exit, just off I-5.) This a long-running series, often, with very impressive performing guests.
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Sat; every Sat:
7:30 pm “RANCH PARTY” evening of country & Americana roots music performances, on the West Patio Stage, Original Farmers Market, 3rd & Fairfax, L.A. Presented by EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. New in April, 2008. Performers have included DAVID SERBY, GRANT LANGSTON, 29 MULES, BOB WOODRUFF, OLD BULL, PSYCHEDELIC COWBOYS, PAUL CHESNE, NICOLE GORDON, and BUCKSWORTH. Parking: 2 hours free with validation from EB’s Beer & Wine Bar. $3 for the third hour; $1 for each additional 20 minutes; $15 max. Addt’l parking at The Grove, next door. Get validation for their structure from Grove merchants. No cover.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
7:30-11:30 pm “SANTA MONICA TRADITIONAL FOLK MUSIC CLUB” at Santa Monica Synagogue, 1448 18th St (corner of 18th & Broadway), Santa Monica. Info, coordinator April Halprin Wayland, 310-376-8760, Aprilstory@aol.com; www.santamonicafolkmusicclub.org.
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Sat, Dec 6; in Ojai:
7:30 pm PATRICK BALL brings “THE CHRISTMAS ROSE” to the “Performances to Grow On” series at Matilija Auditorium, Matilija Jr High School, 703 El Paseo Rd, Ojai. Event & series info, www.ptgo.org; 805-646-8907. A very special evening with acclaimed musician and storyteller Patrick Ball, as he performs “The Christmas Rose,” a holiday piece featuring the Irish harp combined with magical tales like “A Child's Christmas in Wales,” “The Wind in the Willows,” and passages from Shakespeare, William Butler Yeats and Thomas Hardy. The promo on this calls it, “the perfect blend of seasonal music and stories that touch the heart with a message of hope. Hope for something wondrous. Hope for a light in the darkness.” Tix $18 advance, $20 door.
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Sat, Dec 6:
8 pm TONY McMANUS plays the Caltech Folk Music Society series in Beckman Institute Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); www.folkmusic.caltech.edu; this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5882.html. Tony McManus is an outstanding guitarist whose work ranges from purely Celtic to the most unusual other selections. Artist info, www.tonymcmanus.com.
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In little over ten years as a professional musician, Tony McManus has come to be recognized throughout the world as the leading guitarist in Celtic Music. Self taught from childhood, initially through listening to the family record collection, McManus abandoned academia in his twenties to pursue music full time. The session scene in Glasgow and Edinburgh provided the springboard for gigs around Scotland and a studio set for BBC Radio, frequently rebroadcast, began to spread the word.
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"McManus's guitar playing is faultless... atmospheric and evocative... consistently appealing whether it's on Breton dance tunes, pipe laments or the Mingus tune, ‘Goodbye Pork Pie Hat’... the true star… is McManus's playing - a virtuoso performance from a guitarist at the top of his game." - Mick Fitzsimmons (Producer, Radio 2 Online - the complete review and soundclips can be found on the Folk and Acoustic website).
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"If his playing betrays an almost classical discipline on occasions, it is always informed by the tradition. Wether he is playing Irish or Scottish music,his virtuosity effectively masks the fact that his instrument is native to neither.....surely the sign of a master musician. This combination of musical competence and respect for the tradition doesn't just make for pleasant listening but assures this album a wider audience than just the followers of folk." - Seán Ó hÉalaí, presenter / producer 'An Chaint sa gCathair', Raidió na Gaeltachta RTE Dublin.
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(Note that David Mallett, previously announced for tonight, has been postponed, no new date.) Info & tix, Caltech Ticket Office, 626-395-4652 or 1-888-2CALTECH. Tix $15 gen’l, $5 youth.
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Sat, Dec 6:
8 pm STEPHANIE BETTMAN brings bluegrass / newgrass with fine vocals and fiddle-centered music to the California Traditional Music Society (CTMS) concert series, in the CTMS Center for Folk Music, Encino Park, 16953 Ventura Bl (1 block W of Balboa Bl), Encino 91316; tix & info, www.ctmsfolkmusic.org or 818-817-7756 (11 am-4 pm). Doors at 7:30 pm. Stephanie’s music is new and very catchy; an engaging mixture of bluegrass, folk, roots, and jazz with sophisticated lyrics and killer instrumentation sent in a folky mountain vibe. She has an amazing voice, and when her band chimes in with those soaring harmonies, audiences have been heard to literally gasp “wow.” Stephanie and her band have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” before they were the grand prize winners in the 2008 Southern California Live Acoustic Music Competition; they were already among the winners in the 2007 Topanga Banjo Fiddle Contest. Since then, they delighted the Bluegrass Society of Southern California headlining the monthly BASC “Bluegrass at the Braemar” dinner-and-a-show. Grammy-winning fiddler RICHARD GREENE calls Stephanie, “A phenomenal singer, songwriter and fiddler.” More at www.stephaniebettman.com. You can purchase multi-concert packages and save from prices shown. Adv tix, $15 ($25 front section, $30 front row; tix at door are unreserved seats only, $20.
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Sat, Dec 6:
JACKSH*T at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $15.
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Sat, Dec 6:
8 pm GRAVITY 180 at Russ & Julie's House Concert series in Oak Park (Thousand Oaks area); www.myspace.com/russjuliehouseconcerts; www.houseconcerts.us. Reserv & directions at houseconcerts@jrp-graphics.com.
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Russ and Julie tell us, “When we ask long-time supporters of Russ & Julie's House Concerts, ‘who would you most like us to have back?’ one of the most common answers is a band named GRAVITY. We are thrilled to have them back here.” Now called Gravity 180, the trio consists of three master musicians: CLYDENE JACKSON, vocals / keyboards, HAROLD PAYNE, vocals / guitar, and percussionist OLIVER C. BROWN. Melodic pop is framed with classic soul; global grooves are polished by smooth jazz with Jackson and Payne's patented vocal blend creating what one inspired scribe dubbed "sandpaper and silk."
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Performing for more than twenty years, L.A.-based Gravity 180 has released a series of CDs on both major and independent labels, launched tours to Hawaii and Japan, and endeared themselves to a worldwide audience. All three members maintain separate career identities in addition to this ensemble.
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CLYDENE JACKSON is a two time winner of the “NARAS MVP Best Female Vocalist Award” and a first-call session singer for the world's leading artists including Barbra Streisand, Michael Jackson, Michael McDonald, and Don Henley, as well as film soundtracks and recording projects including “The Lion King,” “Superman Returns,” and “American Gangster.”
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OLIVER C. BROWN officially began his music career as the house percussionist for TK Records in Miami, which led to him becoming one of the original members of KC and the Sunshine Band. He has since worked with Nancy Wilson, Jermaine Jackson, Billy Preston, Leo Sayer, Al Jarreau, and Fleetwood Mac among others.
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HAROLD PAYNE has had his songs recorded by acts as diverse as Patti LaBelle, Rod Stewart, and long time collaborator Bobby Womack. Literally, from Peter, Paul & Mary to Snoop Dogg, Harold has a song for everyone: most recently Kelly Rowland from Destiny's Child. Russ & Julie add, “Harold has performed here a couple of times as a solo artist and remains among our favorites.” He is known for his “Power of Positive Music” project, and for maintaining the orientation that drove that project and his outlook of life and his songs.
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By updating their name from Gravity to Gravity 180, the trio confirms their legacy while noting the positive pulse of change. "A new name signifies a new turn," says Payne. "But Gravity is still the force that holds everything together." Brown's brother, Eddie Brown of the famed folk duo, "Joe and Eddie", is a frequent collaborator on songs with Payne and Jackson. Eddie and smooth jazz guitarist Nils ("Pacific Coast Highway" and composer for the Showtime series, “Weeds”) are credited with co-producing Gravity 180's newest project. See and hear more at www.myspace.com/Gravity180 and www.gravity180.net
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The evning features a coffee & dessert buffet, to which contributions are welcome. Doors at 7:30 pm. All proceeds go to the artist. Upcoming in the series: Jan 30, 2009 - Terri Hendrix; Feb 15, 2009 - Steve Gillette & Cindy Mangsen; Mar 20, 2009 - The Buccaneers. Tonight, $15.
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Sat, Dec 6:
8 pm “JAPANESE FUSION SERIES #4” presents MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN plus SHAMALAMACORD at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html.
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“MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” is the unlikely collaboration of world champions formed in the spring of 2006 when California-based Tsugaru shamisen performers KEVIN KMETZ and MIKE PENNY, both shamisen players for the cross-pollinated gypsy group FISHTANK ENSEMBLE, joined forces with Japan-based shamisen virtuoso and two-time tournament champion MASAHIRO NITTA. (FISHTANK ENSEMBLE has performed several times at the venue, and on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and both the shamisen and the accordion are signatures of that group’s music.)
+
“MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” offers audiences a most exciting and innovative exposition of modern music performed on an instrument called the “Tsugaru shamisen.” Indeed, the performance from this trio is one of the best in the world. Pooling their respective musical backgrounds, the “monsters” draw inspiration from a wide variety of musical styles, including baroque/classical, Balkan gypsy, American bluegrass, Irish folk music, and even modern rock/pop. To see their live performance is to experience a fortunate fusion, not only of east and west, but, these three tell us, “of past and future, good and evil!”
+
MASAHIRO NITTA is arguably the best shamisen player in the wold. He was inspired to play the instrument at age 14, by his father. Masahiro won the Junior High School National Championship title for Tsugaru Shamisen in 1998, after playing for only seven months. In 2000 and 2001, he was awarded the championship title at Japan’s National Tournament in Kanagi, and he again won the championship title in 2002 in Tokyo. In addition, he’s had a film role, starring in 2004 as Oishi Seichiro in the motion picture, “Overdrive.”
+
KEVIN KMETZ became the first foreigner in history to win the honorary “Daijo Kazuo Award” at the Tsugaru Shamisen Championship Competition in 2005, held in Kanagi, Japan. Kevin took the "Judges Choice" Award at the Hirosaki Championship tournament the same year. In both 2006 and 2007, Kevin placed “Nyusho” (runner-up) at Hirosaki, and “Jyun Yuusho” (2nd place) at Kanagi.
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MIKE PENNY is the second foreigner ever to win an award in the national Tsugaru Shamisen Tournament held annually in Kanagi, Japan. In the 2006 competition, Mike won 3rd place in his class, out of more than 200 competitors. Mike performs with accordionist AARON SEEMAN (aka DUCKMANDU) in the accordion / shamisen duo, SHAMALAMACORD.
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Hear their music at www.myspace.com/monstersofshamisen. The 8 pm concert is $15 adv; the 5 pm workshop is $10 adv. Tix, www.panioloproductions.com/store.html.
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Sat, every week:
8-10 pm ACOUSTIC PERFORMANCE, singer-songwriter or band, at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info / web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Sat, first Sat every month:
8-10 pm monthly “JUKE JOINT GANG” show at The Talking Stick (new location), 1411c Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. It’s an evening of fine acoustic roots music, with four acts, each playing a 30-min set. Usually hosted by ERNEST TROOST and/or LAUREN ADAMS, who have each performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Venue has coffeehouse fare, good sandwiches. No cover.
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Sat, first Sat every month; in the OC:
8 pm-midnight SONGMAKERS “ORANGE COUNTY HOOT” meets in a private home in Mission Viejo. Info, www.songmakers.org/hoots/orange_county_hoot.htm.
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Sat, Dec 6; in Seattle:
8 pm THE CUTTERS & FRIENDS play the monthly Northwest Seaport Maritime Concert, at a special location, Immanuel Lutheran Church, 1215 Thomas Street (5 blks S of Lake Union Park at the intersection of Thomas & Pontius), Seattle; map at www.mapquest.com/maps?city=Seattle&state=WA&address=1215+Thomas+Street&zipcode=98109. Hosted by Phillip Morgan, all concerts start at 8 and last until after 10 pm. Coffee, tea, baked goods, and more, are available. Maritime music CDs for sale. Info, www.nwseaport.org/programs.html. Tix, $15 gen’l, $10 srs, youth, and mbrs of Northwest Seaport or the Center for Wooden Boats.
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Sat, every week:
9 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line / couple dance lessons with Charlotte, 7-9 pm. No cover.
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Sat, every week; on TV:
11 pm-12 am "AUSTIN CITY LIMITS" on KLCS (check your cable co.; broadcast TV Ch. 58). Recent editions have happily featured classic Americana artists, rather than the dearth of alt rockers who dominated for several months.
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7
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ON THIS DAY IN 1941, which, like today, was a Sunday, the US Navy’s 7th Fleet and numerous US Navy and US Army Air Corps airfields in and around Pearl Harbor, on the island of Oahu, Hawaii, were attacked by aircraft carrier-based bomber, torpedo bomber, and fighter aircraft of the Empire of Imperial Japan.
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Until that moment, the US had been a nation at peace, even as World War II raged in Europe, Asia, and Africa. President Roosevelt’s speech to Congress on December 8 would forever brand December the 7th as the “Day of infamy.”
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The Japanese air attack sunk all the fleet’s battleships, but missed the US Navy’s 3 aircraft carriers, which were at sea. The attack was a horrific shock to all Americans.
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It galvanized a reticent American people and catapaulted the US into the war on the Allied side, alongside embattled Britain and the French forces in exile, together with Canada, Australia and New Zealand, partisans from many occupied nations, and the Soviet Union – which had been aligned with Hitler until that nation experienced its own equivalent of Pearl Harbor in the form of a massive Nazi invasion. Leadership of the Allied war effort soon passed to the Americans.
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It was America’s inductrial might and unbombed factories that built the “arsenal of democracy” and the ships, planes, tanks, and everything else that was needed to supply the Allied forces. Thus, America led the hard struggle against Hitler’s Nazi Germany and Mussolini’s Fascist Italy in Europe, and the simultaneous war in the Pacific against Japan, which had already conquered much of China and Southeast Asia and Korea.
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We all know the eventual outcomes in 1945, but we should all remember that it very well might have gone the other way. The days of early 1942 were bleak. The US Navy - left with little more than a handful of submarines and three aircraft carriers in the could have failed in the Pacific at Midway. And the Americans and their Allies could have failed in North Africa, or in Italy. The B-17 and B-24 bomber crews suffered two-and-half years of horrific loses conducting daylight bombing missions in the skies over Europe, and nearly did fail. On D-Day at Normandy, or on the Pacific islands of Iwo Jima and Tarawa and Okinawa, the Americans and the Allies could have failed.
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But ordinary people became extraordinary in those times. A now-vanished American industrial capacity enabled the Americans of that time to persevere, and to prevail. How ironic that America’s industrial base has been shipped to cheap labor markets in other parts of the world, including to the nations of former and potential adversaries. One must fervently hope that America’s most important export remains the fulfillment of the human spirit in free will, with the utter rejection of the yoke and the jackboot, and rejection of any willingness to be slave or master. Though that requires constant vigil, at home and abroad.
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Would the world have so many free nations today, were it not for the shock of Pearl Harbor, and the cascade of events and revelations and technological innovations that followed it? Would air travel, and complaining about it being overcrowded and delayed and devoid of real food, be routine? Would medical technology have advanced so far, even if access to it is priced beyond the reach of far too many Americans?
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Would the movement for racial equality have become urgent, without the segregated armed services of World War II, and the casting aside of those cruelly archaic barriers by President Truman, who presided over the end of that war? Without the shared struggle necessitated by Pearl Harbor, would society have realized that imposing prejudices denies opportunity not only to the object of discrimination, but to the entire society? Could America today have elected a black president without those lessons?
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Much of our modern world has its roots in the shallow waters of Pearl Harbor, and what happened there this very morning in 1941. It is always up to us to determine whether we are committed to achieving good, without the need to suffer the horrors yet again.
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In our time, we felt a shock akin to Pearl Harbor, visited upon us on 9-11, though our government’s response to that attack has hardly been comparable. Nonetheless, this day, December 7, is as appropriate as Veteran’s Day or Memorial Day to remember all the struggles, the losses and sacrifices that can and do enable us, that give us the boundless opportunities and the inherited need to build a better and more equitable society for each other, and a better and more just world for all who dwell upon it.
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Sun, every week:
10 am-2 pm LIVE MUSIC at WEST L.A. FARMERS MARKET, 11360 Santa Monica Bl (at Corinth); www.westlafarmersmarket.com. Includes free raffle for Farmers Market fresh food. A nice, permanent band shell stage and good sound system distinguish this one. Usually the first act performs from 10 or 10:30 am-noon, there’s a second act noon-1 pm, a break for the raffle of market goodies, and the final act performs 1:15-2 pm. This is a well-structured event. Free wifi at the farmers market and throughout the West L.A. Civic Center Plaza, and Free kids crafts table operated by volunteers 9 am-2 pm, both sponsored by West L.A. Neighborhood Council www.wlanc.com. When you are on the plaza with your laptop, select wlancwifi as your free wireless network. Free event. Map to free parking, www.westlafarmersmarket.com/Location.htm.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Sunset Strip, 8430 Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 323-848-5100.
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Sun, every week:
10 am & 1 pm “GOSPEL BRUNCH” at House of Blues Anaheim, 1530 S Disneyland Dr, Anaheim; 714-778-2583.
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Sun, Dec 7:
11 am JACKIE BREGER plays A “HOLIDAY MATINEE KIDS SHOW” at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $15.
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Sun, every week:
Noon-3 pm “AMERICANA BRUNCH” with different live performers each week, at Safari Sam's, 5214 Sunset Bl, Hollywood 90027. Hosted by Hillbilly DJ Jeff W, who David Serby says, “Not only puts these Sunday shows together, but he spins some serious old school country, honky tonk and rockabilly music, too.”
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Sun, every week:
12:30 pm families; 1:30 pm adults only COMMUNITY DRUM CIRCLES at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sun; 12:30 pm families, 1:30 pm adults only. Bring your own drum or percussion instrument to the drum circle or use one of those provided by the gallery. Taught by Mr Blue, a versatile artist from New York.
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Sun; 1st Sun, every month:
1-5 pm “1ST SUNDAYS BLUEGRASS JAM” at El Camino College, 16007 Crenshaw Blvd., Torrance; first Sun, every month. Bill Elliott 909-678-1180; Ron Walters 310-534-1439.
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Sun, 1st Sun, every month:
1 pm Monthly “CTMS OLD TIME JAM” at the Center for Folk Music, 16953 Ventura Bl, Encino; 818-817-7756. Free.
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Sun, recurring:
1:30 pm WELSH CHOIR, for location, contact Rutthy: 818-507-0337.
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Sun, Dec 7:
2 pm “SOUTH PASADENA ARTS BENEFIT” includes BRAD COLERICK playing solo acoustic, and the SOUTH PASADENA STRINGS ORCHESTRA, at 1944 Milan Av, South Pasadena. Info, http://i192.photobucket.com/albums/z123/bcolerick/Picture11.png or call 626-799-4468. Twenty local artists will show and sell their work to benefit Katrina victims and their families. Food, music, and art included. Proceeds benefit the patients at Louisiana Childrens Hospital. Admission charge is a new, unwrapped toy to be given as a holiday gift to a patient at the childrens hospital.
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BRAD COLERICK is featured in a recent issue of Billboard Magazine, and called, “one of a baker’s dozen of acts to watch in the folk community around the world." He has worked with a long list of musical icons from JOHNNY CASH to BB KING. Brad has performed live, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and scored a “Listener Favorite” there. An Associated Press review of Colerick’s latest CD, “Lines In The Dirt,” says, “The 11-song set shows that Colerick’s excellent 2006 release, ‘Cottonwood’ – his first album in 19 years – was no fluke.” With contributions from SUZY BOGGUSS, LARRY KLEIN, HERB PEDERSEN, APRIL VERCH, and LOWEN & NAVARRO, “Lines In The Dirt” is marvelous, filled with honest, original, unique and memorable songwriting and fine music making from Brad and his stellar cast of guest artists. You can catch Brad's videos of "Time Away" and "Let Her Fall In Love" in occasional rotation on the GAC TV channel; that’s especially notable, because he’s a pure Americana original, and certainly not just another Nashville clone.
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Sun; first Sun every month; in Nipomo:
2 pm WILD RIVER RAMBLERS bring bluegrass to Santa Maria Brewing Co, 112 Cuyama Ln (1/2 blk W of the 101), Nipomo; 805-349-2090. Features JULIO BOYSENBERRY on banjo. “2 PM to whenever.”
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Sun, Dec 7:
3 pm GUY VAN DUSER at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. $15.
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Sun, recurring:
3-5:30 pm JAZZ COMPOSERS WORKSHOP at Rock Rose Gallery/Productions & Arroyo Books, 4108 N Figueroa St, Sycamore Grove; 323-222-4740; rockroseart@yahoo.com; www.rockrosegallery.com. Every Sunday.
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Sun, Dec 7:
4 pm “MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” plus SHAMALAMACORD at the Sozenji Buddhist Temple, 3020 W Beverly Bl, Montebello; 323-724-6866; www.sozenji.org. (Originally announced for 7 pm, the show is at 4 pm today.) This unlikely collaboration of world champions formed in the spring of 2006 when California-based Tsugaru shamisen performers KEVIN KMETZ and MIKE PENNY, both shamisen players for the cross-pollinated gypsy group FISHTANK ENSEMBLE, joined forces with Japan-based shamisen virtuoso and two-time tournament champion MASAHIRO NITTA. (FISHTANK ENSEMBLE has performed several times at the venue, and on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and both the shamisen and the accordion are signatures of that group’s music.)
+
“MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” offers audiences a most exciting and innovative exposition of modern music performed on an instrument called the “Tsugaru shamisen.” Indeed, the performance from this trio is one of the best in the world. Pooling their respective musical backgrounds, the “monsters” draw inspiration from a wide variety of musical styles, including baroque/classical, Balkan gypsy, American bluegrass, Irish folk music, and even modern rock/pop. To see their live performance is to experience a fortunate fusion, not only of east and west, but, these three tell us, “of past and future, good and evil!”
+
MASAHIRO NITTA is arguably the best shamisen player in the wold. He was inspired to play the instrument at age 14, by his father. Masahiro won the Junior High School National Championship title for Tsugaru Shamisen in 1998, after playing for only seven months. In 2000 and 2001, he was awarded the championship title at Japan’s National Tournament in Kanagi, and he again won the championship title in 2002 in Tokyo. In addition, he’s had a film role, starring in 2004 as Oishi Seichiro in the motion picture, “Overdrive.”
+
KEVIN KMETZ became the first foreigner in history to win the honorary “Daijo Kazuo Award” at the Tsugaru Shamisen Championship Competition in 2005, held in Kanagi, Japan. Kevin took the "Judges Choice" Award at the Hirosaki Championship tournament the same year. In both 2006 and 2007, Kevin placed “Nyusho” (runner-up) at Hirosaki, and “Jyun Yuusho” (2nd place) at Kanagi.
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MIKE PENNY is the second foreigner ever to win an award in the national Tsugaru Shamisen Tournament held annually in Kanagi, Japan. In the 2006 competition, Mike won 3rd place in his class, out of more than 200 competitors. Mike performs with accordionist AARON SEEMAN (aka DUCKMANDU) in the accordion / shamisen duo, SHAMALAMACORD. Hear their music at www.myspace.com/monstersofshamisen.
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Sun, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Finn McCool, 2702 Main St, Santa Monica; 310-452-1734.
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Sun, every week:
4-7 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Auld Dubliner, 71 S Pine Av, Long Beach; 562-437-8300; www.aulddubliner.com.
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Sun, every week:
4-6 pm “BEGINNERS IRISH MUSIC SESSION” weekly at Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Sun, every week:
5 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) and WEEKLY COMPLIMENTARY BBQ at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. (BBQ changed to 5-8 pm, effective July 4.) Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free line dance lessons with Bonnie, 4-6 pm. Every Sunday they “light up the 'ol barbie and throw on anything from marinated tri-tip beef to good 'ol hamburgers. Every BBQ is served with all the fixin's, like baked beans, vegetables, rice, cole slaw, potato salad and more.” They tell us, “If you're looking for something really fun and different to do on Sundays, then head on down to The Cowboy Palace Saloon for dance lessons at 4, mouthwatering BBQ at 5, and a hot country band starting at 6!” No cover.
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Sun; first Sun every month; in Santa Margarita:
5:30-8:30 pm SANTA MARGARITA JAM (bluegrass & more) at "The Porch" (formerly Solomon's Café), 22322 El Camino Real (Rt 58), Santa Margarita. First 1/2 hour is a free music lesson for anyone getting started; remainder of evening is an open jam for all pickers. Bluegrass / trad / old time oriented. Info, siminoff@siminoff.net.
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Sun, Dec 7:
7 pm “CELTIC CHRISTMAS” with DRUID at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. DRUID is the Irish folk band created by Belfast Harpist JULIE MONDIN, and together they provide marvelous traditional music, with tonight’s selections themed for their special “Celtic Christmas” concert. Expect musical beauty and joy and holiday spirit performed on traditional instruments including Celtic harp, fiddle, concertina, guitar, bodhran, and the occasional uillean piper, “with some fresh arrangements and a few untouched classics, along with the authentic Celt tunes we all love and don't get enough of,” says Julie. Step dancers help ring in the holidays to the beat of an Irish heart.
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Druid always provides a frolicsome evening of traditional and original Irish music, filled with instrumentation and song. It’s a good all-ages show, with toe tappin', hand clappin' dance tunes. There might be songs of love and whiskey, as well. Enjoy some of the finest of Ireland’s music, right here in Southern California. Reservations strongly suggested, but call the venue even if it’s the day of the show. Tix $20.
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Sun, Dec 7:
7 pm KEN O’MALLEY performs his Irish-themed “SONGS BY A WINTER'S HEARTH” at the Secret Rose Theatre, 11246 Magnolia Bl, North Hollywood 91601. It’s “Memories of Ireland's winter nights and the Holy season,” brought to life through song and story. Ken is doing only two of these shows, for the holidays, Dec 6 in Rialto and Dec 7 in NoHo. Known for his band, KEN O’MALLEY & THE TWILIGHT LORDS, his most recent solo CD, "Ómáille," had its world premiere on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Ken O'Malley is the recipient of the "LA Treasures Award" from the City of Los Angeles and the California Traditional Music Society. This grant will provide partial support for two solo performances in the next few months. Artist info, www.kenomalley.com.
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Sun, Dec 7:
“MONSTERS OF SHAMISEN” plus SHAMALAMACORD at the Sozenji Buddhist Temple, 3020 W Beverly Bl, Montebello; 323-724-6866; www.sozenji.org. Previously announced for 7 pm, this show is today at 4 pm; see listing.
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Sun, every Sun:
7-8 pm JES HUDAK plays her weekly residency at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). JES HUDAK is a singer/songwriter living in Los Angeles. Her weapons of choice are the piano and her voice, and she has been known to wield a guitar from time to time. Her live performance “takes her audience on a journey through laughter and love and sadness and heartbreak. Her voice is powerful and soulful, and her songs are original, emotional, and real.” Artist info, www.jes-hudak.com and www.myspace.com/jeshudak
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Sun, Dec 7; in Lancaster:
7 pm LOS LOBOS at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. The pride of East L.A., Los Lobos is one of America's most distinctive and original bands. Their Mexican heritage and diverse musical attitudes merge to become one graceful, gritty sound. Who better to warm a cold winter’s night with inner-city heat? www.loslobos.org. Tix $45 & $40.
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Sun, every week:
7 pm PERFORMANCE WORKSHOP WITH MARC PLATT at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; www.kulakswoodshed.com. Must be a member in advance to gain entry. Limit 10 performers per week. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/workshop.shtml. Each week's workshop is $20, with all proceeds to the venue.
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Sun, every week, on radio and web radio:
7-9 pm “FOLKSCENE” is a long-running folk music show from Los Angeles, hosted by ROZ LARMAN on KPFK 90.7 FM in Los Angeles, 98.7 FM in Santa Barbara, and simulcast at www.kpfk.org. Each edition features a long-form performance-interview, recorded live, with a guest recording artist. The show celebrated its 37th year on the air in February 2008. Info on the show and guests, playlists, and tributes to the late co-host HOWARD LARMAN, at www.folkscene.com.
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Sun, every week, on web radio:
7 pm “FLAT CAT RADIO,” hosted by DAVE STRAUSS, features live on-air performance-interviews at www.myspace.com/flatcatradio. It’s a weekly live web-only show focused on Los Angeles-based songwriters of all genres, but the live segment is generally an acoustic performance.
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Sun, Dec 7:
8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (Fountain at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. Ongoing Flamenco series takes place on the first and third Sunday of every month. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern California, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain. Series continues Sundays, 8 pm, Dec 14 (no show Dec 21, as previously announced). Secure, on-site parking is $5; tix $30.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 8
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Mon, every week:
2-4 pm “HEAR, HERE” at the Lost Souls Café, 124 E 4th St (down the gated alley), downtown L.A.; 213-617-7006; www.lostsouls.com. A weekly live benefit event of “whatever” kind of music, by and for www.killradio.org, which has daily internet radio and live webcasts on Fridays, Noon-2 pm. The “Kill Radio” webcast is a submission show; send them your CDs or mp3s for “guaranteed” airplay. All the info for that is at www.myspace.com/hear_here.
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Mon, every Mon, on the web:
3:59-5:15 pm (Pacific time) “WOODSONGS OLD TIME RADIO HOUR” live simulcast from Lexington, Kentucky. Those near Lexington are invited to attend the show live; the rest of us can watch and listen live on the web, or download the podcast later, at www.woodsongs.com. The host is folksinger MICHAEL JOHNATHON, and both he and many of his guests have performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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Michael’s “WoodSongs Old-Time Radio Hour” is a multi-media celebration of grassroots Americana music, heard worldwide in radio syndication (except in L.A.) and seen and heard on the web. Every Monday evening, Michael and his guests perform folk and bluegrass, and the show explores songwriting, new artists, literature, worldwide radio, television and concerts. WoodSongs is the world first multi-camera, weekly series broadcast on the Internet. Online viewers worldwide can watch the behind-the-scenes production heard by over 900,000 radio listeners on over 491 radio stations each week. Here’s the weekly schedule, adjusted to Pacific time: 4 pm - watch the 60 minute show live as it happens; 5:03 pm - join the audience as they record the promo for the just-completed show; 5:05 pm - enjoy the guest artist's encore performances, not heard on the radio broadcast.
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Each show is later archived on line, for free 24/7 viewing in various media formats, and available streaming and as a podcast.
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Mon; every Mon:
6-10 pm MARC BOSSERMAN plays his residency at Parkway Grill, 510 S Arroyo Pkwy, Pasadena 91105; reserv recommended, 626-795-1001 (or hang out at the bar). He delivers fine piano and vocals. Info, www.marcbosserman.com.
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Mon, recurring, on web radio:
6 pm (Pacific) “RALPH’S BACK PORCH” broadcast from Texas, usually has live in-studio western music guests; call-in number to chat with Ralph and guests, 347 215 8849; catch the show at www.blogtalkradio.com/ralphsbackporch.
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Mon; repeats every 2nd & 4th Mon:
7-10 pm CORONA BLUEGRASS JAM at Crossroads Christian Church, 2331 Kellogg Av (at Ontario Av), Corona. Info, contact Todd Holtkamp, 951-347-2597 or onetoad@adelphia.net. Todd says, “Open Jam, all levels welcome. Having a good time is mandatory. If the weather is good we will be outside in front of the main building. If the weather is bad we will be inside.”
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Mon, every week:
“PRO BLUES JAM” at Cozy's Bar & Grill, 14058 Ventura Blvd, Sherman Oaks; 818-986-6000 www.cozysblues.com.
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Mon, every week:
“ALL STAR PRO JAM” (blues, R&B, jazz, soul, etc.) every Monday at Harvelle's, 1432 Fourth St, Santa Monica; 310-395-1676.
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Mon, every week:
7:30 pm OPEN MIC at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; Web simulcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Hosted by LISA TURNER. Kulak’s provides all necessary connections for acoustic stage, plus a baby grand piano. Sign-ups 7-7:15 pm, show at 7:30 pm. Performers may choose (in advance) to purchase a multi-camera DVD of their performance. One (max length 3-4 minute) song per performer. Info, www.kulakswoodshed.com/openmic.shtml. All artists donate their performances; venue is supported by donations, and asks $10 per attendee in lieu of a cover charge.
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Mon, Dec 8; in Lancaster:
8 pm “WYNONA: A CHRISTMAS CLASSIC” at the Lancaster Performing Arts Center, 750 W Lancaster Bl, Lancaster; 661-723-5950; www.lpac.org. Spreading festive cheer across the country, WYNONNA JUDD brings soulful renditions of traditional holiday classics like "White Christmas" and "Winter Wonderland," alongside her own country hits. www.wynonna.com Tix $77 & $70.
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Mon, every week:
ON HIATUS: 8-11 pm blues legend BERNIE PEARL has long hosted the weekly BLUES JAM at M'Dear's, 78th & Western, L.A. But, the series is on hiatus because the venue is remodeling. We’ll let you know when it returns. Artist info, www.berniepearl.com.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “BLUE MONDAYS” brings NEW ORLEANS WEST and featured blues performers to Club Fais Do Do, 5257 W Adams Bl, L.A. 90016; www.faisdodo.com; 323-215-5212; (Adams & Cloverdale; exit La Brea S from 10 Fwy). Free red beans & rice with BBQ chicken.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “KILLING CASSANOVA'S SALOON MONDAYS” series at The Bordello, 901 E First St, L.A 90012; www.bordellobar.com; 213-687-3766. Event info, scheduled performers, www.myspace.com/saloonmonday. Always a lineup of alt-country and roots bands, often with names you recognize and already know you want to go see. The Bordello is the oldest bar and brothel in downtown Los Angeles, reflecting its legendary status as the theater of the unusual and provocative, and it is now the venue for “Killing Cassanova’s Saloon Mondays.” $3 cover.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “ACOUSTIC MONDAYS” in-the-round showcase, guided by singer-songwriter JAY NASH, with different guest artists each week, at Room 5, 143 N LaBrea Av (2nd floor, above Amalfi Ristorante), L.A. 90036; 323-938-2504. Upscale, cozy atmosphere with affordable food. Full bar and menu.
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Mon, every week:
8 pm “IRISH MUSIC SESSION” at the Celtic Arts Center at Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com.
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Mon; 2nd & 4th Mon every month:
8-9 pm “MONDAY NIGHT POETRY” at the Santa Catalina Branch Library, 999 E Washington Bl, Pasadena 91104 ; info, www.home.earthlink.net/~mondaynightpoetry/; contact Don Kingfisher Campbell, mondaynightpoetry@earthlink.net or 626-744-7272. Featured poets and open readings; sign-up by 8 pm. They say, “This is your chance to share your poetry with the public and to hear professional poets performing their newest creations.” Accessible to people with disabilities, and handicapped parking available. Adults, free.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm “TALENT NIGHT” hosted by CHAD WATSON BAND at the Cowboy Palace Saloon (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Cash prizes, and some winners have gone on to perform on the Grand Ole Opry. Free dance lessons 7-8:30 pm, "Two-Step with Ed." No cover.
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Mon, every week:
8:30 pm OPEN MIC at the Rainbow Bar and Grill, 9015 W Sunset Bl, West Hollywood; 310-278-4232. Sign-ups at 8, show at 8:30 pm.
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Mon, every Mon:
8:30 pm OPEN-MIC hosted by singer-songwriter Chris Mathieu at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; www.cafemusela.com; 323-464-MUSE (6873). The venue tells us, “Open-Mic on Mondays is now for MUSIC ONLY.” Two songs, and if time allows, performers may get to go up a second time. Venue adds, “The night may even turn into a big music jam, so be prepared for anything! There's a piano and guitar you are welcome to use, the rest is up to you.” Sign-ups at 8 pm.
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Venue serves vegan & omnivore “comfort food,” fruit smoothies and organic coffee & tea beverages. Entertainment (of various kinds) every night, usually beginning 9:30-10 pm, after the shows in the surrounding theatre district. Venue has a beautiful piano and a house guitar for musician use, or bring your own instrument. They say, “We welcome people to come by and play anytime - you never know when the Muses might appear!” They tell us, “We are always looking for piano players & musicians to accompany the singers and spoken word artists (or to come in and jam with us).” Email them to be added to their roster, at TheMuses@CafeMuseLA.com. Early arrival recommended; $5 minimum for table service requested, otherwise, no cover.
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Mon, every week:
9-11:30 pm "IRISH MUSIC SESSION" weekly at Celtic Arts Center’s new shared location, Theatre Unlimited, 10943 Camarillo St, North Hollywood 91602; 818-760-8322; www.celticartscenter.com. Schedule every week is Irish language workshop at 7 pm, followed by the Irish céilí dance workshop at 8 pm, then comes Southern California's longest running traditional Celtic music seisiún, from 9-11:30 pm. Free.
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Mon; most Mondays:
10 pm PRESTON SMITH plays solo acoustic at The Bridge, 3256 Caheunga Bl (at Barham), Universal City / Hollywood area, one mile N of the Hollywood Bowl. Romantic, loungy, acoustic room. Preston sings “blues & beyond,” soul and jazz. "Preston is a singing, guitar and harmonica playing virtuoso of blues and jazz, which makes him a great fit. His stuff is upbeat, intelligent and classy, He's known for his widespread appeal to a variety of audiences and some say his music knows no boundaries. While Smith's songwriting skills have received a big thumbs up from critics all over the map, his live gigs are legendary." - John Sollenberger July 28, ‘06 Pasadena Weekly.
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Preston sang for Barbra Streisand's wedding, and he’s performed for Steven Spielberg, Bruce Willis, Aaron Spelling, Brad Grey, the cast of The Soprano's, and the late Sonny Bono. He appeared on "The Tonight Show" with the late Jimmy Stewart. Roseanne Cash recorded his song "Black and White," then she included it in her greatest hits CD that went to gold. More at www.myspace.com/prestonsmithmusic and www.prestonsmith.com
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Mon, every week:
10:30 pm MISS MICKEY CHAMPION at the Social, 6525 Sunset Bl, Hollywood. L.A.’s legendary blueswoman plays an every-Monday residency. Artist info: www.mickeychampion.net. No cover.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 9
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Tue, every week; in Loma Linda:
9-11:30 am “LOMA LINDA UKULELE STRUMMERS” welcomes all, every Tuesday at the Loma Linda Senior Center, 25541 Barton Rd (behind the Civic Center), Loma Linda. (Sr Center at the far end of the parking lot.) Info, www.lomalindaukestrummers.org. Contact, Ginny Stone, 909 795 3841 or harryginny@hotmail.com.
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Tue, every week:
4:30-6 pm SON JAROCHO CLASSES at East Side Café, 5469 Huntington Dr N, L.A.; 323-583-5113. Learn to play Jarana, a string Instrument from Veracruz; dance Zapateado; sing & compose Sones-songs; gain knowledge of Son Jarocho music; work sound & lights. Open to adults, children and teens. No cover, donations are accepted.
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Tue, every week:
6 pm Weekly BLUEGRASS JAM at Curley’s Café, 1999 E Willow (at Cherry), Signal Hill; 562-424-0018.
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Tue, every week:
6-8 pm ARANA MUSIC LESSONS at IMIX Bookstore, 5052 Eagle Rock Bl, Eagle Rock; 323-257-2512; www.imixbooks.com. For beginners to experts music lessons focusing on the arana and Son Jarocho, presented by Caesar Castro, El Jarochelo.
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Tue, every week; in Menifee:
6-8:30 pm SANDII CASTLEBERRY & RON DAIGH, folk fest faves, at Giovanni's, Pizza, Pasta & More, 26900 Newport Rd #112, Menifee 92584; 951-672-8080. Info, www.sandiicastleberry.com.
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Tue, every Tue:
6:30-11 pm “SOUP JAM,” Don Rowan’s country & bluegrass jam, at 3240 Industry Dr, Signal Hill 90755. Info, contact Don, 562-883-0573. Acoustic instruments only, floating mic for voice; soup, donuts, coffee & tap water served. Loc is 1 mile S of 405 Fwy, 1.2 mi S of Long Beach Airport. Lakewood Bl South exit from 405, immediate right onto Willow for 1 mi (W), left on Redondo for 3/4 mile (S), right onto Industry Dr for 0.2 mi (W), building is 1st entrance for last building on the left; a fair-sized industrial building with high ceilings.
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Tue, every week:
7 pm “MAIN STREET SONGWRITERS SHOWCASE” at Café Bellissimo, 22458 Ventura Bl, Woodland Hills; 818-225-0026. It’s a nice format, always with two recording artists, each doing a half-hour set, and a few songs from performing guest host PAUL ZOLLO. (Longtime host GARRET SWAYNE is out of town for a few weeks, but the series continues without interruption.) The two featured artists are followed by an open mic; info, www.garretswayne.com. MSSS patrons get half-price drinks, 6:30-7:30, and special discount on award-winning pizza all evening. No cover, but venue expects a minimum $5 food / drink purchase (and that’s half their former expectation).
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Tue, every week:
7-10 pm OPEN MIC - Music, Comedy, Spoken Word, at Synergy Café Lounge, 4437 Sepulveda Bl (just S of Culver Bl), Culver City; www.synergycafelounge.com; 310-482-3490. An eclectic open mic night. Bring your instruments, poetry, comedy, and anything else you'd like to share during your 8-10 minute set. Great atmosphere, excellent opportunity to see and meet other performers. No cover, food / drink purchase expected. Info, contact MC Jackie, jackielievense@yahoo.com.
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Tue, every week; in Tehachapi:
7-10 pm “ACOUSTIC JAM” at Mama HillyBeans Coffee & Community, 426 E Tehachapi Bl, Tehachapi; 661-822-BEAN; www.mamahillybeans.com. They welcome "All unplugged acoustic players." Venue has great ambience, food "made from scratch and about 95% organic." No cover.
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Tue, recurring:
7:30 pm Weekly OPEN MIC at Hallenbeck’s General Store, 5510 Cahuenga Bl, North Hollywood; 818-985-5916; www.hallenbecks.com. Venue offers sandwiches, coffeehouse fare. No cover.
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Tue, every week:
8-9:30 pm “TUESDAY NIGHT MUSIC CLUB” weekly summer series with KACEE and MICHAEL DOMAN, with different musical guests each week, at Molly Malone's, 575 S Fairfax Av, L.A. 90036; 323-935-1577; www.mollymalonesla.com. Began Jul 8, 2008. Michael says, “Tuesdays just got a whole lot better.”
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Tue; repeats every 2nd and 4th Tue:
8 pm OPEN MIC at El Cid, 4212 Sunset Bl, Silver Lake 90029; www.elcidla.com. Hosted by MICHAEL MCCARTHY the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, every month. A&R staff from “My Record Label” is on-site recruiting artists based on their original performances. Selected artists will receive an artist page on www.myrecordlabel.net along with a free 3-camera video shoot and professional audio mix of their performance. Sign ups at 7 pm; you can sign-up in advance at www.myspace.com/openmicatelcid .
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Viva Cantina, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; www.vivacantina.com; 818-515-4444.
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Tue, every week:
8 pm OPEN MIC at Sierra Cup, 409 S Myrtle Av, Monrovia 91016; 626-301-4214; www.sierracup.com. Sign-ups at 7:30 pm.
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Tue, every week; in Laguna Beach:
8 pm weekly “SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” features guest artists and BETH FITCHET WOOD, who plays the opening set each week, at the The Marine Room Tavern, 214 Ocean Av, Laguna Beach; 949-494-3027.
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Tue, every Tue:
8:30 pm LIVE MUSIC (artists tba) at the Cowboy Palace Saloon, 21635 Devonshire St (Devonshire & Owensmouth), Chatsworth 91311; www.cowboypalace.com; 818-341-0166. Live music 7 nights a week, sometimes acoustic, sometimes electric. Preceded by free swing dance lessons with Ed, 7-8:30 pm. No cover.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 10
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Recurring events have not yet been added, from this date forward.
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Wed, Dec 10:
7 pm JIM “KIMO” WEST does a Hawaiian-style slack key guitar performance at the Manhattan Beach Library, 1320 Highland Av, Manhattan Beach. Jim "Kimo" West is one of today’s masters of Hawaiian slack key, as both guitarist and composer. More at www.jimkimowest.com and www.myspace.com/jimkimowest. Free show.
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Wed, Dec 10:
8 pm PADDY’S PIG at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. PADDY’S PIG is a traditional, acoustic, four-piece band Irish band. Their instrumentation includes mandolin, guitar, drums, percussion, lots of vocals and some penny whistle. They have demonstrated broad appeal, bridging the gap between generations. PADDY'S PIG entertains without fail, playing everything from reels, jigs and rebel songs to drinking songs and tender Celtic ballads. Formed, they tell us, “at the curly-tailed end of the twentieth century,” Southern California-based Paddy’s Pig performs lively renditions of traditional and pseudo-traditional Irish and Celtic music. They are equally at home playing barn-burners like “The Blacksmith” and the Pogues’ “Sally MacLennane”, and heart-wrenching ballads such as “He Fades Away” and “She Moved Through the Fair”, to classic tunes like “Loch Lomand” and “Whiskey in the Jar.” They always get the audience involved, sometimes leaving the stage to do so, blurring the line between audience and performer. Tix, $20.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 11
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The easiest “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick we have ever made is tonight at 8 pm in Altadena.
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Thu, Dec 11:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists MARK FOSSON (Bum Steers), and DAVID SERBY, at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; www.myspace.com/arniescafe; 818-951-9089. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Mark Fosson grew up on the Ohio-Kentucky border and started writing songs in his early teens. In the late ‘70s he sent his demos to legendary folk/blues guitarist JOHN FAHEY’s Takoma label. Fahey deemed Fosson’s talent as “the best I’ve heard since [Leo] Kottke.” Fosson recorded an album’s worth of material for Takoma, but the label folded before its release. In 2006, a CD of those sessions finally surfaced as “Mark Fosson – The Lost Takoma Sessions,” on the Drag City label.
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Rolling Stone’s David Fricke noted MARK FOSSON’s CD has “…precise delicacy and melodic inventions [that] brightly confirm Fahey's original enthusiasm.” That was echoed in a review in FolkWorks of Mark’s recent gig at the Unurban in Santa Monica (www.folkworks.org/content/view/35744/166/) that noted, “…the talent that [John] Fahey noticed way back then, has never left him.”
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Fosson worked with songwriter EDWARD TREE in the country-tinged group the BUM STEERS who performed at the Grand Ole Opry at the request of Porter Wagoner. Throughout the ‘90s, Fosson's material appeared on several soundtracks. In 2001, he collaborated with singer-songwriter LISA O'KANE, who recorded several of his songs, including the #1 European single "Little Black Cloud.” In 2006, Fosson followed up “The Lost Takoma Sessions” release with “Jesus On a Greyhound” (New Light Entertainment/Universal) drawing comparisons to Americana artists like Ramblin' Jack Elliott, Joe Ely, John Prine and Guy Clark. More at http://markfosson.com/home.html and www.myspace.com/markfosson

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Thu, Dec 11; a “SHOW OF THE WEEK” pick:
8 pm “THE GREAT AMERICANA-BLUEGRASS EXTRAVAGANZA” featuring, FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER, THE BROMBIES, and SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND, three of the top Southern California-based roots-Americana bands, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917.
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They have all performed at prestigious festivals, and at the Bluegrass Association of Southern California (BASC) concert series, and all have been guests on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” If you arrive a fan of any one of these bands, you will leave a fan of all three. This is a mini-festival in the midst of winter, with three headliner acts in one show. Here’s the lowdown on the hoedown:
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FUR DIXON & STEVE WERNER hail from California’s san Fernando Valley, but they are at home anywhere under the western sky. Well-traveled California folk favorites Fur and Steve are a combination that can’t be beat, with a show that’s fun, heartfelt and drenched in the rich traditions of Bluegrass, Western and good old American folk music. They are best known for their songs of the open road, delivered with dazzling two-part harmonies, spectacular yodeling, awesome guitar picking and wise-cracking humor, all of which compliment their incredible old- and new-timey traveling songs. They trecently packed the theatre at the prestigious Getty Museum in L.A., where all tix went quickly, and well in advance. Check ‘em out at www.myspace.com/furandsteve and www.furandsteve.com
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THE BROMBIES are an L.A.-based band formed by JO ELLEN & GEORGE DOERING way back in the last century. All the band’s musicians have played music of various kinds all of their lives; but traditional bluegrass is their music of choice. With the legendary BILL BRYSON (Desert Rose Band, Laurel Canyon Ramblers, Bluegrass, Etc.) on bass & vocals, PATRICK SAUBER (BladeRunners, Chris Stuart, “Mighty Wind” cast and band) on banjo and vocals, JO ELLEN on guitar and vocals and GEORGE on mandolin and vocals, it’s a fine ensemble for exciting, traditional bluegrass. The band emphasizes vocals and harmonies, presenting originals and the traditional music of "the masters." They’ll all tell you that music can make a major contribution of positive energy in our world, and it's gotta be fun or "forget about it!" Find in-depth bios of band members and more at www.thebrombies.com
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SUSIE GLAZE & THE HILONESOME BAND always deliver, from the best in Appalachia roots to newgrass / bluegrass Americana fusion. KCSN writes, " SUSIE GLAZE does something with a song that only great singers can do...she grabs hold of a song's deepest emotion and purpose and wraps it tightly around your soul." Folk music legend Jean Ritchie called Susie Glaze "a fresh young voice - a communicator - to me the most important of qualities in a singer..." and Bluegrass Unlimited calls her "an important voice on the California Bluegrass scene." Susie won the “Just Plain Folks” 2006 Music Award for “Best Roots Album” (with 70,000 people voting, worldwide), and Folkworks Magazine's Pick for “Best Bluegrass Album of 2005,” for her CD, "Blue Eyed Darlin.'" The Hilonesome Band is STEVE RANKIN on mandolin, RODGER PHILLIPS on banjo, ROB CARLSON (the band’s principal songwriter) on dobro and guitar, CHARLIE OTTE on fiddle, and FRED SANDERS (The Eight Hand String Band) on bass. More at www.susieglaze.com.
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This is an amazing singlr-show lineup for an intimate venue with great sound and lighting, and a bargain to enjoy performances by three headline acts for $20.
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Thu, Dec 11:
AMBER RUBARTH plays with her new band THE PAPER RAINCOAT at The Hotel Café, 1623 N Cahuenga Bl, Hollywood; 323-461-2040; www.hotelcafe.com. Amber recently played Paris, France, as part of her big European tour. Last week, she opened for LOUDON WAINWRIGHT III on the East Coast. Her music has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Info on Amber’s new band at www.myspace.com/thepaperraincoat.
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Thu, 2nd Thu, every month:
9-11 pm AMY CLARKE & Friends at Café Muse, 6547 Santa Monica Bl, Hollywood 90038; 323-464-MUSE; www.cafemusela.com. Tonight, Amy launches her “Monthly Evenings at Café Muse,” as she says, “on the eve of the Full Cold Moon.” Amy adds, “Plan to come get warm and cozy with us, the evenings will continue on second Thursdays in 2009.” Amy Clarke and select rotating guest artists perform original works by candlelight in the “urban zen” setting of Café Muse.
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3-time ASCAP award-winning indie singer-songwriter, synth keyboardist & “dramatic piano enchantress” Amy Clarke hails from Washington, DC and has performed around the country from the White House to the Viper Room. Relocating to LA last year after a 4 year residency in NYC (where she produced and released her first EP & played regularly at The Bitter End, Rockwood Music Hall, M Shanghai Den & Caffe Vivaldi), Clarke now plays at The Derby, Tangier, Talking Stick, Genghis Cohen, & The Verity Room, and on the festival circuit (SXSW, SPMT, Burning Man). A soul-singer, lifelong pianist and graduate of Georgetown’s School of Foreign Service, Clarke’s talent, political savvy and global awareness infuse her artistic vision with unique depth and powerful resonance. Her music (featured on TV, radio, & internet) is an eclectic, alternative blend of classical, celtic, pop, rock, blues, new age & electronic rhythms, and her piano work is intricate. More at www.amyclarke.com and www.myspace.com/amyclarke
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Venue has “tasty vegetarian & non-vegetarian menu, organic coffee, tea, & free wi fi.” Suggested donation for artists and a designated non-profit at each show; tonight, that is Tree People, www.treepeople.org. No cover.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 12
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Fri, Dec 12; in Visalia:
SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN play their annual Fan Club Dinner in Visalia; info & tix, 928-757-9030.
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Fri, Dec 12; visual art:
7-11 pm “TRIPTYCH” art show opening reception at Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; www.bostoncourt.org; 626-683-6883. Staged by MIMI CHAMPLIN for artist and musician CLARK BRANSON, who is exhibing works together with WALTER ALI and SITA EDWARDS. The exhibition presents works in three different disciplines – painting, ceramics and photography. "Triptych" means “three.” Mimi tells us that for tonight’s opening reception, “We'll be pouring wine and laughing and eating some lovely tasty bits provided by a fabulous caterer who is an artist… There's a theme here.... I have hopes that this will be a yearly art event as part of Boston Court's list of visiting presentations. Clark would love to welcome you to yet another facet of what happens for the entire community at Boston Court Performing Arts Center. Please feel free to [invite] anyone whom you think might like to visit during the weekend of Dec 12-14 to see some wonderful paintings, pottery, photography and a few extra treats thrown in.” Continues Sat, 9 am-8 pm, and Sun, 9 am-5 pm. All exhibited works are available for purchase.
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Fri, 2nd Fri, every month in 2008; in Seaside:
7-9 pm “KIKI WOW & FRIENDS” play an acoustic concert at Borders Books & Music, 2080 California St, Seaside 93955. For all of you have clamored to know “Whatever happened to Kiki Wow?” – just take a drive up the coast, and you can see and hear for yourself.
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Fri, Dec 12:
7:30 pm PERLA BATALLA performs “A CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS LATIN MUSIC” at Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl (across from Rancho Park), L.A. 90064; info & tix, 310-286-0553; trk@lyceeonline.org. Perla Batalla is a Grammy-nominated world-class vocalist, composer and arranger. She has worked with LEONARD COHEN, NICK CAVE, & LAURIE ANDERSON.
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Hearing Perla Batalla's voice for the first time is an epiphany. One may go to hear the songs, but you end up feeling the joy and the pathos in the music. There is a tone, a depth of emotion and a sublime expressiveness along with her transcendent voice that makes the experience unforgettable. A rare few artists command such a response; women like Amalia Rodrigues, Edith Piaf, Patsy Cline or Aretha Franklin, perhaps, whose emotional power is equal to their magnificent voices. We merely describe their talents in adjectives that can never match the thrill of hearing them sing.
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Perla Batalla’s music is deeply influenced by her Mexican origins. Her songs are original compositions interspersed with traditional Spanish language classics, arranged to reflect a rich bicultural personal and musical heritage. Her repertoire is a resplendent and vibrant cultural celebration of mysticism, imagery, magic and myth.
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The L.A. Times wrote, “Batalla’s music caresses with its harmonies and gentle rhythms, then draws you in with an unexpected chorus or unusual melodic resolution. But above all she is a born storyteller with a rambunctious sense of humor.” La Opinion writes, "Perla Batalla has become a perfect example of the new Latina women in the US: proud of her heritage, perfectly fluid in two languages, and an expert in translating cultural traditions from distinct places in the world."
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This is an excellent venue for music; just don’t park on the side streets, which have resident-only restrictions. Tix $35 gen’l, $20 students.
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Fri, Dec 12; in Santa Barbara:
7:30 pm FREEBO in a co-bill with JOHN WILCOX of MARLEY'S GHOST, at Jensen's Guitar Store, 2905 De la Vina, Santa Barbara 93105; reservations & info, 805-563-3200 or jensenguitar@gmail.com. FREEBO is an award-winning singer-songwriter and favorite on the folk festival circuit. He played bass for BONIE RAITT for many years, and he has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where he earned a “Listener Favorite” track from his CD, “Before the Separation.” The music of MARLEY’S GHOST has been heard many times on TttT. $15.
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Fri, Dec 12:
8 pm BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. The duo’s new CD, “Let’s Do Something,” is set for a Dec 19 release, with the CD release show at Berkeley’s famous “Freight & Salvage.” Their previous CD has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Both Bill and Megan are widely acclaimed and much in demand - both as performing musicians and teachers. They recently combined their efforts, and the result is much greater than the sum of its parts. They perform traditional banjo/fiddle tunes, of course, but go far beyond that. Their voices blend beautifully, and they perform both classic and contemporary acoustic tunes. Bill & Megan include their individual original material, adding innovation and excitement as a duo to their already stellar musicianship. If you’ve heard either of them before, this should provide a new experience for you. Joy Felt, from the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, adds, “Plus, they are funny, very funny.” Artists info, www.fiddlestar.com and www.myspace.com/billevansandmeganlynch. $15.
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Fri, Dec 12:
SOLD OUT: 8 pm J.D. SOUTHER at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $25.
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Fri, Dec 12:
8 pm BROOKE RAMEL at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. After graduating from Stanford University and studying in Paris, Brooke ramel moved to L.A. to pursue her passion for music. She has released five original albums and has sold over 50,000 copies as an independent artist.
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She has licensed over 50 songs to film and TV shows, including TV’s “Dawson’s Creek,” “Charmed,” “Ed,” “Six Feet Under,” “Gilmour Girls,” “White Oleander,” and many more. Several major motion pictures have featured Brooke's music, including “White Oleander”, “Stealing Harvard”, and "Tart". Her music has been featured in the independent films “Far on Foot” and “Wednesday's Child,” and her song "Now" was used in a trailer for the DVD of MGM's film, "Kiss the Bride". And Brooke recorded two songs for Disney's “Air Bud Spikes Back.” Brooke's song "Let It Out" will be heard in the upcoming motion picture "Bonneville", starring Jessica Lang, Kathy Bates, Joan Allen, and Christine Baranski.
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In May 2006, Brooke taped an appearance for the ninth episode of "Branson Jubilee", airing on PBS in the summer and fall. Her performance included "When I Saw You See Me", "Let It Out", and "Landslide." The episode featured The Dillards and guest star Bill Medley.
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She is a tireless performer averaging over 200 shows a year for the past 15 years. Brooke has opened for many wonderful artists, including Melissa Manchester, Richard Marx, David Gates, Shawn Colvin, Rocco de Luca, Marc Cohn, Deana Carter, David Wilcox, and many others.
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Tonight, Brooke performs with her tasteful and talented guitarist IAN ESPINOZA and her drummer RON MANAOG. Tix, $15.
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Fri, Dec 12:
8-10 pm “AMERICANA MUSIC CIRCLE REUNION” at Kulak's Woodshed, 5230-1/2 Laurel Canyon Bl, North Hollywood; 818-766-9913; info and live webcast at www.kulakswoodshed.com. Producer and performing host LAUREN ADAMS tells us, “It is always difficult to book this show as we only have two hours to do it. So, here is a partial list so far of who might be available and who we saw this year: DEBRA DAVIS, CYDNEY ROBINSON, ERNEST TROOST, LILY WILSON, JANE BOLDUC, MARK ISLAM, LAUREN ADAMS, MARK GOLDBERG, NICK KIRGO, ERICA SORENSON, & TOMMY HOLMES. More to be announced soon!”
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Fri, Dec 12:
8 pm FLAMENCO VIVO CARLOTA SANTANA performs “NAVIDAD FLAMENCA” in Beckman Auditorium on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5485.html. Presented by Caltech Committee on Institute Programs. They say, “Step aside toy soldiers...the bullfighters have arrived! Away sugar plum fairies...give them flamenco dancers! Carlota Santana stages this glorious holiday show—an exciting blend of dance and live music. The story may seem familiar, but the cast of characters is refreshingly new. A large family gathers to eat and drink, to dance and sing, to celebrate Christmas - dancers sing and singers dance, recalling the folkloric fiesta of Flamenco, rarely seen today by theater audiences.” www.flamenco-vivo.org includes video samples. Tix $30, $25, $20; $10 youth.
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Fri, Dec 12; in Seattle:
8-10:30 pm monthly “NORTHWEST SEAPORT CHANTEY SING” this time, it may be somewhere other than its usual home in the Boathouse at the Center for Wooden Boats, 1010 Valley St, Seattle, WA 98109; info, 206-447-9800 or seaport@oz.net. Check to verify location before you go. The “call and response” form of these work songs of the sea makes them easy to learn and fun to sing. All ages welcome. Tonght’s songleader is J.W. SPARROW, whose songs of the sea have become Northwest classics. There’s always an opportunity for anyone to lead a song or just join in the chorus. Refreshments and maritime CDs for sale. Host, Wayne Palsson. Admission free, donations accepted.
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13
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Sat & Sun, Dec 13 & 14:
9 am-4:30 pm annual “WINTER WEEKEND AT DESCANSO GARDENS” with song, festivities, fun, and art, at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge; 818-949-4200; www.DescansoGardens.org. The entire family can get into the holiday spirit with this weekend event in the Gardens. Hitch a ride with Santa on the Enchanted Railroad, learn how to make a holiday wreath, be inspired by a cappella music and enjoy a gourmet brunch. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free with Garden admission.
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Seasonal music by the Oakwood School CHORALIERS, 10:30 am, Saturday only. They are an award-winning group of young gifted singers from North Hollywood, directed by a multiple Grammy winner. This voice ensemble performs a cappella masterpieces from all periods, concentrating on Renaissance and 21st century choral music. With numerous gold and first place trophies garnered from national festivals, the Choraliers have sung at competitions in New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Seattle and New Orleans. Members of the group routinely audition and are accepted into the Southern California Vocal Association Regional Honor Choirs, and the American Choral Directors Association State Honor Choirs. Known for their great rhythmic vitality and interpretation of style, the Choraliers started in 1987. Currently, the group is comprised of 20 singers from 9 through 12 grades. Director of the group for 13 years, Dr. Rich Brunner is a professional singer who has won three of the five Grammy ® awards for which he has been nominated.
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Carriage House Holiday Art Show, all day, both days; showcase of work of 20 local artists who create in oils, ceramics and more.
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Breakfast with Santa, 9:30 & 11 am, “Wintry Wreaths Class,” 1-3 pm, both days; extra cost, and that includes admission; breakfast reservations req’d at 818-790-3663; wreath class reservations at 818-949-7980.
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Santa Visits the Enchanted Railroad, 2-4 pm, both days; take a holiday trip on Descanso Garden’s famed Enchanted Railroad, decorated for the season, with the big man in red. Bring your camera to capture a memory. Miniature RR ride is $3 per person, in addition to admission.
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Free parking. Admission $8 for adults, $6 seniors & students, $3 children ages 5-12, free for Descanso mbrs and children age 5 and younger. Fees for classes and programs include Gardens admission. Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums.
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Sat, Dec 13; in Santa Barbara:
10 am-2 pm “SONGWRITER / CREATIVITY WORKSHOP” presented by FREEBO at Jensen's Guitar Store, 2905 De la Vina, Santa Barbara 93105; reservations & info, 805-563-3200 or jensenguitar@gmail.com.
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FREEBO is an award-winning singer-songwriter and favorite on the folk festival circuit. He played bass for BONIE RAITT for many years, and he has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” where he earned a “Listener Favorite” track from his CD, “Before the Separation.” He tells us, “In this hybrid workshop, I will give you specific tools and hints for your songwriting, song-arrangement, and performing, all within the context of honoring your special gifts and giving yourself permission and the courage to become the artist / musician you’ve always wanted to be. In a world of judgment and criticism, we are filled with the voices of others telling us how to be. I will help you to find your own voice, figuratively and literally. Along with the craft of songwriting, I will help you to shape your song with arrangement, chord substitutions, and phrasing ideas. And in performing your song, we'll cover the topics of fear, preparation, tools, timing, and communication. How do you connect to your audience? You become one with them!” Advance registration advised. $45.
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Sat, Dec 13; in Santa Barbara:
1-5 pm “SONGWRITER/CREATIVITY WORKSHOP” with FREEBO at Jensen's Guitar Store, 2905 Dela Vina, Santa Barbara 93105; 805-687-4027 or 805 563-3200. Cost tba.
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Sat, Dec 13:
2 pm THE HOLLOW TREES play the “CHILDREN'S CONCERT SERIES” at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html. $5 kids, $7 adults. Adv tix, www.panioloproductions.com/store.html.
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Sat, Dec 13:
2-4 pm BRAD COLERICK presents a workshop, “SONGWRITING TO SONGSELLING – MAKING MONEY WITH WORDS AND MUSIC,” at South Pasadena Music Center, 1509 Mission St, South Pasadena; 626-403-2300; www.southpasadenamusic.com. Brad tells us, “After twenty years in the music business, I've come to realize that those two words – ‘music’ and ‘business’ – are not equal parts of my job. The latter consumes the lion's share of time and effort and affords me the opportunity for musical pursuits. This workshop will cover various aspects of the business of music. We'll discuss ways you can improve your craft along with ways to improve your chances of generating income from the music you make.” Musician and record producer ED TREE joins Brad for the workshop. Reservations at info@back9records.com
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BRAD COLERICK is featured in a recent issue of Billboard Magazine, and called, “one of a baker’s dozen of acts to watch in the folk community around the world." He has worked with a long list of musical icons from JOHNNY CASH to BB KING. Brad has performed live, twice, on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” and scored a “Listener Favorite” there. An Associated Press review of Colerick’s latest CD, “Lines In The Dirt,” says, “The 11-song set shows that Colerick’s excellent 2006 release, ‘Cottonwood’ – his first album in 19 years – was no fluke.” With contributions from SUZY BOGGUSS, LARRY KLEIN, HERB PEDERSEN, APRIL VERCH, and LOWEN & NAVARRO, “Lines In The Dirt” is marvelous, filled with honest, original, unique and memorable songwriting and fine music making from Brad and his stellar cast of guest artists. You can catch Brad's videos of "Time Away" and "Let Her Fall In Love" in occasional rotation on the GAC TV channel; that’s especially notable, because he’s a pure Americana original, and certainly not just another Nashville clone.
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Sat, Dec 13; in Visalia:
SONS OF THE SAN JOAQUIN play their Christmas Concert at the Fox Theater, in Visalia.
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Sat, Dec 13:
7-9 pm HIGH HILLS, the all-women bluegrass band, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. Together since 1996, High Hills has headlined with the DIXIE CHICKS, RICKY SKAGGS, the DEL MCCOURY BAND, and others. One reviewer writes, "Strong solid and energetic bluegrass are the trademarks of HIGH HILLS, featuring superb instrumental leads on fiddle, mandolin, banjo, guitar and standup bass, joined by magical blend of vocal harmonies.” Humor and multi-instrumental diversity make for an enjoyable evening with these musical women. The band is VIRGINIA STARLING, with her award-winning vocals and fiddle; LESLIE REAGAN on hot mandolin and flatpick guitar; LAURA SILVERSTEIN, an accomplished fingerstyle player on banjo and guitar; CHERYL RICHARDS on big bass fiddle. They are all ingredients which heighten HIGH HILLS. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “Definitely good music, sung and played. Lots of goofing around that turns into solid comedy. Many encores here. Good stuff.” More at www.highhills.com. Tix $18.
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Sat, Dec 13; in Lone Pine:
7-9 pm CROSSTOWN COWBOYS play the “Winter Concert Series” at The Beverly and Jim Rogers Museum of Lone Pine Film History, 701 S Main St, Lone Pine, CA. Info & tix, 760-876-9909.
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Sat, Dec 13; 2nd Sat every month:
7:30 pm monthly “GRASSROOTS ACOUSTICA” celebrates the life and music of the late NICOLETTE LARSON with the “2nd Annual ‘Lotta Love’ Edition” with Nicolette’s songs performed by PAUL ZOLLO, LISA TURNER, LOIS BLAISCH, KAREN TOBIN, MARE LENNON, DEBRA DAVIS, DEBORAH PEARL, SEVERIN BROWNE, DUDLEY SAUNDERS, special guest ROSEMARY BUTLER, “resident rhumba girl” guest of honor ELSIE MAY LARSON-KUNKEL, artist-in-residence BYRON PFEIFER, and performing host MARK ISLAM, at the charity benefit series new home, The Talking Stick (new location), 1411 Lincoln Bl, Venice 92091; www.thetalkingstick.net. Tonight is the series’ 18th installment with 100% of donations benefitting “The Nicolette Larson Pediatric Endowment at Mattel Children's Hospital/UCLA.” Tonight’s show is a chance for fans & friends remember NICOLETTE LARSON (1952-1997). Nicolette's daughter ELSIE MAY LARSON-KUNKEL will return after being a last-minute addition at last year’s tribute, joining what's certain to be a big lineup whose incomplete list includes LISA TURNER, PAUL ZOLLO, SEVERIN BROWNE, KAREN TOBIN, and performing host MARK ISLAM. More about tonight’s show and the Grassroots Acoustica series, at www.grassrootsacoustica.org. No cover, but it’s a fund-raiser for charity.
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Sat, Dec 13:
8 pm BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH at the Blue Ridge Pickin Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth Street 91344; reservations & info, 818-282-9001. The duo’s new CD, “Let’s Do Something,” is set for a Dec 19 release, with the CD release show at Berkeley’s famous “Freight & Salvage.” Their previous CD has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Both Bill and Megan are widely acclaimed and much in demand - both as performing musicians and teachers. They recently combined their efforts, and the result is much greater than the sum of its parts. They perform traditional banjo/fiddle tunes, of course, but go far beyond that. Their voices blend beautifully, and they perform both classic and contemporary acoustic tunes. Bill & Megan include their individual original material, adding innovation and excitement as a duo to their already stellar musicianship. If you’ve heard either of them before, this should provide a new experience for you. Joy Felt, from the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, adds, “Plus, they are funny, very funny.” Artists info, www.fiddlestar.com and www.myspace.com/billevansandmeganlynch. Doors at 7:30 pm. $15 advance, $20 door. Kids ages 6-11 are $12.
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Sat, Dec 13:
8 pm “CHRISTMAS WITH THE MAESTRO, AND SANTA TOO!” as Cal Phil, with conductor VICTOR VENER, plus guest solo vocalists, and the California Philharmonic Chorus under direction of MARYA BASARABA, present a ‘sleigh-full’ of holiday favorites from “The Nutcracker” “Hansel and Gretel” and “Messiah” to “Sleigh Ride” and “Jingle Bells” at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E Green St, Pasadena. Event info, 626-300-8200 or www.calphil.org.
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Children will be invited on stage to help California Philharmonic Maestro VICTOR VENER conduct. “It’s Cal Phil’s Christmas gift to the community. We’ll have something for everybody,” promises Vener, the orchestra’s founder and conductor.
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The program includes excerpts from two of the holiday season’s most beloved and requested works, “The Nutcracker” by Tchaikovsky and Handel’s “Messiah,” together with a selection of carols, Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride,” and scenes from Humperdinck’s opera “Hansel and Gretel,” featuring 18-year-old mezzo soprano CLARE SNODGRASS as Hansel, and soprano EMILY DYER, 16, as Gretel. Both Snodgrass and Dyer are recipients of the Cal Phil Foundation’s “Young Artist Performance Award.”
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Victor Vener always enlightens and informs the music he brings through Cal Phil. So we weren’t surprised when he said, “Humperdinck wrote the opera after his sister asked him to write music to accompany a dramatic version of Hansel and Gretel based on the fairytale which she had written for her children to perform,” explains Vener. “The opera has been popular with children ever since, especially during the holidays.”
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Joining the orchestra is LA Opera resident artist, soprano ANGEL BLUE. “What’s Christmas without angels?” asks Vener with a smile. “We have a real live Angel with a voice that is truly heavenly, as our audiences last summer learned when they heard Angel perform with us for the first time. The bravos lasted almost five minutes!”
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One of the highlights of “Christmas with the Maestro” is its annual tradition of inviting children onstage to help conduct “Jingle Bells.” Meanwhile, the rest of the audience is encouraged to take part in the performance by jingling their keys in time to the music. “People are coming prepared, now,” says Vener. “They’ll bring key chains loaded down with extra keys just for this part of the performance.”
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Tix from $23 to $88, via Ticketmaster at 213-365-3500 or www.ticketmaster.com.
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Sat, Dec 13:
8 pm CIARAMELLA plays the Gordon Getty Concert series at The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Dr, L.A. 90049; 310-440-7300; parking is $10. Vibrant and virtuosic early music ensemble Ciaramella returns to the Getty Center with a program inspired by the Belles Heures of the Duke of Berry. They perform sumptuous music of the French Middle Ages including love songs, sacred music, and rustic dances.
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As a lover of art and music, the Duke of Berry claimed as protegé the greatest poet and composer of the 14th century, Guillaume de Machaut (1300–1377). Early music ensemble Ciaramella explores Machaut's impressive collection of narrative and lyric poetry, songs and sacred music, which influenced writers and musicians for more than a century after his death. Ciaramella performs Machaut's love songs and allegorical motets, songs inspired by his poetry, music of the Hundred Years' War, and rustic dances that would have been heard in the fields illuminated in the Belles Heures. Complements the exhibition The Belles Heures of the Duke of Berry, on view at the Getty Center Nov 18, 2008-Feb 8, 2009.
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Tix $20 gen’l, $15 students & srs.
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Sat, Dec 13:
8 pm MUSICA ANGELICA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA with guests THE TÖLZER KNABENCHOR world renowned boy’s choir from Germany, performs “CHRISTMAS ORATORIO” by J.S. BACH in Zipper Concert Hall, Colburn School of Performing Arts; 200 S Grand Av, downtown L.A.; info & tix, 310-458-4504 or www.MusicaAngelica.org. Conductor is Martin Haselböck, soloist Tölzer Knabenchor; director G. Schmidt Gaden; tenor Markus Schäfer; baritone Randall Scarlata. Musica Angelica, based in Santa Monica, collaborates with leading performing arts institutions in Southern California, including Los Angeles Opera, Long Beach Opera, the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Guest conductors have included Rinaldo Alessandrini, Giovanni Antonini, Harry Bicket, Paul Goodwin, and Jory Vinikour, and others. The ensemble was co-founded by Michael Eagan, widely considered one of the foremost lute players in the country, and gambist Mark Chatfield. Eagan passed away in 2004; Chatfield, in 1998. Info and brochure with schedule of the 5-concert orchestral series plus their chamber series, is available by calling 310-458-4504 or online at www.MusicaAngelica.org. (In addition, they perform tomorrow at 4 pm in Santa Monica; see listing.) Tix from $39 to $55.
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Sat, Dec 13:
8:30 pm “PARLOR PERFORMANCES” presents brilliant singing political satirist ROY ZIMMERMAN with his new show, “PEACENIK!” at Steinway Hall, 12121 W Pico Bl, Santa Monica. (1 door W of Bundy, under Fields Pianos, on Level P2; park free in lot.) Info, reservations, 310-471-3979 or Jeannine@FrankEntertainment.com. Roy Zimmerman has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” and scored a “Listener Favorite” on the show. His songs are hilarious and memorable. The L.A. Times calls him, “A latter-day Tom Lehrer,” while Lehrer himself has said that if he were still performing, he would doing Roy’s songs.
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And Roy Zimmerman writes fiecely funny songs. Tonight, he takes satirical aim at the absurdities of the Holidays. Happy "Christma-Hanu-Rama-Ka-Dona-Kwaanza"!
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Zimmerman was the creator of the hilarious political satirical quartet THE FOREMEN (Warner/ Reprise recording artists). Roy, on his own or with The Foremen, has opened for Bill Maher, Dennis Miller, George Carlin, and Paula Poundstone. His private arsenal of edgy musical delights includes hilarious send-ups of mega-mergers (“Multi-National Anthem”), the onetime activists of the ‘60s (“Psychedlic Relic”), plus healthcare and politics. Roy's “Creation Science 101” was YouTube's #1 pick last year, receiving almost a million views. Reservations recommended. $5 discount if you reserve tix at least a week in advance by email to Jeannine (above). Tix, $25.
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Sat, Dec 13:
9 pm “CHRISTMAS CONCERT” with I SEE HAWKS IN L.A. plus CLIFF WAGNER AND THE OLD #7 at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html. Tix, www.panioloproductions.com/store.html. The night will feature Christmas songs. Each band will play a set, and sit-in to perform together. Adv tix $15.
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 14
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Sun, Dec 14 (all weekend):
9 am-4:30 pm annual “WINTER WEEKEND AT DESCANSO GARDENS” with song, festivities, fun, and art, at Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Dr, La Canada Flintridge; 818-949-4200; www.DescansoGardens.org. The entire family can get into the holiday spirit with this weekend event in the Gardens. Hitch a ride with Santa on the Enchanted Railroad, learn how to make a holiday wreath, be inspired by a cappella music and enjoy a gourmet brunch. Unless otherwise noted, all events are free with Garden admission.
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Seasonal music by the Oakwood School CHORALIERS, 10:30 am, Saturday only.
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Carriage House Holiday Art Show, all day, both days; showcase of work of 20 local artists who create in oils, ceramics and more.
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Breakfast with Santa, 9:30 & 11 am, “Wintry Wreaths Class,” 1-3 pm, both days; extra cost, and that includes admission; breakfast reservations req’d at 818-790-3663; wreath class reservations at 818-949-7980.
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Santa Visits the Enchanted Railroad, 2-4 pm, both days; take a holiday trip on Descanso Garden’s famed Enchanted Railroad, decorated for the season, with the big man in red. Bring your camera to capture a memory. Miniature RR ride is $3 per person, in addition to admission.
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Free parking. Admission $8 for adults, $6 seniors & students, $3 children ages 5-12, free for Descanso mbrs and children age 5 and younger. Fees for classes and programs include Gardens admission. Descanso Gardens is accredited by the American Association of Museums.
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Sun, Dec 14:
Noon-3:30 pm “FIDDLE & BANJO WORKSHOPS” with BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH at the Blue Ridge Pickin Parlor, 17828 Chatsworth Street 91344. Each teaches a workshop, fiddle or banjo, and together they host a jamming workshop for all instrumentalists and singers. For more info and to make a reservation, phone 818-282-9001. Artists info, www.fiddlestar.com. In addition, they perform a concert here Dec 13, and one at the Coffee Gallery Backstage tonight at 7 pm. Today’s fiddle and banjo workshops are $30 each, jamming workshop is $20.
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Sun, Dec 14:
1-5 pm “A SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA CHRISTMAS” at the Homestead Museum, 15415 East Don Julian Rd, City of Industry; 91745; www.homesteadmuseum.org. Experience over one hundred years of Southern Cal holiday traditions at this annual festival as you enjoy music, historic house tours featuring costumed characters at the Workman House, theatrical performances, special exhibits, demonstrations, beautiful decorations, crafts, food, shopping, and much more. Check back for more details as we get closer to the event. In the event of rain, the festival will be canceled. Free—but bring spending money for food and shopping.
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Sun, Dec 14:
2 pm “CHRISTMAS ON THE RANGE” is the annual holiday show benefit concert at the Autry Museum, presented by the Western Music Association, with TOM HIATT & THE SUNDOWN RIDERS, JOYCE WOODSON, JOE HERRINGTON, JOHN BERGSTROM, CLYDE LUCAS and “Tied to the Tracks” host LARRY WINES as the emcee, 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.
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This promises to be a great afternoon of entertainment, with first-rate traditional and original western music and cowboy poetry, featuring:
* JOYCE WOODSON, 2008 Academy of Western Artists “Female Vocalist of the Year;” composer of Western Music Association-nominated “Song of the Year,” “If I Hadn’t Seen the West” and of the hit, “He’s Courtin’ Annie”
* TOM HIATT AND THE SUNDOWN RIDERS a western band with STEVE THOMAS, TOM HIATT, & MARVIN O’DELL (Marvin is a host on web radio’s “Classic Heartland)
* JOE HERRINGTON, award-winning Cowboy Poet, with poems and stories of the season
* JOHN BERGSTROM, historical balladeer
* CLYDE LUCAS, western singer-songwriter
* LARRY WINES, Master of Ceremonies, host of “Tied to the Tracks,” radio / internet personality, writer, songwriter
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Reservations: call Marilyn Tuttle, 818-365-8709 or e-mail lindaleegreen@earthlink.net. Special advisory: The famous Griffith Park Holiday Light Show will be operating, so you are advised to enter the park from the North, via Victory Bl., to avoid traffic diversions.
Tix: Gen’l $20; WMA or Autry mbrs $15; children under age 12, $10.
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Following the concert is the annual WMA “CHRISTMAS PARTY & JAM” at Viva Cantina / Viva Fresh, (900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425) from about 5:30-9 pm, everyone welcome.
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Sun, Dec 14:
2 pm ROY ZIMMERMAN plays a matinee at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. So, what will one of the world’s greatest singing satirists have as material, now that Barack is President-elect?
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Plenty, we’re sure. ROY ZIMMERMAN has performed on the most prestigious stages in America, and twice on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” He reliably delivers funny songs – often ones that make you think, even as you’re laughing – about politics and the state of humanity. What's funny about war, poverty, ignorance, bigotry, neo-conservatism, homophobia, greed, lust and fear? Ask Roy. He's been writing satirical songs for twenty years. He’s shared the stage with such diverse talents as George Carlin, Arlo Guthrie, Kate Clinton, Bill Clinton, Arianna Huffington, Bill Maher, and Paul Krassner, and played a series of shows swapping songs with The Pixies' Frank Black.
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Roy Zimmerman founded and wrote all the material for the satirical folk quartet THE FOREMEN, Warner Reprise recording artists throughout the ‘90s. As a solo artist, he’s released five albums. Videos of Roy’s performances are popular worldwide on the web, and his song, “Creation Science 101,” made the front page of YouTube recently where it received over 730,000 views and 11,000 comments, and Roy adds, “many of them coherent.”
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The Los Angeles Times says, "Zimmerman displays a lacerating wit and keen awareness of society's foibles that bring to mind a latter-day Tom Lehrer." TOM LEHRER himself says, "I congratulate Roy Zimmerman on reintroducing literacy to comedy songs. And the rhymes actually rhyme, they don't just 'rhyne.'" JONI MITCHELL says, "Roy's lyrics move beyond poetry and achieve perfection." Tix, $15.
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Sun, Dec 14:
3 pm “FRET HOUSE EMPLOYEES CHRISTMAS SHOW” at the Fret House, 309 N Citrus Av, Covina; 626-339-7020; www.frethouse.com. The venue’s annual concert, performed by the music store instructors and staff. Free.
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Sun, Dec 14:
3:30 pm VICTORIA KIRSCH, piano, with JAMIE CHAMBERLIN, soprano, and ANNA KOSTYUCHEK, violin, and in Dabney Lounge on the Caltech campus, 322 S Michigan Av, Pasadena; 626-395-4652, or toll-free 888-2CALTECH (1-888-222-5832); this event, http://events.caltech.edu/events/event-5529.html. Presented by the Caltech Committee on Institute Programs.
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Pianist VICTORIA KIRSCH maintains a varied professional schedule that includes national and international performing, work with major and regional opera companies, extensive audition playing, private coaching and university teaching. In 1998, she began an extensive collaboration with JULIA MIGENES (Carmen in the 1984 film with Plácido Domingo) on the celebrated soprano's one-woman show, “Diva on the Verge.”
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Ms. Kirsch has played “Diva on the Verge” at L'Opéra Comique in Paris, the Peacock Theatre in London, L'Opéra de Monté Carlo in Monaco, Hawaii, San Francisco and the East coast, in addition to sold-out runs at the Odyssey Theatre in West Los Angeles. Recent tours have included shows in Australia and New Zealand. She has served as répétiteur/chorusmaster/assistant conductor for Los Angeles Opera, Long Beach Opera, Cincinnati Opera, Opera Santa Barbara and Mississippi Opera. She is currently a popular teaching artist for LA Opera's Education and Community Programs Department, participating in Opera for Educators and LA Opera 90012 programs, in addition to ongoing exhibit-based musical presentations. She is the pianist and music director of the Los Angeles-based Operetta Foundation, which presents staged concerts of rare operetta gems, and performs on numerous local and regional chamber music series, including Sundays Live at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Grand Performances at California Plaza and Jacaranda in Santa Monica. She has appeared a number of times on the Brand Library Music Series, and she been music director for the series for several years. FREE; no tickets or reservations required.
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Sun, Dec 14:
4 pm MUSICA ANGELICA BAROQUE ORCHESTRA with guests THE TÖLZER KNABENCHOR world renowned boy’s choir from Germany, performs “CHRISTMAS ORATORIO” by J.S. BACH, at The Broad Stage, Santa Monica City College, corner of Santa Monica Bl & 11th St, Santa Monica.; info & tix, 310-458-4504 or www.MusicaAngelica.org. Conductor is Martin Haselböck, soloist Tölzer Knabenchor; director G. Schmidt Gaden; tenor Markus Schäfer; baritone Randall Scarlata. Musica Angelica, based in Santa Monica, collaborates with leading performing arts institutions in Southern California, including Los Angeles Opera, Long Beach Opera, the J. Paul Getty Museum, the Norton Simon Museum, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale. Guest conductors have included Rinaldo Alessandrini, Giovanni Antonini, Harry Bicket, Paul Goodwin, and Jory Vinikour, and others. The ensemble was co-founded by Michael Eagan, widely considered one of the foremost lute players in the country, and gambist Mark Chatfield. Eagan passed away in 2004; Chatfield, in 1998. Info and brochure with schedule of the 5-concert orchestral series plus their chamber series, is available by calling 310-458-4504 or online at www.MusicaAngelica.org. (In additon, they performed last night at 8 pm in downtown L.A; see listing.) Tix from $39 to $55.
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Sun, Dec 14; in Victorville:
4-7:30 pm 9th annual “CURLY’S COWBOY CHRISTMAS” with BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE and the TUMBLING TUMBLWEEDS in a benefit for the “Happy Trails Childrens Foundation” at the Ambassador Hotel, 15494 Palmdale Rd, Victorville; info & tix, www.happytrails.org; 760-240-3330. They’ve won the top awards separately and together. “DUSTY" ROY ROGERS, JR. honored BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE when he said they can be described as “the ROY ROGERS & DALE EVANS of the 21st century.” The duo has twice performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” The TUMBLING TUMBLWEEDS are the Academy of Western Artists “Group of the Year.”
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BELINDA GAIL received the Western Music Association's award for "Female Performer of the Year" an unprecedented four consecutive years, 1999 through 2002, and again in 2005. She garnered the Academy Of Western Artists, “Will Rogers’ Award” for "Female Performer of the Year" in 1999 and 2004.
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CURLY MUSGRAVE received the Western Music Association's “Male Performer of the Year” for 2002 and 2003. He garnered the WMA's “Songwriter of the Year” award in 2002, 2003 and 2004. He’s received two Academy Of Western Artists “Will Rogers’ Awards” as “Male Performer of the Year” and “Entertainer of the Year” in 2003.
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BELINDA GAIL & CURLY MUSGRAVE received the “Duo/Group of the Year” award twice from the Western Music Association, for 2005 and 2006. More artists info at www.codeofthewestentertainment.com/gail-musgrave/default.asp
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The Happy Trails Children’s Foundation is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) charitable organization that works with abused children. It is run by a volunteer board of directors, and a paid and volunteer staff. The concert is an annual fund-raiser for the Foundation, and it always sells-out. Tix are $50 ea, or $95 per couple.
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Sun, Dec 14:
5:30-9 pm annual WMA “CHRISTMAS PARTY & JAM” at Viva Cantina / Viva Fresh, 900 Riverside Dr, Burbank; 818-845-2425. Begins approximately 5:30 pm, following the annual “CHRISTMAS ON THE RANGE” holiday show benefit concert presented by the Western Music Association at at the Autry Museum. (See 2 pm listing.) Everyone welcome, bring acoustic instruments and your favorite holiday-themed cowboy songs.
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Sun, Dec 14:
7 pm BILL EVANS & MEGAN LYNCH return to the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. Advance reservations recommended. The duo’s new CD, “Let’s Do Something,” is set for a Dec 19 release, with the CD release show at Berkeley’s famous “Freight & Salvage.” Their previous CD has been heard on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.” Both Bill and Megan are widely acclaimed and much in demand - both as performing musicians and teachers. They recently combined their efforts, and the result is much greater than the sum of its parts. They perform traditional banjo/fiddle tunes, of course, but go far beyond that. Their voices blend beautifully, and they perform both classic and contemporary acoustic tunes. Bill & Megan include their individual original material, adding innovation and excitement as a duo to their already stellar musicianship. If you’ve heard either of them before, this should provide a new experience for you. Joy Felt, from the Bluegrass Association of Southern California, adds, “Plus, they are funny, very funny.” Artists info, www.fiddlestar.com. In addition, they present workshops today at the Blue Ridge Pickin’ Parlor (see noon listings for workshop info). Tonight’s show tix, $18.
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Sun, Dec 14:
7 pm KELLY JOE PHELPS at McCabe’s, 3101 Pico Bl (Pico at 31st), Santa Monica; www.mccabes.com; 310-828-4403. Tix purchased online or by phone, add $4 svc chg, per order (not per ticket) to price shown. $20.
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Sun, Dec 14:
7 pm 8th annual “NAVIDAD EN WHITTIER” benefit performance by DANZA FLORICANTO USA with guest artists CESAR CASTRO, and MARIACHI MEXICAPAN, led by RAY MEDINA, at the Ruth B. Shannon Center for the Performing Arts at Whittier College, 6760 Painter Av, Whittier 90601; info & reservations, 562-907-4203 or www.shannoncenter.org. It’s an evening of dance, music and song inspired by the rich traditions of the Mexican community, as Floricanto presents its tribute to the company's Mexican traditions during the Christmas Holidays with Navidad en Whittier. The Latino holiday tradition is established in Whittier.
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“Navidad en Whittier” celebrates the traditional music and dance styles from Mexico through the memories of an "abuelita" (grandmother) who wants to make sure these traditions are passed on to her children. The pieces range from the older dance forms of folklorico style to newer contemporary ways of celebrating the holidays, such as the tradition of “La Rama” from Veracaruz, Mexico. This tradition is an amalgam of the indigenous, Spanish, and African roots of Veracruz. The nascent Floricanto "conjunto" (musical group) will be accompanied by the renowned CESAR CASTRO, well known "jaranero" from Veracruz Mexico in their rendition of “La Rama.” Floricanto's long time musical collaborators, MARIACHI MEXICAPAN, led by RAY MEDINA, join the festivities.
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Proceeds benefit the Floricanto Institute, a partnership between Floricanto and Sunrise Elementary School l in Los Angeles Unified School District. Through this partnership Floricanto provides an instructor for a Folklorico class for two hours a day, five days a week, after school throughout the regular school year, produces a holiday program at the end of the first semester, and one full performance at the end of the year, both open to the public. All of this is totally free of charge to the 150 participating students. Tix for tonight are $15 gen’l, $10 srs & children.
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Sun, Dec 14:
7:30 pm JAMES HURLEY plays his CD RELEASE SHOW for "Tempest in a Teacup" at The Guitar Merchant, 7503 Topanga Canyon Bl, Canoga Park 91303. James Hurley has performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” between his tours of the US and England, and he earned a “Listener Favorite” on the radio show with a track from his previous album, “The Sun and the Moon.” Tonight, he debuts his new album.
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James says, “most (if not all) of the people that played or sang on the album” will perform, “with supporting sets from SABRINA & CRAIG, BRETT MIKELS, and LISA TURNER.” And James tell us, “I confess to taking a perverse pleasure in thinking some radio programmers may be perplexed with the range of styles between the songs. Let me just say that to me, the songs represent the living of a life...no two days are the same...and the album reflects that to the best of my ability. Since you're reading this, you probably already know that about the music I write. The album will soon be available through the website and through various download services.” There will be light refreshments and munchies. $10 at the door.
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Sun, Dec 14; in Simi Valley:
7:30-9 pm “HOLIDAY SEASON BLUEGRASS CONCERT” with THE BROMBIES, HIGH HILLS and a very special performance by award-winning young fiddle prodigy KATIE NAKAMURA, at Simi Valley Cultural Art Center, 3050 Los Angeles Av, Simi Valley 93065; www.simi-arts.org.
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THE BROMBIES are named for the wild horses of Australia. Their music is clear, exciting and original. GEORGE & JO ELLEN DOERING play with two of Bluegrass' most outstanding musicians, BILL BRYSON on bass and vocals, and PATRICK SAUBER on banjo. George, Bill and Patrick are sought-after by the music industry, and Jo-Ellen writes the band’s original music. Expect rich harmonies and captivating breaks. More at www.brombies.com
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HIGH HILLS is the all-female bluegrass band who have opened for many, many big stars. When they last performed at the Simi Valley Art Center, three years ago, they brought the house down. More at www.highhills.com
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KATIE NAKAMURA has captured top prizes and the hearts of the audience at the Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest, year after year. At age 10, Katie performed with Gabe and Michael Witcher and Scott Gates at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. She literally stopped the show. Now, three years later, she is back to perform her magic.
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Advance tix at 805-583-7900 or at the box office. Gen’l $22, seniors (age 55+) $20.
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Sun, Dec 14; in Everett, WA:
7:30 pm SARAH BRIGHTMAN at the Comcast Arena, 2000 Hewitt Av, Everett, WA 98201; 425-322-2600.
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Sun, Dec 14:
8 pm JIM “KIMO” WEST does a Hawaiian-style slack key guitar performance at Hollowbody at TRIP, 2101 Lincoln Bl, Santa Monica 90405. Jim says, “ultra cool club, new acoustic night!” Jim "Kimo" West is one of today’s masters of Hawaiian slack key, as both guitarist and composer. More at www.jimkimowest.com and www.myspace.com/jimkimowest. $7 cover, $5 if you print this and take it with you.
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Sun, Dec 14:
8 & 9:30 pm JANET KLEIN & HER PARLOR BOYS play two one-hour sets for dinner and dancing at Maxwell DeMille's Cicada Club, 617 S Olive St, L.A. 90014; dinner reserv 213-488-9488; info, www.ClubCicada.com. Valet parking, fine dining, full bar, all ages. Dress code enforced (fancy! and old fashioned preferred!) No cover charge, but dinner and drink minimums apply.
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Sun, Dec 14:
8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (Fountain at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. Ongoing Flamenco series varies today from its first and third Sunday of every month schedule. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern California, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain. Secure, on-site parking is $5; tix $30.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 15
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Mon, Dec 15:
7:30 pm “PURE COUNTRY” with MIKE STINSON, DAVE SERBY, DAVE GLEASON, WEST OF TEXAS and special guest RONI STONEMAN in a night celebrating the photos of LEON KARAGRISE, with “pure honky tonk country and a little bit o' bluegrass music,” at the Echoplex, 1154 Glendale Bl, Echo Park. Presented by The Echo, The Grand Ol Echo series, and Process Media. All ages. $10 cover.
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 16
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Tue, Dec 16; third Tue, every month:
7:30 pm SLIGO RAGS are this month’s performing artists at the monthly “BLUEGRASS AT THE BRAEMAR,” BASC (Bluegrass Assoc of Southern Cal) show at Braemar Country Club, 4001 Reseda Bl, Tarzana 91356. (Take 101 Fwy to Reseda Bl, exit S, go 2 1/2 miles up the hill to the entrance on the right.) Show is free; dinner is an optional pasta buffet, complete with soup, dinner salad (you can add chicken breast), rolls, butter, coffee, tea and dessert, $14 (tax and tip included). Buffet served beginning at 6:30 pm. Bar service available. Ample seating, safe, secure free parking. Info: contact Joy Felt, Bluegrass Association of Southern California, at 818-705-8870 or bascinfo@socalbluegrass.org.
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Tue, Dec 16:
8 pm “SABRINA & CRAIG’S ACOUSTIC L.A. LIVE! CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR” with TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS, fiddle wizard-vocalist STEPHANIE BETTMAN, and SABRINA & CRAIG, at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917.
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A first-ever special event for the world famous venue – “A Christmas Spectacular.” CGB impresario BOB STANE says, “Now we know that everyone’s got their own way of celebrating the holidays, and Sabrina & Craig would like to share theirs with you. Come prepared to relax and enjoy the Christmas spirit of joy and harmony as they play arrangements of traditional favorites along with memorable originals. The duo’s special guests are the delightfully talented Tracy Newman & the Reinforcements and exciting singer-songwriter-fiddler Stephanie Bettman.”
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SABRINA & CRAIG bring over 75 years of musical experience between them. Their partnership expresses and shares their love of music, precise and poetic guitar voicings, complex harmonies, and heartfelt connection. If you like variety, they’ve got a combination of originals and unique covers sure to put a smile on even the crustiest critic. "Your act emits an abundance of love and wit, both personally and musically. Your performance today was magical; an inspiration to all of us!" - Mark Ludmer, musician and producer of "The Indie Music Show" on Santa Barbara Independent Television; “You two are really so incredibly entertaining!” - Harriet Schock, Gold & Platinum Songwriter. Craig, as a solo performing songwriter, has been a guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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TRACY NEWMAN & THE REINFORCEMENTS are Tracy and her talented backing duo, and all three are recording artists. Initially a talented and prolific songwriter, TRACY NEWMAN took time off to become a founding member of the THE GROUNDLINGS, L.A.’s best-known improv company troupe, before going on to write and produce award-winning television, including an EMMY and a PEABODY AWARD for co-writing the coming-out episode of “ELLEN.” Tracy co-created “ACCORDING TO JIM,” starring Jim Belushi. Now she’s back, full-time, to her first love - writing and performing whimsical and thoughtful songs that tell stories and touch hearts. Backing her up are THE REINFORCEMENTS – LORIE DOSWELL and GENE LIPPMAN. Lorie is a wonderful singer-songwriter- recording artist in her own right, and Gene is a self-confessed “harmony junkie,” whose guitar playing adds “Dan-Hicks-kinda licks to the mix.” Their tight, three-part harmonizing of Tracy’s tunes is a wonder, and you’ll find yourself singing along in spite of yourself. Tracy has been a guest on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks.”
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STEPHANIE BETTMAN and her band won the 2008 Topanga Banjo Fiddle contest, AND the 2008 “SoCal Live Acoustic Music Awards.” Stephanie has been labeled "the new Allison Krauss." Her songwriting and performance style is an innovative and catchy amalgam of bluegrass, folk, roots, and jazz. She blends sophisticated lyrics and killer instrumentation; then mixes it in a big pot of folky mountain vibe. Oh... and she'll charm you between songs, too. With a who's who of Nashville studio musicians lining up to work with her, she's chosen guitar-mandolin player LUKE HALPIN tonight to provide the backing for her soaring vocals and sizzling fiddle.
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Reservations recommended. Tix $15.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17
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Wed, Dec 17:
7 pm “SONGSALIVE! 10 YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION & XMAS/HOLIDAY PARTY” at The Mint, 6010 W Pico Bl, L.A. 90035; www.themintla.com; 323-954-9400 for dinner reservations. Songsalive! is celebrating their 10 year anniversary and the holiday season, with a variety of their members performing. They are a global organization, so expect both L.A. area and touring musicians. One name we know is AMY MATHESIUS from Colorado. More info, www.songsalive.org/losangeles. Venue has full bar and serves dinner, and it’s necessary to book a table in advance to get a seat. Event includes giveaways / prizes / entertainment. Venue is 21+. No cover.
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 18
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Dec 18:
7-10 pm “POCKET GOLDBERG & FRIENDS SONGWRITER SHOWCASE” with this week’s guest artists PAUL MARSHALL (Patty Loveless, Juice Newton, Strawberry Alarm Clock), and DEBRA DAVIS (Christopher Cross), at Arnie's Café, 6864 Foothill Bl (at Marcus), Tujunga 91042; 818-951-9089; www.myspace.com/arniescafe. DALE LaDUKE (Kaedmon, BeaTunes, Five Wheel Drive) tells us, “I try to go as often as possible, because it's always good.” No cover, donations to artists are welcome.
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Thu, Dec 18:
8 pm TERRY TALBOT & THE MASON PROFFIT BAND at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. You may remember last year’s tour, wherein TERRY TALBOT joined BARRY McGUIRE in a fabulous review of classic ‘60s music, mixed with first-person stories that illuminated the music. Now, Terry Talbot is back with his band, MASON PROFFIT, returning to the place from which most of his stories came.
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TERRY TALBOT & MASON PROFFIT have a rich history in American music. In August of 1969, Mason Profit released the first of Terry’s thirty albums and influenced the music scene of the time. “The band swung harder than most of the West Coast’s country-rock heavies. Terry, meanwhile, crooned as if he’d grown up listening to Loretta Lynn and Merle Haggard. Mason Proffit disbanded in 1973, but not before making a huge impression on a couple of upstarts in California. Yessir, THE EAGLES’ desperado / outlaw image owes a lot to the brothers Talbot. So, if you want to pass Country Rock 101, you need a serious dose of the Proffit.” - Justin Farrar, Rhapsody / 2008.
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Terry is back as front man and principle songwriter for the band. He penned their hit songs, “Two Hangmen” - so politically charged that it was banned from radio by the FCC for sedition - and the band’s other hits, “Eugene Pratt” and “Better Find Jesus.” They recorded five albums on the Warner Bros. label and their opening acts included JOHN DENVER, THE DOOBIE BROTHERS, STEELY DAN, and DAN FOGLEBERG. “The Eagles were greatly influenced by Mason Proffit and followed the design of Two Hangmen for their Hotel California.”
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Later, with brother JOHN MICHAEL TALBOT, Terry toured as the opening act for THE EAGLES. Terry earned early recognition as an accomplished guitarist with GLEN CAMPBELL, CHAD MITCHELL, and SONNY & CHER.
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TERRY TALBOT has been nominated for a number of Grammy and Dove awards. In the last seven years, Terry has released six CD’s and a live video. Before that, he recorded seven solo albums with Sparrow Records including the Grammy nominated album, “The Painter,” with his brother, John. In 1979, “The Painter” was reviewed by Billboard magazine as “the best acoustic album of decade!” Terry is still heralded by many critics to be one of folk rock’s finest acoustic guitarists ever.
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Tonight Terry is joined by BYRON HORI on guitar and vocals and BRIAN BEAL on bass and vocals, reunited as TERRY TALBOT & THE MASON PROFFIT BAND, to bring a highly-charged, culturally-rich show. Their line up of original and familiar songs takes the listener on an American musical journey. Tix, $15.
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 19
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Fri, Dec 19; in the OC:
7 pm SARAH BRIGHTMAN at The Theatre at Honda Center, Anaheim. Sarah Brightman is the biggest-selling soprano of all time. She recently captivated the world at the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympics, and now she has begun her first North American tour in four years, including only two consecutive nights in Southern Cal. After the successful release of her highest chart-debuting album, “Symphony,” Sarah will release her first-ever Christmas album this holiday season. “A Winter Symphony” features season classics delivered with her vocals, including “Silent Night,” “In the Bleak Midwinter,” “Ave Maria” and others. During her career, Sarah has sold more than 26 million albums and over two million DVDs worldwide. She continues to defy genres and create groundbreaking music for audiences around the world. Doors at 7 pm. Tix $235, $110, $75, $40. On sale 9/13 at noon.
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Fri, Dec 19:
7:30 pm “CELTIC CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION” with MOLLY’S REVENGE and guests MOIRA SMILEY and dancer MAIRE CLERKIN, at the Unitarian Universalist Church, 1260 18th St (at Arizona), Santa Monica 90404. First of two shows in the L.A. area as MOLLY’S REVENGE (www.mollysrevenge.com) does their annual holiday show tour. They are joined by MOIRA SMILEY (www.moirasmiley.com), the multitalented vocalist-composer-arranger and impresario of VOCO; Moira won the West/Midwest USA Division of the “All-Ireland Singing Championship.” Joining the musicians is “the most creative and skilled Irish dancer you'll ever see,” MAIRE CLERKIN (www.musiccenter.org/education/artistdirectory_127.html). Advance tix at www.mollysrevenge.com/performances.shtml. (The other local show is tomorrow night at 7:30 pm in Pasadena; see listing.) Tix $18 advance, $20 door.
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Fri, Dec 19 (& Sat, Dec 20):
8 pm “TRIPPIN’ THE SIXTIES” with BARRY McGUIRE & JOHN YORK (The BYRDS) at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. You may remember last year’s tour, wherein TERRY TALBOT joined BARRY McGUIRE in a fabulous review of classic ‘60s music, mixed with first-person stories that illuminated the music. Now, the show is back, with JOHN YORK joining Barry for an evening of classic songs of the ‘60s, and personal stories that illuminate the music.
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BARRY McGUIRE stepped into the public eye in 1963 on the “Andy Williams Show,” as the gravelly voiced lead singer of the NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS. He launched his musical career with the million-sellers "Green, Green" and "Green Back Dollar." In 1965, at the heart of the peace movement, McGuire went solo. His growing awareness of social hypocrisy was expressed in his third hit, "Eve of Destruction" which echoed around the world as an anthem of the times – and was banned from US radio play by the FCC, for sedition.
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Three years later, Barry was cast as the male lead in the original Broadway production of the musical "Hair." Once again his voice was heard proclaiming the ideals of a radical generation. Dick Clark says, “When world events collide with rock & roll, you get Barry McGuire.”
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JOHN YORK, currently working with Barry McGuire in "Trippin' The Sixties," is best known for his work as a member of the world-renowned folk rock / country rock group, THE BYRDS. John’s vocal and instrumental talents have kept him in the company of such musical luminaries as Roger McGuinn, The Mamas and Papas, Johnny Rivers, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Gene Clark, Clarence White, Nicky Hopkins, Mac Rebenack (Dr. John), Doug Sahm (The Sir Douglas Quintet), Rick Danko and Richard Manuel (The Band), and many others. The TV show, “The Place Where I Am Dreaming,” featured John’s artistic collaboration with his wife, artist Sumi Foley. Recently, John has composed and recorded music for the lyrics of Kim Fowley on "West Coast Revelation." The duet "Redneck Ninja" highlights John's creative partnership with acclaimed songwriter Patrick Brayer. In 2007, John played concerts in Japan for the third time.
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Reservations strongly recommended. Tix, $20.
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Fri, Dec 19:
8 pm “SPOKEN TRUTH” with performing host TROYAL is a free variety show on the Coffee Gallery FRONT-STAGE, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena. We know you know all about the world-famous Coffee Gallery Backstage, with it’s world-class performers, but what about The Coffee Gallery Front-stage? They have a free stage in the front of the coffeehouse. Coffee Gallery Coffee Bar proprietor and professional comic JULIE SANDOVAL tells us, “The Front-stage is available for poetry, spoken word and acoustic music.” If you'd like to arrange your own Front-Stage Show please email Julie at bohemianjoe@gmail.com. “SPOKEN TRUTH” with Troyal is at 8 pm, one Friday each month. Admission is free, and you can contact them to sign-up to share your spoken truth or a song. Info, www.funkylittlecoffeehouse.com.
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 20
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Sat, Dec 20:
4-8 pm “EVENING HOLIDAY TOURS” at the Homestead Museum, 15415 East Don Julian Rd, City of Industry; 91745; www.homesteadmuseum.org. Special, one-evening-only tours for visitors to enjoy period decorations by moonlight. Tours focus on how the celebration of Christmas in Southern Cal changed from the 1840s through the 1920s. Following each tour, visitors can enjoy cider and sweet treats in the Homestead Museum Gallery. Tours depart every 20 minutes. Adv tix recommended, on sale Oct 31. $5 adults; $3 seniors, students, & children 2-12; children under age 2 are free.
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Sat, Dec 20:
7 pm SARAH BRIGHTMAN at The Forum in Inglewood. Sarah Brightman is the biggest-selling soprano of all time. She recently captivated the world at the opening ceremony of the Beijing 2008 Olympics, and now she has begun her first North American tour in four years, including only two consecutive nights in Southern Cal. After the successful release of her highest chart-debuting album, “Symphony,” Sarah will release her first-ever Christmas album this holiday season. “A Winter Symphony” features season classics delivered with her vocals, including “Silent Night,” “In the Bleak Midwinter,” “Ave Maria” and others. During her career, Sarah has sold more than 26 million albums and over two million DVDs worldwide. She continues to defy genres and create groundbreaking music for audiences around the world. Doors at 7 pm. Tix $235, $110, $75, $40. On sale 9/13 at noon.
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Sat, Dec 20:
7:30 pm “CELTIC CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION” with MOLLY’S REVENGE and guests MOIRA SMILEY and dancer MAIRE CLERKIN, at Throop Church, 300 S Los Robles Av, Pasadena. Second of two shows in the L.A. area (last night at 7:30 pm in Santa Monica was the first) as MOLLY’S REVENGE (www.mollysrevenge.com) does their annual holiday show tour. They are joined by MOIRA SMILEY (www.moirasmiley.com), the multitalented vocalist-composer-arranger and impresario of VOCO; Moira won the West/Midwest USA Division of the “All-Ireland Singing Championship.” Joining the musicians is “the most creative and skilled Irish dancer you'll ever see,” MAIRE CLERKIN (www.musiccenter.org/education/artistdirectory_127.html). Advance tix at www.mollysrevenge.com/performances.shtmlTix $18 advance, $20 door.
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Sat, Dec 20 (and Fri, Dec 19):
8 pm “TRIPPIN’ THE SIXTIES” with BARRY McGUIRE & JOHN YORK (The BYRDS) at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; info, www.coffeegallery.com; reservations, 626-398-7917. You may remember last year’s tour, and their exciting live performance on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks,” wherein TERRY TALBOT joined BARRY McGUIRE in a fabulous review of classic ‘60s music, mixed with first-person stories that illuminated the music. Now, the show is back, with JOHN YORK joining Barry for an evening of classic songs of the ‘60s, and personal stories that illuminate the music.
+
BARRY McGUIRE stepped into the public eye in 1963 on the “Andy Williams Show,” as the gravelly voiced lead singer of the NEW CHRISTY MINSTRELS. He launched his musical career with the million-sellers "Green, Green" and "Green Back Dollar." In 1965, at the heart of the peace movement, McGuire went solo. His growing awareness of social hypocrisy was expressed in his third hit, "Eve of Destruction" which echoed around the world as an anthem of the times – and was banned from US radio play by the FCC, for sedition.
+
Three years later, Barry was cast as the male lead in the original Broadway production of the musical "Hair." Once again his voice was heard proclaiming the ideals of a radical generation. Dick Clark says, “When world events collide with rock & roll, you get Barry McGuire.”
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JOHN YORK, currently working with Barry McGuire in "Trippin' The Sixties," is best known for his work as a member of the world-renowned folk rock / country rock group, THE BYRDS. John’s vocal and instrumental talents have kept him in the company of such musical luminaries as Roger McGuinn, The Mamas and Papas, Johnny Rivers, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Gene Clark, Clarence White, Nicky Hopkins, Mac Rebenack (Dr. John), Doug Sahm (The Sir Douglas Quintet), Rick Danko and Richard Manuel (The Band), and many others. The TV show, “The Place Where I Am Dreaming,” featured John’s artistic collaboration with his wife, artist Sumi Foley. Recently, John has composed and recorded music for the lyrics of Kim Fowley on "West Coast Revelation." The duet "Redneck Ninja" highlights John's creative partnership with acclaimed songwriter Patrick Brayer. In 2007, John played concerts in Japan for the third time.
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Reservations strongly recommended. Tix, $20.
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 21
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Sun, Dec 21; 3rd Sun, every month:
1-3 pm Monthly “WESTERN MUSIC ASSOCIATION SOUTHERN CAL JAM SESSION” on the Heritage Court Stage in the Autry National Center (Autry Museum), 4700 Western Heritage Way, Griffith Park; www.museumoftheamericanwest.org; 818-971-5002. No WMA California Chapter meeting following, this month only. All performing musicians (whether or not they are Autry members or WMA members) get in free, and each may bring one guest. On WMA jam days at the Autry, all WMA members will be admitted free to the museum all day (show your WMA membership ID at the front desk and get access to the jam and to all the museum galleries for the whole day). Award-winning performing songwriter JOYCE WOODSON says, “You can have lunch there at the Golden Spur first, then stop by for some music.” Info at www.westernmusic.org. Museum gen’l adm $9 adults, $3 kids age 12 and under.
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Sun, Dec 21:
5-8 pm “WINTER SOLSTICE AT THE LEARNING GARDEN,” at The Learning Garden at Venice High School, 13000 Venice Bl, Venice 90066; 310-722-3656; learninggardenmaster@yahoo.com. Gardenmaster David says, “Leave the crazies behind - that's the 'holiday crazies' - and relax with us on the shortest night of the year. Back in our agrarian roots, we find the real reason to have a celebration in December, and with that, we leave behind all the crazy-making of shopping and holiday parties. Let go of the commerce that is our current holiday model, and relax with friends by a hot fire - bring your own marshmallows!” There’s always a fun acoustic roots music jam at these events.
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Sun, Dec 21:
7 pm RENAISSANCE performs “A CELEBRATION OF A CAPELLA CHRISTMAS” at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 91101; reservations, 626-398-7917; info, www.coffeegallery.com. Recognized as one of Los Angeles' premiere a Capella vocal groups, RENAISSANCE takes their audience on a nostalgic, musical journey; singing songs of joy, hope, love and redemption. Their repertoire creatively brings back memorable music, covers of legends of Doo Wop and Soul music, including The Drifters, The Moon Glows, Sam Cooke, The Orioles, Clyde McPhatter, Pookie Hudson and the Spaniels, and many more. This group is on a mission to preserve an important American musical art form - "Street Corner Doo Wop / A Capella" singing. In their own, cool, creatively unique and soulful style, are doing all they can to accomplish that goal. Comprised of founding members MAURICE KITCHEN, TORRE BRANNON REESE, & KWAME ALEXANDER, over time these core members teamed-up with ANTHONY SNEAD & CHARLES (SONNY) BANKS of the trio "Banks Epps &Snead." Their new CD, "Meet Me on the Corner," has been accepted with overwhelming enthusiasm and great success. Not just another singing group, Renaissance intertwines social and cultural themes in their music, offering "food for the spirit" as well as the soul. As their website proclaims, “Doo Wop Ain’t Dead.” Artists info, www.doowopaintdead.com. Tix, $15.
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Sun, Dec 21:
7 pm “HAWAIIAN HOLIDAY CONCERT” and optional music workshops with JIM "KIMO" WEST, & THE POLYNESIAN PARADISE DANCERS at Grand Annex, 434 W 6th St, San Pedro 90731; event info, http://panioloproductions.com/local.html. Christmas show featuring one of today’s finest composers and players of Hawaiian slack key guitar. The evening includes selections from the new CD "Kimo’s Hawaiian Slack Key Christmas" and more. Kimo tells us, “You can expect some very special hula performances from this excellent troupe!” Kimo will conduct an optional slack key guitar workshop for only $10, simultaneous with the separate hula workshop. Tix, www.panioloproductions.com/store.html. Two workshops at 4 pm, choose Hula or Slack Key Guitar, $10 each. Tix for concert at 7 pm are $15 & 20.
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Sun, Dec 21:
CANCELLED TONIGHT: 8 pm “FOREVER FLAMENCO!” at The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Av (Fountain at Normandie), L.A. 90029; 323-663-1525; www.FountainTheatre.com. Ongoing Flamenco series takes place on the first and third Sunday of every month. With only 80 seats in four rows, The Fountain Theatre is the perfect place to view Flamenco. Each show features a roster of world-class Flamenco dancers, singers and musicians drawn from the rich pool of Flamenco artists in Southern California, with additional guest artists brought from San Francisco, Albuquerque and Spain. Secure, on-site parking is $5; tix $30.
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 22
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Mon, Dec 22; in Ojai:
7 pm Second Annual “CELTIC CHRISTMAS SHOW” with Portland’s HANZ AKARI BAND and Irish step dancers at the Ojai Concert Series, Ojai Valley Woman's Club, 441 E Ojai Av, Ojai; 805-649-5189; www.ojaiconcertseries.com.
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It’s a celebration of Christmas with songs of the season, Irish step dancers, and a fresh new take on Irish traditional music with a Celtic / Japanese fusion quartet that series sponsors say “will knock your socks off the chimney.” Last year’s show was a complete sell-out, so order early.
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HANZ AKARI BAND has created a singularly original new sound, a Celtic / Japanese hybrid, that honors both styles and their traditions while adding a fresh new element to both. For the past five years they have been exciting concert goers across the country and around the world. Featured are CARY NOVOTNY on guitar and vocals, EDDIE PARENTE on fiddle and JOEY ABARTA (Ciunas) on bodhran, and featuring two young Irish step dancers. "The next generation of traditional music" winner of the www.liveireland.com 2005 “Male Newcomer of the Year.”
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Doors at 6:30 for adv tix & will-call, 6:45 for tix buyers. Seating first come. Kids tix, under 14, are 1/2 price; on-site child care, by adv reserv is $5. Show tix, $20 adv, $22 door.
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Mon, Dec 22; on cable TV:
7:30 pm “BACKSTAGE L.A.” with guest CLAY EALS, author of “STEVE GOODMAN: FACING THE MUSIC,” broadcast tonight in Chatsworth on cable Ch 34. Recorded in July, it’s a half-hour. More at www.clayeals.com and www.backstagelosangeles.net
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SATURDAY, DECEMBER 27
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Sat, Dec 27:
8 pm-midnight “ZYDECO DANCE SERIES CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR'S EVE DANCE” with live music by ANDRE' THIERRY at the Gardena Elks Lodge, 1735 W 162nd St, Gardena 90247. Info, call Sydney, event producer, at 323-401-8859. $20.
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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 28
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Sun, Dec 28:
7 pm SLIGO RAGS at the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; reserv 626-398-7917; info www.coffeegallery.com. This locally-based big time Irish act performed live on radio’s “Tied to the Tracks” on St. Patrick’s Day in 2006, and that time EIGHT of the Top Ten songs on one Celtic Music Chart were their recordings. Their debut studio CD, "The Night Before the Morning After," still gets international airplay, and was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine. Two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this highly-entertaining ensemble presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Using fiddle, acoustic guitar, electric bass, and percussion, Sligo Rags is taking the local and not-so-local Celtic music scene by storm. Says the San Diego Troubadour, "This band can light up an atmosphere as dim as the Guinness stout you just ordered at the bar... Sligo Rags really know their Celtic music." Don't be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz, and swing manage to sneak their way into the act, as well. Much fun. Venue impresario BOB STANE says, “This is a money back, no-questions-asked-if-you-are-not-thrilled act. Bring friends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles.” $18.
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 31
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Wed-Sat, Dec 31-Jan 3:
“CALIFORNIA TRADITIONAL MUSIC SOCIETY NEW YEARS CAMP” is four days and three nights of traditional music, intensive workshops, informal jams, singing, and dancing, at Camp Hess Kramer, on Pacific Coast Highway above Trancas Canyon, near Malibu.
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Performers / workshop presenters:
CATHY BARTON & DAVE PARA (banjo, songs, guitar)
TOM & PATRICK SAUBER (banjo, fiddle, guitar, and mandolin)
AMBER & JIM MUELLER (fiddle, clogging)
BANSHEE IN THE KITCHEN: Brenda Hunter (fiddle, hammered dulcimer), Jill Egland (flute, accordion, whistle) & Mary Tulin (six- and twelve-string guitar, bouzouki)
THE PRIVY TIPPERS: Craig Tinney, (guitar & banjo), Jerry Ray Weinert (bass), Jacquie Wohl (fiddle), & Dave Firestine (mandolin).
plus others to be announced.
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The Camp is in a rustic canyon, about 100 yards from the ocean in a beautiful Monarch butterfly-home canyon. Non-stop music, jams, workshops, contra dancing, superb meals in kosher-style kitchen, New Year's Eve costume ball, CTMS silent auction, 24-hour coffee, tea, & hot chocolate in dining room with guest refrigerator, tennis, volleyball, and basketball courts (with your equipment), three levels of accommodations, but hurry, only cabin and deluxe-rate rooms remain.
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Cabin rate. Shared, heated cabins, holding 10-12 people each (bring your band, or have a family reunion): $175; Suite rate is SOLD OUT; Deluxe rate, modern private bedroom, private bath, holding 2 to 4 people each: $400.
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Cost is per person, with at least two people in a Private, Suite or Deluxe rate room. Single occupancy surcharge, $75. Children ages 6 to 16, $175 in same room with parent. Children under age 6, free.
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Day visitors welcome with advance reservations; cost is $90 per person per day and includes all meals and events on the day you attend. Call CTMS, 818-817-7756 with questions. Spaces always go fast for this New Years Camp. More info and registration form at www.ctmsfolkmusic.org.
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As always, more to come, as we (believe it or not) continue to make updates not only to the DECEMBER calendar, but to all the months of 2009 in the “long look ahead” posts. So many truly fine shows, so few evenings and weekends to see them. And hey, Western Capitalism is going to collapse around you anyway, so why not go have a good time?
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View more events at http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com, where all is presented as chronological date listings, for today/tonight, this week, this month, and longer “looks ahead.” The Acoustic Americana Music Guide updates often, and News Features post weekly.
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Current chronological date listings, to June, 2009, are available for
(1) Los Angeles-area acoustic Americana / folk-Americana / acoustic renaissance music events, and,
(2) festivals and other events of great note featuring acoustic Americana music, THROUGHOUT THE US & CANADA (and sometimes beyond), are included in the Guide, and listed separately in our presentation of “Best-Out-of-Town (Beyond L.A.) Events,” which posts from time to time.
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If you don’t see the dates you need in the content bar at left, just scroll it. If you are exploring the ancient archives on our Myspace page, use the “view all” button and scroll, then use the “older” button as many times as needed to explore into the paleozoic.
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If you’re trying to explain this thing to someone who likes real music, just tell ‘em that the Guide’s MOST RECENT EDITIONS as well as our NEWS FEATURES - that’s both the Guide with its event calendars with descriptive write-ups, AND the separately-posted News for-and-about acoustic musicians and music - can be found conveniently at
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http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com
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News of the “Tied to the Tracks” radio & TV shows is at www.myspace.com/laacoustic.
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copyright (c) © 2008, Larry Wines. All rights reserved.
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