WEEKEND "WOW" — EVEN MORE FESTIVALS, plus CONCERTS by the bushel basket. Sep 24 & 25 and beyond, 2016

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We're really excited about something we'll share in detail in just a few days. Briefly, for now: WE'RE PARTNERING with a well established and respected global group of music / music education web and social media music sites! Not only will that bring new readers to the Guide -- where (1) our news features on artists and bands, and (2) previews and reviews of their recordings and gigographies, together with (3) expanded basic name and genre awareness and (4) links to their music on YouTube and elsewhere prove their prowess on many distant shores -- it will all add-up to helping the musicians on whom we report to build an even bigger fan base. PLUS, it will bring ALL our readers fresh opportunities to explore those newly-partnered sites and discover THEIR music news content. Win-win, all the way around. Around the world, that is. We'll tell you alllll about, very soon!

Now, to the bid'ness at hand...

This edition brings a dazzling array of musicality happening all this weekend. The sheer volume of FESTIVALS is almost incomprehensible. And we have more, like concerts and musical theatre, including openings and closings around town.

In addition to all those events, we bring you a quick announcement — a must-see news story which is a one-time-only MUSIC-ON-TV ALERT — and we also have the shortest editorial we've ever run.

Then alllllll those FESTIVALS, including a look ahead to next month's inaugural FOLKWORKS FESTIVAL. And we have bunches of concerts that shouldn't be getting lower-case treatment, but are, because of all these FESTIVALS.

And you can call it a ticket alert, or a heads-up, or your next long-term preoccupation, but whatever you call it, we have a "further on down the road" look at upcoming live music events.

Hold on to your hats (you'll need 'em under the bright weekend FESTIVAL sunshine). Let's get started!


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CONTENTS / IN THIS EDITION...

1) TV MUSIC ALERT... "CBS Sunday Morning" and a Dodgers Connection

2) EDITORIAL: Festivals Shine in 70 Days of Music... After That? Well, Brace Yourself

3) THIS WEEKEND: FESTIVALS, CONCERTS, LIVE Events & Performances

4) INAUGURAL FOLKWORKS FOLK/ROOTS FESTIVAL COMING OCTOBER 8

5) LIVE EVENTS, Further on Down the Road...

6) FINDING STUFF in Recent Editions...


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# 1 News Feature...


TV MUSIC ALERT... "CBS SUNDAY MORNING" AND A DODGERS CONNECTION


(Updated 09-24-16, 2:58 pm.)

It's got Garrison Keillor. It's got Charles Osgood. It's got Vin Scully, What's not to like?
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What We'll Lose when they Go: Charles Osgood and Vin Scully Retire this Week

Tomorrow's CBS "Sunday Morning" is Osgood's last, and Vin Scully soon makes his final Dodger broadcast

by Larry Wines

Amidst the wasteland of infotainment, one of TV's few dependably delightful institutions is the long-running CBS "Sunday Morning" which has aired since January, 1979. Longtime host, radio legend, and musician Charles Osgood, who has hosted the show since 1994, retires after his final broadcast on Sunday (Sep. 25). The Dodgers' Vin Scully also retires this coming week, after being with the Dodgers since 1950.

The accomplishments of each would fill pages. Osgood was inducted into the National Radio Hall of Fame in 1990, Scully in 1995, nine years before being honored as Grand Marshal of the 2014 Tournament of Roses Parade. Both have been awarded Emmys, and more.

Most essentially, Charles Osgood and Vin Scully are two of the people who were always a precious few, and are now in a rapidly dwindling number of, instantly recognizable on-air voices. As soon as you realize you're hearing either of them, you're drawn to the speakers. Long experience is ingrained in all of us that something good awaits and we know we don't want to miss it. Osgood and Scully are from another era entirely, when you had no idea what the politics of either one was. You emphatically didn't want to know, because it so obviously didn't matter to the job they did, and you didn't want to ruin anything for yourself.

Both are Fordham University grads. Both are Roman Catholics who have won honors from their church. Both had time at CBS that made them into national figures. Scully did seven years there as an NFL announcer while maintaining his Dodgers duties, which he continued after moving to NBC to do nationwide baseball coverage. That latter circumstance once resulted in him broadcasting 22 innings in the same day in two games that went long punctuated by a flight to opposite sides of the continent.

Given the broadcast paradigm of cancellation before anything or anyone new has a chance to build an audience, it seems inconceivable that both have been filling our airwaves with welcome information for such a long time. In Scully's case, since Truman was living across the street from the White House while it was gutted for renovation, and for Osgood, since Dwight Eisenhower was president. Yet those who tune-in to hear the information, and for some, the wisdom, in their voices, were, by a vast majority, a long way short of being born when they similarly impressed their first audiences.

Only a few know that young Charles Osgood — Charlie to his friends — was chosen by the White House to be President Eisenhower's personal deejay following "The General's" heart attack and his lengthy hospital recovery. Later, in 1960, credited by name and as an announcer for the radio station where he worked, Osgood did the introductions and commentary on a six-record album set of thirty-three speeches by President Franklin Delano Roosevelt, titled FDR Speaks." It was edited by historian Henry Steele Commager and included a recorded piece by Eleanor Roosevelt.
Transcending all of Osgood's presidential touchstones, Scully had already been with the Dodgers for years while they were still in Brooklyn. When Hollywood made the movie, "For the Love of the Game," everyone knew there could be no more perfect a costar than Vin Scully. And that was made in 1999, before his career stretched another 17 years. His 67 seasons with the Dodgers (1950–present) exceed Iron Man Cal Ripkin's career by such a margin that it isn't even a comparison. No broadcaster in any sport — not even a sedate one like golf — has been with a single team or a single sports facility for so long. In every aspect of professional sports history, Scully is second only to Tommy Lasorda, and by just one year, in his longevity with the Dodgers organization. Which makes you wonder if Vin is retiring now so he intentionally won't eclipse Tommy's record.

On the subject of records, there's an ultimate double entendre. Who knew that Charles Osgood had a Top 40 record in the '60s, as the lyricist? His US Army bandmate, John Cacavas, wrote the music. Their song reached # 29 in the charts in 1964, and stuck around to peak at # 16 on the Billboard charts in 1967, something unimaginable today. That record was vocalized by — get ready for this — Sen. Everett Dirksen (1896-1969), the only U.S. Senator ever to have a hit song record. On top of that, Dirksen was decades ahead of the trend of spoken word lyrics before it became the convention of '90s rappers who couldn't sing. The record won the threesome a Grammy Award for best spoken word performance in 1967. In the incomprehensible '60s, that Dirksen/Osgood/Cacavas song, "Gallant Men," was a seminal influence on S/Sgt. Barry Sadler's 1966 smash hit, "Ballad of The Green Berets."

Even with Dirksen's spoken delivery, his collaboration with Osgood sounds stylistically reminiscent of another song, one called, "Many Men." That was the title track to the 1962 Maurice Jarre-scored motion picture, "The Longest Day," released just two years earlier than the Dirksen record. Preceding "Saving Private Ryan" by decades, it was the ultimate all-star project (every male actor in Hollywood) about the Normandy invasion, notably told from both sides.

The campy Dirksen-Osgood collaboration is a must-hear, anyway. Listen for yourself at:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fAt1VJfEq2k

(To take our comparison challenge with "The Longest Day," you can find the Cadet Glee Club of West Point version at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cVU75AZ5gJU and Paul Anka's version, at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpaTwpWt8BQ )

The larger point is that America was in the midst of cranking-out gung-ho war movies about ordinary soldiers making the ultimate sacrifice in the righteous cause of World War II with suitably rousing music. That, even as the military advisors sent to Southeast Asia by Ike and then by JFK exploded into full scale deployments of combat troops under accidental President Johnson. And contrary to our nation's universally incomplete historical memory of the 1960s? Before there was the Byrds' "Turn, Turn, Turn" and Country Joe and the Fish singing "The Fixin' to Die Rag," there were songs on the radio like "Gallant Men," along with instrumental themes from "Bridge on the River Kwai," "The Great Escape," "The Dirty Dozen," and "The Guns of Navarrone." As late as 1966, the new "Ballad of The Green Berets" from the John Wayne movie soundtrack was still able to be a major hit.

Yes, America mostly found itself on the side of supporting the Vietnam War for many years. In terms of electoral politics, the 1960s ended before the reviled long-haired hippie antiwar protestors and most (but not all) of the folk music singers of the time, including Joan Baez and Bob Dylan, found they had been joined — from a respectable distance — by middle America in wanting out of Vietnam.

The fact that Charles Osgood and Vin Scully were both doing, through the entirety of the '60s, pretty much what they were still doing last week, seems Kafkaesque. It's utterly irreconcilable with our sensibilities, our emotional reconciliations with those times, whether we lived through them or not. In a sense, their careers help prove it was a society rife with nutty contradictions. An accidental aspect arose in the incongruity of a 1967 novelty record that also spins on YouTube, discovered because it's linked to the track of "Gallant Men." This one features a musical actor-impressionist impersonating Sen. Robert F. Kennedy as "Senator Bobby." He's singing "Wild Thing." Not exactly emblematic of a time of universal social consciousness any more than we have now. That parody is at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hiuL_rezDZo

Of course, much is solidly different, and there's no need to cite cyber-everything vs. reading the evening paper that no longer exists. TV has been present throughout, a formidable force that brought the war into America's living rooms, and at what most everyone observed as the family dinner hour. The point of consistency then would be laughable now: the news media of that time had some inviolable rules. About the only place we still see them is in the sportscaster tradition that Scully entered and honorably perpetuated, wherein you don't insult the opposing team or its players. Today's cable pundits could learn a lot from that.

Meanwhile, Osgood was at New York City's local CBS radio affiliate when TV network anchorman Walter Cronkite transcended his already groundbreaking "One Reporter's Opinion." Cronkite broke all molds for expected behavior when he said, on air, wearing a helmet and flak jacket in the jungle of Vietnam, that the war there was hopeless and could, at best, produce a stalemate. Still, the "Tiffany network" was not torn apart by yelling and some uncontrollable need to attain primacy of opinion, as any cable-news stable of infotainment celebrities would be today. Instead, everyone did their job. They researched. They reported. They were professionals. And Osgood, far from appearing to be some kind of conservative advocate in the wake of working for Ike, built his career doing stories that showed people in need and others helping them. On radio and TV alike, Osgood's pieces celebrating the strengths and joys of an America that still, one way or another, helped a neighbor raise a barn, or recover from a wreck or an illness or a natural disaster. And if a musician or a live performance was involved, he was sure to include that.

The TV show Osgood inherited was founded by another legend, the late Charles Kuralt of "On the Road" fame. Kuralt hosted "Sunday Morning" from the day he founded it in 1979 until the eve of his death when Osgood took the helm in 1994. Through it all, the show has been uniquely calm, a thoughtfully slow-paced intellectual oasis. That's especially true for the arts and first-person interactions with cultural history. And where others have fallen — A&E's "Breakfast with the Arts" among the best of the lamented lost — CBS' arts omnibus has consistently and reliably persevered for all its years on the air.

Osgood continued most of Kuralt's concepts, bringing a bit less of the last-person-standing nostalgia for lost times and traditions that had been Kuralt's specialty. Where the original years featured a two-plus-minute unnarrated nature film at the end of every edition, usually showing the smallest of creatures in the grandest of natural settings, that prized gem dwindled with the expectation of modern short attention spans, and now it disappointingly runs a scant 15 seconds or so.

Other conventions were altered or evolved. Kuralt loved jazz. Osgood replaced some of that, happily delving into other genres, and wherever he could, he included participatory journalism, or just a Lawrence-Welk-meets-Johnny-Carson aspect for the show. Osgood's own special talents include his love of making music on piano, and from his radio days, extensive awareness of the great American songbook beyond Kuralt's deep dives into too-frequent jazz segments. Granted, Osgood's forays at the piano were, in earlier years, close to cringeworthy, especially when he vocalized. But he got better. He even took lessons. He learned to play banjo. He progressed to pretty good. And beyond. And non-TV musical performances followed for Charlie, on the stages of iconic venues that included the Grand Ole Opry and Carnegie Hall.

And the banjo brings to mind that it got to where viewers looked forward to his less-than-perfect singing voice, just as radio fans did for Garrison Keillor's singing on "A Prairie Home Companion." Because with both, the hosting and narration voice was iconic, just as with Dodger Baseball being synonomous with Vin Scully. With both Keillor and Osgood, their sheer love of music as a form of communication came through. With all three, the enthusiasm of each was paramount. Though channeled quite differently through the modes of broadcast media, each was recognized for their depth of knowledge and understanding of what they voiced, and each won admiration and loyalty.

Why make such a comparison? Because we have arrived at the end of an era when a person wielding a microphone could do that.

Garrison Keillor retired earlier this year, and it seems grandly appropriate that both Charles Osgood and Vin Scully are now following him. Rarely in any milieu of history can you find a moment that can be so definitively marked. Though, unlike "really retired" Garrison Keillor and Vin Scully, we will still hear Charlie. As Osgood says in his trademark weekly TV signoff line that gave the title to one of his books, "See you on the radio."

We'll look forward to that moment when we catch ourselves looking at the speakers, Charlie. Those pulsating cones that are that last little window to a time when broadcasters had our respect because they had always earned it.

Catch Vin Scully's final Dodgers' games this coming week on Time-Warner's Sports Net L.A. Dodgers channel. Catch Charles Osgood's final "CBS Sunday Morning" broadcast this Sunday in L.A. from 6:30-8 am on KCBS, channel 2. In each case, it's well worth recording, for sure.



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# 2 News Feature...


EDITORIAL

FESTIVALS SHINE IN 70 DAYS OF MUSIC... AFTER THAT? WELL, BRACE YOURSELF


All points of the Southern California compass host FESTIVALS every fall, and this weekend brings more of 'em than any other between June and next April. Pick something and GO! And leave enough in the piggy bank for everything else betwixt now and the end of October (unless you're saving all your money for an impending post-election move to Canada. Or Botswana. Or wherever).

The Guide is issuing a TUNEFUL ALERT for the next 70 days, with flurries on the weekends.

And that brings us to this very short editorial. If it comes across as overwrought, just consider the times — the Guide is still well short of the breathless panic of mainstream media, even if this short essay IS a bit overwrought. So, here it is:

Enjoy these magical, musical, next 70 days because they're chockfull of delight and wonder and oohs and ahhs, and plenty of wows, as some of the most diligent and talented of our fellow humans dazzle the rest of us with their musicality.

We 'spect you need to especially enjoy these next 70 days. We all do. Because after that, it's that damned election, and you're on your own, choosing between the untrustworthy or the unbalanced — or taking our advice and finding a new home in a third party — any third party. Ours is Green.

But pick any third party that suits you, or throw a dart and pick one at random, and either way, you'll start your own little revolution. Make it your personal revolution against the corporate party duopoly and its fat cat oligarchy that was arrogant enough to do this to us in the first place.

If you think we're being dismissive, we aren't. We are emphasizing every way we can, even this far in advance: DO vote. Don't sit home on election day, because non-voters are invisible and they, their needs and aspirations, are guaranteed to be ignored. They see vote tallies. Vote third party and scare the hell out of them. Multiply the effect and re-register independent or third party.

'Til then, join us picking and plucking and vocalizing and percussifying — and for sure — fiddling. Fiddlers to the front, as our hoplites, bearers of banners, and lead forces of light cavalry. As swords were drawn in days of old, draw your bows and rosin them.

Fiddlers assemble! Why fiddlers, in partic'lar? Let's drown-out Nero, because Rome is burning no matter what any of us do. And after the banksters robbed everyone, took everything, and imposed austerity on the rest of us, there ain't much else left. As in, there aren't enough fire trucks to fight the flames, anyway, and none of us can afford to buy buckets anymore. But we can learn useful old protest songs — Bob Dylan's "Masters of War" comes to mind, as do the traditionals "Hand Me Down My Walkin' Shoes" and "We Shall Overcome" — and we can surely write new ones that speak specifically to our times.

So where do all the music festivals come in?

History remembers the 1939 New York World's Fair as the last great glimpse of humanity's promise, and yeah, the last great party before the apocalypse of World War II. We're saying, make this 70 days of festivals your time of joy, with its guaranteed promise of magical musical memories. Call it escapism if you want. Or call it the inspiration you'll need to weather what's ahead. We're voting with the latter.



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# 3 News Feature...


THIS WEEKEND: FESTIVALS, CONCERTS, LIVE EVENTS & PERFORMANCES


Listings for Saturday and Sunday are separate for each day and feature FESTIVALS first, followed by that day's concerts and other arts events listed by start time.

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Saturday, September 24
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FESTIVALS on SATURDAY!

Fri & Sat, Sep 23 & 24; partially continues Sun, Sep 25:
4th annual "GET SHAMROCKED IRISH MUSIC FESTIVAL" at Town Square Park, Murrieta; http://theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com/get-shamrocked. Two days of "pure Irish magic" with 15 bands gathered from across the world. "In its 4th year and now established as the premier West Coast Irish event in the USA (21+ only)." Saturday is Celtic rock & trad with nine bands the three major headliners, GAELIC STORM, YOUNG DUBLINERS, and THE FIGHTING JAMESONS. Saturday ticket $30. Pay at the gate or online.
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Sun, Sep 25, "Get Shamrocked" continues as an all-ages family after-party at THE SHAMROCK PUB, starting at 1 pm, and there is no cover. Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145, Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 am-6 pm annual "LOS ANGELES INTERNATIONAL UKULELE FESTIVAL" with performances by many of the very best: JAMES HILL, VICTORIA VOX, CRAIG CHEE & SARAH MAISEL, ABE LAGRIMAS, JR, ANDREW MOLINA, JEFF LINSKY, AIDAN JAMES, BARTT WARBURTON, JIM D'VILLE, CALI ROSE, FARRAH MAHEALANI HARDER, MILO FULTZ, & MITCH CHANG, at the Torrance Cultural Arts Center, 3330 Civic Center Dr, Torrance 90503; 310-781–7171.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
All-day annual "LOBSTER FESTIVAL" at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach 90277. Runs Sat, Noon-11 pm, & Sun, Noon-8 pm. Full info, www.lobsterfestival.com. Discount tix, $6 instead of $15, at: https://www.goldstar.com/los-angeles/events/redondo-beach-ca/redondo-beach-lobster-festival-tickets#dates-times
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
All-day annual "IRVINE GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL" features many bands, and it's all FREE, at Col. Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park, 4 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine 92606; www.cityofirvine.org/globalvillage. LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECATS play Saturday.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
All-day annual "ADAMS AVENUE STREET FAIR" brings multiple acoustic genres on multiple stages all along Adams Av in San Diego. On Sunday, LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECATS are a featured act on the Blues Stage at Hawley Bl & Adams Av. Complete info on the event at: www.adamsaveonline.com/StreetFair/default.htm.
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Sat, Sep 24:
Noon-10 pm annual "PASADENA GREEK FEST" continues with Greek music, culture, hospitality, food, and fun, at Saint Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church, 778 S Rosemead Bl, Pasadena.
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Sat, Sep 24:
CANCELLED: 1:30 pm "EUROPEAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL IN LOS ANGELES" brings the EMERALD SOCIETY PIPE & DRUMS, and much more, with dancing: Greece, Ireland, Germany/Austria, Poland, Turkey Dervish, Lithuania; and Singing: Romania, Croatia, in the Herbert Zipper Concert Hall at the Colburn School Conservatory of Music, 200 S Grand Av, downtown Los Angeles.
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There's a 5 pm concert with singing: Slovenia. Latvia Czech Rep./Slovakia; Dancing: Ukraine, Bosnia, Czech Rep./Slovakia, Hungary, Macedonia; and Bulgarian Piano.
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CONCERTS, ETC. on SATURDAY...


Sat, Sep 24:
11:30 am CENTER STAGE OPERA'S "Musical Champagne Brunch" at Du-Par's, 16120 Ventura Bl, Encino. It features musical performances by Shira Renee Thomas, Dylan F. Thomas, Jennie Olivia, Julia Timmons, Shannon Canchola-Limon on flute, Jerry Brown on piano. Selections include Eggs Benedict Puccini, Buttermilk Pancakes Offenbach, Poached Salmon Verdi, Irish Oatmeal Tony Bennett, Mango Cobb Salad Gershwin, Spanish Tortilla Les Mis, Tri-tip & Bleu Cheese Sandwich Sinatra, Caesar Kale Salad Phantom, Mimosas Righteous Brothers, and Dupar's Famous Danish. It's $55, all-inclusive (including tax & tip). Reservations required at 818-517-4102. Info at www.centerstageopera.org
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
2 & 7:30 pm Sat; 2 pm Sun; "DIAVOLO" closes this weekend at the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; tix at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/959148. “With this cast…defying gravity doesn’t just look easy. It feels like the human spirit, ever enduring.” – Los Angeles Times. Celebrating 25 years, the groundbreaking dance company presents their signature “architecture in motion” with a brand new work, "Passengers," and audience favorite "Trajectoire." This is the theatre's 2016/17 season kickoff with the return of one of their most requested ensembles. Program info: 1st portion, "Trajectoire" (30 minutes), "is a visceral and emotional journey through the ebb and flow of the human experience. As the performers struggle to find their balance on a voyage of destiny and destination, Trajectoire shows the transcendence of the human soul against all odds." First staged in 1999. Following the intermission, it's "Passengers" (30 minutes), "On and around a giant morphing staircase with multiple doors, passageways, and shifting surfaces, the dancers reckon with themes of journey and transition and the tenuous balance we attempt to strike each day as both indomitable drivers and unwitting passengers." A new work, composed and choreographed in 2016.
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Sat, Sep 24:
5 pm "SATURDAY EVENING SOCIAL CLUB" concert series brings AIREENE ESPIRITU plus THE ITCH, along with musical hosts the LAUREN ADAMS TRIO, to Reseda. Starts with the 5-6:30 pm Cookout. Music begins at 6:30, with dessert served between acts. An inclusive $20 donation gets it all, with proceeds going to the musicians. Info, location, reservations, etc, at 323-791-4471 or LosFeliz55@gmail.com
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Sat, Sep 24:
7 pm THE LOVEBIRDS play the Grassroots Oasis, 3130 Moore St, San Diego 92110.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7 pm JAMES LEE STANLEY plays Fiddler's Crossing, 206 East F St, Tehachapi 93561; 661-823-9994.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7 pm SLIGO RAGS plays an increasingly rare intimate-venue show as their fame advances, this one at one of their favorites, The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; phone for reservations, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days: 626-798-6236. Now featured at Disneyland. Solid Irish/Bluegrass with lots of amazing instrumental and fun. Named among the top acoustic bands in LA (by Folkworks Magazine) and two-time winners of the Orange County Music Award for Best Folk Band, this dynamic ensemble (and current Disneyland favorites) presents Celtic Folk with a decidedly bluegrass attitude. Sligo Rags has been taking the local and not-so-local Folk and Celtic music scenes by storm for over a decade with a unique blend of eclectic musical influences. Dan Miller of Flatpicking Guitar Magazine says “These guys have it all—great vocals, lots of energy, captivating songs, well executed arrangements, and tasteful solos.” Their debut studio recording, "The Night Before the Morning After", was called "the best I've heard from a stateside band" by Celtic Beat Magazine, while their sophomore effort, “The Whiskey Never Lies,” (called “the best from the West Coast Celts in many years” by Shay Clark of the Irish-American News), was named one of the top 10 of 2008 by Folkworks. Don’t be surprised if elements of country, gypsy jazz, and swing manage to sneak their way into the act as well. Award-winning flatpicking and fingerstyle guitarist and bluegrass banjoist David Burns (recently featured in Flatpicking Guitar Magazine), fiddler extraordinaire Michael Kelly, world-renowned bassist Olivier Prud’homme, and percussion whiz-kid Jonathan Baer are guaranteed to fill the room and your lives with electricity. They may give you a good laugh or two along the way as well. "Sligo Rags have mastered the ability to take songs from a time gone by and make them fresh and relevant for a modern audience. Their passion for the music and their willingness to take risks combine for an outstanding live show.” — Music Connection. "…A ‘money back, no questions asked if you are not thrilled’ act. Bring friends. Dynamic, up tempo, multi-talented. A fusion that just crackles." — Bob Stane, The Coffee Gallery Backstage. Tix, $20.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7-9 pm WOMEN ON THE MOVE TRIO, comprised of performing songwriters LINDA GELERIS, JOAN ENGUITA WILLINGHAM, & TRISH LESTER, plays Butler's Coffee, 40125 10th St West, Palmdale 93551; 661-272-9530. FREE admission, seating first-come, first served; a one-item food or beverage purchase is requested. The ladies tell us, "We're heading to Butler's for a full evening, introducing songs from our new CD, 'Honey with my Tea.' We'll also be sharing folk/pop favorites — can't wait to hear you singing along with us on 'Country Roads,' 'Can't Help Falling in Love,' 'Blowin' in the Wind,' and more. Bring friends (it's a family-friendly show) and enjoy Butler's relaxing atmosphere, amazing hospitality, delicious beverages and snacks." Yes, this is the small version of that enormous ensemble of women artists who had the # 1 editors' pick on CD Baby for years.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7:30 pm DOLLY PARTON performs in the Santa Barbara Bowl, 1122 N Milpas St, Santa Barbara 93103; 805-962-7411. A living legend who's still got it.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7:30 pm AL STEWART plays the Scherr Forum Theatre at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Bl, Thousand Oaks 91362; 805-449-2787.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7:30 pm HOT CLUB OF NASHVILLE plays the second of three shows for the "Lord of the Strings Concert Series," this one at Mission Viejo Civic Center, 100 Civic Center Dr, Mission Viejo 92691; 949-842-2227 or 949-244-6656.
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Sat, Sep 24:
7:30 pm PETER CASE plays the Folk Music Center & Museum, 220 Yale Av, Claremont 91711; 909-624-2928.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
7:30-8:30 pm "SAVE THE PIER PLAY" is a FREE one-hour play recounting the 1972 grassroots fight to stop the demolition of the Santa Monica Pier, on the pier.Yes, the 100+ year-old heart of Santa Monica and home of summer concerts and festivals is indeed in danger. Go, and find out how to become an effective activist.
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Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
7:30 pm Sat, 2 pm Sun; "DIAVOLO" closes this weekend at the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; tix at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/959148. “With this cast…defying gravity doesn’t just look easy. It feels like the human spirit, ever enduring.” – Los Angeles Times. Celebrating 25 years, the groundbreaking dance company presents their signature “architecture in motion” with a brand new work, "Passengers," and audience favorite "Trajectoire." This is the theatre's 2016/17 season kickoff with the return of one of their most requested ensembles. Program info: 1st portion, "Trajectoire" (30 minutes), "is a visceral and emotional journey through the ebb and flow of the human experience. As the performers struggle to find their balance on a voyage of destiny and destination, Trajectoire shows the transcendence of the human soul against all odds." First staged in 1999. Following the intermission, it's "Passengers" (30 minutes), "On and around a giant morphing staircase with multiple doors, passageways, and shifting surfaces, the dancers reckon with themes of journey and transition and the tenuous balance we attempt to strike each day as both indomitable drivers and unwitting passengers." A new work, composed and choreographed in 2016.
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Sat, Sep 24:
Time tba MURPHY'S FLAW bluegrass band, with guests LATIMER & OSBORN, play the inaugural concert at the new Dr. Windsor’s Live Music Emporium, 921 Riverside Dr, Burbank 91506. It's L.A.'s newest “listening room” surroundings, and it's across the street from the venerated Cody’s Viva Cantina. The Flaw tells us, "Dr. Windsor's Live Music Emporium features excellent sound and lighting, a huge stage, great seating, food and drink availability, no TVs to compete with the music, no obnoxious drunks (except for those on stage)." (You knew the Flaw would make a joke of some part of this, didn't you?) Except they didn't tell us what TIME.
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Sep 24 through Oct 23:
(See times) "BARS AND MEASURES" begins its run Sep 24th at Boston Court Theatre, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.org. This is "a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere," by Idris Goodwin, directed by Weyni Mengesha. What's it about? Two brothers, both musicians. The classical pianist is Christian. The jazz bassist is Muslim. When Bilal is accused of being a terrorist and jailed awaiting trial, Eric tries to stay connected by pushing aside his own classical aspirations in order to learn big brother's jazz style. Separated by prison bars and religious convictions, the brothers scat and be-bop through their shared language of music. As his brother's trial progresses, Eric becomes disillusioned and struggles to decide if he believes the charges levied against his beloved older brother, or if false accusations make him a beleagured martyr to a prejudiced, paranoid nation. Cast: Brian Abraham, Zehra Fazal, Matt Orduna, Donathan Walters. Production team: Noah Agruss, Music Director/Composer; Francois-Pierre Couture, Scene & Projection Design; Tom Ontiveros, Lighting Design; John Nobori, Sound Design; Leah Piehl, Costume Design; Bethany Tucker, Properties Design; Michael Donovan, Casting Director; June Carryl, Assistant Director; Molly McGraw, Production Stage Manager. Performances Thursday-Saturday nights at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, through October 23rd. Post-Show conversation with actors from Bars and Measures: Sunday, September 25th after the 2 pm performance and Thursday, October 13th after the 8 pm performance. There's a $5 Night: Thursday, September 29th. All tickets to Bars and Measures are only $5 this ONE NIGHT ONLY. No advance sales. First come, first served at the door starting at 7 pm. All other tix at: www.bostoncourt.com/events/294/bars-and-measures. Buy your tickets now while dates are still available; it's filling-up.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm CANDI SOSA and CRISTINA REBUll play Alvas Showroom, 1417 W 8th St, San Pedro 90732; info & tix, www.alvas.com. Candi and Cristina did a sold out concert at the venue last March. Their repetoire includes Cuban classics, Brazilian standards, Argentine tangos, French great, jazz ballads as well as some of the big Broadway tunes which they perform with robust voices and passion. Personnel: Candi Sosa on vocals; Cristina Rebull on vocals; Dr. Raymond Torres Santos on piano/musical director; Hector Pineda on contrabass; Aaron Serfaty on drums. Tix, $30, online advance.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm MONICA PASQUAL & THE HANDSOME BRUNETTES plus DEAR JOHN, LOVE RENEE, from the band BLAME SALLY, play the "CAMARILLO CAFE" concert series at Camarillo Community Center, 1605 E Burnley St, Camarillo 93010; 805-523-2682. the SoCal debuts of the side projects of the main songwriters from the band “Blame Sally.” Monica Pasqual and Renee Harcourt have spent well over a decade as bandmates but now they each have their own bands featuring some of the top musicians around. Both have just released wonderful new CDs that will be for sale at this show.
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MONICA PASQUAL & THE HANDSOME BRUNETTES is led by one of the main songwriters, keyboardist and vocalist in the hugely successful Bay Area band, Blame Sally. Monica has also released a succession of solo albums that have been both widely popular and critically acclaimed. Her latest project features a new band, THE HANDSOME BRUNETTES, with some of the top musicians around. The all-star lineup includes Blame Sally percussionist/vocalist Pam Delgado, guitarist/vocalist Velvy Appleton from the band Spark & Whisper and incredible cellist, Josh McClain. Monica's great songwriting and soaring vocals have drawn comparisons to Joni Mitchell and Rickie Lee Jones, but exhibit the unique, soulful sound for which she has become widely appreciated. Her masterful songwriting explores themes that range from deeply personal emotions to statements of universal truth. Monica also shares her gifts by teaching songwriting and producing other artists. This will be the SoCal debut of both this great band and their brand new first CD, "Is Fortune a Wheel." More at www.monicapasqual.com or www.reverbnation.com/monicapasqual
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DEAR JOHN LOVE RENEE features Renee Harcourt, the other main songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and vocalist in Blame Sally. Renee has a wonderful previously released solo album. Her latest project, DEAR JOHN LOVE RENEE, includes the songwriting, guitar and vocals of New York City transplant John McConnel along with her own songwriting, guitar and vocals. Rounding out the trio’s sound are the bass stylings and harmony vocals of Josh Zucker, who has achieved notoriety as part of The Jones Gang (formerly Houston Jones). The band features a sound that reminds one of The Everly Brothers and Simon and Garfunkel, along with a wide variety of other influences. Renee’s impressive studio expertise and virtuosity on a variety of instruments ensure the ensemble’s always interesting arrangements bring just the right colors and textures to their great tunes. They too are making their SoCal performance debut and are celebrating the release of their first CD, "Dear John Love Renee". More at www.dearjohnloverenee.com.
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For more info on this fun series that isn't really in a cafe, at: http://camarillocafe.com, or call 805-814-9366. It's $20 cash at the door.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8-11 pm THE VINTAGE JAM TRIO returns to Bon Vivant Market & Café on Glendale Boulevard in the heart of Atwater Village. The band tells us, "Great food! Just check out the scrumptious menu at http://bonvivantmarketcafe.com/. Add to that our own menu of tasty tunes from the era of Tin Pan Alley, served by Tom, Samantha and Jerry. You'll enjoy classics such as 'Blue Skies,' 'Stormy Weather,' 'Lullaby of Broadway,' 'Yes Sir, That's My Baby,' 'Ain't Misbehavin',' 'My Blue Heaven,' and many more favorites, topped off with Samantha's fabulous dance steps." Check 'em in action at www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrdyLnrgDj0
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm ELEMENT BAND closes-out the season of free summer concerts at Levitt Pavilion in memorial Park, 85 E Holly St, Pasadena 91103; 626-683-3230. Element Band's greatest aspiration has been to apply new styles and innovation to musical traditions. Under the direction of Ara Dabandjian, the band's music has met that challenge, in the process immediately gaining a unique identity, The bold arrangements partner rock melodies, traditional America, French, Spanish, Bulgarian, Italian, Portuguese, Greek, and Armenian renditions, as well as the warm sounds of the Mediterranean; fiery and passionate notes waft in and out of the music with pulsing cadences, infusing listeners with an upbeat energy unique to Element Band. Today, Element Band has evolved into an unprecedented experience. Its 8-members, trademark arrangements, and a rare chemistry, to make their performance unparalleled.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm WE THE FOLK plays Boston Court Performing Arts Center, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91116; 626-683-6883.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm BOB FORREST & FRIENDS play McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Sat, Sep 24:
8 pm THE MIGHTY ECHOES play Boulevard Music, 4316 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; 310-398-2583.
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==================
Sunday, September 25
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FESTIVALS on SUNDAY!


Sun, Sep 25, "GET SHAMROCKED" FESTIVAL from Fri & Sun continues today as an all-ages family after-party at THE SHAMROCK PUB, starting at 1 pm, and there is no cover. Shamrock Irish Pub & Eatery, 39252 Winchester Rd, Ste 145, Murrieta 92592; 951-696-5252; www.theshamrockirishpubandeatery.com.
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Sun, Sep 25:
All-day annual "LOBSTER FESTIVAL" finishes up today at Seaside Lagoon in Redondo Beach 90277. Runs Sat, Noon-11 pm, & Sun, Noon-8 pm. Full info, www.lobsterfestival.com. Discount tix, $6 instead of $15, at: https://www.goldstar.com/los-angeles/events/redondo-beach-ca/redondo-beach-lobster-festival-tickets#dates-times
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Sun, Sep 25:
All-day annual "IRVINE GLOBAL VILLAGE FESTIVAL" concludes today, features many bands, and it's all FREE, at Col. Bill Barber Marine Corps Memorial Park, 4 Civic Center Plaza, Irvine 92606; www.cityofirvine.org/globalvillage. LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECATS play Saturday.
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Sun, Sep 25:
All-day annual "ADAMS AVENUE STREET FAIR" wraps-up today with multiple acoustic genres on multiple stages all along Adams Av in San Diego. On Sunday, LISA HALEY & THE ZYDECATS are a featured act on the Blues Stage at Hawley Bl & Adams Av. Complete info on the event at: www.adamsaveonline.com/StreetFair/default.htm.
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Sun, Sep 25:
Noon-10 pm annual "PASADENA GREEK FEST" concludes today with Greek music, dancing, food, culture, hospitality, and fun, at Saint Anthony's Greek Orthodox Church, 778 S Rosemead Bl, Pasadena.
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CONCERTS, ETC. on SUNDAY...


Sun, Sep 25:
10:30 am "PETER ALSOP’S KIDS CONCERTS" brings RHYTHM CHILD to play the series' home stage, the Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum, 1419 N Topanga Canyon Bl, Topanga 90290; 310-455-3723.
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Sun, Sep 25:
11 am "MATINEE KIDS’ SHOW" brings AUNTIE KAYTE to the series at McCabe’s Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497.
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Sun, Sep 25:
1-5 pm "A STAR SHINES FOR SURVIVORS" with MAYIM BIALIK, VALERIE HARPER, FRANCES FISHER, ELLIOTT GOULD, “MILLION DOLLAR LISTING’S” JOSH FLAGG, and more, is something meaningful and lets you help some very special people you probably never knew were in immediate great need. Many survivors of the Holocaust live in Eastern Europe, where the general economic situation is often poor for everyone of all ages. These Holocaust survivors are now aged, many in their 80s and 90s, and after surviving unspeakable Nazi atrocities — some, miraculously surviving until liberation at the end of World War II — many of those still on this Earth are in dire straits financially, and with health needs that go back to what happened to their bodies to seven decades ago, when they were starved, tortured, and had chemical experiments conducted on them. The event happens at the Dominique Cohen Boutique, 9513 S Santa Monica Bl, Beverly Hills 90210. More at www.survivormitzvah.org, and www.dominiquecohen.com.
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Sun, Sep 25:
2 pm YONI KI BAAT, a Play in English (South Asian adaption of "The Vagina Monologues") at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; phone for reservations, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days: 626-798-6236. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Sep 25:
2 pm "DIAVOLO" closing performance at the Broad Stage at the Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center, 1310 11th St, Santa Monica 90401; tix at: https://web.ovationtix.com/trs/pr/959148. “With this cast…defying gravity doesn’t just look easy. It feels like the human spirit, ever enduring.” – Los Angeles Times. Celebrating 25 years, the groundbreaking dance company presents their signature “architecture in motion” with a brand new work, "Passengers," and audience favorite "Trajectoire." This is the theatre's 2016/17 season kickoff with the return of one of their most requested ensembles. Program info: 1st portion, "Trajectoire" (30 minutes), "is a visceral and emotional journey through the ebb and flow of the human experience. As the performers struggle to find their balance on a voyage of destiny and destination, Trajectoire shows the transcendence of the human soul against all odds." First staged in 1999. Following the intermission, it's "Passengers" (30 minutes), "On and around a giant morphing staircase with multiple doors, passageways, and shifting surfaces, the dancers reckon with themes of journey and transition and the tenuous balance we attempt to strike each day as both indomitable drivers and unwitting passengers." A new work, composed and choreographed in 2016.
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...through Oct 23:
2 pm (on Sundays; see times) "BARS AND MEASURES" begins its run Sep 24th at Boston Court Theatre, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.org. This is "a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere," by Idris Goodwin, directed by Weyni Mengesha. What's it about? Two brothers, both musicians. The classical pianist is Christian. The jazz bassist is Muslim. When Bilal is accused of being a terrorist and jailed awaiting trial, Eric tries to stay connected by pushing aside his own classical aspirations in order to learn big brother's jazz style. Separated by prison bars and religious convictions, the brothers scat and be-bop through their shared language of music. As his brother's trial progresses, Eric becomes disillusioned and struggles to decide if he believes the charges levied against his beloved older brother, or if false accusations make him a beleagured martyr to a prejudiced, paranoid nation. Cast: Brian Abraham, Zehra Fazal, Matt Orduna, Donathan Walters. Production team: Noah Agruss, Music Director/Composer; Francois-Pierre Couture, Scene & Projection Design; Tom Ontiveros, Lighting Design; John Nobori, Sound Design; Leah Piehl, Costume Design; Bethany Tucker, Properties Design; Michael Donovan, Casting Director; June Carryl, Assistant Director; Molly McGraw, Production Stage Manager. Performances Thursday-Saturday nights at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, through October 23rd. Post-Show conversation with actors from Bars and Measures: Sunday, September 25th after the 2 pm performance and Thursday, October 13th after the 8 pm performance. There's a $5 Night: Thursday, September 29th. All tickets to Bars and Measures are only $5 this ONE NIGHT ONLY. No advance sales. First come, first served at the door starting at 7 pm. All other tix at: www.bostoncourt.com/events/294/bars-and-measures. Buy your tickets now while dates are still available; it's filling-up.
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Sun, Sep 25:
3 pm HOT CLUB OF NASHVILLE plays the third of three OC shows for the "Lord of the Strings Concert Series," this one at LCA Wine at SOCO Center, 3303-3323 Hyland Av, Costa Mesa 92626.
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Sun, Sep 25:
3 pm "Hey LOOK MA...I'M STILL DANCING: THE FRED CRAWFORD REVUE" plays Alvas Showroom, 1417 W 8th St, San Pedro 90732; reservations for this show, 310-519-1314; info, www.alvas.com. "A life in the head of Fred Crawford." A 90 minute comedy, monologue, pantomime, impressions of actors from Hollywood's "golden age" and tap dance revue.
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Sun, Sep 25:
7 pm SIERRA HIGHWAY plays The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; phone for reservations, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days: 626-798-6236. SIERRA HIGHWAY is tight California based Acoustic Americana band serving up contemporary, original and traditional music with deep American roots planted in the Bluegrass, Folk, Irish, Old Time and Country music. Four band members with 3 vocalists make some really nice harmonies, along with the bass, harmonica, fiddle, guitar and lots of great songs. Members of this band have all won multiple top awards, most recently a championship by Larry Schallert at Topanga, have appeared on recordings and radio and toured throughout California and North America. The band’s newest member, Mike Ley, has played with the Riders of the Purple Sage, Albert Lee, Sonny and Cher, Evan Marshal, the Coasters, Ike and Tina Turner and many more. Frank Hoppe, host of 88.5 KCSN’s Blue Grass etc. on Sunday Mornings adds extraordinary fiddling and Catherine Espinoza’s classic vocals blend with brother Larry’s and Mike Ley’s to offer a unique California sound. Tix, $20.
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Sun, Sep 25; Sat & Sun, Sep 24 & 25:
7:30-8:30 pm "SAVE THE PIER PLAY" is a FREE one-hour play recounting the 1972 grassroots fight to stop the demolition of the Santa Monica Pier, on the pier.Yes, the 100+ year-old heart of Santa Monica and home of summer concerts and festivals is indeed in danger. Go, and find out how to become an effective activist.

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Sun, Sep 25:
8 pm "JOHN STEWART TRIBUTE" with BUFFY FORD STEWART, SHANA MORRISON, BILL MUMY, & THE JOHN STEWART BAND, at McCabe's Guitar Shop, 3101 Pico Bl, Santa Monica 90405; 310-828-4497. There's a cool article in the Huffington Post about the late legendary folkie John Stewart and this upcoming gig: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/how-john-stewarts-1975-song-survivors-is-getting_us_57d8a2e3e4b0d93d17700d34. Tix are available at this link, until they're all sold-out (as in, HURRY): http://store.mccabes.com/product.php?productid=17962&cat=249&page=2
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(late addition) Sun, Sep 25:
8:30 pm "FREEBO & HIS FABULOUS FRIENDS" featuring CHAD WATSON on bass, STEVE POSTELL on guitar, KEVIN WACHS on drums, plus special surprise guests, play the "TIP JAR" series at the Cinema Bar, 3967 Sepulveda Bl, Culver City 90230; www.thecinemabar.com. The fabulous Freebo, whom played bass for Bonnie Raitt for years, was recently called onto the stage to perform with her at a big concert, and we'll have the story for you soon. He's taking a quick break from the road to play this little show for the hometown folks. Arrive early for a seat. The venue is the size of a postage stamp with only a few barstools, but it's friendly, lively, and fun. No cover.
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# 4 News Feature...


INAUGURAL FOLKWORKS FOLK/ROOTS FESTIVAL COMING OCTOBER 8


Saturday, October 8, from 10 am-11 pm, a must-attend event is the inaugural "FOLKWORKS FOLK/ROOTS FESTIVAL" at two venues in Santa Monica. Tix are available now, ranging from $10-$35, at http://fwfolkrootsfestival.com/tickets. That'll make plenty of sense after you read why those prices are so vastly different.

The sponsors -- the FolkWorks editors, their staff of writers and their organization's board, say, "After years of thinking that FolkWorks should do a Folk/Roots Music and Dance Festival, we are actually doing it and we are really excited. We have planned a full day of events from Workshops to Dances to Evening Concerts and a jam packed afternoon."

They continue, "We have put together a fine lineup of teachers, dance bands and much more. All done by volunteers. As is always in keeping with our mission, we are bringing together and presenting to you, artists and activities that represent some of the great diversity of Folk/Roots/Trad Music, Dance and Storytelling in the greater Los Angeles area. Close your eyes and envision the day."

That day starts with MORNING AND AFTERNOON ACTIVITIES, "Four hours of workshops -- Fiddle, Banjo, Mandolin, Ukulele, Guitar, Singing, Belly Dancing, and more. From old-time Appalachian to East Europe, from beginning to advanced technique, there is something for everyone. This will be held in the EC English School classrooms (from 10 am to 2 pm) where you can concentrate without distractions."

What's next? "In the main hall, starting at 1 pm, there will be activities such as group singing, interesting films about folk / traditional music and dance, plus a silent auction. Then, starting at 2 pm, there will be Square Dancing with SAUSAGE GRINDER providing the music and ANNALISE PERONE leading the dances, Cajun Dancing with HIGH LIFE CAJUN BAND with KAREN REDDING teaching and leading the dance, and ending with Morris Dancing with WILD WOOD BORDER MORRIS. Bring your dancing shoes and be ready to click up your heels."

The grand culmination is the series of EVENING CONCERTS, which "will flow from one exciting group to another." Here's just part of that big festival-like lineup.

• Opening the evening is THE SUSIE GLAZE NEW FOLK ENSEMBLE, with their unique fusion of folk songs and new songs are backed by mandolin, fiddle, guitar and bass.

• Then, witness the power of gospel singer LINDA ALVAREZ channeling MAHALIA JACKSON. You will be on your feet jumping for joy.

• The bluegrass trio WITCHER, RECEPIDO & LEVITT are known individually for their prowess. They formed this trio a few years ago to play a fundraiser for the late Pitt Kinsolving, and they enjoyed the response so much that they've been picking together ever since.

• You will have a rare opportunity to hear some of the best and exciting traditional Irish music with WAKING KATE. Lead by fiddle wiz CHRIS LOKEN, he is joined with Uillean piper BRIAN WALSH, rhythm guitarist SCOTT FITZPATRICK, and bodhran player PATRICK RIEGER."

• A longtime FolkWorks favorite, NEVENKA EAST EUROPEAN WOMAN’S CHOIR, brings "awesome harmonies [that] will send shivers down your spine. They will be accompanied by string wizard PAT MacSWYNEY."

• The evening will end with Guide faves, the exciting duo of RENEE SAFIER & ANDY HILL. Renowned for producing the excellent and long-running "Dylan Fest" every year, together with their award-winning band, HARD RAIN, they are likewise a formidable and well-traveled duo. They will, as FolkWorks promises, "get you up singing and dancing," plus, "You are bound to know their songs."

The MAIN EVENT LOCATION is the Santa Monica Bay Woman’s Club, 1210 4th St, Santa Monica (near Wilshire Bl.). The WORKSHOP LOCATION is the EC English School, 401 Wilshire Bl, #350, Santa Monica.

ALL DAY or HALF DAY TICKETS are available, a nice concept that allows workshop and kinetic types and concert listeners to buy only what they need. ALL DAY TICKETS include admission to the WORKSHOPS and DANCES, as well as FILMS, a SILENT AUCTION, and the multi-act evening CONCERT that begins at 7 pm. HALF DAY TICKETS are of two kinds. One gets you into the WORKSHOPS & DANCE ONLY, and are designed for 10 am-5 pm attendance. The other is the CONCERT ONLY ticket that admits you in time for the 7 pm evening extravaganza of live performances.

But there's more with the evening ticket options. You can buy "General admission plus two additional options." One of those is a VIP Four person table in front of stage. The other is reserved seating in the first two rows of seats.

The complete CONCERT lineup deserves at least a complete listing. It's:
• Tracy Newman, the emcee
• The Susie Glaze New Folk Ensemble
• Linda Alvarez & Gospel Choir
• Witcher, Recupido & Levitt
• Ross Altman
• Waking Kate
• Nevenka
• Renee Safier/Andy Hill

Tix are available now, ranging from $10-$35, at http://fwfolkrootsfestival.com/tickets.



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# 5 News Feature...


LIVE EVENTS, FURTHER ON DOWN THE ROAD...


Listed chronologically, by start date and start time, where possible. Festivals, concerts, and everything else are in the same list in this section.
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Mon, Sep 26, 8:30 pm DENISE VASQUEZ, a truly multitalented singer-songwriter, proves her prowess as a comedian at the World Famous Comedy Store, in the Main Room for her "first time ever" in the "Comedy Madness Show," with Michael Quu and more. Discount tickets are $10 online, but the link didn't come through. Email her at niecierocks@yahoo.com to get in on that.
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Tue, Sep 27, 7 pm Monthly "DAVID HARVEY PRESENTS" showcase brings performances by GARY STOCKDALE, TRACY NEWMAN, ROBERT MORGAN FISHER, & KAREN RONTKOWSKI, at The Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena; phone for reservations, 10 am-10 pm, 7 days: 626-798-6236. $10 cash at the door, no reservations for this one.
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Tue, Sep 27, 7:30 pm DOLLY PARTON plays Valley View Casino, 16300 Nyemii Pass Rd, Valley Center 92082.
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Tue, Sep 27, 7:30 pm HOT CLUB OF NASHVILLE plays the Printing Museum, 315 Torrance Bl, Carson 90745; 310-515-7166.
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Wed, Sep 28: ALLEN STONE plays the Majestic Ventura Theater in Ventura.
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Thu-Sat, Sep 29-Oct 1: "YOU BLOOM L.A. MUSIC SUMMIT & FESTIVAL" The Summit takes place Friday and Saturday, September 30th and October 1st at Hamilton High School for the Arts (in Culver City adjacent) from 11 am to 6 pm both days. This is shaping-up to rival the one they did in Ireland a couple of years ago. It promises "three days of the finest independent music and industry know-how." It all goes down in NorthEast and Downtown LA, Sep 29th & 30th and Oct 1st. Tix are now on sale and include access to all conference events and gigs until they start reaching capacity. Delegate price is $100. Student with ID, $75. There's a lot to this, though it's not a Folk-Americana event. Still worth checking out their site and seeing if it meets your needs as musician. Full info at www.youbloom.com
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Thu, Sep 29, 5:30 pm Annual " SANTA BARBARA ACOUSTIC INSTRUMENT CELEBRATION (SBAIC) GUITAR SUMMIT" opens this evening with a performance by MICHAEL CHAPDELAINE, SEAN McGOWAN, & KINLOCH NELSON, at SOHo Restaurant & Music Club, 1221 State St, Santa Barbara 93101; 805-962 7776.
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Thu, Sep 29, 7:30 pm: LOS ANGELES VIRTUOSI ORCHESTRA - Sensational Strings. The theatre's 2016 Season Opening show. CARLO PONTI and LAV Orchestra return at TRK with an emotional performance featuring orchestral masterpieces by GABRIEL FAURÉ, ANTONIN DVORAK and the anticipated L.A. premiere of FRANK MARTIN’s "Petite Symphonie Concertante." At Theatre Raymond Kabbaz, 10361 W Pico Bl, Los Angeles 90064.
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Thu, Sep 29, 8 pm IRIS DEMENT plays the splendid Smothers Theatre at Pepperdine University, 24255 P.C.H., Malibu 90265; 310-506-4522. Go. Unless you're seeing Muriel Anderson tonight, find a way and go.
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Thu, Sep 29, 8 pm MURIEL ANDERSON, one of the world's greatest guitarists, plays the Coffee Gallery Backstage, 2029 N Lake Av, Altadena 92675; reservations 10 am-10 pm, 7 days, at 626-798-6236. Go. Unless you're seeing Iris Dement tonight, find a way and go.
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Thu, Sep 29, 8-10 pm: VINTAGE JAM TRIO debuts its new five-piece band, videoing a concert live at Kulak's Woodshed in Valley Village. First part: Vintage JAM Trio - plenty of period music from the Golden Age of Tin Pan Alley, including Samantha Elin's dance steps. part two is "an explosive new sound based on rhythm & blues and a generous helping of original tunes." $15 per person / $20 per couple.
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Sat & Sun, Oct 1 & 2, 3-7 pm: Annual "TICKET TO THE TWENTIES" FESTIVAL" at the Homestead Museum, 15415 E Don Julian Rd, City of Industry 91745; 626-968-8492; www.homesteadmuseum.org. It's FREE admission and free parking. And if so few hours seem like it can't possibly be much, then you just don't know how to 23 skidoo. It's a weekend of great fun, where you'll celebrate the Roaring Twenties as you enjoy charming live music, dancing to the Charleston (or your best facsimile, off to the side of the ones who really know how), silent films, crafts, historic house tours (the museum has two big ones), games, demonstrations, old car and machinery displays, activities by the L.A. Art Deco Society, and more. They really know how to do this right. So polish-up your Stutz Bearcat. The Guide staff are big fans of this FREE annual event.
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(for Oct 1 & 2)...through Oct 23:
(See times) "BARS AND MEASURES" begins its run Sep 24th at Boston Court Theatre, 70 N Mentor Av, Pasadena 91106; 626-683-6883; www.bostoncourt.org. This is "a National New Play Network Rolling World Premiere," by Idris Goodwin, directed by Weyni Mengesha. What's it about? Two brothers, both musicians. The classical pianist is Christian. The jazz bassist is Muslim. When Bilal is accused of being a terrorist and jailed awaiting trial, Eric tries to stay connected by pushing aside his own classical aspirations in order to learn big brother's jazz style. Separated by prison bars and religious convictions, the brothers scat and be-bop through their shared language of music. As his brother's trial progresses, Eric becomes disillusioned and struggles to decide if he believes the charges levied against his beloved older brother, or if false accusations make him a beleagured martyr to a prejudiced, paranoid nation. Cast: Brian Abraham, Zehra Fazal, Matt Orduna, Donathan Walters. Production team: Noah Agruss, Music Director/Composer; Francois-Pierre Couture, Scene & Projection Design; Tom Ontiveros, Lighting Design; John Nobori, Sound Design; Leah Piehl, Costume Design; Bethany Tucker, Properties Design; Michael Donovan, Casting Director; June Carryl, Assistant Director; Molly McGraw, Production Stage Manager. Performances Thursday-Saturday nights at 8 pm and Sundays at 2 pm, through October 23rd. Post-Show conversation with actors from Bars and Measures: Sunday, September 25th after the 2 pm performance and Thursday, October 13th after the 8 pm performance. There's a $5 Night: Thursday, September 29th. All tickets to Bars and Measures are only $5 this ONE NIGHT ONLY. No advance sales. First come, first served at the door starting at 7 pm. All other tix at: www.bostoncourt.com/events/294/bars-and-measures. Buy your tickets now while dates are still available; it's filling-up.
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Mon, Oct 3, 7:30 pm "AMERICAN SATURDAY NIGHT: LIVE FROM THE GRAND OLE OPRY" is the latest offering in the "REEL TO REEL" music documentary film series at the GRAMMY Museum, Olympic & Figueroa in the LA Live complex, downtown L.A.; 213-765-6800; www.grammymuseum.com. The GRAMMY Museum tells us they are "thrilled to present a special screening" of this film -- the first-ever feature film about the show that made country music famous. Following the screening, Executive Producer Pete Fisher and Director/Executive Producer George J. Flanigen IV will participate in an intimate Q&A hosted by Scott Goldman.
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Fri, Oct 7:
7-9 pm WOMEN ON THE MOVE TRIO, comprised of performing songwriters LINDA GELERIS, JOAN ENGUITA WILLINGHAM, & TRISH LESTER, plays Fiddlers Crossing, 206 East F St, Tehachapi 93561; 661-823-9994. FREE admission. It's a full evening of that Women on the Move Trio unique vocal blend — original songs from their new CD, "Honey with my Tea," plus material from such beloved artists as Elvis Presley and John Denver. Enjoy harmonious originality, personal reflection, touches of nostalgia and dashes of humor. Instrumentation includes guitar, mandolin, dulcimer, ukulele, djembe drum and light percussion. It's a family-friendly show. Coffee, tea and goodies included. Doors open at 6:30 pm for a full evening of original folk/pop songs and sing-along favorites.
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Sat, Oct 8, all day: 1st Annual "FOLKWORKS FOLK/ROOTS FESTIVAL" in Santa Monica is coming together nicely! It'll feature top-notch Folk-Americana, roots, plus the "world music" that the FolkWorks crew loves so much. See the Guide's feature story in the Sep 24 edition. Tix are now available at: www.fwfolkrootsfestival.com
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Mon, Oct 10, 8 pm "AN EVENING WITH DONOVAN" at the GRAMMY Museum, Olympic & Figueroa at LA Live, L.A.; www.grammymuseum.com. In celebration of the 50-year anniversary of his 1966 landmark album "Sunshine Superman," the GRAMMY Museum welcomes DONOVAN to the Clive Davis Theater for an intimate conversation and special performance, hosted by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. General on sale tix began September 23 at noon. Jump on it.
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Wed, Oct 12, 7 to 11:30 pm "MA RAINEY’S BLACK BOTTOM" at the Mark Taper Forum at the Los Angeles Music Center. An American masterpiece written by AUGUST WILSON, this is a powerful depiction of rage and racism set in 1927 Chicago. Tony Award winner PHYLICIA RASHAD directs this groundbreaking play from August Wilson’s "American Century Cycle," a series of ten plays chronicling the twentieth-century African American experience.
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Oct 12 & 13:
NEIL YOUNG + THE PROMISE OF THE REAL announce two very special, intimate performances between Desert Trip. Two nights at the Fox Theater in Pomona. Tix went on sale on Fri, Sep 23. Hurry!
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Thu-Sun, Oct 13-16:
Annual "FOLK ALLIANCE FAR-WEST CONFERENCE" in Bellevue, Washington. The Guide brought you features stories while you could still get discounts and sign-up to perform. But you can still register and attend. Full details at www.far-west.org
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Thu, Oct 13, 8 pm "SPOTLIGHT: SARA WATKINS" of NICKEL CREEK, sponsored by 88.5 KCSN at the GRAMMY Museum, Olympic & Figueroa in the LA Live complex, downtown L.A.; www.grammymuseum.com. The GRAMMY Museum welcomes acclaimed singer-songwriter Sara Watkins to the Clive Davis Theater for an intimate conversation and special performance surrounding her third solo record - and most powerful, personal and revealing one yet - "Young in All the Wrong Ways." Hosted by Scott Goldman, Vice President of the GRAMMY Foundation and MusiCares. General tix went onsSale September 23 at noon, so don't dawdle.
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Sun, Oct 16, 7 pm-1 am: "ROARING '20s PROHIBITION SPEAKEASY RED CARPET GALA" is FREE with tix, at the Reserve, 650 S Spring St, downtown Los Angeles 90014. Eugene Sidney Entertainment hosts its annual “Roaring 20's Gala” complete with red carpet, '20s style decor, and all of the entertainment & networking you expect. Invitees include celebrities and friends joining in this historic event, Speakeasy Party style. During the time of Prohibition, the Speakeasy was born and all levels of society began to party behind closed doors. This takes you back to the Roaring '20s and re-creates the feeling of days gone by. In an historic building in downtown Los Angeles, this event features beautiful '20s-style Deco decor, specialty cocktails, music, dancing and a few surprises. DRESS CODE: Feel free to dress in theme for this event as costumes are encouraged (but not required); since this event represents the 1920s, special guests are dressed in the styles of this era. However, a lovely dress for the lady and outstanding suit for the gentleman should also do the job. Tix (they're free, but limited) and info: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/roaring-20s-prohibition-speakeasy-red-carpet-gala-tickets-27334979660?aff=erellivmlt
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Tue, Oct 18: WILLIE NELSON & FAMILY play the Pantages Theatre
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Fri, Oct 21, Noon to 2 pm "RESIST! A WORKSHOP ON STUDENT ACTIVISM" presented by DarkMatter is an event in the USC "Visions & Voices" series, this one at Parkside Performance Café on the USC campus. Admission is free. Reservations are required (due to space). Make them at: http://visionsandvoices.usc.edu/events/listing.php?event_id=773918. Drawing from their experience working on campaigns for gender, racial, economic, and environmental justice, DarkMatter will present a workshop focused on skill-building and theoretical frameworks for student activism. Taking an intersectional approach to issues of race, class, gender, and sexuality, they will explore how the university system keeps us reading rather than revolting.
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Tue, Oct 25, 7 pm "Homelessness: Stories from the Shadows" is part of "The Provost’s Series on Wicked Problems," presented in the USC "Visions & Voices" series, this time at Doheny Memorial Library, Room 240, on the USC campus. Admission is free. Reservations are required beginning Wednesday, September 28, at 9 am (due to space) at: http://visionsandvoices.usc.edu/events/listing.php?event_id=679312. RSVP. Join USC Provost Michael Quick for an illuminating event on homelessness featuring Dr. James O’Connell, author of "Stories from the Shadows: Reflections of a Street Doctor" and founding physician of the Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program. O’Connell, who has been providing medical care to people who live on the streets for three decades, will share stories of struggle, survival, hope, and humanity, followed by a conversation with Professor Suzanne Wenzel of the USC School of Social Work.
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Sun, Oct 30:
3 & 7 pm Annual "SAMHAIN: THE STORY OF HALLOWEEN" musically brings the origins Halloween and Celtic Tales of the Supernatural through song, dance, and instrumental performance for just two performances on the same day, and welcomes KEN O'MALLEY as this year's narrator. Plus, this year's production moves to MacLeod Ale Brewing Co, 14741 Calvert St, Van Nuys 91411. The show is written, produced and directed by the multitalented Aedan MacDonnell of Celtic Rhythms, who is, among many other things in the arts community, a member of the Scottish Fiddlers. This year's show will be held in a Scottish brewery. Aedan tells us, "Enjoy a pint of freshly brewed ale as you listen to the stories, hear the music, and feel the breath of those long gone on the back of your neck. You're not too scared, are you? Good! Fear not, Alastair and Jenny of MacLeod Ale Brewing Co have promised to keep the ghoulies at bay so the music, dance and entertainment can commence." The Guide always strongly recommends this show. It's worthy of going on the road, and each year's fresh rendition gets only two performances. Tickets are now on sale. Aedan adds, "If you like, bring a picnic lunch or dinner, show up early and hang out. Or try out the food truck. From 1-5 pm, Bulls Eye Pub Fare will be on site, and from 6-9 there will be Charlie's Wieners." This show has sold-out, so don't take chances. Buy your tickets on line; remaining tix at the door are cash only. Aedan cautions, "We do have a smaller seating capacity this year and expect to sell out, so don't wait!" Tix for either show are $15, $18 & $22. Ticket purchase page: http://celtic-rhythms.com/samhain-tickets. General Samhain info page: http://celtic-rhythms.com/samhain
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Sat, Dec 3, 9 pm: THE COUNT BASIE SEPTET, presented by The World Stage Performance Gallery on The World Stage, 4321 Degnan, Leimert ParK (Los Angeles). Tix $15-$20. The Count Basie Orchestra, founded over 80 years ago, is widely regarded as the greatest jazz orchestra in the world. The orchestra continues to tour the world spreading its unique brand of swing. In early December The Count Basie Orchestra will be in Los Angeles to record its latest collection of music. During their stint at Capitol Records several of the band members will break from the recording to "stretch out" at the venerable World Stage Performance Gallery co-founded by master drummer Billy Higgins and consummate poet Kamau Daaood. This is a historic, limited engagement. One night only. Presale tickets are $15, available before Nov 1.
General Admission tix are $20 thru Dec 2, 2016.
Tickets at the door, subject to availability.
Because seating for this historic, limited engagement is limited, patrons are advised to purchase tickets in advance, at: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-count-basie-septet-the-world-stage-tickets-27344172155?aff=erellivmlt
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Mar 7 & 8:
RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS with TROMBONE SHORTY & ORLEANS AVENUE play Staples Center.
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# 6 News Feature...


FINDING STUFF IN RECENT EDITIONS...


Here's both a preview and a review for

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Our next MAJOR MUSIC NEWS EDITION is almost off the assembly line, getting its tuning pegs and strings and reeds installed and tuned. So it'll soon be on the street, with a souped-up engine that burns recycled french fry oil*, and a horn that sounds a lot like bagpipes.

(* - Of course, Willie Nelson led the way, and he's playing the Pantages Oct. 18th.)

And that big NEWS EDITION will have the full story on the Guide's new promotional partnership with a global family of music and music education websites!

Meantime, we thought you could use a bit o' help to know where the still-vital info is buried, while avoiding a perusal of events-only editions that became obsolete because everything in them has happened by now. (You're welcome.)

THE RECENT PAST AND FINDING WHAT YOU MAY HAVE MISSED THERE

Be sure to check THESE recent editions for a vast variety of acoustic and Americana music news that you just won't find elsewhere at any one source!

A RECENT EDITION looks at future events that are still way ahead. It's at:

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2016/09/labor-day-weekends-music-events-2016.html

Of course, there's MORE. A guaranteed deep dive (or you can wade to the ankles, if you like) is in recent editions — a VERY YUGELY FULL edition, indeed, is at:

http://acousticamericana.blogspot.com/2016/08/the-hot-licks-of-august-aug-6-2016.html

Yeppers, by golly, bunches 'o music news and some events that still have not happened yet!

For even MORE news that you might have missed about late summer & fall events — during that excruciating partisan duopoly of lyin' speechifyin' along with the quadrennial compulsion with the Olympics, you can explore with our "search" function, up top (click "full web site" if your mobile device is oversimplifying things).

Or you can even use the "July" tab in the sidebar (you may need to open that feature), and you'll get access to editions published before August 1, and as far back as when Napoleon was a private.

The Guide brings you frequent editions covering MUSIC NEWS, festivals, events (from concerts to film festivals) and ticket alerts, and always available right here on the Guide's Blogspot site.



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More soon, as always.

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Direct to the current editions /

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♪ The ACOUSTIC AMERICANA MUSIC GUIDE endeavors to bring you NEWS and views of interest to artists everywhere, more specifically to musicians and the creative community and music makers and fans of acoustic and Folk-Americana music, both traditional and innovative forms. From the deepest roots to today’s acoustic renaissance, that’s our beat. We provide a wealth of resources, including a HUGE catalog of acoustic-friendly venues, and schedules and inside info on FESTIVALS and select performances in Southern California in venues monumentally large and intimately small and cozy. We cover workshops and other events for artists and folks in the music industry, and all kinds o’ things in the world of acoustic and Americana and accessible classical music. From washtub bass to musical spoons to oboe to viola to banjo to squeezebox, from Djangostyle to new-fangled-old-time string band music, from sweet Cajun fiddle to bluegrass and pre-bluegrass Appalachian mountain music to all the roots of the blues and where the music is headed now.
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The Acoustic Americana Music Guide. Thanks for sittin' a spell.

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