Jan Knippers Black Bread & Roses Music Series at the Center for Change
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WE GREATLY APPRECIATE OUR SPONSORS! THANK YOU: Alan Haffa, Monterey City Councilman; Dave Pacheco, Seaside City Councilman; Gary Karnes; Paula Pelot; Arlene Haffa; George Riley; Laurie Eavey; Bob Krauth; Mibs McCarthy; Gail Morton; Edward Lo; Susan Ragsdale-Cronin; Kim Snyder; Kate Spencer; Lynn Hamilton; Patti Fashing; Stephen V Eklund; Jo Ann Novoson & Carl Christensen; Karen Araujo, Christine Ponzio, Victor Manuel Tafoya, and Jan Shriner.
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It’s back for year two after the summer break and is now under the “new management.” Your hosts are the Progressive Dems Club (founded in 2012).
Donations taken at the door. Suggested: $15-30. If you prefer you may reserve in advance or sponsor online by contributing HERE with Progressive Dems Club or HERE with MCDems
One hour of music preceded and followed by 1/2 hour of social time with snacks and beverages included. Join us!
Vocalist Luke Martin on Sunday, November 17th – 5pm-7pm
Sing-Along: Swing, Jazz, and Beloved Standards
About Luke: Luke Martin expresses his personal values and inspiration for life through his art. He puts his emotions into his work through his versatile, inspirational style and personality. Luke Martin is an accomplished, professionally trained singer and actor, whose work has been featured in television shows, feature films, theater presentations, commercials, and the print media. Luke is also a teacher, helping others discover their talents and passions through music as they rejuvenate through music. Luke encourages you to free up your emotions, take a can-do attitude toward life, and virtually feel young again. Love is the driving force of Luke’s life as an entertainer and teacher, and he inspires others to follow their passions through the experience of music.
Luke returned to his Monterey roots after a 30-year career of film, television, stage and club engagements in Hollywood. In addition to being a singer, Luke is a well-known emcee, radio announcer, and actor. He has worked in movies with such fine actors as Jeff Bridges, Jon Voight, Jimmie Stewart, Christopher Plummer, Tom Laughlin and Clint Eastwood. He has also performed with other celebrities such as Mac Davis and Peter Noone of Herman’s Hermits. Luke continues to delight audiences with his dynamic and engaging stage presence as well as his musical style and delivery. He has performed with Debbie Reynolds; Jerry Lewis; Charles Nelson Reilly; Chaka Khan; he toured in Jazz vocal Ensembles with “Fifth Beatle” Billy Preston, and Night Club Entertainer, Howard McCrary. Luke currently performs regularly with Gennady Loktionov at Clint Eastwood’s Mission Ranch resort and in Bay Area venues in both Monterey and San Francisco. His Vegas-style song and dance show in Hollywood, called “Go Like 60”, was an immensely popular, upbeat fast-paced show aimed at rejuvenating the spirit of the senior community. He currently tours central California with a similar show under the banner,”Singspiration for Seniors”.
SAVE THE DATE – Pianist Bob Phillips on Sunday, December 15th – 4pm-6pm
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About the Jan Knippers Black Bread & Roses music series:
Inspired by the life of the late Professor Jan Black of Monterey, we are delighted to offer the Jan Knippers Black Bread & Roses Music Series. Her 1901 Willard upright piano is calibrated to a concert pitch and now resides at the Center for Change. (Why “Bread & Roses?” More here.)
Stay “tuned” for an array of outstanding local musicians offering their talent in this relaxed, intimate venue during 2023, the inaugural year. Past concerts in the series are listed below
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Past concerts in the series…
(Some will return for encore performances! Let us know your favorites and recommendations for future artists, please: [email protected] or phone 831-601-4564 or fax 831-222-3231. Thank you)
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Cellist Jack Mescall & Inaugural Poetry Readings
Date: Monday, 30 September 2024
Time: 5:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.
About Jack Mescall: Jack was the principal cellist for the Paradise Symphony Orchestra before the deadliest fire in California history, the Camp Fire, claimed his home along with the entire town of Paradise in 2018. He made it out alive on his bicycle and lost all of his belongings except for his cello, which he has owned for over fifty years. He resides in Seaside. (More about Jack and his cello: here is an article by Joe Livernois – with a happy ending – that appeared in Voices of Monterey Bay in May of 2019. )
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Something different: We’re taking it on the road this month!
Sing with PRIDE!:
Date: Saturday, 29 June 2024
Time: 12:00 P.M. – 3:00 P.M.
Location: Custom House Plaza, Monterey – tabling area
Stop by our table at Monterey Peninsula’s Pride Celebration 12pm-3pm on Saturday 29 June 2024 at Custom House Plaza in Monterey. We’ll share an acapella song together!
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Words of Inspiration: Cellist Jack Mescall
Date: Friday, 31 May 2024
Time: 3:30 P.M. – 5:30 P.M.
About Jack Mescall: Jack was the principal cellist for the Paradise Symphony Orchestra before the deadliest fire in California history, the Camp Fire, claimed his home along with the entire town of Paradise in 2018. He made it out alive on his bicycle and lost all of his belongings except for his cello, which he has owned for over fifty years. He resides in Seaside.
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Songs that are a Story with Guitarist/Singer Stefani Mistretta
Date: Sunday, 28 April 2024
Time: 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
About Stefani Mistretta: A Louisiana native, Stefani left “for the summer” heading across the country “before the ink was dry” on her diploma from LSU (B.A. with a major in English.) Since arriving in California in May of 1970, Stefani has worked in many areas, from local Tour Guide, to English Pronunciation Coach (TESOL Graduate Certification SJSU) at The Monterey Institute of International Studies (now Middlebury Institute.)
After teaching guitar classes, and having many solo gigs at local venues, Stefani formed a trio called “Rhythm and Rouge,” specializing in three-part harmonies and an eclectic collection of songs.
Stefani and the trio volunteered to play music for many local non-profits whose values they support including the Seaside Library, Monterey Peace and Justice Center, Visiting Nurse Association, Sustainable Seaside, and the Women’s March.
She began singing and playing twice a month for the Memory Care Unit at The Park Lane almost ten years ago, and continues to do so now. For that audience she has learned songs, written as early as 1918, from “The Great American Songbook.” As well as the jazz chords to go with them!
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Hope, Love, Peace, & Justice Sing-Along with Guitarist Rick Chelew – Rise Up Singing!
Date: Sunday, 31 March 2024
Time: 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
About Rick Chelew:
Rick got his first guitar at age 9. His first love was folk music, and his first concert (in 1964) was Peter, Paul and Mary and the Dillards at the Monterey folk Festival. Having grown up in Pacific Grove, Rick has been in love with singing and playing guitar since first taking the Forest Theater stage at 12 years old in 1964 (a hootenany!) In the 80’s he produced a number of records working with the likes of Pentangle, Bert Jansch, Dave Van Ronk, and T Bone Burnett in Los Angeles and London. For the past 30 years he has played in bands such as The Cachagua Playboys, Andrea’s Fault, The Hayboys, and Heartstrings, but his first love is the simple joy of making music for people with just his guitar and voice.
Rise up Singing books will be provided to use and share.
Rise up Singing includes the words and guitar chords to over 1200 songs from a wide variety of genres from Beatles to ballads, and Bob Dylan to Broadway, from campfire favorites to gospel and folksongs. Originally developed for group singing by Annie Patterson & Peter Blood, this well-loved songbook is also used by musicians (professional and lay alike) around the world as a resource book. Quick access to lyrics, chords, and authorship/copyright information on songs makes it a must have for anyone that uses music in their life. Since its publication by Sing Out in 1988, it has sold around a million copies.
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Singer/Guitarist Stefani Mistretta – Columbia River Songs
Date: Sunday, 25 February 2024
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
About Stefani:
A Louisiana native, Stefani left “for the summer” heading across the country “before the ink was dry” on her diploma from LSU (B.A. with a major in English.) Since arriving in California in May of 1970, Stefani has worked in many areas, from local Tour Guide, to English Pronunciation Coach (TESOL Graduate Certification SJSU) at The Monterey Institute of International Studies (now Middlebury Institute.)
After teaching guitar classes, and having many solo gigs at local venues, Stefani formed a trio called “Rhythm and Rouge,” specializing in three-part harmonies and an eclectic collection of songs.
Stefani and the trio volunteered to play music for many local non-profits whose values they support including the Seaside Library, Monterey Peace and Justice Center, Visiting Nurse Association, Sustainable Seaside, and the Women’s March.
She began singing and playing twice a month for the Memory Care Unit at The Park Lane almost ten years ago, and continues to do so now. For that audience she has learned songs, written as early as 1918, from “The Great American Songbook.” As well as the jazz chords to go with them!
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Stefani suggests viewing this Woody Guthrie documentary (56 minutes): “Roll on Columbia: Woody Guthrie & the Bonneville Power Administration” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L8gr2EOmlv8
“I was Personal Assistant to Stephen B. Kahn, the older man in the blue turtleneck in the documentary. He and his wife Ruth moved to Carmel in 1954. They bought the “Butterfly House” and Steve lived there until his death in 2007 at age 96.”
Jazz, Pop, and Classics with Vocalist Miranda Perl and Guitarist Adam Astrup
Date: Sunday, 21 January 2024
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
About Miranda Perl and Adam Astrup:
Miranda Perl is a vocalist and educator from Monterey, California. She graduated from the prestigious Jazz program at the University of Northern Colorado and performed as a member of their jazz vocal ensemble recognized by Downbeat Magazine as one of the nation’s top collegiate vocal ensembles.
Since returning to Monterey in 2020, she has been active in the local Jazz and Education scenes, and has performed at Herb Alpert’s Vibrato in Los Angeles, and Kuumbwa Jazz Center, among many others, with artists such as Bobby McFerrin, Gary Meek, Cindy Alexander, Grammy-nominated Dennis Murphy, and pianist Jon Dryden.
Originally from Minnesota, Guitarist/Composer Adam Astrup has been active in the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Monterey, and Northern Colorado Jazz Scenes. He has worked with artists such as Greg Gisbert, Matteo Sabattini, Gary Meek, Drew Zaremba, and Bobby Medina, as well as many others. Adam graduated from the University of Northern Colorado’s Jazz program in 2020.
Together, Adam and Miranda perform the best of the American Songbook, featuring fresh takes on modern pop tunes and classic hits from legendary artists Stevie Wonder, the Beatles, and more. Rooted in the jazz tradition, Miranda and Adam’s sound is modern and innovative.
Pianist Bob Phillips: swing, pop, and jazz in a coffeehouse-style setting
Date: Sunday, 17 December 2023
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
About Bob Phillips:
A consummate musician and without a doubt one of the finest performers on the Monterey Peninsula, Bob Phillips specializes in all styles performed with a mix of integrity and flair.
Over the course of a career that has spanned almost 6 decades, Bob has gigged at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, The Waldorf Astoria, Birdland, and The Village Vanguard. He’s traveled to the Far East with the USO as a pianist and conductor. He also spent time under the employ of The Walt Disney Company, where he collaborated with acts such as Patti Page, Tex Beneke, Mel Torme and the 4 Freshmen.
In 1973, Bob moved to Carmel, California where he has been an active part of the local music scene ever since. Named “Musician of the Year” by the Monterey Dixieland Festival, and awarded permanent artist in residence, Bob formed the “Sweet Thursday Jazz Band” in honor of local John Steinbeck’s 100th birthday celebration.
Over the years, Bob has produced shows and/or played with such artists as Ali Ryerson, Charles Loos, Al Cohn, Stan Getz, Richie Cole and Rebecca Parris.
Well known for his exceptional technique and versatility, Bob has performed 5 times at the Monterey Jazz Festival and is currently in demand all over Central and Northern California.
Violinist Adam Bolaños Scow: Favorite Classical and Mexican Works
Date: Sunday, 19 November 2023
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
About Adam Bolaños Scow:
Adam Bolaños Scow is a violinist with extensive experience performing chamber music with the region’s top musicians. Adam often performs with Opera San Jose and the Santa Cruz Symphony and he enjoys playing Mariachi and Latin music as well.
He is a cofounder of RosaAzul, an ensemble dedicated to showcasing the best of Mexican music.
Adam enjoys teaching and serves as a music instructor for the El Sistema program in the Pajaro Valley. Adam has maintained an active and successful career as an environmental and public-interest advocate working in support of clean water, regenerative agriculture, and renewable energy on the Central Coast and throughout California.
He serves as Board Trustee for the Pajaro Valley Unified School District.
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Songs from the Sixties and The Great American Songbook with Singer/Guitarist Stefani Mistretta
Date: Sunday, 15 October 2023
Time: 5:30 P.M. – 7:30 P.M.
About Stefani Mistretta:
A Louisiana native, Stefani left “for the summer” heading across the country
“before the ink was dry” on her diploma from LSU (B.A. with a major in
English.) Since arriving in California in May of 1970, Stefani has worked
in many areas, from local Tour Guide, to English Pronunciation Coach (TESOL
Graduate Certification SJSU) at The Monterey Institute of International
Studies (now Middlebury Institute.)
After teaching guitar classes, and having many solo gigs at local venues,
Stefani formed a trio called “Rhythm and Rouge,” specializing in three-part
harmonies and an eclectic collection of songs.
Stefani and the trio volunteered to play music for many local non-profits
whose values they support including the Seaside Library, Monterey Peace and
Justice Center, Visiting Nurse Association, Sustainable Seaside, and the
Women’s March.
She began singing and playing twice a month for the Memory Care Unit at The
Park Lane almost ten years ago, and continues to do so now. For that
audience she has learned songs, written as early as 1918, from “The Great
American Songbook.” As well as the jazz chords to go with them!.
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Heartstrings: Acoustic Music from Around the World
Date: Tuesday, 19 September 2023
Time: 6:00 P.M. – 8:00 P.M.
About Heartstrings:
Photo by Kira Godbe
For over 20 years, this local Monterey County band has brought their fresh and unique sound to traditional acoustic string music from around the world: US America, Ireland, Eastern Europe, Sweden, and more.
Heartstrings features Laura Burian (violin), Marj Ingram Viales (guitar), Paulette Lynch (hammered dulcimer), Mike Osgood (mandolin), and Rick Chelew (bass).
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Harpist Tara Ragsdale-Cronin – Classics and Modern Favorites
Plan on experiencing classical and modern music, savoring yummy appetizers, imbibing tasty sips, and sharing enjoyable socializing – all in the welcoming, casual setting of the Center for Change.
Date: Sunday, 20 August 2023
Time: 4:00 P.M. – 6:00 P.M.
About Tara:
Tara Ragsdale-Cronin is a harpist from Del Rey Oaks who has been playing for over twelve years. She was drawn to the harp because of its serene, acoustic sound that provides a calming energy.
She has performed as a guest musician with Youth Music Monterey, Sequoia Symphony, the Santa Cruz Orchestra, and others.
While drawn to classical music, Tara’s repertoire includes modern popular favorites as well.
Tara is currently studying at California State University – Monterey Bay majoring in film and minoring in music.
Jazz, Pop, and Classics with Vocalist Miranda Perl and Guitarist Adam Astrup
Date: Monday, 7 August 2023
Time: 6:00 P.M. -8:00 P.M.
About Miranda and Adam:
Miranda Perl is a vocalist and educator from Monterey, California. She graduated from the prestigious Jazz program at the University of Northern Colorado and performed as a member of their jazz vocal ensemble recognized by Downbeat Magazine as one of the nation’s top collegiate vocal ensembles.
Since returning to Monterey in 2020, she has been active in the local Jazz and Education scenes, and has performed at Herb Alpert’s Vibrato in Los Angeles, and Kuumbwa Jazz Center, among many others, with artists such as Bobby McFerrin, Gary Meek, Cindy Alexander, Grammy-nominated Dennis Murphy, and pianist Jon Dryden.
Originally from Minnesota, Guitarist/Composer Adam Astrup has been active in the Minneapolis/St. Paul, Monterey, and Northern Colorado Jazz Scenes. He has worked with artists such as Greg Gisbert, Matteo Sabattini, Gary Meek, Drew Zaremba, and Bobby Medina, as well as many others. Adam graduated from the University of Northern Colorado’s Jazz program in 2020.
Together, Adam and Miranda perform the best of the American Songbook, featuring fresh takes on modern pop tunes and classic hits from legendary artists Stevie Wonder, the Beatles, and more. Rooted in the jazz tradition, Miranda and Adam’s sound is modern and innovative.
Songs from the Sixties and The Great American Songbook with Singer/Guitarist Stefani Mistretta
Date: Friday, 14 July 2023
Time: 6:00 P.M. -8:00 P.M.
About Stefani Mistretta:
A Louisiana native, Stefani left “for the summer” heading across the country
“before the ink was dry” on her diploma from LSU (B.A. with a major in
English.) Since arriving in California in May of 1970, Stefani has worked
in many areas, from local Tour Guide, to English Pronunciation Coach (TESOL
Graduate Certification SJSU) at The Monterey Institute of International
Studies (now Middlebury Institute.)
After teaching guitar classes, and having many solo gigs at local venues,
Stefani formed a trio called “Rhythm and Rouge,” specializing in three-part
harmonies and an eclectic collection of songs.
Stefani and the trio volunteered to play music for many local non-profits
whose values they support including the Seaside Library, Monterey Peace and
Justice Center, Visiting Nurse Association, Sustainable Seaside, and the
Women’s March.
She began singing and playing twice a month for the Memory Care Unit at The
Park Lane almost ten years ago, and continues to do so now. For that
audience she has learned songs, written as early as 1918, from “The Great
American Songbook.” As well as the jazz chords to go with them!.
__________________________________________________
An evening of swing, pop, and jazz with Pianist Bob Phillips
The first event in the Jan Knippers Black Bread & Roses Music Series
Date: Wednesday, 28 June 2023
Time: 6:00 P.M. -8:00 P.M.
About Bob Phillips:
A consummate musician and without a doubt one of the finest performers on the Monterey Peninsula, Bob Phillips specializes in all styles of music ranging from swing and pop to classical and jazz, all performed with a mix of integrity and flair.
Bob began his love affair with the piano at the age of 7, and has been playing professionally since he was 17 years old.
Over the course of a career that has spanned almost 6 decades, Bob has gigged at Radio City Music Hall, Madison Square Garden, The Waldorf Astoria, Birdland, and The Village Vanguard. He spent a year on Broadway and also ran his own New York studio, hosting rehearsals and auditions, writing special material, and making recordings.
He’s traveled to the Far East with the USO as a pianist and conductor. He also spent time under the employ of The Walt Disney Company, where he collaborated with acts such as Patti Page, Tex Beneke, Mel Torme and the 4 Freshmen.
In 1973, Bob moved to Carmel, California where he has been an active part of the local music scene ever since.
Named “Musician of the Year” by the Monterey Dixieland Festival, and awarded permanent artist in residence, Bob formed the “Sweet Thursday Jazz Band” in honor of local John Steinbeck’s 100th birthday celebration.
Over the years, Bob has produced shows and/or played with such artists as Ali Ryerson, Charles Loos, Al Cohn, Stan Getz, Richie Cole and Rebecca Parris.
Well known for his exceptional technique and versatility, Bob has performed 5 times at the Monterey Jazz Festival and is currently in demand all over Central and Northern California.
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