Jan Knippers Black Bread & Roses Music Series at the Center for Change
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THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS: Alan Haffa, Monterey City Councilman; Dave Pacheco, Seaside City Councilman; Gary Karnes; Paula Pelot; 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, and Victor Manuel Tafoya.
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Our next concert in a coffee-house-style setting is…
Songs that are a Story with Guitarist/Singer Stefani Mistretta
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!
For more information: MCDCC.Events@gmail.com 831-333-0101
Get your tickets now or become a sponsor here
Plan on experiencing delightful music, savoring yummy appetizers, imbibing tasty sips, and sharing enjoyable socializing included with your donation. All of this is in the welcoming, casual, intimate Center for Change.
Date: Sunday, 28 April 2024
Time: 5:00 P.M. – 7:00 P.M.
Program: 5pm Appetizers & beverages included (wine, beer, sparkling water, cider, hot beverages) and socializing; 5:30 one hour of singing followed by more social time.
Location: 1238 Fremont Blvd., Seaside 93955 (Center for Change – Democratic Party Headquarters).
Parking: Allow time for curbside parking along the area streets.
Individual reservations – sliding scale suggested donation $20-$30 for each ticket – Make a donation of any size. Please come join us! Buy for others as a gift!
Event sponsor – posted acknowledgement online and 2 tickets for $99
Limited open seating/tickets in coffee house-style setting: MAKE YOUR CONTRIBUTION HERE
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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: MCDCC.Events@gmail.com or phone 831-333-0101 or fax 831-222-3231. Thank you)
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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!
~ ~ ~ ~
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!.
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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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