Thursday, August 25, 2011

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2011

Nov 25, 2011 (Fri) 8:00 PM

Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2011, a cherished holiday tradition marking its 14th anniversary, brings together a magical combination of musicians to celebrate this special season. Joining multi-GRAMMY® nominee and saxophonist extraordinaire Koz on the coast-to-coast outing will be trumpeter/composer/producer Rick Braun, South African singer/guitarist Jonathan Butler and Dutch saxophone star Candy Dulfer. The foursome will perform hits from their respective catalogues and jam on fresh, lively arrangements of seasonal favorites in an uplifting, high-energy show the whole family will love. Koz’s latest record, Hello Tomorrow, contains the chart-topping hit “Put The Top Down.” He has also released three classic holiday albums – December Makes Me Feel This Way, A Smooth Jazz Christmas By Dave Koz & Friends and Memories of a Winter’s Night.

Tickets on sale: Aug 26, 2011 (Fri) 10:00 AM $76.00, $56.00 & $35.00 plus fees
www.cobbenergycentre.com
www.cobbgalleria.com

Monday, August 15, 2011

Atlanta Braves and Atlanta Symphony Orchestra to Partner for Music Appreciation Night

Turner Field
Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Members of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra To Perform National Anthem
Pre-Game Activities To Include Instrument Petting Zoo and Education Panel

The Atlanta Braves and the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra will partner for the first Music Appreciation Night at Turner Field when the Atlanta Braves take on the San Francisco Giants on Wednesday, August 17, 2011. The game begins at 7:10 p.m. and tickets are available exclusively online at: braves.com/atlantasymphony.

Members of the Atlanta Symphony Youth Orchestra, led by Youth Orchestra Music Director Jere Flint, will perform the National Anthem at 6:55 p.m. Pre-game musical and educational activities will be available and free only to ticket holders of that day’s game from 4-6:50 p.m., including an Instrument Petting Zoo and an Educational Panel. (See details below.)

“Imagine the impact of music on kids if they could just learn to play or sing,” said Atlanta Symphony Orchestra President Stanley E. Romanstein. “Offering music-rich educational experiences to kids throughout Atlanta and Georgia is at the core of what we do, so we are proud to partner with the Atlanta Braves for a day of music awareness at Turner Field. Together, we hope to continue to make a difference in the lives of kids throughout this great city and region.”

Pre-Game Activities

Prior to the game, fans will be able to see, hear, touch, and play various instruments as part of a pre-game Instrument Petting Zoo in Monument Grove. The Instrument Petting Zoo will take place from 4:00-6:50 p.m.

Fans will also have the chance to enjoy a pre-game Education Panel from 5:15-6:15 p.m., hosted by the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra and moderated by WXIA News Anchor Karyn Greer. Guests will hear music and sports panelists discuss how music has impacted their lives and careers. Panelists will include:
  • Stanley Romanstein, President, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
  • Bruce Kenney, Horn, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
  • Ken Meltzer, Program Annotator, Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
  • Brandon Bissell, Manager, Game Entertainment & Talent Buyer, Atlanta Braves
  • David Barbe, Director, UGA Music Business Certificate Program (Tentative)
  • Natalie Colbert, President, American String Teachers Association

Wednesday, August 03, 2011

Diamond Rio at the Buckhead Theatre this Friday

Friday August 5th
Doors 7:00
Tickets $25

Country/Christian Music Group Diamond Rio recently won a Grammy for their 11th album The Reason which also garnered the band their first Dove award. Formed in 1984, Diamond Rio features lead singer Marty Roe, guitarist Jimmy Olander, drummer Brian Prout, keyboardist Dan Truman, bassist/harmony Dana Williams and Gene Johnson on mandolin/harmony. The band signed with Arista Records in 1988 and embarked on one of the most successful careers in country music. The band has sold over 10 million albums, won the Country Music Association’s Vocal Group of the Year award four times as well as netting two Academy of Country Music Awards in the top Vocal Group of the Year category and received Fourteen GRAMMY ® nominations. When they debuted in 1991 with the hit “Meet in the Middle,” Diamond Rio became the first group in the history of country music to have a debut single reach No. 1. They continued to place 32 more singles on the Billboard chart, including “How Your Love Makes Me Feel,” “Norma Jean Riley,” “Beautiful Mess” and “Love a Little Stronger.”

Sunday, July 31, 2011

Robert Ray returns to Southside Theatre August 26 & 27

Former Broadway Performer and Award Winning NYC Cabaret Artist - Robert Ray - will perform for 2 nights only at The Southisde Theatre in the heart of Historic Fairbun - August 26 and 27. Showtimes are 8pm.

Ray is a native of Palmetto and an honor graduate from Campbell High School. After studying music at UGA Ray took a big leap of faith for a skinny kid from the farm and headed to New York city - where he landed a featured role in the Broadway Production of Oklahoma!

He later co-starred with John Davidson in the National Tour of the same show. Ray has also performed with such stars as Morgan Fairchild, Hele Hayes, Dick Cavett, Shirley Jones, Joel Grey, Sandy Duncan and Sarah Jessica Parker.

After Oklahoma! he started collecting rave reviews for his NYC Cabaret Show - "Robert Ray and the Rayettes" and recieved 4 New York Cabaret Nominations - winning 2.

"Robert Ray and the Rayettes" became one of Atlanta's top nightclub acts between 1980 and 1990, becoming the 1st local act to play the Hyatt Rengency's Club Atlantis and moving on to The Ambassador on Roswell Road and Gene and Gabe's Upstairs.

His current show will feature 3 fabulous female singers, although he nolonger refers to them as "Rayettes."

The show is called "Feeling Good" and will feature 5 of Atlanta's top Jazz Musicians.

The show will be performed in 2 Acts - with the 1st being a Sophisticated, New York Style set featuring some of the world's best-loved standards like Just in Time, Without a Song, Birth of the Blues, After You're Gone, Some Enchanted Evening and ..."Feeling Good."

The 2nd Act will open with a bass-thumping Disco Medley that will have you dancing in your seats - followed by some 70's goodies like Drift Away, Ain't Nobody and Carly Simon's Mockingbird.

But wait - the foot stomping and hand clapping will continue will some great old Gospel favorites like People get Ready, Leaning on the Everlasting Arms, Just a Closer Walk, Precious Lord and his Eye is on the Sparrow.

"Feeling Good" will mark Ray's 3rd August to return to Fairburn. All his previous hometown shows have been complete sell-outs - so do not wait to get your tickets. General seats are $22 and can be purchased by going to:

www.stgplays.com
For more info call 404-284-0967

Monday, June 06, 2011

Randy Travis Celebrates 25-Year Career with Release of Anniversary Celebration on June 7th

Zac Brown Band, Kristin Chenoweth, Kenny Chesney, Don Henley, Alan Jackson, Jamey Johnson, George Jones, Kris Kristofferson, Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood Join Travis On CD

Legendary country icon Randy Travis celebrates his 25-year career with the help of some of music’s hottest stars and friends when Warner Bros. Records releases his Anniversary Celebration duets CD on June 7. Zac Brown Band, Kristin Chenoweth, Kenny Chesney, Don Henley, Alan Jackson, Jamey Johnson, George Jones, Kris Kristofferson, Tim McGraw, Willie Nelson, Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood are among the acclaimed artists that join Travis on Anniversary Celebration. The album includes new songs in addition to re-makes of many of Travis’ megahits.

“Randy Travis changed the landscape of country music when he arrived on the scene 25 years ago,” said John Esposito, Warner Music Nashville President & CEO. “It is a testament to Randy’s impact in country music that his friends have joined him to celebrate his legacy and his future on Anniversary Celebration. We are incredibly proud that Warner Bros. Records has been his home since the beginning of his career.”

Randy Travis is one of the most recognizable voices in music, with sales in excess of 20 million records. His impressive career successes include 18 No. 1 singles, seven GRAMMY® Awards, 10 Academy of Country Music Awards, 10 American Music Awards, two People’s Choice Awards, eight Dove Awards, five Country Music Association Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk Of Fame. Travis is also a member of the prestigious Grand Ole Opry. Among his 18 No. 1 hits are “I Told You So,” “Forever and Ever Amen” and “Three Wooden Crosses.”

Fans can experience the 25 year history of Travis’ rise to stardom from the very beginning by visiting his website, www.RandyTravis.com, which includes videos, photos, media clips and more.

Track Listing for Anniversary Celebration:

1. Everything and All featuring Brad Paisley

2. A Few Ole Country Boys featuring Jamey Johnson

3. Forever and Ever, Amen featuring Zac Brown Band

4. He Walked On Water featuring Kenny Chesney

5. T.I.M.E. featuring Josh Turner

6. Love Looks Good On You featuring Kristin Chenoweth

7. Better Class of Losers/She’s Got The Rhythm (And I Got The Blues) medley feat. Alan Jackson

8. More Life featuring Don Henley

9. Can’t Hurt A Man featuring Tim McGraw

10. Promises featuring Shelby Lynne

11. Is it Still Over? featuring Carrie Underwood

12. Road To Surrender featuring Kris Kristofferson & Willie Nelson

13. Diggin’ Up Bones featuring John Anderson

14. Someone You Never Knew featuring Eamonn McCrystal

15. Too Much featuring James Otto

16. Didn’t We Shine featuring George Jones, Lorrie Morgan, Ray Price, Connie Smith, Joe Stampley & Gene Watson

Monday, April 25, 2011

Kenny G brings Heart and Soul to Peachtree City

Summer Concert Series Kicks Off April 30 at ‘The Fred’ 

The Frederick Brown Jr. “The Fred” Amphitheater in Peachtree City kicks off their 2011 BMW of South Atlanta Summer Concert Series this Saturday, April 30 as the Grammy Award winning saxophonist Kenny G brings his Heart and Soul Tour to the Fred stage.

In a recording career that spans almost three decades and 23 albums, Kenny G has grafted elements of R&B, pop and Latin to a jazz foundation solidifying his reputation as the premiere artist in contemporary jazz. Since the early ‘80s, his combination of unparalleled instrumental chops and indelible melodies has resulted in sales of more than 75 million records worldwide (45 million in the U.S. alone) and more than a dozen climbs to the top of Billboard’s contemporary jazz chart. Kenny G is known for hits such as “By the Time This Night is Over”, “Forever in Love”, and “Songbird”.

Each year the Summer Concert Series at ‘The Fred’ showcases a wide range of musical genres and this year will be no different according to Amphitheater Manager, Nancy Price. “Each year we strive to put together a diverse musical lineup and this year is no different as we feature country, rock, and jazz. We are especially excited to be kicking off our concert series with the legendary jazz artist, Kenny G,” said Ms. Price.

Enjoy an evening under the stars, serenaded by the smooth sounds of Kenny G on-stage at ‘The Fred’ in Peachtree City, Saturday, April 30. Gates will open at 7 p.m., opening act Toni Byrd and Walk Up Jazz on at 8 p.m., with Kenny G taking the stage at 9 p.m. A limited number of reserved seats priced at $47.50-75 are still available and can be purchased on-line at www.amphitheater.org or at the venue box office. For more information about the artists performing check them out on-line at www.kennyg.com, and www.walkupmusic.com.

The Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater is a 2,500 seat state-of-the art facility owned and operated by the city of Peachtree City. “The Fred” box office is located at 201 McIntosh Trail, and is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Box office opens at 4:00 p.m. on concert day. On-line ticketing for events is through Ticket Alternative, and a link to their site is available through the amphitheater website www.amphitheater.org. For further information regarding the Frederick Brown Jr. Amphitheater or the concert events, please call 770-631-0630.

Sunday, April 24, 2011

Patti Lupone: Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda

SuperPOPS! Series
Atlanta Symphony Hall, Memorial Arts Building, Woodruff Arts Center

Friday, May 27, 2011, 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, May 28, 2011, 8:00 p.m.

Patti LuPone, vocalist
Robert Fischer, conductor
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Single tickets for these performances are $25 to $62. All single tickets for the 2010–2011 season are on sale now, and available online at atlantasymphony.org, or by calling (404) 733-5000. Tickets may also be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, all ticketmaster outlets, and the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office, located in the Woodruff Arts Center at 15th and Peachtree Streets. Box office hours are Monday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, April 09, 2011

Music at the Holly Theater, Dahlonega

Jazz & Blues Concert Weekend at the Holly Theater featuring Sammy Blue, The Crown Price of Blues will perform on Friday, April 22 at 8:00 p.m.; and Rick Harris, jazz pianist, along with Mad Romance will perform Manhattan Transfer-style jazz on Saturday, April 23 at 8:00 p.m. Special Concert Weekend ticket only $35; or purchase each individual show for $20. Call the Holly Theater at 706-864-3759 or visit www.hollytheater.com for tickets . Seating is reserved.

Kathy Mattea will be performing live on stage at the Holly Theater , in cooperation with North Georgia College & State University, on Saturday, May 21st at 8:00 p.m. She will be singing selections from her recent CD Coal. Seating is limited. Tickets: $50. To be placed on a waiting list for tickets, call the Holly at 706-864-3759.

Friday, April 08, 2011

WAR THE BAND to Headline 5th Annual Fiesta Atlanta 2011

/PRNewswire/ -- Lanza Group, LLC announced today that WAR THE BAND will headline the 5th annual Fiesta Atlanta on Sunday, May 1st at Centennial Olympic Park. The southeast's largest Cinco de Mayo celebration set in the heart of Atlanta also features local and national Latin talent.

"WAR is an iconic band whose appeal crosses cultural barriers; their music resonates with a broad cross-section of America and many of their hits have become part of pop culture in the USA and throughout Latin America," said Lanza Group, LLC President Ralph E. Herrera. "Comedian George Lopez has proclaimed the song 'Lowrider' as the Chicano national anthem; we are looking forward to the buzz this artist will bring and to hearing WAR perform their many hits live at Fiesta Atlanta 2011."

An American original; WAR was the first and most successful musical crossover phenomenon that forever fused rock, jazz, Latin, and R&B; a musical melting pot and an enduring influence that has sold nearly 25 million records to date. WAR has been honored with 17 gold, platinum or multi-platinum awards which include the triple platinum "The World is a Ghetto," double platinum "Why Can't We Be Friends?" and "Greatest Hits," just to name a few.

The music lineup for Fiesta Atlanta also features a variety of local and national recording artists, with salsa, Regional Mexican and traditional Mexican Mariachi. The main stage opens at 10 a.m. with performances by Mariachi Pepe Lopez and rock group Tiger! Tiger! Two Miami-based groups will also perform, with Local 34 bringing a tropical influence to their upbeat Spanish rock and Bachaco will play a unique fusion of reggae and cumbia. Special guest this year is Edwin Reyes and Orquesta Con Clase, a salsa band whose members include Savannah, GA active duty soldiers, recently returned home from tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Fiesta Atlanta, is the Southeast's largest Cinco de Mayo celebration, a free, daylong festival that includes live Latin music on two stages, featuring national and local recording artists. The children's stage lineup includes lively, colorful acts including Mexican folkloric dancers, clowns, musicians and storytellers. Artists will be selling handmade traditional crafts while vendors will be selling delicious Latin foods. The festival's partners will provide product samples and many, fun and interactive displays. For additional information visit: www.FiestaAtlanta.com.

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Tuesday, March 15, 2011

The Atlanta Opera Presents Mozart’s Così fan tutte at the Cobb Energy Centre

The final opera in the Atlanta Opera’s 2010-2011season is Così fan tutte, Mozart’s brilliant comedic masterpiece about two officers who boast of their girlfriends’ faithfulness, only to have a clever friend put it to the test. Disguises, charades, mischief, and heartbreak result, but in the end, all are much wiser in the ways of love. Metropolitan Opera conductor Kazem Abdullah makes his Atlanta Opera debut and will lead The Atlanta Opera Orchestra, Chorus and cast. Così fan tutte will be sung in Italian with English supertitles projected above the stage. Performances are April 9, 12, 15 and 17, 2011 at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.

Soprano Keri Alkema will perform the role of Fiordiligi, and University of Georgia graduate mezzo-soprano Jennifer Holloway will sing Dorabella. Soprano Kiera Duffy, who recently appeared on the Atlanta Opera stage in Akhnaten, sings Despina, and tenor Matthew Plenk sings the role of Ferrando. Both Duffy and Plenk are featured in the Metropolitan Opera’s behind-the-scenes documentary, “The Audition.” Baritone Phillip Addis, who last appeared on the Atlanta Opera stage in the 30th anniversary season opener The Elixir of Love, sings Guglielmo, and the scheming Don Alfonso will be sung by bass Jason Hardy. Jose Maria Condemi will direct.

The Atlanta Opera also will offer Atlanta Opera Extras, community outreach initiatives that entertain and educate audiences about music and themes in Così fan tutte. A complete listing of upcoming events is below.

* * *

Così fan tutte
Music by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart
Libretto by Lorenzo Da Ponte
Sung in Italian with English Supertitles
Sets from The Atlanta Opera
Previous Atlanta Opera Performances: 1987, 2000
Approximate Running Time: 3 hours
Four Performances at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 8 pm
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 7:30 pm
Friday, April 15, 2011 at 8 pm
Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 3 pm

Creative Team
Conductor Kazem Abdullah*
Stage Director Jose Maria Condemi*
Set Designer Peter Dean Beck
Lighting Designer Ken Yunker

Cast
Fiordiligi Keri Alkema*
Dorabella Jennifer Holloway*
Despina Kiera Duffy
Ferrando Matthew Plenk*
Guglielmo Phillip Addis
Don Alfonso Jason Hard

Description

Two soldiers test the faithfulness of their fiancés on a dare. Pretending they are called away to duty, the men leave -- only to return as foreigners in disguise to woo the assumed two-timing women. Mischief and heartbreak result, but a happy ending is certain! This brilliant Mozart opera is a masterpiece of comedy and a favorite the world over.

*Denotes Atlanta Opera debut.

* * *
TICKET INFORMATION

Single Tickets
$25 -$140 plus tax, convenience and venue fees
Online -- Visit www.atlantaopera.org
By Phone -- Call 404-881-8885 or 1-800-35-OPERA (Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.)
In-person – Visit the Bank of North Georgia Box Office at the Cobb Energy Centre (Mon-Fri, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; and one hour prior to a performance on day of show).

* * *

ATLANTA OPERA EXTRAS

Mozart, Così fan tutte, and the End of the Enlightenment
Tuesdays, March 22 – April 12 @ 7 p.m.
Emory University Center for Lifelong Learning
Tuition: $200 (includes performance ticket)
Carter Joseph’s popular Evening at Emory class will explore the musical and social influences in Mozart’s Così fan tutte. On April 12, the class will attend The Atlanta Opera's production of this comedic masterpiece.

Atlanta Opera Master Class with Kiera Duffy
Tuesday, March 22, 2011 @ 11 a.m.
Georgia State University
Helen M. Aderhold Learning Center
Room 430
Free and open to the public
www.music.gsu.edu
Featuring soprano Kiera Duffy, who will be performing the role of Despina in the Atlanta Opera's production of Mozart's Così fan tutte.

Opera Chat
Monday, March 28, 2011 @ 7 p.m.
Barnes & Noble Buckhead
2900 Peachtree Road NE
Suite 310
Atlanta, GA
Free and open to the public
Select members of the cast, artistic and production crews will discuss the multi-faceted roles they play in mounting the Atlanta Opera’s upcoming production of Così fan tutte.

Opera 101
Monday, April 4, 2011 @ 7 p.m.
The Atlanta Opera Center
1575 Northside Drive, Bldg. 300, Suite 350
Atlanta, GA 30318
Free and open to the public

A multimedia presentation by opera aficionado and Atlanta Opera Board Member Carter Joseph/ Audiences learn about the history, background, and story line of Così fan tutte through a combination of lecture, audio and video samples. Reservations are requested; email education@atlantaopera.org or call 404-343-7016.

Pre-Opera Talk
Saturday, April 9, 2011 at 7 p.m.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011 at 6:30 p.m.
Friday, April 15 2011 at 7 p.m.
Sunday, April 17, 2011 at 2 p.m.
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Free to ticketholders
Pre-Opera Talks are held one hour prior to each performance inside the John A. Williams Theatre at the Cobb Energy Centre and provide opera attendees a free sneak peek into the opera they are about to see.

Atlanta Opera Costume Exhibit
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Friday, April 15 2011
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Free to ticketholders
During the run of Così fan tutte audiences can experience a retrospective from the vaults of the Atlanta Opera’s celebrated Costume Shop. Audiences will be able to see these incredible pieces of craftsmanship up close and personal, as well as see highlights from costumes featured in our upcoming 2011-20112 season.

La Belle Soirée: A Fun and Flirty Affair
Wednesday, April 13, 2011 @ 6:30 p.m.
At the Home of George and Dale Levert
$75/person (includes valet parking)
This “Fun and Flirty” fundraiser, featuring surprise serenades and delightful bubbly, will benefit The Atlanta Opera.

Brisk Ticket Sales for Wadsworth & Friends Concert Make It A Sell-Out

Concert Ticket Chair Jan Bowyer reports that the strong enthusiasm Saturday evening's Wadsworth & Friends Concert have made it a sell-out and ticket sales have been discontinued. Bowyer commented, "There may be some "no-shows" that will allow us to make a few more tickets available at the box office right before the concert, but tickets are no longer available at any of the outlets." Newnan and Coweta County residents who've not attended the concert will experience its unusual quality and past attendees will again enjoy the outstanding cultural event.

Hometown artist and world famous pianist and classical music host Charles Wadsworth will escort five talented musicians to the Wadsworth Auditorium stage - all of whom will provide an exceptional evening of entertainment for the audience. The lights will dim at 7:30 p.m. in the Wadsworth Auditorium on Saturday evening, and the concert that has become a Newnan, cultural tradition will begin. Octogenarian Charles Wadsworth will host the evening with his special style of informality that has taken the name of Newnan and his hometown stories to concert stages around the world as he has accompanied many of classical music's most famous and talented musicians.

Newnan native Sarah Taylor will step onto the Wadsworth Auditorium stage to make her professional debut and will delight the audience with two soprano arias: one each from Puccini's Turandot and his La Boheme. Flutist Angel Jones-Reus who last performed in Newnan in 2009 will return to lend her substantial talents to the concert and also to join with Sarah Taylor on Friday before the concert and instruct county school students in the two Master Classes sponsored by Newnan Rotary and Shannon Norris at Cargill and scheduled to be held at the Centre for Performing & Visual Arts.

Inon Barnatan having recently returned from Europe after a series of flourishing concerts will be flying here to entertain the Newnan audience with his special talents at the piano. He has also quickly made his mark in debuts at many of this nation's prominent concert halls. Bella Hristrova is a 26-year-old Bulgarian violinist who will take to the stage and perform with several of the others and also as a soloist. She performs on a highly valued circa 1655 Nicolò Amati violin.

Cellist André Díaz, who performed previously in Newnan in 2005 ad 2006, returns to a community with which he is most familiar. A resident of Dallas, Texas, Díaz spent considerable time in this area as a youth, He has a father and a Newnan-born stepmother who now reside in Columbus and they, with his two sons, will be attending the concert.

Virginia "Ginny" Lyles, Chair of the Newnan Cultural Arts Commission, said, We've received wonderful support from the sponsors and patrons who make this concert possible. They're the ones who deserve the credit for making the Wadsworth & Friends Concert the truly exceptional cultural event that it has become. It is such a celebration of the best of our community."

Monday, March 07, 2011

Wadsworth & Friends Concert Again Presents “Master Classes” to Coweta’s Students

Reprising a continuing program that began in 2008, Newnan’s Cultural Arts Commission (NCAC) recently sent letters to principals and music instructors at the county’s public and private high schools and middle schools. The letters invited vocal students and students studying the flute to participate in Master Classes at The Centre for Performing & Visual Arts provided by NCAC as a part of the Wadsworth & Friends Concert to be held on the following evening. The free-of-charge classes are supported by Newnan Rotary and by Cargill.

An accepted definition of a Master Class is: “one that involves teaching of an expert of that discipline — usually music, but also painting, drama, dance, or any of the arts. In a Master Class, a teacher’s general comments are replaced by the far more personal, intimate, informed, and individualized instructions and comments of a practiced professional in that talent or skill.”

Flute students will meet with Angela Jones-Reus - a flutist who now serves as Professor of Flute at the University of Georgia and has traveled the world in her multi-faceted career as soloist, chamber artist, orchestral artist, and teacher. They will gain a special insight and knowledge of playing the flute. Vocal students will have the opportunity of hearing local artist Sarah Taylor share her special knowledge of singing and her experiences while growing up in Newnan and singing to local audiences. She’ll discuss her continued education, how it has expanded her vocal talents and provide personalized instructions.

Don Nixon, Director of The Centre for Performing & Visual Arts says, “As a student is developing, it’s so important that they be exposed to excellence - to be able to see and hear and know the very best. They need to be exposed to the best there is so they’ll be enabled to recognize and know what’s being put before them during their youth and in their later life.” Nixon expanded and said, “The Centre fully endorses, appreciates, and supports this Master Class project because we know and understand its importance. We’ll continue to work towards it being inspirational to our students and provide our assistance.”

Newnan Rotary President Clayton Hicks said, “Rotary International supports important projects and charitable causes all over the world, but Newnan Rotary takes a special pride in the additional programs we support locally, not the least of which are projects that help our students.

Cargill, like Newnan Rotary, has supported the Master Class program since its inception four years ago. Shannon Norris at Cargill said, “Cargill views this as a great opportunity to support our community and highlight the resources and cultural events that are so often overlooked or taken for granted. We consider our sponsorship of the Master Class program to be a privilege.”

Tickets for the concert are now available at Scott’s Book Store on the Courthouse Square, Morgans Jewelers at Ashley Park, the Bank of Coweta at Thomas Crossroads, and The Centre for Performing & Visual Arts. They are budget priced at $20. for adults and $15. for students and 65+ seniors.

Wednesday, February 23, 2011

World-Renowned Cellist Wants Newnan's Barbecue!

Globe traveler Andrés Díaz Joins Wadsworth & Friends Concert Performers
Andrés Díaz travels the globe and plays his cello on the world's most illustrious concert stages. He has, at the very same time, a special link to Newnan's Wadsworth Auditorium stage and anticipates his return to Newnan and his performance before this area's audiences.

Native born in Chile, Díaz came to the US at a very tender age when his father immigrated to the US and joined Robert Shaw's Atlanta Symphony Orchestra as a viola player. Already a student of playing the cello, Andrés' skills increased while living in Georgia. As it happened, he also became much more familiar with Newnan and surrounds when his father re-married and he became the stepson of Newnan's Betty Ann Bailey. It was during that time that he became familiar with Newnan and Coweta County. He remembers Newnan well and also recalls playing his cello in Newnan's Presbertian Church. Years - and many of the world's concerts stages later - it prompts Andrés to say, "I'm now really looking forward to coming to Newnan, performing in the March 19 concert, and, again, eating barbecue at Sprayberry's. Performing on this great stage is a very special treat to me."

As a young and exceptional student of the cello, Díaz left his home in Atlanta to further his studies, graduated from the New England Conservatory, and went on to challenge contestants and win notable cello competitions throughout the world. As a youth, he garnered both grants and praise because of his exceptional talents.

Now, as a world-renowned and highly recognized cellist, his name is added to the list of performers who will be a part of the 2011 Wadsworth & Friends Concert. Now, traveled throughout the world and having appeared on many of the great concert stages throughout the globe, Díaz will perform in the Wadsworth Auditorium on March 19. Having performed in Newnan previously years ago, he anticipates a return to the Wadsworth Auditorium stage.

Charles Wadsworth, previously preparing a concert program that included French cellist Sebestian Hurtuad, said, "Andrés' accommodation to perform on this date and join this concert program represents the best of the very best for this Newnan concert."

Andrés Díaz now residing in Dallas, Texas, serves as an Associate Professor - Music at Southern Methodist University. Married and with two young sons, he balances his demanding musical career with his family, global travel demands, and personal pursuits which include working on automobile engines and racing cars. Mr. Díaz plays a 1698 Matteo Goffriller cello with a bow made by his father Manuel Díaz.

Andrés' father and stepmother reside in Columbus, Georgia.

Tickets for the concert will be available, effective March 1 at Scott's Book Store on the Courthouse Square, Morgans Jewelers at Ashley Park, and Bank of Coweta at Thomas Crossroads and are budget priced at $20. for adults and $15. for students and 65+ seniors. Contact Gina Snyder at 770 253 2358 x203 or (gsnyder@cityofnewnan.org) for information regarding the concert's Patron and Sponsor programs.

Friday, February 18, 2011

Don Williams In Concert March 26, 2011

Tickets Available Now
Ticket Prices are $35 + $2 Handling & $25 + $2 Handling


Don Williams 1974 song, “We Should Be Together,” reached number five, and he signed with ABC/Dot Records. His first single with ABC/Dot, “I Wouldn’t Want to Live If You Didn’t Love Me,” became a number one hit, and was the first of a string of top ten hits he had between 1974 and 1991. Only four of his 46 singles didn’t make it to the Top Ten.

Don't miss legendary, Don Williams as he takes the stage on March 26, 2011. The concert will be held in a 2900 seat, Air Conditioned hall at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds located in the beautiful mountains of Hiawassee, Georgia. Tickets go on sale February 4th and prices are $37. For more information visit us online or call
(706-896-4191)

HOW TO BUY TICKETS: Tickets are available at the Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds Office, Online, Or by phone (706) 896-4191.

The Georgia Mountain Fairgrounds
Highway 76, West of Hiawassee, GA 30546
Email: gamtfair@windstream.net
(706) 896-4191
www.georgiamountainfairgrounds.com

Wednesday, February 16, 2011

The Chieftans with the Atlanta Symphony; Roberto Abbado and Peter Serkin

THE CHIEFTAINS WITH THE ATLANTA SYMPHONY

Atlanta Symphony Hall, Memorial Arts Building, Woodruff Arts Center

Friday, March 11, 2011, 8:00 p.m.
Saturday, March 12, 2011, 8:00 p.m.

Michael Krajewski, conductor
The Chieftains
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

Single tickets for these performances are $25 to $62. All single tickets for the 2010–2011 season are on sale now, and available online at atlantasymphony.org, or by calling (404) 733-5000. Tickets may also be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, all ticketmaster outlets, and the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office, located in the Woodruff Arts Center at 15th and Peachtree Streets. Box office hours are Monday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.


ROBERTO ABBADO AND PETER SERKIN

Delta Classical Series
Atlanta Symphony Hall, Memorial Arts Building, Woodruff Arts Center

Thursday, March 31, 2011, 8:00 p.m.
Friday, April 1, 2011, 8:00 p.m.

Roberto Abbado, conductor
Peter Serkin, piano
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra

HAYDN Symphony No. 93
BARTÓK Piano Concerto No. 3
BRAHMS Symphony No. 1

Single tickets for these performances are $20 to $72. All single tickets for the 2010–2011 season are on sale now, and available online at atlantasymphony.org, or by calling (404) 733-5000. Tickets may also be purchased at www.ticketmaster.com, all ticketmaster outlets, and the Woodruff Arts Center Box Office, located in the Woodruff Arts Center at 15th and Peachtree Streets. Box office hours are Monday 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.; Tuesday through Friday 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.; and Saturday and Sunday 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Gilbert Varga to Lead Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in Works by Schubert, Mozart, and Strauss

March 3 - 5, 2011

Pianist Pedja Muzijevic To Be Soloist

Guest conductor Gilbert Varga will lead the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra in a program featuring Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17 with Pedja Muzijevic as soloist. Also on the program is Schubert’s Overture in C minor, Johann Strauss, Jr.’s Emperor Waltzes, and Richard Strauss’s Till Eulenspiegel. The concerts will take place March 3–5, 2011, at 8:00 p.m. in Atlanta Symphony Hall at the Woodruff Arts Center.

Mr. Muzijevic made his Atlanta Symphony Orchestra debut at Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in summer 2009. These concerts mark his subscription debut with the Orchestra at Atlanta Symphony Hall.

Saturday, February 05, 2011

Charity Download of "Declaration Anthem" Featured in FOX Super Bowl Salute to U.S. to Help U.S. Wounded Soldiers

(BUSINESS WIRE)--"Declaration Anthem," the score created by award-winning Placement Music, LLC for the FOX SUPER BOWL SUNDAY presentation of the 'Declaration of Independence,' starting at 5:52 p.m. ET will be available as a charity single and ringtone on iTunes and Amazon.com after kick off. A portion of proceeds from the full-length score, a radio edit and ringtone goes directly to benefit Wounded Warrior Project. The non-profit, whose mission is to honor and empower wounded warriors, reports an estimated 40,000 U.S. service members have been wounded in the current world conflict alone, and more than 300,000 suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

"Placement Music is proud of 'Declaration Anthem' and our collaboration with FOX Sports. As 100 million people tune-in, we want the men and women who are active duty or retired military to know how proud we are of them and how grateful," said Tammy Hurt, founder of Placement Music. "Our organization too was founded on trust, collaboration, community and pushing each other to reach new individual milestones collectively. We are honored to make 'Declaration Anthem' accessible to the world and hope everyone watching on Sunday will be compelled to do what they can to help Wounded Warrior Project."

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Saturday, January 22, 2011

Barry Scott and Second Wind to Play Jan 29th

New Hope Church, 7719 Callaway Road, Greenville, GA 30222 is delighted to present Barry Scott and Second Wind on January 29th at 6 p.m. They are an exciting new acoustic band with a combined experience of almost 80 years of bluegrass and acoustic picking and singing. Individually they have been nominated for Grammy awards, won prestigious competitions, founded bands, and have been highly influential to acoustic, bluegrass and bluegrass gospel music. Collectively, in their few months since forming, they have appeared on the Today Show, gathered a solid following, and established themselves as a powerful new presence in the gospel music arena. The group consists of five young men from Georgia, East Tennessee, Virginia, and North Carolina areas.

There is no admission or ticket price, but a love offering will be taken. We invite you to come out and enjoy the evening of music and fellowship with this dynamic band. Refreshments and fellowship following the concert.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

Atlanta's WKLS Launches Jelli, Puts Control in the Hands of Atlanta's Rock Fans

/PRNewswire/ -- Clear Channel Radio station Project 9-6-1 (WKLS) Atlanta has launched Jelli, the crowd-sourced radio technology that puts listeners in charge of what plays on the air. Jelli combines FM radio with the best of the social web and lets listeners compete or cooperate to get their favorite songs played on their favorite radio station.

Called "Remote Control Radio," the new Jelli-powered show is hosted by D.J. Jordin Silver, and airs Monday through Friday nights from 7PM to Midnight EST. Project 9-6-1 listeners can play along at www.project961.com or download the Jelli iPhone app and control the airwaves on the go.

At any time during the show, Project 9-6-1 listeners vote songs up or down, ultimately deciding what will air next. By playing, listeners accumulate Rockets and Bombs that they can use to propel a song quickly toward the top of the playlist, or knock it off completely. When a song is actually playing live and on the air, listeners can also vote whether it Rocks or Sucks. If enough players think it Sucks, the song is taken off the air instantly, even if it's mid-song. It's the ultimate in crowd-controlled radio.

"Project 9-6-1 was launched in 2006 with an experimental spirit and a promise to push things forward. As the first radio station in Atlanta to fuse social media and terrestrial radio with Jelli, we are showing our commitment to these values," said Project 9-6-1 Program Director Chris Williams. "Remote Control Radio gives our audience complete control and we are excited to see how they wield the remote control!"

"Atlanta is a world class music town and we are excited to see a Clear Channel station like WKLS be the first in town to put control into the hands of its listeners," said Jelli CEO Mike Dougherty.

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Click to read MORE news:
www.GeorgiaFrontPage.com
Twitter: @gafrontpage & @TheGATable @HookedonHistory
www.ArtsAcrossGeorgia.com
Twitter: @artsacrossga, @softnblue, @RimbomboAAG @FayetteFP

Tuesday, January 18, 2011

Atlanta Opera Extras Offer Opportunities to Learn More About Music and Themes in Porgy and Bess

The Atlanta Opera has launched Atlanta Opera Extras, community outreach initiatives that entertain and educate audiences about opera. A complete listing of upcoming events is below:

Perspectives from The Atlanta Opera Chorus
Monday, January 31, 2011 @ 7:30pm
Spelman College, Science Auditorium, Room 134
Free and open to the public
Select members of The Atlanta Opera Chorus will share their experiences performing Gershwin’s American folk-opera, Porgy & Bess at Paris’ Opèra-Comique, and how these experiences have influenced their perspectives on this American classic. Audience questions are welcome.


Porgy & Bess @ Broke-ology
February 2, 2011 @ 7:00pm
Southwest Arts CenterFree to Broke-ology ticket holders
Members of the esteemed Atlanta Opera Chorus will be performing arias from Porgy & Bess before a performance of True Colors Theatre’s Broke-ology by Nathan Louis-Jackson. The production, directed by Kenny Leon, and starring Jasmine Guy, is a comic drama that encourages us to stay linked to our roots no matter where life takes us.


Evening at Emory
American Originals: George Gershwin and Porgy & Bess
Tuesdays, February 8 – March 1 @ 7PM
Emory University Center for Lifelong Learning
Tuition: $200 (includes performance tickets)
Carter Joseph’s popular Evening at Emory class will explore the musical and social influences in George Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess. On March 1, the class will attend The Atlanta Opera's production of this American masterpiece.


Opera Chat
Thursday, February 10, 2011 @ 7PM

Barnes & Noble Buckhead
2900 Peachtree Road NE
Suite 310
Atlanta, GA
Free and open to the public
Select members of the cast, artistic and production crews will discuss the multi-faceted roles they play in mounting The Atlanta Opera’s upcoming production of Porgy & Bess.

The Atlanta Opera Artist Luncheon
Tuesday, February 15, 2011 @ 12 pm
The St. Regis Atlanta
88 West Paces Ferry Road
$80/person (includes parking)
The public is invited to attend an Artist Luncheon celebrating Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess with Larry Marshall, Stage Director; Walter Huff, Chorus Master; Principal Singers from the production; and select members of The Atlanta Opera Chorus. Please respond by February 7 to Amanda Wilborn at (404) 591-2928 or amandaw@atlantaopera.org.


Low-Country Favorites
Tuesday, February 15
The Cook’s Warehouse - Decatur
In honor of the company’s upcoming production of Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess, The Atlanta Opera has teamed up with The Cook’s Warehouse – Decatur to offer “Low Country Favorites,” - a low-country cooking class. Charleston, South Carolina, where Porgy & Bess is set, is one of the homes of low-country cooking. Students will have the opportunity to learn about themes from the upcoming production while learning to cook classics from this tasty cuisine. The class will be taught by Chef Rosemary Rutland.


Ethical Themes in Porgy & Bess
Wednesday, February 16, 2011 @ 7PM
Emory Center for Ethics at Emory University
Free and open to the public
As part of Emory University’s Ethics in the Arts Initiative, Stage Director Larry Marshall and select artists from The Atlanta Opera’s production of Porgy & Bess will discuss the history of the opera, perform musical selections, and engage in ethical discussion about the controversy surrounding Gershwin’s work.


Opera 101
Monday, February 21, 2011 @ 7PM
The Atlanta Opera Center
1575 Northside Drive, NW
Bldg. 300, Suite 350
Atlanta, GA 30318
Free and open to the public
In this multi-media presentation by opera aficionado and Atlanta Opera Board Member Carter Joseph, audiences can learn about the history, background, and story line of Porgy & Bess. Reservations are requested; call 404-881-8801.

Pre-Opera Talk
Saturday, February 26, 2011 at 7 pm
Tuesday, March 1, 2011 at 6:30 pm
Friday, March 4, 2011 at 7 pm
Sunday, March 6, 2011 at 2 pm
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Free to ticketholders
Pre-Opera Talks are held one hour prior to each performance inside the John A. Williams Theatre at the Cobb Energy Centre and provide opera attendees a free sneak peek into the opera they are about to see.


Sistagraphy Photography Exhibit
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Free to ticketholders
During the run of George Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess, The Atlanta Opera will exhibit photographs by members of Sistagraphy. These collective works examine the contemporary and historical issues that affect our society through the photographic medium.


Exhibit of Artist Leroy Campbell’s Gullah Collection
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Friday, March 4, 2011
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Free to ticketholders
During the run of Porgy and Bess, audiences can experience the rich multi-media collage techniques of Leroy Campbell’s acclaimed Gullah Collection. His work, deeply rooted in African-American history, culture and traditions, evokes the complexity of the African-American experience.


Atlanta Opera Student Shorts
Thursday, March 3, 2011 @ 10AM and Noon
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre
Admission $8
An abbreviated version of the mainstage production, The Atlanta Opera Student Shorts are approximately one hour in length, and are performed with full sets, costumes and lighting and accompanied by The Atlanta Opera Orchestra and Chorus; Accompanying educational materials correspond directly with Georgia Performance Standards in the Performing Arts, English and Language Arts, History and Social Studies. Call 770-916-2923 or visit www.cobbenergycentre.com for reservations.


Urban Youth Harp Ensemble Performance
Friday, March 4, 2011, 7-8 PM
Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Lobby
Free to ticketholders
Before the March 4, 2011 performance of George Gershwin’s Porgy & Bess, The Urban Youth Harp Ensemble will be performing in the lobby of the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre.
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2011 Charles Wadsworth & Friends Concert Set for March 19th

The date is set! Newnan's native son and world-famous pianist Charles Wadsworth will return to Newnan to perform in concert in his namesake Charles Wadsworth Municipal Auditorium on Saturday, March 19. at 7:30 pm. Wadsworth will once again be joined by a group of world-class musicians as they present the much anticipated "Charles Wadsworth & Friends" concert that has become Newnan's most prominent cultural event.

Wadsworth grew up in Newnan and became an accomplished pianist at an early age and, by age 13, was filling in as the substitute pianist and organist at local churches. He went on to earn his bachelor's and master's degrees from famed Julliard School and moved to New York in 1952 to begin his professional career. In New York, he founded the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center in 1969, leading it as Artistic Director and pianist for twenty years and bringing chamber music the unprecedented popularity that it enjoys today. His innovative programming and the varied repertoire he unearthed have inspired a new generation of virtuoso musicians to perform chamber music, fostering the creation of chamber music festivals worldwide. Since l977, Wadsworth has been one of the Artistic Directors of the Spoleto USA Festival in Charleston, South Carolina, where he is pianist and host of the daily chamber music concerts. Similar concerts were created in 1960 at the Festival of Two Worlds in Spoleto, Italy.

Mr. Wadsworth celebrated his 80th birthday during Newnan's 2009 concert and, since announcing his retirement at last year's concert, has limited his concert appearances. He pledged, however, to return annually to Newnan for as long as "providentially able." He has received New York City's highest cultural award the Handel Medallion, in addition to South Carolina's Order of the Palmetto. He holds honorary doctorates from the University of South Carolina, Converse College, and Connecticut College and has been invited to perform at the White House for Presidents Kennedy, Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan. His many honors include being a 2009 recipient of Coweta County's Centre for Performing & Visual Arts' Richard Brooks Visionary Award of Distinction and also having had an alley in Newnan designated as "Wadsworth Alley."

Charles Wadsworth has been returning annually to Newnan with his Charles Wadsworth & Friends Concerts since 1990. Originally sponsored by a group of local citizens and, more recently, by the City of Newnan's Cultural Arts Commission, the concert has generated funds used to restore the city's auditorium named after Wadsworth in 1998. It continues today supporting the ongoing upkeep and improvement of this treasured hall. Concert proceeds have also made possible a series of Master Classes in which the visiting artists share their talents and personal experiences with groups of Coweta County students. With the strong support of the Newnan City Council and a large number of loyal patrons, the restoration of the auditorium was completed in 2008.

Tickets for the event will be available after March 1st. General seating adult tickets are $20 and Senior/Student tickets are $15.
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Tuesday, January 11, 2011

Consumers Can Download for Donations with the Choice Hotels Music Newest Original Song

/PRNewswire/ -- As part of the continuing Choice Hotels Music program that introduces original songs to benefit a range of charities, "Sweetest Dreams" performed by Holly Montgomery will be launched on the Choice Hotels Music website. "Sweetest Dreams" was made available on January 11, 2011, and consumers who visit ChoiceHotelsMusic.com and download the free song will sponsor a $1 donation from Choice Hotels International (NYSE: CHH) to the non-profit organization ServiceSource Foundation. Choice Hotels will donate one dollar for every free download of the song by consumers, up to $10,000.

"Sweetest Dreams" is the latest song to be introduced by Choice Hotels Music and it's one that strikes a particularly emotional chord for the company. In May of 2010, Steve Joyce, president and CEO of Choice Hotels International and Vice-Chairman of the ServiceSource Foundation, visited ServiceSource in Alexandria, Virginia where he met a remarkable young woman named Kai Croft. Kai is a 26 year old client of ServiceSource, who, despite having Arthrogryposis -- a severe physical disability which affects a person's joints, is a prolific and eloquent poet. After reading Kai's poetry blog, Steve asked Kai if she would like some of her poems put to music. Kai loved the idea.

"I have been writing poetry for as long as I can remember. I think I was about 12 years old when I wrote my first poem called 'Poems' and it made me think that I could express myself with the words that readily came to mind," said Kai. "It's so exciting that my writing has inspired others to create this song and give back to ServiceSource."

Representatives of Choice Hotels contacted Holly Montgomery (local musician) and Tom Nichols (local musician & producer) and asked them to review some of Kai's poems to see if they might create a song from her poetry. Montgomery and Nichols got right to work, pulling lines and words from her poems to assemble what ultimately became the lyrics to "Sweetest Dreams."

"As soon as Tom and I started reading Kai's blog we fell in love with her words. Using her poetry, it was so easy to create a beautiful song. We started arranging and composing music and in only a few days were able to record a demo," said Holly Montgomery, Sweetest Dreams singer and songwriter. "But what really made the experience amazing was the fact that not only did we get to create this music, but every time somebody downloads the song a donation (up to $10,000) is made back to the organization that means so much to Kai -- ServiceSource Foundation. We are able to make music and make a difference!"

"I was so inspired by meeting Kai, reading her poems and learning what ServiceSource Foundation does to help people. It all just fit so perfectly with the Choice Hotels Music program which was able to combine all of these amazing elements to create 'Sweetest Dreams,'" said Steve Joyce, Choice Hotels President and CEO, and Vice-Chairman of the ServiceSource Foundation.

The song was professionally recorded on May 26, 2010. With Kai in attendance, she was able to hear exactly how the words in her poems came to life in a song. Nichols produced the recording and sang backup vocals while Montgomery played bass and sang lead vocals. A host of famous and talented musicians also played on the song including Drummer Aynsley Dunbar, and Guitarists Randall Hall and Paul Bell.

Since the launch of Choice Hotels Music in August 2010, the company has released three original songs that have generated over 30,000 downloads, which resulted in donations from Choice Hotels to three worthy charities -- Rebuilding Together, SOME (So Others Might Eat) and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Metropolitan Washington and Greater Baltimore.

Visit ChoiceHotelsMusic.com today to download the free song "Sweetest Dreams" by Holly Montgomery and inspire a $1 donation (up to $10,000) for the ServiceSource Foundation.

For more of Kai's poetry, visit her blog at www.kaiswriting.blogspot.com.

Saturday, January 08, 2011

Honda and Atlanta’s V-103 to Host the Return of the Honda Battle of the Bands National Anthem Competition

Radio Personality Ryan Cameron will Host Event Saturday, January 8th at the Mall at Stonecrest Where Aspiring Atlanta Vocalists Will Audition to Perform Before Thousands at the Dome

The city’s very best singers are invited to audition for the Honda Battle of the Bands National Anthem Competition, co-presented by American Honda and V-103 Radio: “The People’s Station.” Local radio air personalities Ryan Cameron and Sytonnia will be on hand, in person, at the Mall At Stonecrest in Lithonia this Saturday, January 8th to host the auditions. Atlanta-area aspiring vocalists will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and enter into the running to win a thousand dollars and a chance to sing the National Anthem before a crowd of 60,000 at the 9th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase scheduled to take place at the Georgia Dome on January 29, 2011.

Saturday, January 8th 2011, 10:00 a.m.
The Mall at Stonecrest
2829 Turner Hill Rd.
Lithonia, Georgia

Registration will be held at the Sears Court of the Mall, and begins promptly at 10:00 a.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive early.

Of the 103 entrants that will be allowed to audition, three finalists’ will be selected and their audition videos will be posted on the V-103 “WebMag” page on www.v-103.com, for friends, family and the world to view and vote on who they think should sing the U.S. national anthem “live,” at this year’s 9th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, at the Georgia Dome on January 29th. In addition to performing before 60,000 fans the winner will also receive a pre-loaded VISA card worth $1,000. The first runner-up will receive a $500 pre-loaded VISA, and third place, a $250 card. All three finalists will also be awarded two tickets to the event.

Tickets for the 9th annual Honda Battle of the Bands Invitational Showcase, presented by The Home Depot, are on sale now, and disappearing fast. The showcase which features riveting performances by eight of the nation’s top Historically Black College and University (HBCU) marching bands is one of the most highly anticipated events in Atlanta. Visit Ticketmaster or the Georgia Dome box-office, or purchase tickets online by visiting www.HondaBattleoftheBands.com.

Wednesday, January 05, 2011

An Acoustic Evening with Travis Tritt

Saturday, January 29, 2011
Doors open at 7 p.m.

Buckhead Theatre
3110 Roswell Road
Atlanta, GA 30305

Tickets range from $50-$75
www.ticketmaster.com

Show is reserved seating and open to all ages.

Travis Tritt, one of the leading country singers and one of the first country artists to infuse rock & blues into the world of country music, brings his magic to Atlanta for an acoustic performance at Atlanta’s landmark Buckhead Theatre. His bluesy, Southern rock sound and gutsy outlaw image distinguished him from fellow country artists. Tritt produced a string of platinum albums and Top Ten singles throughout his music career, including three number one hits as well as two Grammy-Awards. Visit www.thebuckheadtheatre.com for more information.

Tuesday, January 04, 2011

National Endowment for the Arts Announces Live Webcast of 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert

January 11, 2011

Panel Discussion with 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Moved to 1:00 p.m. on January 10, 2011

The National Endowment for the Arts and Jazz at Lincoln Center announced today that the NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert on January 11, 2011, will be video streamed live for those unable to attend in person. The concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. EST and can be accessed through arts.gov.

In addition, a live audio broadcast will be carried through three outlets: Sirius XM Satellite Radio’s Real Jazz Channel 70, WBGO radio on 88.3FM or wbgo.org, and at NPR Music (npr.org/music).

The NEA Jazz Masters Awards Ceremony & Concert honors the recipients of the 2011 NEA Jazz Masters Award—the nation’s highest honor in this distinctly American music. The 2011 NEA Jazz Masters are Hubert Laws, David Liebman, Johnny Mandel, and the Marsalis Family—Ellis Marsalis, Jr., Branford Marsalis, Wynton Marsalis, Delfeayo Marsalis, and Jason Marsalis. In addition, the 2011 A.B. Spellman NEA Jazz Masters Award for Jazz Advocacy is awarded to Orrin Keepnews.

The Awards Ceremony & Concert will feature the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis in a program dedicated to the honorees’ works; honorees Mr. Liebman, Mr. Laws, and the Marsalis Family will perform. The evening also will feature a special performance by Roberta Gambarini and others in honor of the Jazz Masters who have passed away in the last year: Hank Jones, Abbey Lincoln, James Moody, and Dr. Billy Taylor.

The concert is sold out but stand-by tickets will be distributed on January 11, with the line beginning at 6:30 p.m. at the Jazz at Lincoln Center Box Office, Broadway at 60th Street, ground floor. Those who do not receive a ticket are invited to watch the concert via simulcast at Frederick P. Rose Hall.

Monday, January 03, 2011

This Weekend: La Fanciulla del West

Live Transmission: Saturday, January 8 at 1:00 p.m. ET / 10:00 a.m. PT

The Metropolitan Opera’s 100th anniversary revival of Puccini’s La Fanciulla del West will be transmitted to movie theaters worldwide on Saturday, January 8 at 1 pm ET / 10 am PT as part of The Met: Live in HD series. Set in a mining camp during the California Gold Rush, saloon owner Minnie has her sights set on the mysterious Dick Johnson, and nothing—not horses, hangmen, or a high-stakes poker game—can keep her from finding true love. Deborah Voigt will sing the title role of Minnie in Giancarlo Del Monaco’s 1991 production, with Marcello Giordani as Dick Johnson (a.k.a. the bandit Ramerrez) and Lucio Gallo as the villainous sheriff Jack Rance. San Francisco Opera Music Director Nicola Luisotti will conduct the work, which the composer told The New York Times in 1910 he considered “the best of [his] operas.”

Find local theater information here: United States International

The debut of La Fanciulla del West in 1910 was the first-ever world premiere presented by the Met. For the occasion of the centennial performance on December 10, 2010, “dozens of audience members [attended] in fringed Western wear and cowboy hats” (Associated Press).

Giancarlo Del Monaco’s “brilliant staging” (Financial Times) “allows this remarkable score to come through beautifully” (The New York Times). As Minnie, the Associated Press praised Voigt for “a riveting and moving portrayal” displaying a “shining top that pierced through the sumptuous orchestration…her warm, endearing manner combined with an infectious stage-dominating moxie to make [the role] all her own.” The critic for The New York Times added, "I cannot think of a soprano who could sing any better this demanding role.” As Dick Johnson, Giordani “is at his best here” said the New York Daily News. Under the baton of Luisotti “the score emerged as arguably Puccini’s most subtly written and boldly modern music” (The New York Times).

Met star soprano Sondra Radvanovsky, currently in rehearsals for her Met debut as Tosca in January, is the HD host for La Fanciulla del West. Barbara Willis Sweete directs the transmission and Jay David Saks is music producer.

For more information, the public is encouraged to visit http://www.metopera.org/hdlive.
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