Archive of Past Events

Foghorn Stringband, Jeff Kazor & Lisa Berman, Anne & Pete Sibley

Friday, February 10, 7:30pm

$16 advance / $18 door

We kickoff the SF Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival with a great triple bill!

The internationally acclaimed Foghorn Stringband has been at the vanguard of a revival in American old-time music for over a decade now. They've traveled the globe, been signed to a major label, and inspired a new generation of old-time musicians, all without compromising their love of traditional American music.

Jeff Kazor founded his groundbreaking and internationally influential band The Crooked Jades in San Francisco in 1996, recording 7 albums and touring and playing festivals all over Europe and North America. Multi instrumentalist/vocalist Lisa Berman is internationally known as a pioneer in bringing the Hawaiian slide guitar back to old-time music and redefining its sound. She also performs on claw-hammer banjo, dobro, guitar, harmonium, and baritone ukulele. Berman co-founded The Crooked Jades with Jeff Kazor, where her rare gift for harmony singing has been showcased and critically acclaimed as hauntingly beautiful and goosebump-raising. Berman also records and tours with the renowned Stairwell Sisters.

Originally from New England, Anne & Pete Sibley have been at home in the Rocky Mountain West since 1999. Less than a decade since they released their first album, the Sibleys' music hit the national spotlight in 2009 with a blue ribbon finish in the "Great American Duet Sing Off" on National Public Radio's A Prairie Home Companion.  

Ramblin' Jack Elliott
and Vikki Lee

 

Saturday, Jan 21, 8pm

$20 advance / $22 door

Music Legend and Three Time Grammy Winner Ramblin' Jack Elliott

“Ramblin’ Jack Elliott has been a towering influence on a generation of folk and rock musicians, most notably Bob Dylan.”
– The Boston Globe.

One of the last direct links to the great folk traditions of this country, Ramblin’ Jack Elliott is one of the legendary foundations of American folk music. In the tradition of roving troubadours Jack has carried the seeds and pollens of story and song for decades from one place to another, from one generation to the next.   In 1950, he met Woody Guthrie, moved in with the Guthrie family and traveled with Woody to California and Florida, from the redwood forests to the Gulf Stream waters. Along the way he learned the blues first-hand from Leadbelly, Mississippi John Hurt, the Reverend Gary Davis, Big Bill Broonzy, Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry, Jesse Fuller and Champion Jack Dupree. So it’s fitting that earlier this year, he received his first Grammy Award in the Traditional Blues category for his album, A Stranger Here. (His two previous Grammys were in the folk category). He received the National Medal of Arts award and was honored with a special dinner at the White House.  Recently the award-winning film The Ballad of Ramblin’ Jack introduced a new generation to his timeless music and yarns.  We are honored to have this national treasure start our concert year. 

Americana/Country/Rockabilly artist Vikki Lee opens the concert.

The Stairwell Sisters
and Cascada de Flores

 

 

Friday, Dec 2, 8pm

$18 advance / $20 door

North American & Latin American Roots Meet in a Great Double Bill!

“Five women who attack string instruments with a veracity that rivals some of rock’s most venerated fret burners….  rarely have songs taken from the public domain sound so modern and vital.” -Dallas Observer.
Playing “Old-Time music with punk-rock intensity,” The Stairwell Sisters perform their driving brand of stringband music, sweet country harmonies, old-time songs and rowdy fiddle tunes.  Through 10 years and three albums, the Bay Area’s favorite all-gal, old-time teardown has performed all over the US & Europe; from Lincoln Center to A Prairie Home Companion and beyond. 

"A dream from which you have no desire to return" - Sing Out! Magazine

Cascada de Flores

 

 

The sound of Cascada de Flores echoes the golden radio age of Latin America, where jazzy bolero and earthy traditions from the countryside were joyously juxtaposed. Its lush and haunting vocal duet features the unique voices of Arwen Lawrence and Sabra Weber, and is reminiscent of the vocal hermanas (sisters) of that era. Virtuoso guitarist Jorge Liceaga carries them, drawing from his mixed heritage of Bibriesca, syncopated Yucatecan bolero and the communicative flamenco art tradition. From heart-wrenching canción and raucous Cuban guaracha, to earthy Mexican son the variety is woven together by the poetic treatment of the Spanish language, the casual and humorous storytelling and the use of traditional instruments: tres cubano, flute, marimbol (a marimba-like instrument related to the African thumb piano), vihuela,  guitarra de son and jaranas of Veracruz, donkey's jaw bone and zapateado (percussive dance).

“One learns the roots while listening to experts play music they clearly love. The result is rich, delicate, and lovely." - Sing Out! Magazine

Wake the Dead
and The Rowan Brothers

 

 

Saturday, Dec 3, 8pm

$20 advance / $23 door

Wake the Dead stumbled on potent music magic that fateful day a decade or so ago when a group of well-known East Bay musicians decided to take on some Grateful Dead songs Celtic-style. What was intended as a one-CD project has since morphed into a real live Bay Area music phenomenon that has gained considerable traction with fans and critics alike.

 If you're a Dead fan, you'll be amazed to hear your favorites all wrapped up in dazzling Celtic flavors. For the non-GD fans, this is spirited, well-crafted acoustic music with soul-stirring harmonies and top-notch instrumental work played by 20 year vets of the Bay Area scene. Lately the band has been sprinkling their sets with traditional Celtic tunes and the songs of the Dead, the Airplane, the Youngbloods.  Even die hard (tie-dyed?) fans will be surprised by the ever-changing set list.  Plan on getting there early. They've been packing them in at much larger venues lately. Come find out why Amazon.com says: “Five stars! This record captures more fully than any single Dead album or tribute project, the melodic beauty, lyrical depth and timeless quality of the Garcia/Hunter songbook."

The Rowan Brothers

 

 

The Rowan Brothers' first gig in San Francisco was in 1970, opening for the Grateful Dead. Since then they've recorded dozens of acclaimed albums with Jerry Garcia, Bill Kreutzmann, Jim Keltner, David Grisman, and many others. Expect a lot of stylistic maneuvering from these eclectic brothers: from Everly Brothers, countripolitan, jazzy bluegrass, to contempo-folk with sparkle, finesse and rock n roll energy.

The Kathy Kallick Band
and Jeanie & Chuck's Country Roundup

 

 

Friday, Nov 18, 8pm

$15 advance / $18 door
$13 for kids, seniors & students with I.D.

Hot Bluegrass & Cool Originals — The Kathy Kallick Band's Between the Hollow and the High-Rise, released last year, spent more time in the national bluegrass charts than any other 2010-11 CD — and also was among the highest-ranked on the folk-dj chart. The release of Kathy's latest — Count Your Blessings — will be celebrated at this show. Since co-founding the Good Ol' Persons, Kathy Kallick continues to evolve as one of the music's extraordinary composers and vocalists, having released 16 albums with over 100 of her original songs. She's won a Grammy and two IBMA Awards, received a Lifetime Membership from the California Bluegrass Association, and collaborates with the country's top acoustic musicians — including her mighty current intergenerational band, whose members also have played with David Grisman, Laurie Lewis, Darol Anger, High Country, Spring Creek, Town Mountain, and Bearfoot. They are: Tom Bekeny (mandolin), Dan Booth (acoustic bass), Greg Booth (dobro & banjo), and Annie Staninec (fiddle). Everybody sings!

"Kathy Kallick is one of the best songwriters in bluegrass and acoustic music" - Chris Stuart, Sing Out!

Jeanie & Chuck's Country Roundup

 

 

Jeanie and Chuck Poling play bluegrass, honky-tonk, and more. Featuring Jeanie's beautiful and powerful vocals and Chuck's inexhaustible supply of stage patter, this duo's mission is first and foremost to give the folks a show. They've been entertaining Bay Area audiences for over a decade as a duo and with their band — which now includes Pat Campbell and Ray Bierl. Pat has played bass with every kind of Bay Area band, and is best known to bluegrass audiences for playing on the legendary "Pistol Packin' Mama" album with Frank Wakefield, Jerry Garcia, Don Reno, and Chubby Wise. Ray is not only a talented and versatile fiddler, but a great entertainer and songster in his own right; check him out to see what one guy and a guitar can do.

Latif Bolat

 

 

Saturday, Nov 5, 2011

One of the most well-known Turkish musicians in the U.S., Latif Bolat mesmerizes audiences with his mastery of a vast repertoire of Turkish folk music, Sufi devotional songs, classical pieces and sacred ballads that he composed. He employs traditional instruments such as the long-necked lute, the baglama, and the oud, bendir and ney flute.

Now residing in New Mexico and Turkey, Bolat is in the midst of a world tour. He regularly performs in India, Indonesia, Bulgaria, Turkey,the Philippines, Australia, England, and all across Canada and the United States. He has appeared at Carnegie Hall, recorded four popular CDs, and composed music for the PBS Documentary: "Mohammed: Legacy of a Prophet" and George Lucas's TV series "Young Indiana Jones." He also co-authored a book with the compelling title "Quarreling with God." The Turkish Ministry of Culture has sponsored translations of his work on Sufi poetry, and the California Arts Council awarded him with a grant for his contributions to the preservation of Turkish traditional music.

Pre-Concert Lecture

Before the concert Latif will present a special bonus lecture and discussion on 1000 Years of Turkish Sufi Mystic Music, Poetry and Philosophy, starting at 6:30pm.

Multi Grammy winner JIM LAUDERDALE
Maurice Tani & Jenn Courtney

Saturday, Sep. 24, 2011

With success in both bluegrass and country music, international recording artist Jim Lauderdale won Artist of the Year and Song of the Year at the Honors and Awards Show held by the Americana Music Association. A Grand Ole Opry star and one of Nashville's premier songwriters, his songs have been recorded by The Dixie Chicks, Solomon Burke, Mark Chesnutt, Vince Gill, George Strait, John Mayall, Kathy Mattea, Lee Ann Womack and many others.

One of our favorite singer/songwriters, Maurice Tani performs his smart, neo-noir, honky-tonk songs with Jenn Courtney and her luxurious, full-sized, strong, vulnerable, sexy, June Carter-like voice.

An evening of BALINESE SHADOW THEATER
With Balinese Gamelan accompaniment

Saturday Sep. 10, 2011

A great event for all ages as ShadowLight Productions presents The Marriage of Adimbi, performed by Artistic director and founder, Larry Reed with live musical accompaniment. Featuring a stunning array of intricate, handmade shadow puppet figures silhouetted on a backlit screen, the ancient stories blend religious mythology, historical events and humorous improvisation.

Film premiere and live benefit concert!
THE AFRICA PROJECT

Saturday Aug. 20,2011

Film maker Joe Baker, founder of the Bay Recorders Organization, has brought together 35 musicians, 3 bands, and 2 choirs from Ghana, South Africa, and USA with the common goal of aiding African education through the power of music with "The Africa Project".

In June 2010, Baker took basic versions of three American classic songs and field recorded African musicians offering musical contributions to each of the 3 songs. While on location, Baker then recorded the African musicians performing original native songs. During the fall of 2010, American musicians were added to the three original songs as well as to the 9 new songs brought back from Africa, thus creating 12 extraordinary compositions from three different countries.

The 74 minute film, all shot in high definition, is edited by 11 different volunteer editors, giving each video song its own distinct experience.

This evening will feature the world premiere of the film, followed by a live concert with many of the American musicians who participated.

CD, DVD and door proceeds will benefit G.I.V.E., (www.giveghana.org) an organization creating educational opportunities in Ghana, for primary & secondary school children and Amajika Performing Arts Foundation, (www.tunokwe.com) a foundation on 26 campuses throughout South Africa that offers after-school care, tutoring, dance, theater, & music. Part of door proceeds will also benefit St. Cyprian's Church building repair fund.

CD release concert/celebration for Live at the Columbarium
Tango No. 9

July 30, 2011

The fiery, spirited ensemble celebrates the release of their new CD, Live at the Columbarium (recorded at Chapel of the Chimes in Oakland). This will be the farewell performance of bandoneonist/accordionist Isabel Douglass and the welcome performance of new vocalist Zoltan DiBartolo. With their unique instrumentation –Greg Stephens on trombone, Joshua Brody on piano and the passionate violin of Catherine Clune, they cover the history of tango from traditional pieces to Piazolla to original compositions.

Americana meets alt-country meets great songwriting
Maurice Tani, Jenn Courtney & 77 El Deora;
Jeffrey Halford & Band

July 23, 2011

With their smart, original, neo-noir, honky-tonk sound, 77 El Deora features Maurice Tani's great songs and the luxurious, full-sized, strong, vulnerable, sexy, June Carter-like voice of Jenn Courtney. With Steve Kallai's sweet fiddle, Mike Anderson's slappin', clankin' acoustic bass and Christopher Fisher's virtuoso drumming, this will be their only acoustic show in San Francisco this summer.

Jeffrey Halford is a "...soulful blues-influenced storyteller and songwriter with a tight delivery. Halford and crew go well beyond a mastery of their instruments. They're performers, storytellers, and entertainers. Their impeccable improvisational skills make listeners feel that each moment of their performance is unique and special, and their energy could make you want to jump out of your chair and shake." (Paula Munoz/Music Connection)

"I am here to place Jeffrey Halford up on the pedestal with such figures as John Fogerty, Randy Newman, Alejandro Escovedo, and John Prine — and Bob Dylan — in the pantheon of great American singer-songwriters."
(Buddy Siegal, Los Angeles Weekly)

An Evening of Song

June 4, 2011

Joshua Raoul Brody and Merle (Ian Shoales) Kessler host 25 different singers, each performing their favorite song; which may (or may not) have a "spring into summer" theme. They will be backed by the amazingly versatile Experimental Love Orchestra. Our version of American Idol won't involve any judging, but will be tons more fun.

Gospel Night with
MEN OF ENDURANCE
FRET NOT Gospel Band

 

 

May 14, 2011

Rural mountain gospel meets urban soul music gospel in an evening guaranteed to raise the roof!

With four powerful voices (lead by Pastor Kenny Mason) and backed by a dynamic rhythm section, Men of Endurance captures the blues and soul sound that influenced artists such as Little Milton, Wilson Pickett, James Brown, Jackie Wilson and many others. Performing at blues festivals, as well as gospel festivals, all over the west, they received the 2004 Gospel Singing Award from the Bay Area Blues Society.

Lead by Lori Arthur's intense and fiery singing, Fret Not plays old-time, boot-stomping roots gospel with songs from the traditions of America's white and black rural churches; backed by fiddle, bass, guitar and banjo.

CULANN’S HOUNDS
LUCIA COMNES

 

 

April 16, 2011

Culann’s Hounds have built a reputation for high-energy stage shows and a ruthless dedication to rocking their audiences. Folk melodies, sensibilities, and stories from Ireland, France, and early America permeate their music. This mash-up of tradition and energy is at once thought-provoking, accessible and infectious. The Hounds’ original material is a mirror of their lives, tales of distant lands, love, elation, and loss.

With a blazing fiddle and a luminous voice, Lucia Comnes has been involved in the Irish (and Balkan) music scene both in Ireland and the U.S. The classically trained violinist has studied with fiddle masters Martin Hayes, Kevin Burke and Oisín MacDiarmada, played in countless sessions, performed with a number of bands (most notably Liam Ó'Maonlaí and The Hothouse Flowers) and recently attended the Traditional Irish Music Program at University College, Cork to study Gaelic and sean-nos, or “old-style,” singing. She has performed at numerous traditional music festivals in Ireland and was featured at the SF Irish Fest in 2008 and 2009. She has also been a member of KITKA, the Eastern European Women's choir.

Colm O’Riain in a (belated) St. Patrick's Day Concert

 

 

March 19, 2011

The fiery violinist and his band explore the connection between Irish music and jazz, Brazilian, Cuban, Indian and other musical genres.

George Cole Quintet, Glass House

 

 

March 5, 2011

Direct from Carnegie Hall! The George Cole Quintet plays Django Reinhardt-inspired Gypsy jazz with an added Hot Club meets vocal jazz treat.

Glass House features stellar beat boxing vocalist Dave Worm (from Bobby McFerrin & Voicestra) with guitar virtuoso Mark Vickness and his exotic harp and acoustic guitars.

Read more — and see videos — on our blog.

Jackstraw, The Brothers Comatose, Water Tower Bucket Boys

February 18, 2011

SF Live Arts at Cyprian's and The San Francisco Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival presents An evening of hard-driving, virtuoso instrumentals and tight harmonies at St. Cyprian's Church, 2097 Turk (at Lyon) in SF.

One of today's most exciting bluegrass bands, Portland's Jackstraw features some of the hottest, most amazing pickers to be found anywhere. They play fast and hard (and their driving rhythms are infectious) but the band is best known for its musical depth, feeling and it's soulful, harmonious vocals.

With their infectious foot-stomping, shout-along sound The Brothers Comatose received a 'Norby' for best country/Americana band. They've performed at the Hardly Strictly festival, Great American Music Hall and the Fillmore and recently headlined at Slim's.

With their raw, hard-driving sound, and tight harmonies, The Water Tower Bucket Boys play a combination of classic bluegrass, old-time & country. With three studio recordings and successful tours of the US and UK, this Portland-based band is poised to take the acoustic music world by storm.

The Stairwell Sisters, Cahalen Morrison & Eli West, Misner & Smith

February 12, 2011

SF Live Arts at Cyprian's and The San Francisco Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival presents at St. Cyprian's Church.

Featured on A Prarie Home Companion, and at New York's Lincoln Center; and through 10 years and 3 albums, The Stairwell Sisters, the Bay Area's favorite all-gal old-time teardown, has performed all over the U.S. and Europe. With Lisa Berman (Hawaiian slide), Evie Laden (clawhammer banjo), Martha Hawthorne (bass), Stephanie Prausnitz (fiddle) and Sue Sandlin (guitar) the Stairwell Sisters are steeped in traditional Appalachian music but also perform contemporary songs such as Bruce Springsteen's Youngstown, which was recently released as a single.

From Seattle, Cahalen Morrison & Eli West present an entirely new and refreshing take on the bluegrass & old-time traditions, with some northwest, deepwater roots influences added to the pot. They will be celebrating the recent release of their CD, the Holy Coming of the Storm.

Misner & Smith — With their strong songwriting & an exceptional blend of voices, Sam Misner and Megan Smith began their musical collaboration as actors on a production of Woody Guthrie's American Song. Their tune, Madeline (Paradise Cracked), won the West Coast Songwriters Association's Song of the Year competition. Their influences span many genres from traditional & old-time music, bluegrass, folk and rock to reggae, Motown and the blues.

The NashVillains, Nell Robinson with John Reischman & the Jaybirds, The Henriettas

February 11, 2011

Join us for Opening Night of the San Francisco Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival

An eclectic evening of hot licks and rollicking vocals, bluegrass old and new, whirling banjos, flying fiddles, and mad mandolins: The NashVillains (featuring James Nash of The Waybacks) — dazzling twists and turns along the edge of 'grass with no fear of heights. Nell Robinson w/John Reischman & the Jaybirds — distinctive bluegrass and country vocals with world-class pickin'. The Henriettas — those fine-feathered song sisters fresh from A Prairie Home Companion.

The NashVillains: This new acoustic supergroup, featuring virtuosos James Nash of The Waybacks on guitar, Bill Evans on banjo, Jesse Cobb of the Grammy-nominated Infamous Stringdusters on mandolin, and Bryan Horne from Hot Buttered Rum on upright bass, promises an evening of innovative, high-octane picking. Sit back, set aside your expectations, and enjoy as this dynamic and adventurous ensemble pushes the boundaries of bluegrass to parts unknown.

Nell Robinson with John Reischman & the Jaybirds: Known for her rollickin' stage presence, Nell Robinson has joined forces with one of the best group of pickers around John Reischman & the Jaybirds.

“One of the most refreshing voices in bluegrass. There is more than a little hint of Emmylou Harris (without the vibrato) and a dash of Hazel Dickens” (Penguin Eggs Magazine). The new ensemble opens the festival with a very special evening of three-part harmonies, whirling banjos, original music, and traditional favorites. Nell's debut album, Nell Robinson in Loango, made bluegrass and Americana charts throughout the country and she was quickly snapped up by Garrison Keillor's A Prairie Home Companion and Strawberry Music Festival. “Loango utterly won me over, charmed me silly!” (Sing Out! Magazine). She's headlined and sold out the Freight & Salvage Coffehouse — don't miss out this time! Check out music, videos, photos, and join the 'gig alert' email list at nellrobinsonmusic.com/bands. Have a listen.

The Henriettas: The Henriettas (Cary Sheldon and Nell Robinson, with Tony Marcus) revive the music of the DeZurik Sisters, the 1930s novelty yodelling duo who were stars of the National Barn Dance and Grand Ole Opry. Fresh from their appearance on A Prairie Home Companion, these fine-feathered song sisters are joined by Tony Marcus: radio announcer, foil and bass player. You'll find their music on Nell Robinson in Loango: 'As a bonus, there's a brief 'radio show' by Nell and Cary Sheldon as the Henriettas, supposedly a sister act given to clucking like chickens. This pastiche of the Carter Family radio broadcasts is hilarious and winsome' (Sing Out! magazine). Photos and music can be found at nellrobinsonmusic.com/henriettas. Get a free song download!

Ramblin’ Jack Elliot

January 8, 2011

Our last performance at the Noe Valley Ministry (for at least quite awhile) will be on Sat. Jan 8th with this year's acoustic blues Grammy winner, Ramblin’ Jack Elliot. The great story teller/folk music icon has performed our first concert of the year for about the last 20 years. So it's appropriate that we bring him back for our last performance at our beloved home, the Noe Valley Ministry. The building will be restored and fixed up and (hopefully) we'll be back in two years or so.

In the meantime, check out our new venue, St. Cyprians Church at 2097 Turk St. at the corner of Lyon, where SF Live Arts will be hosting the SF Bluegrass and Old-Time festival in Feb. Last show at Noe Valley Ministry, 1021 Sanchez St, SF

Tango No. 9 & Special Guests: Last Tango in Noe Valley

November 6, 2010

For this special event, Tango No. 9, Joshua Raoul Brody, Catharine Clune, Greg Stephens and their new vocal collaborator, Zoltan DiBartolo will be joined by several musical special guests, Beth Custer playing many clarinets, the lovely Odile Lavault on bandoneon, bassist Daniel Fabricant, and the wonderful sounds of Sandy on vocals.

Marnring Kassin Darter

November 5, 2010

CD release concert for Riverrun, recorded live at the Noe Valley Ministry

“Mind-boggling musicianship. Complex, provocative compositions. Darter, Manring, and Kassin are all-around awesome!” — Greg Rule, Keyboard magazine

Performing 'improvised chamber music for the new millennium,' Manring Kassin Darter has been astounding audiences for the last 12 years with amazing chops, quiet soul, diverse compositions, and a somewhat twisted sense of humor. Referred to by some music critics as 'the world's most sophisticated jam-band,' the group features three top virtuosos on their respective instruments. With two gold records, over 200 albums, and multiple Grammy nominations to his credit, bass phenom Michael Manring has been hailed as 'a master of the fretless bass without rival' by Guitar Club magazine. Bass Player magazine recently named him Bass Player of the Year. Pianist Tom Darter's compositions have drawn praise from Elliott Carter, Aaron Copland, and Karel Husa; and music critics have compared Larry Kassin's flute playing to Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Hubert Laws, and Paul Horn. While listeners can hear echoes of jazz, rock, classical, folk, avant-garde, and world music in their performances (despite the absence of a drummer), the net result is music that tears down stylistic walls and refuses to be compartmentalized.

Bill Frisell & The 858 Quartet

October 23 & 24, 2010

'Frisell is a revered figure among musicians - like Miles Davis and few others, his signature is built from pure sound and inflection.' - The Philadelphia Inquirer

It's hard to find a more fruitful meditation on American music than in the compositions of guitarist Bill Frisell. Mixing rock and country with jazz and blues, hes found what connects them: improvisation and a sense of play.' - The New York Times

We are proud to welcome back one of the most sought after guitar voices in contemporary music. Bill Frisell has contributed to the work of such collaborators as John Zorn, Elvis Costello, Ginger Baker, The Los Angeles Philharmonic, Suzanne Vega, Loudon Wainwright III, Van Dyke Parks, Vic Chesnutt, Rickie, Lee Jones, Ron Sexsmith, Ronald Shannon Jackson and Melvin Gibbs (in Power Tools), Marianne Faithful, Paul Bley, Hal Willner, The Frankfurt Ballet, film director Gus Van Sant (Finding Forester), David Sanborn, Petra Haden and numerous others, including Bono, Brian Eno, Jon Hassell and Daniel Lanois (on the soundtrack for Wim Wenders film Million DollarHotel). Come hear the preview of Bill Frisell's amazing 858 Quartet featuring Jenny Scheinman (violin), Eyvind Kang (viola) and Hank Roberts (cello) in three performances before they go into the studio to record new compositions and other repertoire they have developed over the years, including Frisell's inimitable interpretations of songs from the American music tradition.

'For over ten years Bill Frisell has quietly been the most brilliant and unique voice to come along in jazz guitar since Wes Montgomery. In light of this, it may be easy to overlook the fact that he may also be one of the most promising composers of American music on the current scene.' Stereophile

These performances promise to be the highlight of our concert year.

Ladies of Jazz, with Cathi Walkup, Jennifer Lee, Leanne Weatherly and Melissa Dinwiddie

October 16, 2010

Four of the Bay Area's top Jazz singer/songwriters take the stage in the round for an evening of original music.

Vocalist/lyricist/composer Cathi Walkup has been called 'the thinking person's jazz singer' for her love of lyric driven songs, 'a naturalcomedian' for her wit and ease on-stage, and 'an important bop oriented singer, who is also an excellent lyricist' by jazz writer Scott Yanow in his new book The Jazz Singers, The Ultimate Guide. Jennifer Lee is a vocalist/pianist/guitarist with a warm, lovely voice, extraordinary musicality and hip sense of time. Jennifer frequently accompanies herself on guitar or piano with a simple elegance and sweetness while maintaining a deep, in the pocket groove.Renowned pianist Taylor Eigisti (Concord Music Group) has said of Leanne Weatherly, 'she's got clarity, passion and fun arrangements that anyone would enjoy, wall wrapped up in a very bright future.' Singer/songwriter Meilssa Dinwiddie delights listeners with her upbeat voice and engaging and sometimes comedic delivery. Self titled the Queen of Dating, two of her original compositions, He's Just Not That Into You and Online Dating Blues are audience favorites.

Stellamara Trio and Round Mountain

August 28, 2010

With their otherworldly melodies, deep musical meditations and astonishing improvisations; and featuring the siren-like voice of Sonja Drukulich, 'Stellamara travels deeply beyond any derivations or trends in world music diving deeply into a felt experience of the divine.' - Media Deva

Those who favor Balkan, Medieval, Persian, Arabic, Greek, Turkish or Far Eastern music will find themselves transported by the free flowing music. Debuting new works with multi-instrumentalist and newest band member, Evan Fraser and Stellamara co-founders, Gari Hegedus and Sonja Drakulich, Stellamara plays an array of exotic drums and Middle-Eastern instruments. With Sonja's exquisite voice bringing to mind shades of Loreena McKennit, Azam Ali and Lisa Gerrard, the music ebbs and flows from faraway places and times for a hauntingly elegant listening experience. 'Éundeniably beautiful.' - SF Bay Guardian

Round Mountain is New Mexico's two-man singing folk orchestra. Featuring Robby & Char Rothschild, Round Mountain explores the territory where folk meets world. Sometimes raucous (imagine trumpet and accordion played simultaneously by one person), sometimes subtle (the harp-like sound of the West African kora), Round Mountain touches audiences with great songs, emotional honesty, and an engaging live show. 'Their original melodies, arrangements and their lyrics in particular, demand a similarly high level of listening from us. The rewards are legionÉ a treasure of sound... which you'll want to share, as well as treat yourself to.' - Jeff Kaliss, Songlines Magazine, UK

Maurice Tani & Jenn Courtney: 77 El DEORA, with Misisipi Rider

August 21, 2010

San Francisco-born singer-songwriter Maurice Tani returned to his California alt-country/Americana roots in 2000, following a 15-year stint as the singer-guitarist with the hugely popular club bands Zasu Pitts Memorial Orchestra and Big Bang Beat. With singer Jenn Courtney as his muse, central character and sparring partner, Tani has constructed a repertoire of alternately wry humor and romantic rumination. With two albums under their belt and a third ready for release later this summer, Tani, Courtney and 77 El Deora have refined an evolving style characterized by his smart, original writing and her vivid persona and luxurious voice.

Misisipi Rider is a buzzworthy Folk Pop string band driven by tight harmonies and a bluegrass meets the Beatles sound. Since 2008 they have released two critically acclaimed CDs and have toured the globe, from Portland to London to Munich and many points in between. Featuring three prolific songwriters, the music is dynamic, lyrically thought provoking and melodically catchy with an emphasis on uptempo toe tappers.

GEOFF HOYLE previews his new piece, GEEZER

July 31, 2010

The wonderful physical comedian/actor/mime/New Vaudevillian presents a preview of his new theater piece about aging, 'Geezer.' The internationally acclaimed performer was hailed by Newsweek Magazine for his 'breathtaking virtuosity.' He has performed in solo and ensemble shows with Berkeley Rep (as well as many other major theaters) was the ringmaster for Cirque de Soliel and starred as Zazu (the bird) for the Broadway run of Disney's 'Lion King.' Don't miss this great evening of theater and comedy!

Another Evening of Song

June 26, 2010

Hosted by Merle Kessler, 25 singers each sing a different song based on the given theme 'them's the breaks' backed by The Experimental Love Orchestra led by Joshua Raoul Brody. Our Noe Valley version of American Idol won't involve any judging, but will be tons more fun than the original.

Jim Lauderdale — CD release concert

June 19, 2010

Nashville-based Jim Lauderdale is one of the giants of American Roots Music. Tonight he takes time off from his touring with Elvis Costello's band to celebrate the release of his new Americana-based CD, Patchwork River. The CD features original songs co-written with Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter. With successes in both bluegrass and country music, he was awarded Artist of the Year and Song of the Year at the first Honors and Awards Show held by the Americana Music Association in 2002. Subsequently he has hosted the same show for the last seven years. A featured performer at The Grand Ole Opry, he is also one of today's great songwriters. His songs have been recorded by The Dixie Chicks, Solomon Burke, Mark Chesnutt, Vince Gill, George Strait, John Mayall, Kathy Mattea, Lee Ann Womack and many others. He has toured with Lucinda Williams, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Rhonda Vincent in addition to Elvis Costello. He won his first Grammy for Lost in the Lonesome Pines recorded with the legendary Ralph Stanley and his second for his Bluegrass Diaries album in 2007.

Guitar Summit with Teja Gerken, The San Francisco Guitar Quartet, Matthew Montfort

June 5, 2010

In what is certain to be a concert highlight of the year for Bay Area guitar lovers, SF Live Arts & the Noe Valley Music Series present a one-of-a-kind evening featuring three internationally acclaimed acts with deep roots in the local music scene. The San Francisco Guitar Summit features the varied range of music possible on the instrument -- from acoustic fingerstyle through modern classical, to pioneering world fusion. The summit features Matthew Montfort performing on scalloped fretboard and fretless guitars, fingerstyle guitarist Teja Gerken, and classical and modern music by the San Francisco Guitar Quartet.

Teja Gerken is no stranger to those familiar with the Bay Area acoustic guitar scene. Born in Germany, but calling San Francisco home, he is a seasoned performer, and has shared the stage with players such as Alex de Grassi, Henry Kaiser, and John Renbourn , as well as with his mentor, Peppino D'Agostino. Gerken's playing blends myriad influences into a musical style that hovers around the perimeters of folk, contemporary classical, and world music, often involving alternate tunings, right-hand tapping, and percussive effects. Gerken's CD, Postcards, is featured on KFOG's Acoustic Sunrise list of 'Best New CD's of 2005.'

The San Francisco Guitar Quartet consists of David Due–as, Jon Mendle, Patrick O'Connell, and Mark Simons -- four Bay Area guitarists presenting an expansive and vibrant repertoire of newly composed works and time-tested classics. Exploring the many and varied possibilities; from the infectious rhythms of Brazil to the whirling dances of the Balkans, from the passion of the tango to the hypnotic textures of minimalism, the SFGQ manifests a modern yet all-embracing approach to chamber music for classical guitar--with deep roots in both the folk and classical traditions. Through their national and international touring, ground-breaking recordings, and featured performances at major guitar festivals, the SFGQ has established itself as an enduring presence in the classical guitar world.

Matthew Montfort is the leader of the world music ensemble Ancient Future. Featured in the December 2009 commemorative Les Paul issue of Guitar Player Magazine, Montfort is a pioneer among guitarists who have had their fretboards scalloped in order to play various forms of world music that require intricate note-bending ornaments while still being able to play chords. Montfort immersed himself in an intensive study with vina master K.S. Subramanian in order to fully apply the South Indian gamaka (note-bending) techniques to the guitar. He is also known for his work on Glissentar (11 string fretless guitar), electric guitar, flamenco guitar, sitar, charango, mandolin, and gamelan. He has performed concerts worldwide, from the Festival Internacional de la Guitarra in Spain to the Festival of India in Mumbai and has worked with many world music legends, including tabla phenomenon Zakir Hussain and Chinese zither master Zhao Hui.

The Crooked Jades and the Kate Weare Dance Company

May 22, 2010

For tonight's performance the Crooked Jades will feature special guests Genessa Kealoha on bass, Rose Sinclair on banjo and slide and Elise Engelberg on fiddle.

The Crooked Jades continue to explore new frontiers as they begin an exciting collaboration with the critically acclaimed New York modern dance group Kate Weare Company, previewed tonight in its formative stages as one highlight in an entire evening of hypnotic old-time music with The Crooked Jades.

The dance, entitled 'Gone Before and Rattling' features a quintet of dancers and explores the cyclical nature of human experience with piercing, powerful choreography and fiery, soulful live music. Premiering in its entirety at New York's Joyce Theatre in August, the collaboration tackles the emotional undertakings-kinship, belief, suffering, love-that shape us in our lifetimes and repeat in cycles through the ages.

Beth Custer Ensemble

May 8, 2010

The Beth Custer Ensemble returns to the fabulous, acoustically unique, concert series of the Noe Valley Ministry. Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear Custer's newest work culled from her critically acclaimed release 'Roam', new songs created at her recent residency in Montalvo Arts Center, and much more. The ensembles' influences of jazz, funk, and Latin rock meld with Custer's view of the world as her musical oyster.

The Beth Custer Ensemble features the crème de la crème of Bay Area musicians, including drummer Jan Jackson (who played with Grammy-nominated Will Bernard, Chuck Berry), guitarist/composer David James (Curtis Bumby, Spearhead, Sila), bassist Lisa Mezzacappa (Duo B; Go Go Fightmaster), Diana Mangano, backup vocals (lead vocal in Jefferson Starship), iconic pianist Graham Connah, trumpet player Chris Grady (Club Foot Orchestra, Mark Growden) and Beth Custer (Trance Mission, Club Foot Orchestra, Clarinet Thing). The band bursts forth with a genre-defying repertoire. Don't miss this intimate show!

The Paper Raincoat with special guest Vienna Teng

March 26, 2010

The Paper Raincoat is an imaginative collaboration between Brooklyn songwriters Amber Rubarth and Alex Wong that brings to life a colorful world teeming with compelling characters, dream-like storylines, and metaphorical narratives. Their songs are a cinematic blend of orchestral pop, electronic textures and unforgettable melodies. Their music is featured on One Tree Hill, Real World, and Jersey Shore; and in the upcoming Touchstone Pictures feature film, The Last Song starring Miley Cyrus and Greg Kinnear. Their live show has been described as 'riveting' by audiences, featuring everything from an a cappella number using nothing but harmonies and body percussion, to a 3 person drum jam, to 'Right Angles', a piece for four hands on piano.

Spellbinding singer songwriter Vienna Teng will join them for several pieces.

CD release concert for NELL ROBINSON in Loango with John Reischman & the Jaybirds, The Henriettas

March 19, 2010

With her warm, sexy voice Nell Robinson stays true to her family's rural Alabama roots, performing new and traditional bluegrass and country music with John Reischman and the Jaybirds.

For this special evening, Nell will be performing backed by a smokin' band with: John Reischman, mandolin; Jim Nunally, guitar, slide steel; Nick Hornbuckle, banjo, brushes; Greg Spatz, fiddle; and Trisha Gagnon, string bass.

The concert will include a live, radio show appearance by The Henriettas (Nell and Cary Sheldon), a revival of the 1930's sister's act, the Dezurik Sisters (whose barnyard novelty yodeling has tugged at our hearts and become an obsession) complete with a 1930's style radio announcer.

George Cole Quintet, The Fishtank Ensemble

March 6, 2010

We present a high energy evening of 'cross-pollinated gypsy music' and American influenced gypsy jazz, celebrating the centennial of the great jazz guitarist, Django Reinhardt.

George Cole combines his crooning jazz vocals with Django inspired guitar work and Gershwin, Mercer and Porter inspired compositions, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the Hot Club of Paris. With Julian Smedley's soaring, Stephane Grapelli like violin, the quintet is 'a must see for any fan of vintage jazz.' --Guitar Player Magazine

With their unique blend of Romanian, Gypsy jazz, Flamenco, Balkan, Turkish and Tango, the Fishtank Ensemble presents what LA Weekly hailed as 'cross-pollinated gypsy music' and 'one of the most thrilling live acts on the planet.' Tackling everything from French hot jazz to flamenco to wild Serbian and Transylvanian gypsy anthems, the group features French fiddler Fabrice Martinez (who got his start gigging around Europe with a horse drawn caravan), flamenco guitar master El Douje, punk accordionist Aaron Seeman and vocalist/musical saw player Ursula Knudson.

SF Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival with Jackstraw, Crooked Jades, Black Crown String Band

February 19, 2010

SF Bluegrass & Old-Time Fest — We close out our SFBOT offerings appropriately enough, with an evening of virtuoso bluegrass & vintage old-time music.

Bluegrass fans round up your cowboy hats and toe tapping shoes. One of the northwest's finest bluegrass bands, Jackstraw (from Portland) features some of the hottest, most amazing pickers to be found anywhere. They play fast and hard (and their driving rhythms are infectious) but the band is best known for its musical depth, feeling, and it's soulful, harmonious vocals. Jackstraw was born when rhythm guitarist Darrin Craig and lead player Jon Neufeld met mandolin picker David Pugh and bassist Jess Withers in 1997. Four records later, the band has toured all over the U.S., playing roadhouses, listening rooms, clubs and festival stages.

Performing driving dance tunes and haunting ballads with an amazing array of vintage and eclectic instruments, The Crooked Jades are modern innovators in the old-time Americana world, recreating a cinematic sound based on Americana roots infused with the diverse musical influences of Europe and Africa. On a mission to reinvent old world music, they bring their brilliantly surprising arrangements of obscure old tunes mixed with beautiful original compositions to clubs, concert halls, and festivals around the United States and Europe. The lineup for this special performance is Jeff Kazor (vocals, guitar, ukulele), Lisa Berman (vocals, hawaiian slide, banjo, harmonium), Erik Pearson (banjo, Ukulele, harmonium) and Josh Rabie (Fiddle).

Black Crown Stringband is the latest supergroup to emerge from the fertile San Francisco Bay-Area bluegrass and old-timey scene. Bringing together founding members of the Earl Brothers and the Mercury Dimes, the band first appeared at the 2008 Berkeley Old-Time Convention Stringband Contest where their hard-driving sound earned them first prize. Black Crown combines the best elements of old-time stringband music and Bill Monroe's 'high lonesome' sound to create a unique fusion that is at once old-school and brand new.

SF Bluegrass & Old-Time Festival with The Wronglers, Fret Not Gospel, Family Lines

February 13, 2010

Fret Not plays boot-stomping, old-time roots gospel. Lead by Lori Arthur's fiery singing, with songs from the traditions of America's black and white rural churches, it's as if the Whitstein Brothers and Sister Rosetta Tharpe held a barn dance together. In fact, Lori's grandparents did just that on their New Mexico ranch during the Great Depression. Fret Not brings the old-time gospel to the dispirited and disheartened of modern life, with appearances in prisons, recovery missions, funerals, and at benefits. There is something in the old songs that uplifts our spirit and helps us through life's trials and tribulations.

The Wronglers have now been performing together for some three-and-a-half years, much to their own amazement. They continue to expand their repertoire to include more original and old-time material. 2010 is going to be a particularly special year for The Wronglers as they have been invited to perform at both SXSW and The Old Settler's Festival in Texas, as well as return to High Mountain Hay Fever in Colorado for a second time. Of note is the fact that one member of The Wronglers is San Francisco's beloved Warren Hellman, founder of the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival.

A trio that performs outstanding original music as well as folk, blues, and roots favorites, Family Lines features rich vocal harmonies that blend somewhere beyond the DNA. Led by SFBOT head honcho, Ken Frankel, Family Lines delivers lively and riveting performances that'll get you out of your seats and make you feel like… family.

TANGO No. 9 in Tango for the new decade

February 12, 2010

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Tango No. 9 will explore this great Argentinean music in all its myriad forms: classic standards,Êcontemporary experiments, and the revolutionary tango nuevo of Astor Piazzolla, plus waltzes, milongas, and romantic ballads.

Tango No. 9, with violinist Catharine Clune, trombonist Greg Stephens, and pianist Joshua Raoul Brody will be joined by singer Zoltan Lundy, who's been adding to the group's repertoire for the past year and will premier pieces from the traditional repertoire; accordion wizard Rob Reich of the Nice Guy Trio; and dancers Mila SalazarÊand Count Glover, who will add a dance dimension to several pieces.

ROVA Saxophone Quartet

February 6, 2010

We present an evening with improvised/new music greats, Rova, as they premiere works highlighting their signature, seamless blend of improvisation and composition. New pieces will be presented from individual quartet members, as well as new developments in the ongoing group project, The Glass Head - an innovative composition combining improv strategies with open-ended composed elements. Recently Rova has been busy with commissioned works, collaborative projects, touring and recording. This special evening offers a rare opportunity to hear Rova on its own, performing in a friendly, vibrant and ideal acoustic environment.

Glass House, Sharon Knight

January 30, 2010

Featuring Mark Vickness (acoustic guitars, harp guitars, and table) and David Worm (vocals and vocal percussion) Glass House performs in an alternative folk genre, combining acoustic guitars and voice in songs that incorporate elements of folk, rock, pop, jazz, and Indian music.

In addition to his stellar, soulful voice, David Worm is one of today's great, beat-boxing masters. In 1989 he became a founding member of Bobby McFerrin's Voicestra ensemble and performs regularly with McFerrin on recordings, videos, and international tours. David is also one of the founding members of the internationally acclaimed A Cappella group SoVoSo, and the innovative improvisational trio WeBe3, where he teams up with vocal powerhouses Rhiannon and Joey Blake. Mark Vickness has written several film and dance scores. His playing focuses exclusively on acoustic, steel string guitars, and harp guitar using original tunings, harmonics, percussive techniques, and looping.

'The group's songs mix matters of the heart while tackling divisive cultural issues such as racism, using music as a unifying force.' -East Bay Express

With her spirited Celtic vocals, Sharon Knight opens the performance.

Red-hot & Blue

January 9, 2010

With their thrilling arrangements that break down the barriers of traditional a cappella repertoire, Yale University's award winning a cappella group Redhot & Blue has been blowing away audiences around the world. This year they will perform at the White House, tour both coasts, plus Japan and the Caribbean. Though rooted in jazz, their repertoire spans a wide variety of genres from calypso to rock.

'From the compositions of Cole Porter and George Gershwin to those of Thelonius Monk, there is a sense of innovation in every Redhot & Blue moment. The arrangements soar and their voices thrive at the soul and center of the music.' --A Cappella Party

Don't miss this NVM Series version of 'glee!

Ramblin’ Jack Elliott

January 2, 2010

Music Legend and current Blues Grammy nominee RAMBLIN' JACK ELLIOTT
'Ramblin' Jack Elliott has been a towering influence on a generation of folk and rock musicians, most notably Bob Dylan.' --The Boston Globe

One of the last true links to the great folk traditions of this country, with over 40 albums under his belt, Ramblin' Jack Elliott is considered one of the legendary foundations of folk music. In the tradition of roving troubadours Jack has carried the seeds and pollens of story and song for decades from one place to another, from one generation to the next. They are timeless songs that outlast whatever current musical fashion strikes today's fancy.

He was a mentor to Bob Dylan as Woody Guthrie was to him. In 1950, he met Woody Guthrie, moved in with the Guthrie family and traveled with Woody to California and Florida, from the redwood forests to the Gulf Stream waters.

Along the way he learned the blues first-hand from Leadbelly, Mississippi John Hurt, the Reverend Gary Davis, Big Bill Broonzy, Brownie McGhee and Sonny Terry, Jesse Fuller and Champion Jack Dupree. So it's fitting that he has just received his first Grammy nomination in the Traditional Blues category for his album, A Stranger Here. (He has 3 previous folk Grammy nominations and won for his South Coast album). He won the National Medal of Arts award and was honored with a special dinner at the White House. Recently the award-winning film The Ballad of Ramblin' Jack introduced a new generation to his timeless music and yarns.

We are honored to have this national treasure start our concert year.