Steve DeAngelo with Harborside (nation’s largest licensed pot dispensary, which serves 108,000 patients in Oakland, CA) will be answering questions as the opening act. Lorin Rowan will be sitting in and other VERY special guests.
Every guest will get a rock poster by Alexandra Fischer commemorating the event and they’ll also get a great many Pro-Pot Poster
Sweetwater Music Hall
Thursday, November 3, 2016
Doors: 7:00pm Show: 8:00pm
Moonalice was the brainchild of the great producer, T Bone Burnett in 2007 because he wanted to create a band with a San Francisco 60’s sound. Moonalice plays mostly original material mixed with some covers, and during their extended freeform jams the band moves as one, drawing from many musical genres honed from years of experience playing with various major acts.
MOONALICE Band members:
Barry Sless: lead guitar, pedal steel guitar, bass (Phil Lesh & Friends, David Nelson Band, Kingfish, Cowboy Jazz)
Pete Sears: bass, guitar, keyboards, vocals (Doobie Decibel System, Sam Gopal Dream, Rod Stewart, Long John Baldry, original Jefferson Starship, Hot Tuna, Peter Rowan, Jimi Hendrix, Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Phil Lesh & Friends, Steve Kimock, David Nelson, John Lee Hooker and more).
Roger McNamee: rhythm and lead guitar, bass, vocals (Doobie Decibel System (DDS) Duo with Jason Crosby and Doobie Decibel System (DDS) Band with Jason Crosby, Pete Sears, Dan “Lebo” Lebowitz and Jay Lane. Plus Guff, The Engineers, Random Axes, Flying Other Brothers)
John Molo: drums, vocals (Bruce Hornsby & The Range, John Fogerty, Phil Lesh & Friends, The Other Ones).
With special guest:
Big Steve Parish: Manager, Road Scholar, Medicine Man, Story Teller. (Grateful Dead family member and co-founder of Jerry Garcia Band).
Moonalice now has a radio station of its own. Find Moonalice Radio on moonalice.com/moonaliceradio. You’ll find all the band members sharing stories and playing a wide variety of their favorite music – classic rock, reggae, Americana, oldies, blues, soul and jam bands. Plus Moongirl, 420 news, storyteller/medicine man Big Steve Parish, the Doobie Decibel System, and TheHash.org, with DJ Ben Fong-Torres every weekend.
Stroll Down Penny Lane is a live concert of songs by the most iconic songwriter of our time. The music is embellished with stories, evocative images, a musical education of sorts, and animation. Stroll Down Penny Lane will play at the historic and elegant Bellevue Club on Lake Merritt.
While flying across the world, unraveling knots of white collar crime at the highest echelons, Prof. Stompensplatt, obsessed with Paul McCartney and in need of a diversion, went deep down the rabbit hole, seeking everything he could find about his idol.
Four years in the making, Stroll Down Penny Lane is the fruit of that obsession. Equipped only with a vision, a bunch of guitars, and a voice uncannily like McCartney’s, Prof. Stompensplatt set out to create a show to share. He assembled an outstanding band of musicians, an animator, and a video artist to create a unique concert experience. The show illuminates the creative process, musical tricks of the trade, the social climate of the times and McCartney himself. Running through it all is the sheer enjoyment of the music.
Says Prof. Stompensplatt, "What I know for a fact, is that our test audiences have found this show to be deeply moving. How do I know this? One example of this is seeing the guitar tech (for Neil Young) wipe a tear from his eye, as he sits there watching and listening -- because he is so moved. And then, in another test, you see a burly cinematographer, unabashedly, do the same - at the very same juncture. From this, we know we have something special."
Billy Cohen, of Labyrinth Management and Bill Graham Presents said to Joe Anastasi after a Stroll Down Penny Lane performance, "your voice has an uncanny resemblance to Paul's.” “He has a nice sounding voice, and has captured Paul’s performance style here very well,” states Dan Krimm, of Marin Arts and Culture. “This band is tight,” has observed Joey Swales, sound engineer for Cal Performances.
Stroll Down Penny Lane line up: - Joe Anastasi aka Prof. Stompensplatt (lead vocals and rhythm guitar), Winter ( lead guitar and vocals) and Mike Sugar (bassist, electric cellist, melodica, synthesizer, and vocals) and Mark Abbott (drums and vocals).
Professor Stompensplatt
Prof. Stompensplatt is the nom de plume of the producer/writer and lead singer/rhythm guitarist …he is also Joe Anastasi, a forensic accountant who resides in Piedmont, CA. His passion has been applying his forensic investigating skills to the music of Paul McCartney. Stroll Down Penny Lane is the result of Joe’s painstaking research, and the application of his writing abilities – using animation and other film devices – to explore what makes these songs so special.
Professor Stompensplatt is also the narrator in an upcoming series of children’s books, which take as their inspiration the animation imagery developed for this show. The first book is “Professor Stompensplatt’s: The Little Devil in Michelle,” which explores the inspiration for Paul’s song, Michelle – with a plot twist at the end.
Winter
Winter is a revered guitar player and the senior sound engineer at EMB Studios.
Originally from Kassel, Germany and he was first going to be a drummer, but then, when he was 12, he heard a boy in his building play Smoke on the Water on guitar, and from that point on, guitar playing was his passion. Winter has produced and performed on numerous albums, and some career highlights include playing guitar for Blondie’s current album, Ghosts of Download (2014) and recording drums for Paul Bostaph (Slayer, Testament). He has also worked with Dwayne Wiggins (Toni Tony Tone), Darius Rucker (Hootie & the Blowfish), Bill Ortiz (Santana), Sonja Drakulich (Stellamara), Amelia Hogan, and Jessica Star, among many others.
Winter has also worked on over 35 films, as both location sound mixer and sound editor. He is known for his dubious jokes, silly hats, and piratical demeanor.
Mike Sugar
Sugar has been bassist, guitarist, drummer, vocalist, keyboardist and digital effects provider/programmer for a wide variety of artists on stage and in the studio. He has recorded and produced genres from vocal jazz to screaming punk, Brazilian percussion to blues, hard rock to strumming singer/songwriters, ambient groove to aggressive electronica.
The DIY approach on his solo CDs is well-balanced by countless sideman gigs and sessions, collaborations and all out jamming. Born in New Orleans, an obsessive curiosity for music and instruments led Sugar to study basses, guitars, classical music, jazz, modern composition and music technology. In his formative years Sugar co-founded the band Jambay and hit the road. They played venues all over the states, giving rise to numerous bootleg tapes still circulating today. Jambay released albums, composed for film, and were the subject of a documentary DVD chronicling their tireless output. They also toured as Ken Kesey’s house band/opening act for his stage play “Twister”. Between gigs and sessions Sugar continues producing and composing for his own recording and performing projects.
Mark Abbott
Mark Abbott, Stroll Down Penny Lane’s drummer, almost never made it as a drummer. Mark’s right thumb was accidentally severed during a production of Hair at the University of California, East Bay. Surgeons successfully reattached the thumb using microscopes and laser technologies. He returned to the set bandaged and continued drumming in this musical production—using one hand. This set of circumstances impressed several other performers, leading to Mark’s inclusion in the formation of the band, Box Set. The band’s 1994 debut album was critically acclaimed by Billboard. In 1995, the band was named “Group of the Year” by the National Academy of Songwriters. Two years later, the band collected two “Bammies” (California Music Awards) for their critically-acclaimed third album. The band scored a deal with Capricorn/Polygram to release their 1998 album with producer Joe Chicarelli (producer for Tori Amos, American Music Club, and Frank Zappa, among others).
Mark’s drumming has been featured in DRUM Magazine. He has toured the country with Box Set several times (performing in every state except North Dakota) and the band sold out the historic Fillmore West three times.
Mark has recorded in some of the finest studios in the country. He has also been turfed out of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for having: a) stepped over the rope, and b) proceeding to play on the Led Zeppelin drum kit, belonging to John Bonham. The physical ejection has left Mark undaunted, and unmarked.
About The Bellevue Club
Oakland’s unique private club overlooking the birds and boats at Lake Merritt. A premier social and fitness club in a stunning Beaux Arts building...now on the National Register of Historic Places. The Bellevue Club is a non-profit and well known as a private social and fitness club with a variety of well-appointed rooms for businesses, visitors, celebrants and an ideal location for weddings. The Club’s delightful overnight guest rooms overlooking scenic Lake Merritt provide bed and breakfast comfort with on-site parking. http://www.bellevueoakland.com
What: Stroll Down Penny Lane tribute to Paul McCartney
When: Friday and Saturday, July 6 & 7, 2018 at 8pm
Where: The Bellevue Club - 525 Bellevue Avenue, Oakland, CA 94610-5096
510-451-1000. Next to Lake Merritt. Early bird parking available.
Tickets: GA $38 – VIP $85 (special seating, complimentary drink, snacks, and meet & greet with the band).
The Novato Theater Company’s second show of its 100th season is Sweeney Todd, a co-production with Theatre-at-Large. This musical thriller, opening on October 25 and running until November 17, is directed by Kim Bromley and Bruce Vieira with musical direction by Judy Wiesen and choreography and movement by Marilyn Izdebski.
The musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim and book by Hugh Wheeler is based on the 1973 play Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street by Christopher Bond.
Sweeney Todd opened on Broadway in 1979 and in the West End in 1980. It won the Tony Award for Best Musical and Olivier Award for Best New Musical. It has since had numerous revivals as well as a film adaptation.
What Sondheim thought of as "a small horror piece" eventually became a colossal portrait of the Industrial Revolution in the hands of director Hal Prince. At first, Prince was not interested in directing the show; to him it was just another melodrama, not very experimental structurally. Then he discovered a metaphor which expanded the story into an essay on the human condition.
“There would have been screams and yells but I wouldn't have given a damn. Because it is an opera. A modern American opera."
Schuyler Chapin, former GM of the Metropolitan Opera
Music City Hit Factory Groundbreaking Block Party – a fun free community event for musicians and music-lovers co-presented by The Lower Polk Community Benefit District. Founder Rudy Colombini and Ben Fong-Torres will introduce the Hit Factory's dazzling new amenities and facilities scheduled to open in 2020. Enjoy Bands and Community Speakers plus food and beverage vendors. Musical entertainment provided by Rudy Colombini Band, Thank You, Come Again, The Fixins, Mint, Larkin Street Youth Singers and The Fluorescents. Please join us on Sunday, November 10, 2019 from 1pm to 7pm. 99 Fern Alley (off Polk between Sutter and Bush Streets.
Sunday, November 10, 2019 (1pm -7pm) - 99 Fern Alley (off Polk between Street and Bush Streets), SF - Free Community Event. musiccityhitfactory.org
Spirit Hustler is modern classic rock from the Bay Area born of an acoustic heart and layered with cosmic electricity. Its self-titled debut (released online 05/22/22) puts a fresh spin on the traditional album with a distinct opener and closer on each side, but rather than an overwrought “concept” album,” this is an album with a creative concept—a Theatre of the Mind in two acts. Imaginative songs are mini-movies inspired by actual experiences and rendered into animated audio art.
Spirit Hustler will perform on June 24 at Sweetwater Music Hall in Mill Valley, California. Doors at 8pm and show at 9pm. | GET TICKETS HERE
Other gigs include High Sierra Music Festival, July 1-3 (Quincy, CA), Sunshine of Love Festival, August 20 (Santa Cruz, CA) & Burning Man, Labor Day Weekend (Black Rock City, NV)
Originating with the epic space-rock opener “The Spirit of ’69,” the listener goes on a hero’s journey while “Circlin’ the Sun.” The hero encounters the enchanting “Angels of Summertime,” makes a “Devil Deal” with a succubus at Burning Man, and wanders the high desert via “Mine is a Gypsy Soul” before ultimately reckoning with the “Spirit of the Beast.”
“Wow, this is a masterpiece! Perfect, honest, unaffected psychedelic folk-rock vocals and the lyrics to match. A real modern San Francisco album.” Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars, Black Crowes)
Listen to the album on your favorite streaming platform.
Songs:
1) The Spirit of ’69 - Watch the incredible video!
9) Mine is a Gypsy Soul (feat. Jetta Cole and Jason Crosby)
10) Spirit of the Beast
Jimmy Leslie is the writer and star of Spirit Hustler’s sonic cinema. A fixture on the Bay Area music scene, Leslie’s eclectic resume is insightful. He is internationally respected as the Frets Editor at Guitar Player, and the two instrumentals on Spirit Hustler showcase his “freehand” percussive fingerstyle. He uses Spirit Hustler examples to school readers on his highly original approach to Writing and Recording Acoustic Rock in the magazine’s June, July, and August issues.
He’s interviewed everyone from Carlos Santana to Jack White, and coordinated GP Presents events ranging from Paco de Lucia to Buddy Guy. Jimmy has shared stages with Tab Benoit, Luther Dickinson, Sonny Landreth, and Devon Allman. Leslie co-founded the Star City and Guitarfish Music Festivals and authored the eco-musical Guitarfish Adventures. Leslie’s solo records Surfin’ the Swamp and Dance Until Forever featuring players from Galactic and the Honey Island Swamp Band, respectively.
Spirit Hustler album cameos include strings by Jason Crosby (Jackson Browne), mandolin by James Nash (The Waybacks), guitar from Eric McFadden (P-Funk), keyboards by Alex Jordan (Midnight North), and backing vocals and acoustic guitar courtesy of champion Christie Lenée. Tahoe diva Jetta Cole delivers a Grammy-worthy vocal on “Gypsy Soul” and plays the she-demon to perfection on “Devil Deal.” The core band’s beating heart is drummer Jeremy Hoenig (Melvin Seals & the JGB). Steven La Bella provides funky, melodic bass while slide guitar ace Jules Leyhe provides laser lead lines that compliment Leslie’s open-tuned acoustic in an unexplored yet hauntingly familiar fashion.
Spirit Hustler was recorded at Lucky Recording in Brisbane, CA, where the Go Go’s recently cut “Club Zero.” Producer Mikel Ross has worked extensively with Corrosion of Conformity. Butch Vig disciple Travis Kasperbauer engineered and mixed. Grammy-winner Jake Eckert and Jeff Watkins mastered the album, and both are New Orleans Suspects. The artwork comes courtesy of Alan Forbes (Black Crowes). Considering all talents, Leslie adopted the moniker Spirit Hustler, emerging from the pandemic era like a butterfly from a cocoon.
“Leyhe cuts the best blues-slide licks since Derek Trucks, maybe even Duane Allman.” —Premier Guitar
“Oh yeah, I dig this. Tasty A.F. I really love it.” —Devon Allman
“Totally dig it! Epic and trippy with tons of cool sounds that make the stories speak. Love the slide work, very lyrical. ‘Angels of Summertime’ kept playing in my head for days. I liked the power in sections too.” —Sonny Landreth (John Hiatt, Dr. John, Eric Clapton)
Sweetwater Music Hall Release Celebration on June 24 featuring Pamela Parker & James Nash
Spirit Hustler represents a modern perspective on classic Bay Area rock, and Jimmy Leslie embodies the imaginative essence of artists such as Michael Hedges, Santana, and the Grateful Dead. Bob Weir is an owner at the Sweetwater Music Hall, where Leslie has history. He was onstage with Shana Morrison (Van’s daughter) on the very last night at the original Sweetwater location. He debuted the full Spirit Hustler show at the new location almost exactly a decade later, and the group is back to celebrate the release of the debut album, now available on all digital platforms as well as on CD and heavyweight vinyl.
Spirit Hustler is modern classic rock from the Bay Area born of an acoustic heart and layered with cosmic electricity. Its debut (released online 05/22/22) puts a fresh spin on the traditional album with a distinct opener and closer on each side, but rather than an overwrought “concept” album,” this is an album with a creative concept—a Theatre of the Mind in two acts. Imaginative songs are mini-movies inspired by actual experiences and rendered into animated audio art.
Spirit Hustler with opening band, The Silk Road Truckers will be performing on Friday, July 29 at The Chapel in San Francisco, California. Doors at 7:30pm and show at 8:30pm. All Ages
Other Spirit Hustler gigs include High Sierra Music Festival, July 1-3 (Quincy, CA), Sunshine of Love Festival, August 20 (Santa Cruz, CA) & Burning Man, September 1 (Black Rock City, NV).
Originating with the epic space-rock opener “The Spirit of ’69,” the listener goes on a hero’s journey while “Circlin’ the Sun.” The hero encounters the enchanting “Angels of Summertime,” makes a “Devil Deal” with a succubus at Burning Man and wanders the high desert via “Mine is a Gypsy Soul” before ultimately reckoning with the “Spirit of the Beast.”
Listen to the album on your favorite streaming platform.
Songs:
1) The Spirit of ’69 - Watch the incredible video!
9) Mine is a Gypsy Soul (feat. Jetta Cole and Jason Crosby)
10) Spirit of the Beast
Jimmy Leslie is the writer and star of Spirit Hustler’s sonic cinema. A fixture on the Bay Area music scene, Leslie’s eclectic resume is insightful. He is internationally respected as the Frets Editor at Guitar Player, and the two instrumentals on Spirit Hustler showcase his “freehand” percussive fingerstyle. He uses Spirit Hustler examples to school readers on his highly original approach to Writing and Recording Acoustic Rock in Guitar Player magazine’s June, July, and August issues.
Leslie’s interviewed various types of musicians, from Carlos Santana to Jack White, and coordinated GP Presents events ranging from Paco de Lucia to Buddy Guy. Jimmy has shared stages with Tab Benoit, Luther Dickinson, Sonny Landreth, and Devon Allman. Leslie co-founded the Star City and Guitarfish Music Festivals, and authored the eco-musical Guitarfish Adventures. Leslie’s solo records Surfin’ the Swamp and Dance Until Forever feature players from Galactic and the Honey Island Swamp Band, respectively.
Spirit Hustler album cameos include strings by Jason Crosby (John McLaughlin), mandolin by James Nash (The Waybacks), guitar from Eric McFadden (P-Funk), keyboards by Alex Jordan (Midnight North) and backing vocals and acoustic guitar courtesy of champion Christie Lenée. Tahoe diva Jetta Cole delivers a Grammy-worthy vocal on “Gypsy Soul” and plays the she-demon to perfection on “Devil Deal.” The core band’s beating heart is drummer Jeremy Hoenig (Melvin Seals & the JGB). Steven La Bella provides funky, melodic bass while slide guitar ace Jules Leyhe provides Allman-esque laser lead lines that compliment Leslie’s open-tuned acoustic in unexplored yet hauntingly familiar fashion.
Spirit Hustler was recorded at Lucky Recording in Brisbane, CA, where the Go Go’s recently cut “Club Zero.” Producer Mikel Ross has worked extensively with Corrosion of Conformity. Butch Vig disciple Travis Kasperbauer engineered and mixed. Grammy-winner Jake Eckert and Jeff Watkins mastered the album, and both are New Orleans Suspects. Artwork comes courtesy of Alan Forbes (Black Crowes logo). Considering all talents, Leslie adopted the moniker Spirit Hustler, emerging from the pandemic era like a butterfly from a cocoon.
“Wow, this is a masterpiece! Perfect, honest, unaffected psychedelic folk-rock vocals and the lyrics to match. A real modern San Francisco album.” Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars, Black Crowes)
“Oh yeah, I dig this. Tasty A.F. I really love it.” —Devon Allman
“Totally dig it! Epic and trippy with tons of cool sounds that make the stories speak. Love the slide work, very lyrical. ‘Angels of Summertime’ kept playing in my head for days. I liked the power in sections too.” —Sonny Landreth (John Hiatt, Dr. John, Eric Clapton)
Special Chapel Show Details
The Spirit Hustler show plays out theatrically as well, and for this special Guitar Player Presents album release celebration at The Chapel on July 29 Spirit Hustler will bring a extraordinary lineup featuring guest diva Pamela Parker, mandolin master James Nash, keyboardist Alex Jordan plus extra groovy stage production. The opening band is the Silk Road Truckers. Born in the basement of a Haight St commune in 2015, Colton Shrier leads five partially housebroken mother truckers bringing feel good originals, psychedelic riffs and frontline style. Silkroadtruckers.com
This promises to be a peak experience during what’s shaping up to be the second coming of the Summer of Love in the City by the Bay. Join Spirit Hustler and guests at The Chapel for an existential evening!
Award-winning singer/songwriter/voice coach Essence Goldman, founder of the newly formed not-for-profit organization, Believe Music Heals, will be making music healing programs available to those experiencing hardship and distress as well as those with chronic and terminal illness starting in early 2023.
After life-altering projects unfolded when two of her voice students became aware of their terminal illnesses, Essence guided their focus to music as a means of self-expression and healing. She witnessed powerful personal transformations when these individuals turned their attention toward creativity and music instead of their hardships. The joy and healing derived through these projects became life-defining not only for the students but for Essence as well.
“I could see that music became an anchor point in their lives and I felt compelled to become involved and guide them with their transformation. I saw that music was allowing them to turn fear and pain into creativity and expression, and the quality of their lives improved dramatically.”
Two powerful albums were born: “Connection,” by Bernie Dalton, currently in development as the feature film “Bernie and The Believers,” and “Beckoning,” by John Brody, scheduled for release in 2023.
Essence explains why she founded Believe Music Heals, “My dad gave me a journal and a Walkman as a child while I was experiencing emotional distress during my parents' divorce. I started writing and diving into listening to music religiously. That is how I learned that transformation was possible through self-expression and music.”
Believe Music Heals is a program of MarinLink, an incubator and fiscal sponsor for community-based projects inspired by social entrepreneurs to generate positive change in the arts, community, education, environment, and health. Please donate online or send donations to: MarinLink, 5800 Northgate Drive #250, San Rafael CA 94903.
Believe Music Heals will use music as a vehicle to:
• Help people to focus on creativity and self-expression during times of distress and hardship.
• Empower people to tell their story and a means to share their legacy.
• Bring people together to enhance communication and connection while building community.
• Reimagining palliative and self-care.
• Assisting in pain management.
• Providing a vehicle to rekindle memories and make new ones.
• Easing anxiety, depression and fear.
• Lifting spirits and adding a new perspective to life.
• Help to process, navigate and transform heartbreak, grief, complex emotions.
• Support individuals in becoming active participants in their well-being by focusing on their unique strengths instead of their limitations.
Target demographics are people with:
• Terminal Illness
• Autism
• Dementia
• Alzheimer’s
• Trauma
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Chronic Illness
• Chronic Pain
• A Handicap
• Veterans with PTSD
• Youth At Risk
• Minors in Foster Care
• Incarcerated
• Elderly
Believe Music Heals programs offer the opportunity for participants to:
• Write and Record a Song Solo
• Write and Record a Song with Full Band and Production
• Write and Record an Album (Solo or with Full Band and Production)
Scottish fiddle great Alasdair Fraser leads the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers in a celebration of traditional music from Scotland and beyond in a series of three high-energy, exciting concerts in the Bay Area and Carmel. One hundred-plus players on stage give full orchestral life to the irresistibly melodic and rhythmic dance tunes, marches, and slow airs of the Highlands. The repertoire features age-old works and newly written ones, all rooted in the traditions not only of Scotland but also Cape Breton, France, Spain, and Scandinavia. It’s a fun and mighty musical experience that has audiences dancing in their seats (and possibly in the aisles).
The players
Alasdair Fraser is one of the greatest exemplars of the Scottish fiddle music tradition, whose warmly expressive playing, mastery of his instrument, and deep understanding of the genre has inspired generations of musicians on both sides of the Atlantic.
Born in Clackmannan in 1955, Alasdair began taking classical violin lessons at the age of eight, enduring much teasing from schoolmates at a time when carrying a fiddle case around was considered far from cool. Driven by the love of the instrument and the tunes he heard at home, he persevered, and the musical journey was underway.
In his teens, Alasdair played with dance bands and began gathering the compositions of great fiddling forebears including Niel and Nathaniel Gow, William Marshall, and James Scott Skinner. He went on to win – twice – the Scottish National Fiddle Championship and continued playing even as his studies led to work as a petrophysicist with British Petroleum, which took him to California in 1981.
A few years later, Alasdair realized that he was in the wrong job and went on to follow his passion for music. The journey led him to teaching as well as performing. He is the founder and director of the Valley of the Moon fiddle camp, fiddle courses on the Isle of Skye and in Spain, and Sierra Fiddle Camp, near his home in California.
Alasdair’s musical partnerships include duos with pianist Paul Machlis and guitarist Tony McManus, and his acclaimed band Skyedance. He has also guested with The Chieftains, The Waterboys, Itzhak Perlman, and the Los Angeles Master Chorale, and appeared on innumerable television broadcasts. He and his fiddle have also been featured in numerous movie and television productions, from Ken Burns documentaries to Titanic, The Last of the Mohicans, and Treasure Planet.
Since 2003 Alasdair has partnered with cellist Natalie Haas, restoring to contemporary prominence “the wee fiddle and big fiddle” partnership that flourished in 18th-century Scotland. Their debut album, Fire and Grace, was voted Album of the Year at the Scots Trad Music Awards 2004.
The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers formed in 1986 around a nucleus of musicians passionate to learn the joyous and moving traditional music of Scotland and now has a membership numbering more than 200. It is a decisively inclusive group with members who play not only fiddle but cello, bass, guitar, percussion, and piano–and the occasional flute, harmonica, and, in one case, the musical saw.
A core group of members has remained from the beginning, while new players, often in their teens or younger, join every year. The “fiddle club,” as longtime members call it, offers instrumentalists of all levels and every age to play with and learn from each other. A significant number of young players have gone on to study at Juilliard, Berklee, and other renowned music conservatories, and have established themselves in professional careers. But they always consider the Fiddlers to be their musical family.
The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers meet monthly to play their favorite tunes and learn new ones. Their repertoire over the years has expanded to include the music of Brittany, Galicia, Scandinavia, and America while remaining firmly anchored in the Scottish fiddle forms of dance, pipe tunes, and song.
The highlight of the Fiddlers’ year comes each spring when, under Alasdair Fraser’s direction, the group rehearses for and presents a three-concert series in the greater Bay Area.
Bay Philharmonic (formerly Fremont Symphony) presents Bay Phil Plays Beethoven on June 3 and 4 in Union City. The two high-energy performances will feature internationally award-winning pianist, improviser, and composer Charlie Albright, visionary conductor Jung-Ho Pak, along with the highly entertaining 50-piece Bay Philharmonic. Tickets are $35 to $67 and are available on the Bay Philharmonic website, bayphil.org.
Concertgoers will enjoy an energetic evening listening to the passionate sounds of Beethoven. Artistic Director/Conductor Jung-Ho Pak will lead the Bay Philharmonic in two of Beethoven’s most beloved works—the rhythmically exciting “Seventh Symphony” and the virtuosic “Third Piano Concerto.” Guest soloist Charlie Albright promises to create dazzling moments on the spot—just like Beethoven did. Together, Pak and Albright explore the limitless possibilities and timeless relevance of music that remains very much alive today. Pak says, “this is not a symphony concert, we’re throwing a party and a rock show all in one!”
The Philadelphia Inquirer says Charlie Albright brings “the art of classical music improvisation to a new level,” and the Washington Post says that he is “among the most gifted musicians of his generation.” Described by The New York Times as a conductor who "radiates enthusiasm," Jung-Ho Pak is known for his unique approach and vision for symphonic music. In concert, Albright, Pak, and the Bay Philharmonic will deliver a truly imaginative, unusually entertaining, and highly energetic show.
Bay Philharmonic (formerly Fremont Symphony) presents Bay Phil Plays Beethoven on June 3 at 7:30 p.m. and June 4 at 3:00 p.m. at the newly renovated, state-of-the-art James Logan High School Performing Arts Center in Union City. The two performances will feature internationally award-winning pianist, improviser, and composer Charlie Albright, visionary conductor Jung-Ho Pak, along with the highly entertaining 50-piece Bay Philharmonic. Tickets are $35 to $67 and are available on the Bay Philharmonic website, bayphil.org.
When: June 3–4, 2023
Saturday, June 3, 7:30 p.m.
Sunday, June 4, 3:00 p.m.
Where: James Logan High School Performing Arts Center
1800 H Street, Union City, CA 94587
*Newly renovated, state-of-the-art
Tickets/info: Please visit BayPhil.org
Who: Charlie Albright, internationally award-winning pianist, improviser, and composer
Jung-Ho Pak, Artistic Director/Conductor, Bay Philharmonic
Barett Hoover, Executive Director, Bay Philharmonic
About Bay Philharmonic:
For the past 56 years, Bay Philharmonic has served the Bay Area as the Fremont Symphony. The Bay Philharmonic has a unique mission. With much beauty and joy, their goal is to present the most imaginative and unusually entertaining shows. They believe that their audience is the primary reason they exist and want to always exceed their expectations.
The word “Philharmonic” means the "love of harmony," which means they are a source of wonderful sounds and diverse co-existence.
Under the leadership of newly appointed Executive Director Barett Hoover and Artistic Director Jung-Ho Pak, the Bay Philharmonic begins a new era of arts and entertainment experiences for all audiences. Hoover joined the organization in July of 2022. Before his work with the Bay Philharmonic, Hoover held a leadership position as General Manager with Chamber Music Hawaii, and with the Leeward Theatre and Hawaii Opera Theatre.
About Charlie Albright:
Internationally award-winning pianist, improviser, and composer Charlie Albright brings music to everyone, uniquely connecting with audiences like no other through his music, speaking, and making concerts fun.
Hailed as “among the most gifted musicians of his generation” with a “dazzling natural keyboard affinity” who “made quite an impression” by the Washington Post, American pianist//improviser/composer Charlie Albright has been praised for his “jaw-dropping technique and virtuosity meshed with a distinctive musicality” by The New York Times, and his “extravagance that had showmanship but never felt cheap” with his “ease and smoothness that refuses to airbrush the music, but animates it from within” by the Philadelphia Inquirer.
Recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant and Gilmore Young Artist Award, Albright won the Ruhr Klavier Festival Young Artist Award presented by Marc-André Hamelin (Germany) and the Young Concert Artists International Auditions. In addition to performing, Albright is sought after as a speaker, masterclass instructor, teacher, and competition judge. His debut commercial recording, Vivace, has sold thousands of copies worldwide and the first two parts of a 3-part Schubert Series of live, all-Schubert recordings was released in 2017 and 2020. Charlie Albright breaks the "classical" rules of music by connecting with audiences like no other. Through his music, speaking, and unique improvisations that bring music to life, he crosses all genres...and makes it fun.
About Jung-Ho Pak:
Described by The New York Times as a conductor who "radiates enthusiasm" and the Los Angeles Times as "a real grabber," Jung-Ho Pak is known for his unique approach and vision for symphonic music. Jung-Ho leads the Bay Philharmonic as its newest Artist Director and Conductor, bringing over 35 years of experience conducting acclaimed professional and conservatory orchestras around the world.
Since 2006, Jung-Ho has been Artistic Director and Conductor of the Cape Symphony in Massachusetts, having previously held the position of Artist Director with Orchestra Nova, the New Haven Symphony Orchestra, and the San Diego Symphony, an organization he guided from bankruptcy to financial success.
He has acted as Music Director with the University of Southern California (USC), San Francisco Conservatory of Music, U.C. Berkeley, Disney Young Musicians Symphony, the Debut Orchestra (Los Angeles), Colburn Chamber Orchestra, and Diablo Ballet, as well as Director of Orchestras and Music Director of the World Youth Symphony Orchestra at the Interlochen Center for the Arts. Guest conducting has taken him around the globe, leading groups in Europe, Russia, South America, and Asia.
Jung-Ho is a frequent speaker on television and radio, including TED Talks and National Public Radio, and appears as a clinician and conductor at major music festivals nationwide.
This May, prepare to be whisked away on an unparalleled musical odyssey with The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, under the luminous leadership of the legendary Scots fiddler, Alasdair Fraser. This captivating concert series will present an enchanting evening filled with the heart-stirring melodies of the Celtic tradition, brought to life by over 65 virtuosic musicians from the Bay Area. With performances on fiddles, cellos, drums, piano, and more, each concert promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the rich tapestry of Scottish music.
Performance Schedule:
May 17th, 7 PM at Veterans Memorial Theatre, Davis
May 18th, 7 PM at Glaser Center, Santa Rosa
May 19th, 1 PM at Freight & Salvage, Berkeley
The ensemble, led by the incomparable Alasdair Fraser, will journey through an expansive repertoire that spans the globe—from the rugged highlands of Scotland to the spirited melodies of Brittany, Galicia, Scandinavia, and Cape Breton. Fraser, a renowned figure in Scotland’s fiddle-playing tradition, infuses each performance with his profound musical insight and virtuosic flair, ensuring a show that resonates with audiences of all ages.
Featured Musicians:
Alasdair Fraser, the guiding star of the ensemble, whose fiddle has enchanted audiences worldwide, from intimate Scottish glens to the grandeur of international film soundtracks.
Barbara MacDonald Magone, a piano virtuoso whose roots in Cape Breton's rich musical heritage imbue her performances with depth and dynamism.
Pate Thomson and Judy Thomson, the heart of the Scottish Fiddlers, whose contributions on the fiddle and piano, respectively, anchor the group’s spirited performances.
Caroline McCaskey, a multi-talented musician whose command of the fiddle, cello, and musical saw has earned her national and international acclaim.
Renata Bratt, a cellist whose eclectic style bridges classical, jazz, and folk music traditions, enriching the ensemble’s sound.
Rob Godfrey, whose vocals and fiddle playing bring the poignant beauty of Gaelic songs to life, adding a soulful dimension to the concerts.
About The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers:
Formed in 1986, The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers is a vibrant community of musicians dedicated to celebrating and preserving the rich tradition of Scottish music. With a membership of around 200, the group embraces a wide array of musical backgrounds and instruments, creating a dynamic and inclusive atmosphere. The ensemble's repertoire, while deeply rooted in Scottish fiddle music, also explores the musical traditions of other cultures, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped the Celtic musical landscape.
Ticket Information:
Veterans Memorial Theatre, Davis: Tickets range from $32-$35; children under 12 free when accompanied by an adult. For tickets, visit sffiddles.org.
The Glaser Center, Santa Rosa: Tickets range from $32-$35; children under 12 free when accompanied by an adult. For tickets, visit sffiddles.org.
Freight & Salvage, Berkeley: Tickets are $30 in advance, $35 at the door. For tickets, visit thefreight.org.
For more information about The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers and their upcoming concerts, please visit https://sffiddles.org/. Join us for a celebration of music and community that promises to uplift, inspire, and transport you across the rich landscapes of Celtic tradition.
Solo performance legend Brian Copeland presents new and proven monologues on life in the Age of Trump in THE GREAT AMERICAN SH*T SHOW. After a successful and highly-praised run in 2020, Copeland is bringing the show back to multiple locations in the Bay Area.
Copeland is a legend in the Bay Area’s solo performance scene, known for his hit solo shows Not a Genuine Black Man, The Waiting Period, Scion, Grandma & Me, and The Jewelry Box. All of Copeland’s monologues in THE GREAT AMERICAN SHT SHOW* were developed with and directed by noted solo performance director David Ford.
In 2020, Brian Copeland and Charlie Varon conceived THE GREAT AMERICAN SHT SHOW* during an evening of laughter and, more importantly, deep reflection. Audiences described the show as “a therapy session for progressives quietly going insane.” The response was electric, with one audience member calling it “much-needed catharsis. Finally, someone saying all the things we’ve been feeling during this sh*t show.”
The show features two new monologues by Copeland, along with updated versions addressing the political climate since the show’s original run in 2020.
Monologue Topics:
Brian discovers a long-time mentor has been sucked into MAGA. Does he jettison the friendship?
When was America last “great”?
#MeToo and the reckoning of four years ago—is it dead? Why?
Brian searches for rays of hope from ordinary people doing ordinary things that collectively make a big difference.
Media Quotes from Four Years Ago:
“Smart, funny, provocative, and at times unexpectedly moving, this is theater as a welcome dash of hope in dark times and a much-needed call to arms. GASS packs a bracing punch into 90 highly entertaining minutes. Created by three of the most accomplished solo theater artists in the Bay Area—exceptional playwright-performers Brian Copeland (Not a Genuine Black Man, The Waiting Period) and Charlie Varon (Rush Limbaugh in Night School, Rabbi Sam), along with their director/co-developer David Ford—GASS presents four beautifully crafted and oh-so-timely monologues. They run the gamut from responding to the rising tide of racism and cult-like denials of facts to psychiatrists coping with Trump-induced nightmares. This may be the perfect piece of theater for our times.”
– Robert Hurwitt, Longtime Chronicle Theater Critic
“Brian Copeland spellbinds the audience with personal monologues and razor-sharp delivery. Incredible storytellers!”
– Cari Lynn Pace, Marinscope Newspapers
“Funny and provocative stories, told with skill by masterful tale-spinners.”
– George Powell, ForAllEvents
“…the power is in showing members of America’s disenfranchised majority that they’re not alone.”
– Julie Motz, KWMR Arts Desire
BIOS:
Brian Copeland has been in show business since age 18. He quickly rose to headlining comedy clubs and concerts across the country, opening for Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Ringo Starr, and Aretha Franklin. Copeland branched into TV, appearing in comedy programs on NBC, A&E, and MTV. He spent five years as co-host of SF FOX affiliate KTVU’s Mornings on 2 and two years hosting SF ABC affiliate KGO’s Emmy Award-winning 7Live, which later premiered THE BRIAN COPELAND SHOW.
Copeland made his theater debut in 2004 with his first solo play, NOT A GENUINE BLACK MAN, a critically acclaimed exploration of race and identity. Blending laughter, tears, and sociology, the show became the longest-running solo play in San Francisco theatrical history. It enjoyed successful runs in LA and Off-Broadway, and Copeland adapted it into a bestselling book. His other solo shows include THE WAITING PERIOD, GRANDMA & ME, THE JEWELRY BOX, and SCION.
David Ford (collaborator and director) is one of the nation’s leading directors of solo theater. He has collaborated with Charlie Varon for 28 years, Brian Copeland for 15 years, and has worked with dozens of other performers, including Geoff Hoyle, Marilyn Pittman, and Echo Brown.
Eric T Brandt, better known as "EricT," has been crafting music since childhood, born into a musical family and forming bands as early as middle school. Over the years, Brandt has played in various bands and developed a rich catalog of original music. However, in 2020, at the age of 57, his life took a dramatic turn when he was diagnosed with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a rare Alzheimer’s-related condition that impairs vision, spatial awareness, and memory.
Despite being legally blind and facing daily cognitive challenges, Brandt's passion for music remains unshaken. In fact, his songwriting has flourished, as his love of music continues to deepen. Now in 2024, Brandt is set to release his deeply personal and emotionally resonant EP What You Left Behind. The collection of six songs takes listeners on a journey of loss, rediscovery, and the unyielding pursuit of love and joy, all while raising awareness for PCA and Alzheimer’s.
To celebrate the release of What You Left Behind, Brandt will host an EP Release Party and Alzheimer’s Benefit on Saturday, September 28, 2024, at Pete ‘n Peters in Tahoe City, California. The event will feature live music, raffles, and presentations, with all proceeds going towards Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative disease research. The EP’s eclectic sound blends Classic Rock with modern Country and Americana, offering a heartfelt exploration of life's most poignant moments.
“I’m writing and playing music because it’s cathartic for me,” says Brandt. “I want to leave behind a legacy that truly represents who I am. My life is filled with love, family, and friends, and I’m dedicated to continuing my musical journey for as long as I can. This EP is a reflection of that journey.”
The event will feature a presentation from Brandt and EP producer Timothy Drury, as well as performances by singer-songwriter David Lutz and Brandt’s long-time band, the Beer Gardners. Brandt’s EP will be performed in its entirety before a DJ takes the party to closing time.
EVENT DETAILS:
What: Eric T Brandt’s EP Release Party and Benefit for Alzheimer’s When: Saturday, September 28, 2024 – Doors at 6 PM Where: Pete ‘n Peters, 395 N. Lake Boulevard, Tahoe City, CA Tickets: Suggested donation of $20 (Cash or Venmo) Additional Information: Raffle and donations with proceeds benefiting Alzheimer’s and Neurodegenerative disease research. Donations can also be made via erictbrandt.com.
Schedule:
6:00 PM – Doors Open
6:30-7:00 PM – Alzheimer’s Presentation by Eric and Timothy Drury
7:00-9:30 PM – Live Music with David Lutz and the Beer Gardners
9:30-10:00 PM – Eric Brandt’s EP Performance
10:00 PM – DJ Chango
About Eric T Brandt
Eric Brandt has been a prominent figure in the Lake Tahoe community for decades. Known for his voice as the daily snow reporter at the resort formerly known as Squaw Valley, Brandt has been a staple of the region’s music scene through his band, the Beer Gardners, and his early ’80s cult surf-punk album, Ski Patrol. He also composed and produced title songs for five of Warren Miller’s classic ski films. Brandt’s upcoming EP What You Left Behind is a homegrown project produced by Timothy Drury and recorded at Round Rock Records and Creekside Studio.
About Pete ‘n Peters
Pete ‘n Peters, a Tahoe City favorite since 1976, offers a laid-back vibe with a menu featuring affordable Mexican street food and classic bar bites. Co-owners Rhonda Gramanz and Jonny Roscher invite locals and visitors alike to enjoy the atmosphere, great food, and live music.
Amid speculation about the festival's future, the High Sierra Music Festival is thrilled to confirm its return for its 33rd annual celebration over the July 4th weekend, 2025. Reinvigorated and reimagined under the leadership of longtime producer David “Dave” Margulies, the festival promises to blend iconic favorites with fresh discoveries, reaffirming its status as one of the most cherished music gatherings in the country.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Feather River Canyon at the Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds, High Sierra offers an intimate, 4-day music and camping experience just four hours from San Francisco and one hour north of Lake Tahoe.
The festival’s eclectic programming will span genres from bluegrass to funk, Americana to international sounds, and jam bands to singer-songwriters. Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy vibrant parades, Playshops, yoga, late-night kickball, a Family Village, artisan crafts, and the natural beauty of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
David Margulies, producer and longtime co-curator, shared his vision:
"My goal is to introduce fans to music they’ve never heard while continuing the legacy of the sounds that make High Sierra special. Our community—fans, staff, vendors, and artists—are the heartbeat of this festival. Their passion has helped us thrive for 32 years, and we’re ready to carry that magic forward."
What Sets High Sierra Apart
From world-class performances to intimate troubadour sessions, the festival fosters a spirit of collaboration and spontaneity. Attendees will witness once-in-a-lifetime artist collaborations, immerse themselves in theme camps, and embrace the creative energy of a dedicated community.
As Steve Poltz, High Sierra mainstay, describes it:
“It’s the most wonderful time of the year—parades, hugs, music, and laughter in every corner. High Sierra is a playground for the soul, and I can’t wait to be part of it again!”
High Sierra remains a truly immersive festival experience with an anticipated attendance of under 10,000, offering a more personal and connected environment than larger festivals.
About David “Dave” Margulies
With over 40 years of experience in the music industry, Margulies has worn many hats, from managing editor at CMJ to A&R manager at Sony Music, and serving as a producer for High Sierra since 1995. His passion for artist discovery and dedication to cultivating a vibrant festival community has been integral to High Sierra’s enduring success.
Event Details
WHAT: 33rd Annual High Sierra Music Festival WHEN: Thursday, July 3 – Sunday, July 6, 2025 WHERE: Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds
204 Fairgrounds Road, Quincy, CA 95971 TICKETS: Early-bird tickets are available now at highsierramusic.com
About the Plumas-Sierra County Fairgrounds
Nestled in the fragrant pine forests of Northern California, this 65-acre venue boasts lush green grass, open spaces, and modern camping facilities. Its proximity to the small town of Quincy and accessibility by nearby airports make it an ideal location for High Sierra.
For more information, visit highsierramusic.com or follow us on social media @HighSierraMusic.
The joy of Scottish music springs to life as Alasdair Fraser and the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers unleash the Stravaig Spring Concert Series. Stravaig, a Scottish word meaning to wander, digress, and stray beyond limits, perfectly captures the essence of this musical adventure. More than 65 musicians—on fiddles, cellos, guitars, piano, and percussion—will fill the stage, transforming concert halls into exuberant gatherings of rhythm, melody, and heart.
Stravaig will be a musical journey through Scotland and beyond, infused with a spirit of community, joy, and the timeless power of Celtic tradition. Whether you're a fan of soaring melodies, toe-tapping reels, or evocative ballads, this event promises something for everyone—from stirring nostalgia to dance-in-the-aisles energy.
The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, formed in 1986, have grown into an inclusive community of 200 musicians celebrating Scottish and Celtic traditions. The ensemble blends experienced performers, emerging talents, and guest artists. Expect soul-stirring moments with standout solo performances by seasoned virtuosos and rising talents, whose passion and ambition bring unmatched energy to the stage.
The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers meet monthly to play their favorite tunes and learn new ones. Over the years, their repertoire has expanded to include the music of Brittany, Galicia, Scandinavia, and North America while remaining rooted in the Scottish fiddle forms of dance, pipe tunes, and song.
The highlight of the Fiddlers’ year comes each spring when, under Alasdair Fraser’s direction, the group rehearses for and presents this three-concert series in the greater Bay Area.
The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, led by Alasdair Fraser,
present three family-friendly spring concerts, STRAVAIG:
April 25 – Veterans Memorial Theatre, Davis April 26 – Angelico Concert Hall, Dominican College, San Rafael April 27 – Jackson Theater, Sonoma Country Day School, Santa Rosa
About Alasdair Fraser: The Heartbeat of Scottish Fiddling
Widely celebrated as one of the greatest ambassadors of Scotland’s rich fiddle tradition, Alasdair Fraser is a virtuoso performer, passionate teacher, and inspiring leader. His mastery of the instrument and deep connection to his heritage have captivated audiences and influenced musicians worldwide.
Born in Clackmannan, Scotland, in 1955, Alasdair began his musical journey at age eight with classical violin lessons—undaunted by teasing classmates who thought a fiddle case was anything but cool. His love of Scotland’s music, nurtured by the tunes he heard at home, drove him to study the works of legendary Scottish fiddlers Niel Gow, Nathaniel Gow, William Marshall, and James Scott Skinner. By his teens, Alasdair was performing with dance bands and had won the Scottish National Fiddle Championship—twice.
Though his career initially led him to work as a petrophysicist for British Petroleum, a move to California in 1981 reignited his calling for music. Recognizing he was destined to inspire through fiddling, Alasdair left the corporate world and dedicated himself to sharing the joy of Scottish music as both a performer and teacher. He went on to found and direct renowned programs, including The San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, the Valley of the Moon Scottish Fiddling School, and the Sierra Fiddle Camp, nurturing a vibrant community of musicians of all ages.
Throughout his remarkable career, Alasdair has forged powerful musical partnerships, including collaborations with pianist Paul Machlis, guitarist Tony McManus, and cellist Natalie Haas. His groundbreaking work with Haas brought back to prominence the 18th-century Scottish tradition of the “wee fiddle and big fiddle” duo. Their debut album, Fire & Grace, earned Album of the Year honors at the Scots Trad Music Awards.
Alasdair’s artistry extends to global stages and iconic soundtracks, including Titanic, The Last of the Mohicans, and Ken Burns documentaries. He has also performed with legends such as The Chieftains, The Waterboys, and violinist Itzhak Perlman.
For Alasdair, music is about community and connection. He says, “We may look like an orchestra, but we’re really an unruly mob of rabble-rousing, musical adventurers. Playing this music fills us with joy, and we can’t wait to share it with you. It’s a grand ceilidh, where you can tap your toes, dance in your seat, and share in the joy.”
With his infectious energy, Alasdair Fraser invites audiences to experience the power, history, and exuberance of Scottish fiddle music—a tradition he has helped preserve, reimagine, and share with the world.
Key Performers:
Renata Bratt (Cello Leader, Santa Cruz)
An acclaimed cellist and educator, Renata has performed with the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers since 2004. Known for her versatility, Rolling Stone dubbed her an “ace performer” for her work with alternative rocker Cindy Lee Berryhill’s Garage Orchestra. Renata has taught classical styles, jazz improvisation, and fiddle techniques at renowned workshops like Wintergrass, Alasdair Fraser’s camps, and the New Directions Cello Festival. Her compositions and instructional books are published by Alfred, Mel Bay, and Keiser Southern. Renata holds a Ph.D. in Music from UC San Diego and continues to inspire students and audiences alike.
Caroline McCaskey (Fiddle & Cello, Mountain View)
Caroline bridges traditional and classical music with exceptional versatility. A multi-instrumentalist skilled in fiddle, cello, viola, and even the musical saw, she is the 2019 U.S. National Scottish Fiddle Champion and a two-time International Musical Saw Champion. A dedicated educator and composer, Caroline leads AltStringsAcademy.com, a thriving learning platform for adult string players seeking to advance their craft. Her roots with the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers have shaped her as a dynamic and inspiring performer.
Barbara MacDonald Magone (Piano, San Diego)
A celebrated Celtic accompanist, Barbara hails from a Cape Breton musical lineage. Raised in Detroit among a vibrant community of transplanted Cape Bretoners, she inherited her father’s legacy—John A. MacDonald, founder of the Five MacDonald Fiddlers—and her mother’s skilled piano artistry. Barbara has performed and taught at premier festivals, including the Festival of American Fiddle Tunes, the Gaelic Roots Festival at Boston College, and the Valley of the Moon Scottish Fiddling School. Praised by The Boston Globe as “one of the most sought-after Celtic accompanists in North America,” Barbara combines power and grace in her performances.
Rob Godfrey (Vocals & Fiddle, Oakland)
Rob rediscovered his love for the violin after a 30-year hiatus, joining the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers alongside his son. His rich vocals, often performed in Gaelic, have become a concert highlight. Reflecting on the group’s philosophy, Rob says, “What I value most in Scottish fiddle music is how deeply the melodies affect me. Whether an amateur or a concert violinist, we each contribute something essential to the music.” His soulful playing and singing create an unforgettable experience for audiences.
Janette Duncan (Fiddle, Santa Rosa)
A founding member of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, Janette has shared her love for fiddle music with Sonoma County for over 35 years. Beginning her violin journey at age nine, she earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Sonoma State University before transitioning from classical to Scottish fiddling under Alasdair Fraser’s mentorship. A devoted teacher and performer, Janette remains a cornerstone of the Fiddlers’ community.
Pate Thomson (Fiddle, Berkeley)
A founding member of the San Francisco Scottish Fiddlers, Pate has been at the heart of the ensemble since the 1980s. A professional cardiologist and talented fiddler, he rediscovered his passion for violin after attending a transformative workshop with Alasdair Fraser. Pate fondly notes the group’s infectious energy, saying, “Audiences are always on their feet by the end of these concerts.”
Venues, Dates & Times:
Friday, April 25 | 7 PM
Veterans Memorial Theatre | Davis, CA
203 E 14th St, Davis, CA 95616
Phone: (530) 757-5626
Saturday, April 26 | 7 PM
Angelico Concert Hall, Dominican College | San Rafael, CA
20 Olive Ave, San Rafael, CA 94901
Phone: 415-457-4440
Sunday, April 27 | 1 PM
Jackson Theater, Sonoma Country Day School
4400 Day School Place, Santa Rosa, CA 95403
