NEW AURA TRIO “Clarinet Candy” – A Benefit Concert for CPAC Wednesday, September 3rd 7:00PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Songs for Soprano and Alto Clarinet Johannes Brahms/Sharon Davis Fantasy Pieces for Clarinet Robert Schuman Shepherd on the Rock Franz Schubert/Sharon Davis Paganini Caprice Paganini/Goodman Flower Duet from Lakme Leo Deliebes/Sharon Davis Concerto #2 for Clarinet and Piano: Movement #3 Carl Maria von Weber Benny Goodman Medley (Soft Winds/Stompin’ At the Savoy) Benny Goodman Concerto For Two Clarinets and Orchestra Francois Devienne/Himie Voxman
The New Aura Trio is comprised of Dr. John Snavely, Dr. Charles Aurand and Kathryn Conner. Dr. Snavely is the Conductor of the Green Valley Concert Band and a member of the Tucson Symphony orchestra. For many years John taught as an associate faculty member at Pima Community College, teaching music history, music appreciation, and private woodwind instruction. He founded the P.C.C. Evening Wind Symphony, which is now the Sonora Winds. He holds a Master of Music degree from Northern Arizona University where he studied clarinet with the late Keith Stein formerly of Green Valley and Dr. Charles Aurand. John earned his Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Arizona where he studied with the late John Denman and Jerry Kirkbride.
Dr. Charles Aurand is a Professor Emeritus and former dean of the College of Creative & Communicative Arts at Northern Arizona University. He is a frequent performer of chamber music. He holds two academic degrees from Michigan State University and a Doctor of Musical Arts degree from the University of Michigan.
Kathryn Conner is a graduate of Oberlin Conservatory. She is a vocalist, church organist, and music director/conductor. Kathryn has directed choirs and theater productions in Kokomo, Indiana. In Tucson she was organist and choir director for Mountain Shadows Presbyterian Church and is the summer organist for St. Andrews Presbyterian Church. Kathryn accompanies numerous vocal and instrumental chamber musicians in the Tucson area.
GREEN VALLEY SUMMER CHORUS Monday, Sep. 15 at 7:00 PM and Tuesday, Sep. 16 2:30 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Using the world’s most ancient instrument, the human voice, the Green Valley Summer Chorus brings to life a wide variety of musical forms: spirituals, folk songs, and traditional chorales. The Summer Chorus is comprised of members of the Green Valley Community Chorus. The concert will close with the humorous cantata, “Knock, Knock,” by the fictional and very funny P.D.Q Bach. Kathryn has directed choirs and theater events in Kokomo, Indiana choir dector for Mountain Shadows Presbyterian Church and s the summer organist for St. Andrews Presbyterian THE ARIZONA BANJO BLASTERS Wednesday, October 1st 7:00PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
The Arizona Banjo Blasters were founded by Rob Wright in 2007 with the purpose of inspiring the spirit of playing "Happy" Banjo Music. Many members of the band have over 50 years of banjo performance experience. Instruments at Blasters concerts include the 4-string banjo, banjo mandolin, banjo ukulele, washboard, upright bass and female vocalist! The AZ Banjo Blasters have had the privilege of playing in multiple venues throughout southern Arizona. The Blasters are a volunteer group and any fees they receive for performances are used for expenses and to support local charities including Anthony’s Foundation, Mobile Meals of Tucson and TUSD’s Opening Minds Through the Arts. The band also hosts the Arizona Banjo and Ukulele Blast festival every two years.
ALLAN RIDING QUINTET Featuring Jazz Violinist Michael Fan and Vocalist Joey Lessa Wednesday, October 8th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
This swinging quintet plays jazz arrangements of tunes from the 'Great American Songbook', and from Broadway hit shows, with Las Vegas circuit veteran and KGVY radio personality Joey Lessa singing Sinatra favorites. Originally from England, keyboardist Allan Riding has performed for decades in venues across the globe. Michael Fan is a longtime member of the Tucson Symphony Orchestra and is well known for his wide variety of styles and compositions. Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear this special group of musicians in concert.
CIVIC ORCHESTRA OF TUCSON Sunday, October 12th 3:00 PM Free Concert! (ticket required for entry) *unclaimed seats will be released 10 minutes before concert
Overture to La Forza del Destino ~ Giuseppe Verdi Variations on a Theme by Haydn ~ Johannes Brahms Symphony No. 7 ~ Sergei Prokofiev
The Civic Orchestra of Tucson (COT) was founded in the spring of 1975 by George Schwartz so that he and his friends could play classical music together. In1980, Dr. Herschel Kreloff became the orchestra’s artistic/musical director, and it has grown to full symphonic instrumentation. Now in its 37th year, COT enriches the cultural life of southern Arizona by presenting free concerts at various sites around the region.
OKTOBERFEST AT CPAC Featuring the Bavarian Brass Band Saturday, October 18th 5:00 PM Tickets: $25 in advance - $30 at door
Music, Food & Fun! Come enjoy the music of the Bavarian Brass Band featuring the yodeling talents of Tamara Kahrimanis. Celebrate Oktoberfest outdoors with authentic German food from Mama’s Barbeque, beer, wine and friends! Price includes brats, schnitzel with gravy, German potato salad, vegetable dish, strudel and two drink tickets!
JACK LASSETER The Spanish History of Florida and the Gulf Coast Tuesday, October 21st 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
This is the first installment in a comprehensive six part series detailing the Spanish history of North America. Each presentation is a complete story in itself. St. Augustine, the oldest continuously occupied city in the U.S. by persons of European descent (since 1565), predates the founding of Jamestown by some 42 years, and Juan Ponce de León was in Florida even some 52 years before that, back in 1513. Why did the Spanish come then? Why did Portugal get only Brazil in the New World, whereas the Spanish got all of the rest of Latin America? How far up the Atlantic coast did the Spanish go? How did Florida and Key West get their names? What about the French in New Orleans? How did Florida and the Gulf Coast eventually get into American hands? Come and hear the exciting story of this historic area, called Florida and the Gulf Coast as only Jack can tell it.
BILL GANZ WESTERN BAND Wednesday, October 22nd 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Bill Ganz has performed for more than 30 years. He is a member of the Western Music Association and is a past member of the Reinsmen, The Desert Sons, and the Sons of the Western Plains among others. The Bill Ganz Band was founded in 1992 for the purposes of entertaining Tucson vacationers seeking authentic western music. During those years, the band has recorded several western music CD's, performed at guest ranches and resorts throughout the southwest and was featured with the Tucson Symphony Orchestra. The band is comprised of Bill Ganz (guitar and vocals), Rich Brennion (pedal steel guitarist), Ralph Gilmore (drums) and Bill Ronstadt (bass).
JOVERT Steel Drum Band Wednesday, October 29th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
When people hear Jovert, they will hear familiar songs, they just won’t hear them in a familiar way. When Jovert plays, listeners can expect to be surprised, enlightened, and above all, entertained. Movement, theatrics, and choreography are very much a part of each Jovert performance. Originally started in 1991 as the Tucson High Steel Band, current director, Khris Dodge, arrived on the scene in 1999 and set a new bar of excellence. Jovert has recorded four critically- acclaimed CDs over the last eight years, and their music has sold on six continents. Live performances are still the crux of the group, as they can be seen at numerous venues throughout southern Arizona and on tours throughout the southwest.
RUN FOR YOUR WIFE by Ray Cooney The Santa Cruz Shoestring Players November 7-8 7:00 PM November 9 3:00 PM November 13-15 7:00 PM (Complimentary champagne reception after opening night) Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Directed by Susan Voorhees, Run For Your Wife is a British comedy about a London cab driver, John Smith, who has two lives, two wives and a very precise schedule for keeping them both in the dark. Trouble brews when Smith ends up in a hospital and the fun begins when both wives turn in missing person reports to the police. Having upset his schedule, Smith becomes hopelessly entangled in his attempts to explain himself to his wives and the authorities.
JACK LASSETER The Spanish History of Santa Fe and New Mexico Tuesday, November 18th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
This is the story of Santa Fe, the second oldest city in the U.S. behind only St. Augustine, Florida. It was sitting here on the very northern edge of Spanish civilization in the New World, the northern rim of Christendom at the time, for some 10 years before the Mayflower even landed at Plymouth Rock. It became the Spanish capital of the Southwest, was the territorial capital of Tucson and all of the residents up and down the Santa Cruz River Valley, from the time we became part of the U.S. in 1854 until the Arizona Territory was created in 1863. Come and hear the fascinating stories of Coronado, Juan de Oñate, Antonio de Espejo, the Pueblo Revolt of 1680, the Franciscans, how Spanish colonization worked, and how Spain’s approach to the Indians differed from that of the Americans. Hear about the Imperial rivalries of the time, the opening of the Santa Fe Trail that came with Mexican Independence, the South’s attempt to capture New Mexico for the Confederacy, and much more. Everyone living in the Southwest should know this story.
ARTHUR MIGLIAZZA TRIO Wednesday, November 19th 7:00 PM Tickets: $20/$25 in advance - all tickets $25 at door
Boogie Woogie wonder, Arthur Migliazza, returns with a special show highlighting the role boogie woogie played in the development of American music. Fresh from his off Broadway debut of the show “Boogie Stomp,” Arthur will dazzle with his virtuosic skill and knowledge about how boogie woogie shaped American blues, jazz, swing, stride, rhythm and blues and rock and roll. Performing with him are two of his Tucson based favorite musicians, Doug Davis on drums and Larry Lee Lerma on bass. Now a resident of Seattle, Arthur played a sold out tour of Russia (including Tchaikovsky Hall in Moscow) in December, and in 2014 was a finalist at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN.
SONORAN DOGS Bluegrass & Americana Thursday, November 20th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Bluegrass music is a form of American roots music initially inspired from Irish, Scottish, English and Welsh traditional songs and instrumentals by the 18th century Appalachian Settlers. Bill Monroe, the Father of Bluegrass, incorporated other cultural influences while refining the sounds into a truly American musical form.
Formed in 2011, The Sonoran Dogs have exploded upon the Arizona bluegrass scene, performing at the Sedona, Wickenburg, Prescott, Tucson, and Tubac bluegrass festivals. They are 2013 Rockygrass band contest finalists. The group is comprised of seasoned veterans Peter McLaughlin (1988 National Flatpicking Guitar Champion), Tyler James (2008 Rockygrass Banjo Champion), Mark Miracle on mandolin and vocals (Telluride band contest winner), and Brian Davies (TAMMIES award winning bassist).
The Sonoran Dogs performance will feature historical reference and anecdotes exploring this musical form. They perform a collection of traditional bluegrass vocal and instrumental standards, new-grass, Americana, improvisation and original compositions.
TELLEBRATION Storytelling Festival Saturday, November 22nd 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Tellebration is a worldwide storytelling festival which started in 1988 and takes place annually on the Saturday before Thanksgiving. Tellers of Tales Inc., a non-profit organization, was founded in 1979 by Sheila Pattison, who believed that stories and storytellers need nurturing to thrive. The organization exists to preserve oral literature through promotion of the art of storytelling. Multiple members of Tellers of Tales will perform various folk tales, personal accounts and other forms of storytelling. This concert is dedicated to the memory of Sheila Pattison.
THE TOM PATRICK BAND Dixieland Tuesday, December 2nd 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Tom Patrick, drummer and founder of Big Band Express (1994) and The Tom Patrick Band (1993), has played percussion for artists including Bob Crosby, Liberace, Jack Jones and Vicki Carr & Bob Hope. The band features local legends Lew Lepley on piano, Jack Wood on bass, Glenn Harmon on trumpet, Lanny Webb on trombone and Duanne Reilley on tenor sax and clarinet. Selections will include Dixieland favorites such as Sweet Georgia Brown, Kansas City, 12th Street Rag, Georgia On My Mind and a powerful rendition of When the Saints Go Marchin' In. THE GREEN VALLEY STAGE BAND Wednesday, December 3rd 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
The Green Valley Stage Band has been delighting audiences throughout southern Arizona since 1990. The 20 piece band of musicians performs a variety of big band music from the 40’s, 50’s and up to the present including music from such artists as Stan Kenton, Glenn Miller, Tommy Dorsey, Benny Goodman, Count Basie, Perez Prado, Hank Williams, the Beatles, and more.
BRAD ZINN IN “THE GREAT COMEDIANS” Comedy and Impersonation Thursday, December 4th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Imagine having all these legendary performers together on stage at the same time: Johnny Carson...George Burns...W.C. Fields...Jack Benny...Will Rogers... Groucho Marx...Jimmy Durante...George Jessel...Ed Sullivan...and Red Skelton! Brad Zinn’s The Great Comedians is a heartfelt salute to his childhood heroes that includes generous portions of comedy, music, juggling, magic, rope spinning, audience participation, and extended impersonations of the greatest entertainers in the business. There is simply no other show like this. It's the variety show for all time. Brad Zinn is one of the most sought after entertainers in his field. Brad is now regularly engaged as a comedian, impressionist, magician, and Master of Ceremonies. Recent commitments have taken him to England’s London Palladium, the Hollywood Magic Castle and the Las Vegas Strip in addition to regular engagements on multiple cruise lines. Brad has performed alongside many celebrities including Dick Van Dyke, Shirley Jones, Cliff Robertson, Paul Rodriguez, Damon Wayans, Will Shriner, Richard Crenna, Justin Wilson (the Cajun Chef), Harry Anderson, and Lynda Carter, among others.
JACK LASSETER The Early Spanish in Arizona Tuesday, December 9th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Jack will share with us the exciting story of the Spanish frontier’s expansion north up into this very area where we live. It will include the fascinating stories of Father Kino, Juan Batista de Anza, Hugo O’Conor, and the establishment of the presidios at Tubac and Tucson; why they were here, how the Spanish dealt with the Apaches, how the Americans acquired this land, why the Arizona border goes up to Yuma instead of straight to the Gulf of California, how Tucson and Arizona got their names, why Spanish architecture and Mexican food is different depending on whether it is in Santa Fe, San Antonio, Tucson, or San Diego, and much more.
THE LARRY REDHOUSE QUARTET Jazz Fusion Wednesday, December 10th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
The Larry Redhouse Quartet is a world class ensemble led by jazz pianist Larry Redhouse. Larry has over 35 years of performing experience and has played at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, The Smithsonian Museum and at the Grenoble Jazz Festival in Grenoble, France. He has opened for jazz greats Chick Corea and Terrance Blanchard, and backed popular artists Rick Braun and Euge Groove. The Larry Redhouse Quartet incorporates straight-ahead jazz, latin, funk, and reggae influences to its exciting repertoire. Their return to CPAC will include several Larry Redhouse originals in addition to classic jazz standards.
A COUNTRY CHRISTMAS Forever Young Thursday, December 11th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Join Kip Young (guitar and vocals), Dale Young (bass and vocals) and Larry Conley (banjo) as they share some Christmas hymns and traditional favorites including Christmas Cookies, Two Step Round the Christmas Tree and Kip’s original Christmas songs, Cowboy Christmas Eve and The Meaning of Christmas.
TRIBUTE TO MARTY ROBBINS Chris Campbell Monday, December 15th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Marty Robbins was not only an American singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and racecar driver, he was one of the most successful country and western singers in the world for the greater part of his nearly four-decade career. Robbins had sixteen number one country hits between 1952 and 1976 and many of his songs also enjoyed great success on the pop charts. Based in Phoenix, Arizona, Chris Campbell has played dozens of venues across the southwest and has enjoyed the honor of repeat performances at the Marty Robbins weekend in Wilcox, Arizona. This annual festival, hosted by the Friends of Marty Robbins Museum, pays tribute to the life and times of this iconic legend. This performance will feature classic songs such as I'll Go Alone, Among My Souvenirs, El Paso City, Some Memories Just Won't Die and Don’t Worry.
ARVEL BIRD Celtic Fusion Wednesday, January 7th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
International multi-award winner Arvel Bird comes to CPAC with a performance of “One Fire: Many Clans, Many Tribes.” Bird is a "Celtic Indian" whose music creates a powerful tapestry of Celtic, rock, folk and Americana genres. With violin, Celtic whistles and Native American flutes, his Celtic fusion brand reflects the union of his Native American (Southern Paiute) soul and Scottish (Clan Kennedy) heart. "Braveheart Meets Last of the Mohicans . . . at Woodstock" is a colorful description of this versatile artist. Dubbed “Lord of the Strings” by fans and music critics, his music evokes the soul of North American history and is thoroughly entertaining, but also enlightening and humanizing.
He’s the rare performer that appeals to audiences from eight to eighty, as he weaves stories throughout his songs in a style that is entirely his own. Bird first came to prominence as a four time Indiana State Fiddle Champion and later during his tours with Glen Campbell, Loretta Lynn, Louise Mandrell and others. Since 2001, when he recorded the first of 23 CDs, Bird has carved a highly unique career for himself as a concept artist. His emotionally driven music and stories of animals, historical events and people leave his audiences inspired, transfixed and transformed. CLASS OF ’65 – TOP HITS FROM THE YEAR 1965! Thursday, January 8th 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM Tickets: $25 in advance / $30 at door
This concert highlights Billboard’s Top 100 from fifty years ago. Class of ’65 features a hard-rockin’ band performing such chart-toppers as Downtown, I Can’t Help Myself (Sugar Pie Honey Bunch), The Birds and the Bees, I Got You Babe, For Your Love, What’s New Pussycat, King of the Road and many more. There are so many enduring hits from 1965, we might have to do them all! THE MAGIC OF ROD SPADE Saturday, January 10th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Originally from southern Arizona, Rod Spade is well known for his winning smile, hilarious sense of humor, close-up magic and stage illusions. After recently closing a production that ran for four years at the White Stallion Ranch in Arizona entitled “No Camera Tricks,” he now lives in Colorado with his wife Kimberlee and three boys. Rod performs his sought-after award-winning magic all over the country in over 230 shows per year. Audiences young and old have enjoyed his ability to create wonderful magic not just on stage, but in life as well.
JACK LASSETER The History of Texas Tuesday, January 13th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
The history of Texas is the story of longhorns, trail drives, and barbed wire; of Goliad, the Alamo, and San Jacinto; of Santa Ana, Sam Houston, and John Chisholm; of the Comanches, the Comancheros, and the Texas Rangers; of slavery, oil, and even the Stetson hat. It is the only state with the right to divide itself into 5 states, which it will never do because Texans couldn’t agree on which of the five gets the Alamo. It is the only state that owns all of its public land instead of the Feds owning it; and the only state that had been an independent nation, actually for some 11 years, when it joined the Union. This is all part of the story of Texas. And what’s with this Texas attitude of superiority, or that bigger is better, or the Friday night high school football games that seem like the Super Bowl. As you’ll see, those attitudes actually have an historical basis in the history of this unique and fascinating place.
JOE BOURNE The Music of Motown Wednesday, January 14th 7:00 PM Tickets: $20/$25 in advance - all tickets $25 at door
Joe Bourne and his dynamic band will perform music that will keep you on the edge of your seat the entire night. This show will feature the music of The Four Tops, The Temptations, The Supremes, Smokey Robinson, Stevie Wonder, Lionel Ritchie Marvin Gaye and much more. Come hear such favorites as Baby Love, My Girl, Get Ready, Sugar Pie, Superstition, Heat Wave, I’ll be There, Love Trains, What’s Going On and others.
BIG BAND SOUNDS Friday, January 16th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Big Band Sounds is one of the finest, swinging big bands in the greater Tucson area. The band is made up of 17 professional jazz players and a vocalist, who have all had vast experience performing in big bands all over the United States for many years. These talented musicians combined with their carefully selected and well rehearsed arrangements will remind you why big band music has continued pleasing and exciting audiences for three quarters of a century. The band is led by alto saxophonist, Lance Hoopes, who has been a fixture in the Tucson jazz scene his entire life. RANDY SPARKS’ ONE-MAN SHOW (WITH TWO PEOPLE) Featuring Randy Sparks and Becky Jo Benson of The New Christy Minstrels Saturday, January 17th 7:00 PM Tickets: $25/$30 in advance - all tickets $30 at door
Randy Sparks is one of the most prolific songwriters of the last century and his historical influence on the music business is unparalleled. He gave John Denver his start in the music business, and also named him, but his best contribution to Denver’s success was inviting him to live with his family during his formative years. Sparks watched Steve Martin morph from a banjo player and amateur magician to a bona fide stand-up comic on his stage in just 34 weeks. Kenny Rogers at the peak of his fame told his band members, “Boys, we wouldn’t be here tonight if it weren’t for Randy.” Sparks was discovered as a solo performer by Bob Hope, and later became dear friends with Burl Ives who was a leading influence. Sparks went on to serve as Burl Ives’ writer and opening act in concert for more than thirty years. Sparks’ biggest claim to fame remains the founding of the pioneering folk music ensemble, The New Christy Minstrels, with whom he still tours today. Now, in his One-Man Show (with two people), he has come full circle, armed with a lifetime of stories and experiences.
PLAZA SUITE by Neil Simon The Santa Cruz Shoestring Players January 23-24 7:00 PM January 25 3:00 PM January 29-31 7:00 PM February 1 3:00 PM (Complimentary champagne reception after opening night) Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Directed by Susan Ford, Plaza Suite is perhaps Neil Simon’s most famous work. The play is composed of three acts, each involving different characters who face certain challenges during their stay in Suite 719 of New York City’s Plaza Hotel. The characters include a couple revisiting their honeymoon suite in an attempt to bring the love back into their marriage, a movie producer and his old flame and a married couple on their daughter’s wedding day.
AN EVENING OF SONGS FROM BROADWAY The Divas of the Great American Playhouse Tuesday, February 3rd 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Join us for an entertaining evening of glorious songs from Broadway and beyond! Jodi Darling, Colleen Zanderbergen, April Lisette and Jennifer Ackerley Lawrence are all regular cast members at the Great American Playhouse in Oro Valley, AZ and have collectively performed at venues across the nation for decades. They will perform selections including In His Eyes, If I Loved You, Send in the Clowns, Don’t Rain on my Parade, Ladies Who Lunch and much more!
PUTTIN’ ON THE RITZ! THE IRVING BERLIN SONGBOOK Wednesday, February 4th 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM Tickets: $25 in advance / $30 at door
Irving Berlin's music defined 20th century America. This prolific and Academy Award-winning composer wrote more than 1,500 songs, including the classic Alexander's Ragtime Band, perennial holiday favorite White Christmas, Broadway show-stopper There's No Business Like Show Business, and the United States' unofficial national anthem God Bless America. Join us for an evening of remembrance and reverence - sit Cheek to Cheek with your sweetie because we'll definitely be Puttin' on the Ritz!
RONSTADT GENERATIONS Southwestern Folk Fusion Thursday, February 5th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance – all tickets $20 at door
Representing five generations in North America, Ronstadt Generations continues the family’s musical traditions with Michael J. Ronstadt (younger brother of Linda) and his sons, Michael G. and Petie. Multi-instrumentalists and solo performers in their own right, they present an exciting repertoire that preserves the traditional Southwestern and Mexican songs of their heritage while offering innovative original material. New compositions place them on the cutting edge of multiple, blended genres, stretching the boundaries of folk, blues, jazz and beyond. Rich harmonies sung in English and Spanish are accompanied by outstanding cello and guitars. Individually and together, Stateside and across the pond, the trio’s worldwide touring and recording credits include such diverse artists as Linda Ronstadt, Los Lobos, Dixie Hummingbirds, David Bromberg, Nydia Rojas, Tish Hinojosa, Muriel Anderson, and Mariachi Vargas. In 2012, the band added three veteran musicians, Alex Flores, Sam Eagon and Aaron Emery, playing tenor saxophone, bass and drums respectively. They add a colorful dimension to an already powerful presentation that respects tradition while exploring innovation.
JACK LASSETER The Spanish History of California Tuesday, February 10th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
California, the land of Disneyland, movie stars, freeways, and the ocean, was for some 300 years (from Cabrillo’s time in 1542 to the end of the Mexican War in 1848) part of the Spanish world. Although Cabrillo and other Spanish mariners sailed along its coast as far back as the 1500s, its first Spanish settlement didn’t come until 1769 with the establishment of presidios at San Diego and Monterey, and in the following year of 1770 with the establishment of the mission at San Diego, which would be the first of that whole string of California missions along El Camino Real. Jack will tell us all about those famous missions, their importance to the development of California, their treatment of the Indians, and the effect of their secularization; as well as the founding of San Francisco in 1776 by a Tucson boy, the Bear Revolt, the discovery of Gold at Sutter’s Mill, its importance in the Civil War, and much more.
DOLAN ELLIS, ARIZONA’S OFFICIAL STATE BALLADEER Arizona…Lens, Lyrics and Lore Wednesday, February 11th 7:00 PM Tickets: $20/$25 in advance – all tickets $25 at door
Dolan Ellis returns to the CPAC with his all new show, “ARIZONA…Lens, Lyrics, and Lore.” Dolan will soon be celebrating 50 years as, “Arizona’s Official Balladeer,” and his fans say that “he only gets better and better with each passing year.” Recognized by Phoenix Magazine, as one of “Arizona’s Top 25 Influential Arizona Musicians”, Dolan Ellis has penned hundreds of ballads about Arizona. His music has been inspired by his personal experiences, while traveling Arizona’s rugged backcountry in his specially equipped Jeeps, and meeting and talking with its old timers and unique people. He is also an accomplished photographer and incorporates his images into the show. His 12-string guitar technique, humor and vocal interpretations will captivate you and take you to a special place of enjoyment. The Musical Instrument Museum (MIM) honored Mr. Ellis in 2013, by including a display of his music and memorabilia in their “History of Arizona Music” section. Dolan Ellis and his work have been entered into the United States Congressional Record where he has been recognized as an “Arizona Treasure” by Senator John McCain. Though Dolan Ellis has been to the top of the show business mountain, winning a Grammy Award and gold records, as an “original member of The New Christy Minstrels”, his work as “Arizona’s Balladeer” continues to be the main thrust of his life’s work.
LOVE LETTERS by A.R. Gurney Saturday, February 14th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance – all tickets $20 at door
Love Letters is a play by A. R. Gurney that was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama. The play centers on two characters, Andrew Makepeace Ladd III and Melissa Gardner. During the course of the play, Andrew and Melissa read the notes, letters and cards they have written to each other over the course of 50 years. The letters provide a heartfelt account of their hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, and victories and defeats that have passed between them throughout their two very different lives. The characters are portrayed by Al and Julia Saterbak, who met on stage playing husband and wife.
RALPH GRASSO The Hollywood Guitarist You Have Heard For Years But Never Knew Wednesday, February 18th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance – all tickets $20 at door
Ralph Grasso is one of the most prolific guitarists to ever hit Hollywood. Over the years Ralph has played for five U.S. Presidents, Queen Elizabeth and numerous foreign dignitaries. He has worked with Ed Sullivan, Jimmie Rodgers, Frank Sinatra, Barbara Streisand, Andy Williams, Nelson Riddle, Tony Bennett, Sammy Davis Jr., Henry Mancini, Liza Minnelli, Sonny & Cher, John Denver and many more! Ralph has worked on numerous film scores and television shows including “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly” with Clint Eastwood, “Charro” with Elvis Presley, “I Dream of Jeannie,” “The Love Boat,” “Three’s Company,” “The Golden Globe Awards” and “The Academy Awards.” Join him as he discusses the behind the scenes workings of motion pictures, studio recordings and television. Ralph will share fascinating first person accounts of some of your favorite stars as well as perform songs from the golden age of the silver screen.
STRAIT COUNTRY A Tribute to the Music of George Strait featuring Kevin Sterner Friday, February 20th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance – all tickets $20 at door
"Tribute to the Music of George Strait," has been thrilling audiences and selling out concert venues throughout the Southwest for the past four years. The group, built around Kevin Sterner’s vocal style which is amazingly similar to George Strait's, features prominently the sounds of Pedal Steel Guitar and Fiddle. These two instruments are key to the signature sound that has been George's trademark throughout his incredible 30-year career, they are what makes "Country Music" COUNTRY, and why he has always made them an integral part of his music! This concert showcases Hit after Hit from an incredible 60 Number One's and 83 Top Ten Hits, spanning the entire 30 years. You will hear all time favorites, Ocean Front Property, Amarillo By Morning, The Chair, All My Ex's Live in Texas, I Cross My Heart, Run and Give it Away as well as Hits from George's current CD, “Love is Everything.” With Kevin's stories and anecdotes about the songs and life of this "Living Legend" it often feels throughout the evening, that you are actually at one of George's shows! Millions, the world over, love him, Arizona loves him, and this group is very privileged and excited to share his music with all the fans! Join us for this very special evening of Hits by "The King of Country Music"!
A TRIBUTE TO PATSY CLINE Forever Young February 25-26 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
CPAC favorite, Forever Young featuring Kip and Dale Young, present a tribute to country music female legendary singer, Patsy Cline. This show features some of Patsy’s number one hits like ‘’Crazy”, “I Fall To Pieces”, “Sweet Dreams” and crowd favorites such as “Back In Baby’s Arms and “Just A Closer Walk With Thee.”
DAVE STAMEY Western Wednesday, March 4 7:00 PM Tickets: $20/$25 in advance - all tickets $25 at door
Back by popular request, Dave’s stories, songs and humor about living and working in the west continue to mesmerize audiences across the nation. Dave has been called the "Charlie Russell of Western Music" by Cowboys and Indian Magazine. In 2010 and 2014 True West Magazine named him the Best Living Western Solo Musician. The Western Music Association has named Stamey Entertainer of the Year six times, Male Performer of the Year five times, and Songwriter of the Year five times. He also holds the Will Rogers Award from the Academy of Western Artists. As our friend Baxter Black says: "California gave us Buck Owen, the condor and Dave Stamey...I'll take Davey any day!" Dave Stamey has been a cowboy, a mule packer, a dude wrangler and is now one of the most popular Western entertainers working today. He has delighted audiences in twenty states and finds that he prefers this to being stomped by angry horses.
GHOST TOWNS OF OLD ARIZONA A Film by Phil Wenstrand Thursday, March 5 7:00 PM Tickets: $7 in advance - all tickets $10 at door
In the 1800’s, frontier Arizona was a very hostile place. Forbidding deserts, heat and unfriendly natives made pioneering here as tough as any place in the west. But still there were those who thought the rewards were worth the risk. Mostly they dug into the earth in search of riches. As miners dug, others built camps that turned into towns. The motion picture, “Ghost Towns of Old Arizona,” takes you into some of these interesting and often dangerous places. Question and answer session with Phil Wenstrand to follow the film.
JACK LASSETER The History of Mexico Tuesday, March 10th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Jack finishes up his six-part series, appropriately so, with the history of Mexico itself, a subject not well known by most Americans. It is a fascinating story, a knowledge of which gives us a much greater understanding of our neighbor to the South. He will share with us the story of its early indigenous peoples, the Maya, the Toltecs, the Chichimeca, and the Aztecs; the capture of Mexico City and the Aztec Empire by Cortés in 1521 and that early conquistador history; the colonial period under Spanish control, with its exploitation of Indians, the enormous power of the Catholic Church, and the rigid social classes that lasted until Mexican independence in 1821; the Mexican War for Independence from 1810 to 1821 with names like Hidalgo, Morelos, Guerrero, and Iturbide; the turbulent period of empire and republic with the famous Santa Ana: the War with the U.S. from 1846-1848; then Juárez and Maximilian; the Díaz dictatorship, followed by the Revolution, involving famous names like Madero, Zapata, Poncho Villa, and Carranza; and finally more modern times. It’s a big story, as only Jack can tell, but a great conclusion to a wonderful series.
TUCSON BARBERSHOP EXPERIENCE Wednesday, March 11th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Tucson Barbershop eXperience is a 40-man chorus that sings four-part a cappella harmony in the barbershop style. The chorus and various quartets will feature music from Broadway and the Doo-Wop era of the 1950’s-60's including favorite tunes from the Beach Boys, Neil Sedaka, Cole Porter and Stephen Sondheim. All performers are members of the Tucson Sunshine Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society, which exists to promote and preserve barbershop music as an art form. Founded by Owen C. Cash in 1938, approximately 30,000 men in the United States and Canada currently hold membership in the organization. The Tucson Sunshine Chapter has been delighting audiences since 1947. The chorus is the Plateau AA champion of Arizona and its feature quartet, Joint Venture, is a four-time Arizona Senior Quartet Champion, 2013 Far Western District Senior Champion and 2014 International Mid-Winter Senior Quartet Champion. Dayle Ann Cook, music director of the Tucson Barbershop eXperience, previously served as director of the Tucson Desert Harmony Chorus and has performed with champion-level quartets in addition to enjoying an accomplished solo career.
ACOUSTIC EIDOLON World Music for the Soul Thursday, March 12th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Acoustic Eidolon was formed in 1998 by Joe Scott and Hannah Alkire. As a Colorado native who grew up near Boulder, Joe Scott began playing the acoustic guitar at age 12, moving on to 5-string banjo. At age 23, he attended the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, CA. There he studied all styles of acoustic and electric guitar and studied with many of the world’s finest guitar players, such as Robin Ford, Tommy Tedesco, Frank Gambale, the late Howard Roberts and jazz great Joe Pass. Joe toured the country extensively playing guitar, banjo, mandolin and vocals with the New Christy Minstrels. Joe along with help from Steve Mesple developed the 14-string-double-neck guitjo, a combination of guitar and banjo. Hannah Alkire started playing the cello at age eight and studied with Gabriel Magyar of the Hungarian String Quartet. She has played with bluegrass great Alison Krauss and performed in multiple symphony orchestras. Hannah’s expansion to rock, funk, and alternative genres later led to performances at the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas. This performance will include material that spans Acoustic Eidolon’s entire catalog in addition to some covers like Led Zeppelin’s Stairway to Heaven and the Beatles’ Eleanor Rigby and While My Guitar Gently Weeps. Many of their originals have, Celtic, Flamenco and Americana influences.
ARIZONA OPERA STUDIO IN CONCERT Friday, March 13th 7:00 PM Tickets: $20/$25 in advance - all tickets $25 at door
Andrea Shokery, soprano Sarah Tucker, soprano Beth Lytwynec, mezzo-soprano Andrew Penning, tenor Chris Carr, baritone Calvin Griffin, bass-baritone Sara Chiesa, pianist
Arizona Opera and CPAC present an exciting concert featuring the Marion Roose Pullin Opera Studio. Studio Artists appear in Arizona Opera's main stage productions and continue their training as they each begin promising operatic careers. This season's artists come from all over the country and were selected from a highly competitive pool of 650 applicants. Join us for what has become an annual highlight in Green Valley as these talented emerging artists perform a collection of signature arias, operatic ensembles, and classic musical theater selections.
AMERICAN MADE A Salute to the Oak Ridge Boys, the Statler Bros. and Country Gospel Wednesday, March 18th 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM Tickets: $25 in advance / $30 at door
Nothing rivals the pure sound of a country-gospel quartet, and we¹re bringing you one of the best! This accomplished group of musicians masterfully recreates the hits of Country and Gospel Music¹s favorite vocal groups including the Oak Ridge Boys, the Statler Brothers, the Cathedrals and more! American Made brings you the rich harmonies on hits like Elvira, Bobby Sue, Flowers On The Wall, and Hello Mary Lou to name a few. Come on out and clap your hands and stomp your feet to best of Country Gospel!
THE LUTHER COLLEGE CONCERT BAND Saturday, March 21st 7:30 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
The Luther College Concert Band was formed in 1878, laying the foundations for what would become the college's long-standing tradition of musical excellence. Directed by Joan deAlbuquerque, the Concert Band is now one of the oldest touring organizations in the nation and ranks among the country's most outstanding college bands. From its beginnings as a student-directed brass and percussion ensemble formed with instruments from a discontinued community band, the Concert Band rose to its current position of prestige with deAlbuquerque through the influential directorships of Carlo Sperati (1905-1943), Weston Noble (1948-1973), and Frederick Nyline (1973-2011). The ensemble is rich in tradition, most apparent through the inclusion of the selections Who Puts His Trust in God Most Just and Stars and Stripes Forever at the end of almost every concert. Throughout its long history, the Concert Band has enjoyed unrivaled performance opportunities in the United States, Western Europe, Japan and Scandinavia. The ensemble tours every year, with international travel every four years.
TUCSON ARIZONA BOYS CHORUS Pops Concert Tuesday, March 24th 7:00 PM Tickets: $20 in advance - all tickets $23 at door
Since its inception in 1939, the Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus has earned the reputation as a premiere music education and performance organization of both traditional, classic boy choir repertoire as well as representing the diversity of the American Southwest. Under the direction of Julian Ackerley, the boy choristers will be performing a variety of repertoire including their signature western selections with a demonstration of fancy trick rodeo roping. The Tucson Arizona Boys Chorus consistently “wows” audiences, not only with the quality of singing, but the charm of their animated stage presence. The chorus has performed in numerous countries including China, Italy, Russia, Germany, Austria, Poland, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. The chorus has also performed at the White House and on multiple national television programs.
TOM SHEELEY IN CONCERT Classical Guitar Wednesday, March 25th 7:00 PM Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Tom Sheeley has performed hundreds of concerts on three continents in solo recitals as well as with chamber groups, most notably the Blair Quartet, St Petersburg Quartet, The National Symphony of Ecuador, The Flagstaff Summer Festival Orchestra, Flagstaff Symphony and The Redlands Bowl Summer Festival Orchestra. He was first place winner in the first Manuel M. Ponce International Guitar Competition which honors the 100th birthday of the composer whom Andres Segovia stated was "probably the best composer for guitar." When Arts America opened their international touring program to the classic guitar, Tom was one of eight guitarists in America that were selected by audition to be an "Artistic Ambassador" after which he spent a month touring four South American countries performing solos, concerti and teaching. He currently teaches at Northern Arizona University, where he began in 1974. His courses include guitar and music literature, as well as philosophy and the exploration of the connections between art and the social fabric.
THE GLASS MENAGERIE by Tennessee Williams The Santa Cruz Shoestring Players April 17-18 7:00 PM April 19 3:00 PM April 24-25 7:00 PM (Complimentary champagne reception after opening night) Tickets: $15/$20 in advance - all tickets $20 at door
Directed by Roberta Konen, The Glass Menagerie is a theater classic which premiered in 1944 and catapulted Tennessee Williams from obscurity to fame. Amanda Wingfield is a Southern belle past her prime, living with two grown children in a small apartment in St. Louis. Amanda dreams of a better life for her shy and crippled daughter Laura, and so she pushes her son, Tom, to find a “gentleman caller” for the girl. However, the arrival of the gentleman caller sends shockwaves through the family and causes cracks to form in the delicate fantasies that have kept them going.