Peter's Picks Vol. III

Welcome to the third edition of Peter’s Picks. We’ve got a great group of shows coming to our jewel of a theater, and this is my way of spotlighting a few that I am excited about.

Nitty Grity Dirt Band - Sunday, Oct 28

I’ve been a fan of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band since I was a kid. My parents had their classic album “Will the Circle Be Unbroken,” and they’ve been part of my music listening life ever since. They had a hit with the song “Mr. Bojangles” in 1970. John McEuen is probably the best-known member of the band. He’s had a successful solo career and is an amazing banjo player. In terms of Americana music, it doesn’t get much better than the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKKYKGxHdyU

Dorado Schmitt and the Django Reihnardt Allstars - Thurs, Nov 15

The music of Django Reinhardt is some of my favorite, and this group is amazing. They have come through the area several times with different personnel. I’m thrilled that this incarnation will feature not only guitarist Dorado Schmitt, but also the incredible accordion player Ludovic Beier. While guitars are the focus in a Django group, this accordion player is phenomenal. I’ve never heard anyone like him before; bending notes, lightning fast runs, and one of the most sensitive accompanists ever.  . http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ypsZFR3GUKU

Angelique Kidjo - Fri, Nov 16

Angelique Kidjo is one of the most energetic, entertaining singers I’ve ever seen. Born in Benin, her music is an amazing mix of Rock, Pop, Soul, R&B, and Funk, all played with African sensibilities. She has collaborated with Carlos Santana, Dave Matthews, Josh Grobin and many others. It may be difficult to remain seated during this show…. And if that’s the case: get up and dance in the aisles, it’s OK!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4CQiceYO8hA

The Punch Brothers - Thurs, Nov 29

The Punch Brothers are a ‘progressive bluegrass band.’ Their style has been described as "bluegrass instrumentation and spontaneity in the strictures of modern classical.” Which is an apt description. Their music is  smart and intricate, and at the same time rootsy and traditional. Their mandolin player Chris Thiele was recently awarded a MacArthur genius grant. Catch the future of bluegrass at this not-to-be-missed show!  ! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hc1EfKiC064

Riders in the Sky - Thurs, Dec 6

Cowboy music and western swing at it’s finest! Riders in the Sky have been at it a long time, and they’re great at what they do. Their holiday show will be fun for everyone. Ranger Doug, Too Slim, Woody Paul, and Joey the Cow Polka King are masters of the genre, as well as great entertainers. Saddle up the reindeer and head to the Opera House for Christmas the Cowboy Way!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O7dP0aUXFtk

Cantus “All is Calm” - Fri, Dec 7

Cantus is a nine-member, vocal chamber ensemble. Their show, “All is Calm” is based around the Christmas truce is 1914 when thousands of men put down their guns and left their trenches to meet their enemies in No Man’s Land. They exchanged gifts of tobacco, rum and chocolates; even photographs of loved ones. They sang songs, played a game of soccer, and buried each other’s dead. This multi media show will feature music and photographs from the era, as well as readings from letters written by the soldiers.  http://vimeo.com/32717570

The Kronos Quartet - Fri, Jan 11, 2013

The Kronos Quartet, one of the most important string quartets in a generation. They are chance taking, innovative, creative musicians performing new works while also keeping their ties to the past. There are very few groups in classical music who perform as diverse a range of music as they do. They’ve covered Jimi Hendrix, Bill Evans, Thelonius Monk, Raymond Scott, and Bob Dylan to name a few. Always interesting, always innovative this will be their first visit to the Opera House. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m_R5jqw3bts&list=UUyMmUcht1N-adHYxad3teNA&index=15&feature=plcp

International Guitar Night - Thurs, Jan 24, 2013

As a lover of guitar music, I am excited about this show. Every year, Brian Gore assembles a different group of incredible guitarists, and this year’s show will be great. Gore will be joined by Solorazaf, a French-Malagasy guitarist and singer who has toured with legendary artists like Miriam Makeba and Nina Simone; Brazilian guitarist and singer Guinga who writes great songs and plays incredible guitar; and one of my favorite guitarists Martin Taylor. http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=lZlxwXjomZg

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 E-mail me at peter@nvoh.org