Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Music Fun Week of April 16

UPDATES (since Tuesday) in RED
We all get the wind knocked out of our sails now and then – it’s the human condition. It’s also the human condition to CELEBRATE what, when & where we can.  I may paint a rosy picture—because my life IS pretty rosy. But I too have my struggles, of course.  “The pessimist may be right in the long run, but the Optimist has a better time along the way!”

Felt pretty sickly much of last week, gathered up my strength for the Marin Symphony Concert on Sunday—and I (WE) pulled it off for a tremendous performance, and thunderous applause from a very appreciative audience!
I could not do without my dancing music entirely, but had to limit myself for my bronchia’s sake.  On Friday night Carlos & I went down to Boca Pizzeria at The Village to get an hour of The Mighty Groove, then stopped by the Hopmonk for some Hot Buttered Rum --and their high-energy bluegrass mix kept me bouncing around-- perhaps more than I should have!  After two rehearsals on Saturday morning & afternoon with the Orchestra, headed over that evening to TREK Winery for Captain Paisley, a Santa Rosa band—and we were transported back to the psychedelic 60’s & 70’s with their fabulous covers of the Doors, Moody Blues, Cream, Traffic, Yardbirds, Led Zeppelin and more. Groovy indeed!  Promised to abide by my curfew, so we got home earlier than usual (so I could get up for another 10am Symphony rehearsal). And then our performance on Sunday afternoon!  ♫♪

Tonight I will again perform the Brahms’ German Requiem with The Marin Symphony Chorus.
On Friday there’s Pride & Joy at George’s, TRENZ at PYC, Zydeco Flames at Eagles, and of course Jefferson Starship at Hopmonk!  How to decide?
Saturday I’m promised to the Unauthorized Rolling Stones at George’s!  But that means I’ll have to give up James Moseley Band at Seahorse, Danny Click and the Hell Yeahs! at 142 Throck …
What musical delights await?!  ♫♪

Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.
Tuesday, April 16, 2013 -- Happy Birthday, Cynthia Ann!
Marin Symphony at Veteran’s Auditorium, 7:30pm (6:30 pre-show talk with the Maestro included), $29-74:  Marin Symphony Chorus (including me) performs Brahms’ German Requiem. Box office 473-6800.

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Swing Fever “Romance at a safe distance” music of Cole Porter.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Sweetwater , doors 7, show 8pm, $22-30: The Ray Charles Project—featuring Tony Lindsay & Dave Matthews from Santana.   388-3850 for info.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]    415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30 in the Bar, no cover:  American Jubilee.  Info 415-524-2773.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 8pm, no cover:  John Varn & Tommy Odetto —rock it every Tuesday.

Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo (at Gilman), Berkeley, 8pm lesson with Cheryl, 8:30 music, $10:  Mark St. Mary Louisiana Blues & Zydeco Band.

Wednesday, April 17
Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, 7:30pm, no cover: Open Mic Nite w/ Dennis HanedaIncludes a featured act (this week Shelby Lanterman—19-year old Napa singer/songwriter at 9pm), chosen from a previous open mic.   Note: For this Event, Bar staff is happy to take your food order from the “Venue Menu”.  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, 8-10:30pm, $10: Pro Blues Jam with Fenix Band, featuring Fernando Aragon, Philip Gallo, Kyle Hixon, Larry Vann, and Michael Warren, with Special Guests.  415-813-5600 reservations & info.

Sweetwater, Doors 7, show 8pm, $22-27: Jim Campilongo Trio – Bammie-winning guitarist--Blues, Country, Jazz & Rock.  388-3850 for tix or info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30, no cover:  The ever-rotating Terrapin Family Band Bar Show.  Info 415-524-2773.

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Haute Flash Quartet – gypsy swing & French cafĂ© music. 457-3993 for reservations & info.

Ghiringhelli's Novato, 7-9:30pm, no cover:  Ladies Night with Brad Bann—Seriously Sinatra.  415-878-4977 info & reservations.

Iron Springs Pub, Fairfax, 8pm, no cover:  Brough Brothers—Josh from Poor Man’s Whiskey; 4-piece string band playing folk, rock, country, bluegrass. 415-485-1005 for info & reservations.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 9:30pm, no cover:  Elvis Johnson Soul Revue –.

Thursday, April 18
George's Nightclub, in the Bar, free:  Music & Drink Specials.  415-226-0262 for info.

4th St. San Rafael, 6-9pm, free:  Farmers Market Key Lime Pie--rock with a Latin twist; Mark Hester Power--singing/skating dj (4th & A near Starbucks).

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, NEW: 5-7 Happy Hour in Front Bar; 6-8 Wine Tasting in Back Bar (fee varies).  Dance Party from 8pm on …!
8 & 10pm shows, $10:  Linda Imperial Band featuring David Freiberg. –smokin’ hot rock & roll blues.  415-813-5600 reservations & info.

Steakhouse Grill & Bar at Deer Park Villa, Fairfax, 6:30-9:30pm, no cover:  Bonnie Hayes. 456-8084 for reservations/info.

Presidio Y.C.  Maria's Music & Dinner-- Dinner beginning at 5 PM, and music from 7-10, no cover, please tip:  Randy Rood & Friends (and maybe a member or 2 from The Tickets Band)--Country, Blues & Rock.  Dinner: Tamale Pie & Cornbread $8; grill closed, pizza available.  332-2319. Credit cards accepted, but tips are cash only, and no ATM around. Call Maria for info: 415-601-3333 

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Deborah Winters and Friends – contemporary & soulful jazz.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 9:30pm, no cover:  Rahman’s Songwriters in the Round.

L’Appart Resto, 636 San Anselmo Ave., 6:30-9pm, no cover:  Amy Katchur with Jose Neto & Celso Alberti – Brazilian rock.  415-256-9884 reservations.

no name bar, Sausalito, 8:30-11:30pm, no cover:  Donna D + 3 (Jack Prendergast, Doug Morton, Mark Rosengarden) and special guests Steve Malerbi & Haley Mears.

TerrapinCrossroads, doors 6:30, show 7:30pm, no cover:  Terrapin AllStars with Stu Allen & Grahame Lesh, Mike Pascale & Alex Koford.  Info 415-524-2773, or get tix on website.

The Trident, Sausalito, 6-9pm, no cover:  Damir Stosic .  415-331-3232 for reservations.

Boca Pizzeria in The Village, Corte Madera (outdoor patio), 6-9pm, no cover:  Rockit Science – rock, R&B, soul.  (Happy Hour 3-6pm)

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]    415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Sweetwater, Nothing scheduled on their website. 388-3850 for tix or info.

Ghiringhelli's Novato, 9pm-midnite, no cover:  Karaoke with DJ Rich Rogers.  415-878-4977 info & reservations.

Friday, April 19 
Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, doors 7, show 8pm, $65: Jefferson Starship’67 Surrealistic Pillow in entirety,with Paul Kantner & David Freiberg.  Opens with The Grateful Deadmau5 Project.  SRO with limited seating.  Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show.]  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Presidio Y.C., 8:30pm, $8 single, $15 couple: TRENZ Band with Johnny Z, and Special Guest Ray Aguilera percussionist -- Rock, Motown, Disco.

George's Nightclub, 9pm, $20:  Pride and Joy! – R&B, Soul, and lots of Dancin’!

Eagles Hall, 2305 Alameda Ave., Alameda, 8:30 lesson, 9pm show, $15:  ZYDECO FLAMES.

TREK Winery, 1026 Machin, Novato, 7-10pm, no cover:  James Harmon Duo -- Easy listening.

19 Broadway, doors 8, show 9pm, $5-10:  Lumanation (ska, dub, reggae), followed by The Cole Tate Band.  

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, [5-8pm on the patio, Live Music;] 9:30 pm, $8: Swoop Unit – 7-piece Jazz Funk.

Sweetwater, doors 8, show 9pm, $37:  Blue Sky Riders (Kenny Loggins, Georgia Middleman, Gary Burr).  388-3850 for tix or info.

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, 8 & 10pm shows, $15:  Mary Jensen & Beyond Standard Jazz (with Rich Armstrong, Rob Rhodes, Steve Carter & Jeff Chambers)– fusion of jazz, world & pop. 415-813-5600 reservations & info.

Rickeys Jazz, 7-10pm, no cover:  Andoni’s Quartet Jazz, swing, pop, blues, R&B, & Motown.  883-9477 for reservations.

Whipper Snapper, 1613 4th St., San Rafael, 7:30-10, no cover:  Jose Neto is back for April!  Solo acoustic guitar.  256-1818 for info.

Rancho Nicasio, 8:15pm, no cover:  Whiskey & Women, with Accordionist Renee de la Prade. 415-662-2219 for reservations/info.

Steakhouse Grill & Bar at Deer Park Villa, Fairfax, 6:30-9:30pm, no cover:  Brad Bann – Sounds of Sinatra. 456-8084 for reservations/info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30pm, no cover:  Women of Country with Emily Sunderland and the AllStars.  Info 415-524-2773.

The Trident, Sausalito, 6:30-9:30pm, no cover:  The Rowan Brothers.  415-331-3232 for reservations.

Ghiringhelli's Novato, 10pm, no cover:  KARAOKE with DJ Rich Rogers.  415-878-4977 info & reservations.

Saturday, April 20Happy Earth Day!
George's Nightclub, 8:30pm, $16-20:  Unauthorized Rolling Stones -- save hundreds of $$$ on the Stones Tour, and come see Rudy & the Guys do it like the real deal for $16-20!  Rebel Yell (80s hits) opens.  415-226-0262 for info. 

James Moseley Dance Band, 9pm, $10 at the Seahorse.

142 Throckmorton, Mill Valley, 8pm, $16-26:  Danny Click & The Hell Yeahs!  CD Release Party & Video Release “Baptize Me Over Elvis Presley’s Grave” with Danny, Don, Bonnie, Adrienne, Kevin – and the Hell Yeah! Choir Girls: Lyn Carpenter, Lauralee Christensen, & Allyson Paige.

HopmonkNovato, Vintage Oaks, doors 7, show 8pm, $65: Jefferson Starship’67 Surrealistic Pillow in entirety,with Paul Kantner & David Freiberg.  Opens with The Grateful Deadmau5 Project.  SRO with limited seating.  Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show.]  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, 8 & 10pm shows, $15:  Lavay Smith and her Red Hot Skillet Lickers.   415-813-5600 reservations & info.

TREK Winery, 1026 Machin, Novato, 6:30-9:30pm on the Barrel Room Stage, no cover:  Verasion – I’ll update when I find out what kind of music they play.

Marin Coffee RoastersSan Anselmo, 10am-12:30pm (Saturday morning), free:  The Treble Makers with Freeway Frank Bohan (Zydeco Flames) and Ted O'Connell, Jeb Harrison bass, Dave Burns drums, and Special Guests. This is an ongoing weekly gig. 

Rancho Nicasio, 8:30, $15: Johnny Allair—“Still Kickin” Birthday Dance Party.  415-662-2219 for reservations/info. 

Sweetwater, 12:30, FREE :  Gail Muldrow & Friends and The Shut-Ins.
Doors 8, show 9pm, $22:  Storm Large – irreverent, dramatic songstress. 388-3850 for tix or info.

San Rafael Joe’s, 7-9:30, no cover:  Phillip Percy Pack   Phillip Percy is a Beach Blanket Babylon alum, singing the jazz standards here with his Trio every Saturday night!  

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 9:30pm, $8:  Rusty Evans and Ring of Fire – Johnny Cash covers.

Presidio Y.C., 8:30pm, $7:  Dog Patch JunctionDead tribute.

Taste of Rome, 1000 Bridgeway, Sausalito, 7-10pm, no cover: Andoni’s Quartet Jazz, swing, pop, blues, R&B, & Motown.

Rickey’s Jazz, 7-10pm, no cover:  Lady D – Jazz standards.  883-9477 for reservations. 

Terrapin Crossroads, 11:30pm, no cover: Brunch with Stu Allen & the Terrapin AllStars Grahame Lesh, Mike Pascale & Alex Koford.

Whipper Snapper, 1613 4th St., San Rafael, 7:30-10pm, no cover:  Dan McGuire-- Acoustic Guitar.  256-1818 for info.

The Trident, Sausalito, 6:30-9:30, no cover:  Carl Oser.  415-331-3232 for reservations.

no name, Sausalito, 6-8:30, no cover: The Gaters (Joe Tate & Maggie Catfish & Sandy Bailey). Blues, rock, country & more.  415-332-1392.

Ghiringhelli's Novato, 10pm, no cover:  KARAOKE with DJ Rich Rogers.  415-878-4977 info & reservations.

Sunday, April 21 Happy Birthday, Dennis H!
Sweetwater, 11am, free:  Sunday Brunch with Hot Club of Marin – bluegrass & folk quartet. 
Doors 5, event 6pm, $17 (kids), $27 & up:  Youth Rock the Rebuild—featuring Matt Jaffe & The Distractions, Performing Stars of Marin, Marin School of the Arts, & more.  388-3850 for tix or info.

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, 6:30, no cover:  Morris LeGrande –R&B and smooth jazz guitar. 415-813-5600 reservations & info.

Sleeping Lady, Fairfax, 6:30-10pm, no cover:  Dave Getz Jazz Trio – Straight-up Jazz (and invite to jazz instrumentalists to sit in).  485-1182 reservations.

Rancho Nicasio, 5pm, $10:  Houston Jones – high-octane Americana.  415-662-2219 for reservations/info.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks: [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Panama Hotel, 6-9pm, no cover:  John Chapman – funky soul, jazz, Brazilian, r&b, nuevo-flamenco, and pop classics.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 4-7pm on the patio, no cover:  Live Music.  9pm, no cover:  Red Valley Trappers – rock/ psychedelic/ folk.

Terrapin Crossroads about 12:30, no cover:  Sunday Brunch with Terrapin Family Band.  Info 415-524-2773.

Monday, April 22 
Sweetwater, 7:30pm, no cover:  Open Mic with Austin DeLone  388-3850 for info.

Sausalito Cruising Club, 7-11pm, $15 includes buffet, $10 for members & $5 for Players:  Blue Monday Jam hosted by Joe Tate with Guest Jammers.  This is a private club; you must be a member or a Guest. To get on Guest list, please email joebtate@gmail.com or call him 415-385-1606.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 8:30pm, no cover:  Open Mic with Billy D.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks: [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Tuesday, April 23
Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  James Moseley Quartet Jazz/ Blues/ R&B.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Sweetwater , doors 6, show 7pm, $6-10: ro*co films presents “A Place at the Table”—Sundance premiere about hunger in the U.S.   388-3850 for info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30 in the Bar, no cover:  American Jubilee.  Info 415-524-2773.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 8pm, no cover:  John Varn & Tommy Odetto —rock it every Tuesday.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]    415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo (at Gilman), Berkeley, 8pm lesson with Cheryl, 8:30 music, $10:  Les Amis Zydeco.

With Gratitude, and Smiles--
Ellen ♫♪

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Music Fun Week of April 9, 2013

Running at about half-steam, but relying on the curative powers of Carlos's homemade chicken soup!

For a little humor, If you haven't yet seen Dancing Nana on YouTube, here's your chance.  2 min., 38 sec., and you have to watch until the last second!  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PP9b_91PHi8 

I have to give my props to last week’s musicians:  Both Dumpstaphunk & Zydeco Flames at Hopmonk (on different nights!); The Tickets Band at Seahorse on Saturday night, then over for a dose of The Treble Makers at Vasco’s—they all kept me dancing a-plenty!; and a very wonderful house party on Sunday.  Thank you for making my feet sing!

This week I’m counting on my health to zoom back, and will perform with The Marin Symphony on both Sunday afternoon and Tuesday evening.  I’ll be taking it easy, but perhaps make an appearance with Carlos on Friday at George’s for Pop Fiction, or a little Hot Buttered Rum at Hopmonk. Not sure if I’ll even get out, let alone make it to PYC for my pals The Tickets Band.  Two rehearsals for me on Saturday, then hopefully still get out and stay local:  TREK Winery for Captain Paisley is an early, easy show; if there’s any steam we may stop by Hopmonk for a little Hot Buttered Rum if we don’t get there on Friday.

**Friend Sabina is having a major Furniture & Garden sale at her home, 12 Mariners Circle, San Rafael, this Saturday from 10am-3pm. Gorgeous merchandise!**

Last call:  I’m performing with the Marin Symphony Chorus in the Brahms’ German Requiem on April 14 (Sun. 3pm) and April 16 (Tues. 7:30pm).  This is one of the things I do in my other life—off the dance floor--and I’d love to have you there to experience this breathtaking piece. Please contact me (before Friday 2pm) if you’re interested in discounted tickets. Full prices $29-70:  http://www.marinsymphony.org/music-events-2/60th-season-series-concerts/remembrance-and-renewal/

Wednesday, April 10
Corte Madera Community Center, 8-10pm, no cover:  Ray Simpson Big Band Dance!

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, 7:30pm, no cover: Open Mic Nite w/ Dennis HanedaIncludes a featured act (this week Jesse Brewster at 9pm), chosen from a previous open mic.   Note: For this Event, Bar staff is happy to take your food order from the “Venue Menu”.  415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Fenix Music & Supper Club, 919 Fourth St., San Rafael, 8-10:30pm, $10:  Fenix Band – Pro Blues Jam night, featuring Fernando Aragon, Philip Gallo, Kyle Hixon, Larry Vann, and Michael Warren, with Special Guests.  415-813-5600 reservations & info.

Sweetwater, Doors 7, show 8pm, SOLD OUT: Dark Star Orchestra – Special Acoustic show.  388-3850 for tix or info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30, no cover:  The ever-rotating Terrapin Family Band Bar Show.  Info 415-524-2773.

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Clifford Lamb Piano Trio – music of the “Blue Note” sound. 457-3993 for reservations & info.

Ghiringhelli's Novato, 7-9:30pm, no cover:  Ladies Night with Brad Bann—Seriously Sinatra.  415-878-4977 info & reservations.

Iron Springs Pub, Fairfax, 8pm, no cover:  Matt Eakle Band—flute-fired fusion; Matt is the long-time flutist with the David Grisman Quintet. 415-485-1005 for info & reservations.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 9:30pm, no cover:  Biambu’s Groove Room –.

Tuesday, April 2, 2013

Music Fun Week of April 2, 2013

UPDATES (since Tuesday) in RED
I get knocked down—but I get up again. Way to go!
(Thanks for that sentiment, Chumbawamba.  I am speaking metaphorically.)

Not sure I got all my dancing in for the week:  Wednesday taken with a Toastmasters event, then Thursday some mellow jazz at Trek with the Herb Marshall Group and the lovely Susana Crofton.  Probably made up for a few days’ worth on Friday with Johnny Z and TRENZ and guest Rolando Morales—they really kicked it up a notch.  Carlos & I double-dipped that night, getting over to Peri’s for Soul Satellites and some passionate rockin’ funk!  Thanks Frank & Bonnie & Lloyd & Timm & Ted & Dave!   On Saturday we meant to go to PYC for Mystery Dance with Bonnie Hayes & Friends—but the weather and the lateness kept us local at Hopmonk for some Rock Candy – apparently a local group of police & firefighters who hammed it up (the lead singer thought he was Bret Michaels) and brought along a sold-out entourage. Not a lot going on musically, but amusing to see adoring fans for such a group!  Another Sunday at Unity in Marin for some inspiration; then some relaxation …

Said Goodbye last week to special friend Dee, who's returned to her roots in Santa Barbara.  Missin' you, Dee!! XOXOX  But I know we'll see you again soon--road trip to Santa Barbara in the cards? 

This week?  Dumpstaphunk sounds like something I should experience—at Hopmonk on Wednesday nite!  Friday looks like Zydeco Flames! at Hopmonk—there may be a Sunnbolt First Friday Jam, and we’ll have to miss Pocket Change at the PYC and Key Lime Pie at Seahorse and Purple Haze at George’s …  Saturday we expect to take in The Tickets Band for their “shovel-ready” rock & roll at the Seahorse.  Hope to at least stop by Vasco for The Treble Makers.  Good shows too at George’s (Stephanie Teel) and Fenix (Reckless in Vegas), and Rancho (Stompy Jones).  Sunday?  Maybe we’ll rest? Or just play it by ear, ‘cause there’s a lot going on!  Have a delightful musical week!  ♫♪

Coming up:  I’m performing with the Marin Symphony Chorus in the Brahms’ German Requiem on April 14 (Sun. 3pm) and April 16 (Tues. 7:30pm).  This is one of the things I do in my other life—off the dance floor--and I’d love to have you there to experience this breathtaking piece. Please contact me if you’re interested in discounted tickets. Full prices $29-70:  http://www.marinsymphony.org/music-events-2/60th-season-series-concerts/remembrance-and-renewal/

You can bookmark my website, and check back regularly for UPDATES as the week progresses:  www.ellenjanesmusic.comAnd for fun, take a peek at my PHOTOS and VIDEOS.

Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.

Tuesday, April 2, 2013 
PanamaHotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Swing Fever “Happy Birthday, Billy Holiday”.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]   Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show. 415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 6:30, no cover:  Trivia Night.  8:30pm, no cover:  American Jubilee.  Info 415-524-2773.

Peri’s Bar, Fairfax, 9pm, no cover:  Bedrock—blues/rock, funky/swampy.

Ashkenaz, 1317 San Pablo (at Gilman), Berkeley, 8pm lesson, 8:30 music, $10:  Tri Tip Trio

Sweetwater , doors 7, show 8pm, $15: Nothing listed as of April 1.   388-3850 for info.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013

Music Fun Week of March 26

Breathe … In and Out. Sometimes it’s about keeping it simple.

In the spirit of simplicity, here’s my tribute to this past week, with Carlos by my side.  Thursday another bluesy Pro Jam at Hopmonk with The Blues Defenders & Johnny Rawls; Friday amazing funky get-down music with Cathey Cotton & Elliott’s Evil Plan & Guests & Radical Ron’s Birthday at Peri’s; Saturday a beautiful memorial service for a community member, a bodacious Birthday party for Dave—then on to another fab party at George’s with Pretending & Fleetwood Mask; Sunday at Unity in Marin for inspiration, and Goodwill for some outrageous deals.  Whew.  Simple.

This week’s possibilities include a Toastmasters event on Wednesday; TREK Winery on Thursday for some jazz with Herb Marshall Group; Friday either Soul Satellites or Johnny Z & TRENZ; Saturday some Mystery Dance at PYC, or Rock Candy at Hopmonk; Sunday we’ll just have to see!  Have a delightful musical week!  ♫♪

Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.

Tuesday, March 26, 2013 

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Music Fun Week of March 19, 2013

UPDATES (since Tuesday) in RED  [See Special Offer from George’s below!]
Love touches the people with whom you share your life’s journey.

We are just a few hours away from Springdom!  I trust most of you are as pleased about that as I am ...

And the effort I put into this endeavor (this thing doesn't write itself) is rewarded by your smiles and appreciation!

Laura's 1936 Tea Dress (http://www.lauramaedesigns.com/2013/03/tea-roses.html#comment-form ) did not win this time, but we are so grateful for your lovely comments and support!

This past week Carlos & I were happy to dance at Trek Winery -- first time they’ve hosted a rock band (Factor 11), I think they’ll be back.   We motored to the Steakhouse at Deer Park for the Frank Bohan & Ted O’Connell (of The Treble Makers) show. We also rocked our way to George’s for Evolution, and to Sweetwater for the Moonalice matinee!   Sadly, because as you know there are not enough hours in this time/space continuum, we were not there for the Corte Madera Big Band, nor The Tickets Band at PYC, nor the Prairie Prince Show at George’s.  And missed James Moseley and Zydeco Flames and Revolver and Key Lime Pie … I’ll stop now.

Where we gonna be this week?  I’ve been missing the Hopmonk Open Mic for a few weeks; and will likely head there for the Pro Jam on Thursday.  Looks like Cathey Cotton & Elliott’s Evil Plan will cast their spell on us at Peri’s on Fri. (argh, will miss Danny Click & The Hell Yeahs at Sweetwater). 
Saturday night something special:  Todd at George’s is giving a half-price discount for online sales for my followers: stay tuned for the code. That’s for the Tribute Band show—Fleetwood Mask and Pretending—and should be quite a party!  So much more going on—gotta love it!  ♫♪

Here is the special 50% online offer that Todd sent me—the show + Reserved seating for only $10 (plus small ticket fee)!

Hello Ellen Schulz (ellenjanesmusic.com) fans and Music lovers,
Ellen has supported George’s from day one so I would like to return the favor to her audience.

This coming Saturday, March 23, we have two fabulous Tribute Bands:  
Fleetwood Mask recreates the Fleetwood Mac concert experience with a repertoire spanning the mid-1970s, up to and including Stevie Nicks' solo smash hits.  http://www.fleetwoodmask.com/
Pretending pays tribute to The Pretenders--the English-American rock band formed in 1978 and propelled by Chrissie Hynde.  http://www.pretendingtribute.com/Home.html

Here is a special promotional code just for Ellen Schulz fan base--come on out and party!
Get 50% off your ticket purchase (Reserved only--no VIP nor General) when using the coupon code:  GNC50OFF.  [Copy and paste the code--looks like there's a 0 and a letter O.]  Discount is valid online only and is valid through 5pm Saturday, March 23, 2013.
Coupon may not be combined with any other offer.  Limited time only.  

Thanks, Todd!  And hope many of you will take advantage of this offer and come kick up your heels with us—and help celebrate Dave R’s Birthday!  
Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.
Tuesday, March 19, 2013 -- Happy Birthday, Lorin R!  Happy Birthday, Johnny Z!
Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Swing Fever Happy Birthday Nat King Cole.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]   Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show. 415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Sweetwater , 3:30pm, free:  NBAA Basketball Championships on Big Screen.
Doors 7, show 8pm, $12: Fighting Smokey Joe with Bitch Franklin– pop and reggae rock.   388-3850 for info.

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30pm, no cover:  American Jubilee aka Terrapin Family Band.  Info 415-524-2773.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

Music Fun Week of March 12

UPDATES (since Tuesday) in RED
Yesterday (Tuesday) was an emotionally-draining one for me, and I was in no state of mind to dispense any uplifting message--so I missed my self-imposed deadline to release my 8-day calendar.
However, today was beautiful. I look at the verdant hills outside my home, and wonder how many shades of green there are!  Friends are of human form, but also the flora and fauna with which we share our space.
Here's an easy one:
Worth repeating:  "I get by with a little Help from my Friends"  ♪♫

Thanks for The Music this past week:  Pro Jam with The Blues Defenders & Leah Thysse; Linda Imperial & David Freiberg—all at Hopmonk Novato!  The Tickets Band at PYC; Big River at COM.
We missed way too much—dang!--  The Marin Symphony, Wild Child at George’s, Eldon Brown, Revolver, The Mighty Groove, Frank Bohan, Zydeco Flames--but a body can only be in so many places at one time (!) … or one place so many times …

Big River continues through Sunday March 17 at the College of Marin—an imaginative musical re-telling of Mark Twain’s classic Adventures of Huckleberry Finn.  Friend Phillip Percy Williams (who sings regularly in Marin with his Trio) delivered an outstanding performance, and Musical Director Paul Smith brought the music to life with his small orchestra.  Performances on Fri., Sat. & Sunday. Here’s the info:  http://www.marin.edu/News/press_release/01242013.htm  415-485-9385 for ticket info.

What’s on my plate this week?  Perhaps Corte Madera Big Band Dance, the Frank & Ted Show at Deer Park Steakhouse, TREK Winery for some great wine & rock & roll, George’s for the Prairie Prince Show + Moonalice, as well as Evolution; Record Plant for some Jamie Clark & Cole Tate; The Tickets Band again at PYC; the Frank & Ted Show, and Alex & James at Deer Park; Revolver; Key Lime Pie, The 7th Sons, James Moseley Band at SCC—and one of these days I’ve got to make it back to Fenix!  See what I mean?  Difficult choices … Who knows what pleasures await us in our lovely little county ♫♪

Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.

Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Marin Symphony, 7:30pm (6:30pm pre-concert talk), $29-70:  “Of Heroes and Angels” Axel Strauss performs Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 5 in A Major; also Beethoven’s Eroica Symphony No. 3 in E-flat Major; and Kernis’ Musica Celestis.  Free Wrap Party at Four Points Sheraton.  Buy one ticket, get one free--see website: http://www.marinsymphony.org/friends/  Marin Center Box Office 415-473-6800.

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  James Moseley Quartet – jazz, blues, R&B.  457-3993 for reservations & info.

Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]   Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show. 415-892-6200 reservations & info.

Sweetwater , doors 6, event 7pm, $22-24:  “An Evening on the Child Brain” with neuropsychiatrist Dr. Louann Brizendine and filmmaker Tiffany Shlain. Benefit for The Little School. 388-3850 for info.

19 Broadway, 6-8pm, no cover:  Jeb Brady’s Band.  9:30pm, no cover (2-drink min.): Core Tuesdays with Danny Uzilevsky

Terrapin Crossroads, 8:30pm, no cover:  American Jubilee aka Terrapin Family Band.  Info 415-524-2773.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013

Music Fun Week of March 5, 2013

UPDATES (since Tuesday) in RED
I get by with a little Help from my Friends  ♪♫

Remember to Spring Forward before you go to sleep Saturday night—set your clocks ahead an hour, and welcome to Daylight Savings Time!

Carlos and I did make it as far as Fairfax this past week—but otherwise had a green week out partying!  Wednesday nights at Iron Springs Pub are often a delight—this week we had Rusty Evans and Ring of Fire (along with his son Danny Uzi with some mean guitar, and the fit and fab Bonnie Hofkin on harp!) 
On Thursday we heard Herb Marshall Group with Joan Getz and Mark Peabody for some jazz at our favorite winery: TREK
Friday found us at the monthly SUNNBOLT Jam—a tradition for us, as that is the very first venue where I took Carlos along for some music in February 2012! We planned on staying awhile and then moseying down to the Presidio Yacht Club for some Doc Kraft, but the bands at Sunnbolt (including Rumors) were so good we could not leave.
We stayed local again on Saturday at our fave HOPMONK, for Danny Click and the Hell Yeahs! They totally rocked the full-to-capacity crowd.  Thanks to Don Bassey, Bonnie Hayes, Kevin Hayes, Adrian, as well as  Shana Morrison, and the other awesome guest musicians and dancers!

Hope you too had a great week of music, and there’s so much more to look forward to …

**This week … I’m just guessing! … Wednesdays at Hopmonk always fun with Dennis Haneda’s Open Mic. Thursday we’ll likely be there for the Pro Jam with The Blues Defenders and Leah Thysse— you’re in for a treat if you show.  Also on Thursday, if you’re Fairfax way, stop by Peri’s for Eldon Brown Band for some great boogie-woogie.
Friday maybe Linda Imperial & David Freiberg at Hopmonk, but the Wild Child show at George’s surely tempts!  And what a night for zydeco fans!  There’s Zydeco Flames, Andre Theirry, and Tom Rigney at 3 different venues, same night.  Revolver is also playing both on Fri. and Sat. 
Saturday night I must check on my pals The Tickets Band at PYC with their “Mannequins in Space Tour”.  More tasty treats at George’s (Stephanie Teel) and Sweetwater (Tommy Castro).  The Fenix is also presenting some great shows. If you’re up north, enjoy The Mighty Groove in Cotati!
On Sunday we may get to Big River at COM; there’s also the Marin Symphony concert—maybe we can take in the Tuesday performance.  And we love the Sunday afternoon music at PYC—this week Lonestar Retrobates.  Freeway Frank is at Deer Park Villa; Alex Markels and Jack Prendergast at Ghiringhelli’s—and the list goes on and on.  Where will you be enjoying music?  ♫♪♫♪

The College of Marin production of BIG RIVER opened March 1 and runs through March 17. This is a musical version of Mark Twain’s Adventures of Huckleberry Finn., and involves friends Phillip Percy Williams (starring as Jim the runaway slave), and Paul Smith as Musical Director. Here’s the info:  http://www.marin.edu/News/press_release/01242013.htm. 485-9385. Sounds like Fun!

You can bookmark my website, and check back regularly for UPDATES as the week progresses:  www.ellenjanesmusic.comAnd for fun, take a peek at my PHOTOS and VIDEOS.

Listen to the Music, and Dance (like nobody's watching)!! 
And remember to TIP our wonderful and talented MUSICIANS!  Also please support all the gracious venues that support MUSIC.

Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Hopmonk Novato, Vintage Oaks, [Nothing on calendar for Session Room, but tavern & restaurant open.]   Note: Meals are not served in the Session Room, so reserve a table in the Tavern or Beer Garden before the show. 415-892-6200 reservations & info.

19 Broadway, 9:30pm, no cover (2-drink min.): Core Tuesdays with Danny Uzilevsky

Terrapin Crossroads, 6:30pm, no cover:  Trivia.  8:30pm, no cover:  American Jubilee aka Terrapin Family Band.  Info 415-524-2773.

Panama Hotel, 7-10pm, no cover:  Swing Fever “Romancing the mic” music of Frank Sinatra. 457-3993 for reservations & info.

Ashkenaz, Berkeley, 8 lesson (Cheryl), 8:30 show, $10:  BluesBox Bayou Band

Sweetwater , closed for renovations.  388-3850 for info.