The first “Getting to Know Nina Simone” show will happen this Thursday, April 18th, 2019, 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. at Hermann’s Jazz Club, 753 View Street, in Victoria, B.C. (ignore that their website says 10:30 p.m.) Those that can’t make Thursday night will have another opportunity on Saturday, May 18th, 2019, 2 – 4 p.m., at Church of the Advent, at 510 Mt. View Avenue, in Colwood (just off the Old Island Highway.)
Ms. Simone’s life and career stories have been fascinating and moving. Twenty new songs have been learned, though not all will fit into this evening, and of course, the history of the era and what brought her civil rights’ songs to life. The process has been so moving, that further studies in civil rights are already underway. My being and intentions feel inspired and supported with a bubbling awareness.
For this first show, working with Ashley Wey, pianist, Louis Rudner, bassist, and Kelby MacNayr, drummer, has been a delightful experience. They are all remarkably versatile and talented musicians that will bring their good vibes to the stage on Thursday night. Ashley has been instrumental in managing Hermann’s Jazz Club over the last half year or so, while also working at the Victoria Jazz Society. Her husband Louis, has worked tirelessly on the charts for this, and so to the both of them, I’m very grateful.
For the May show, the opportunity to work with Order of Canada winning Phil Dwyer on piano, with Louis and Kelby again, is exciting. With great acoustics in the Colwood church, we’ll be doing live recording there. Details to follow! With thanks to the support of friends, family and fans, mentorship from several spectacular musicians and human beings, we’ll see you Thursday night. 🙂