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Gualala Arts
Promoting public interest and participation in the arts since 1961.
Archive of past events: 2004 through 2014
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Ninth Annual
Whale & Jazz Festival
April, 2011
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2011 Events -
Map -
Tickets -
About W&J -
Sponsors -
Volunteers -
Staff -
Past Festivals
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Experience the nation's only Whale & Jazz Festival -
celebrating an entire month of great jazz, great food, adventure, romance, family fun
and learning about the majestic whales in migration
on the Northern California coast of Sonoma and Mendocino Counties.
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St. Orres & Jazz
Friday, April 1, 6:00 & 8:00 p.m. seatings
St. Orres fine dining & lodging, Gualala
Gorgeous interweaving on jazz standards with consistently uplifting interpretations, performed by the outstanding Susan Sutton, keyboard and Terry Simcik, guitar. Regular 3-course dining room menu, award-winning wine cellar in St. Orres' spectacular, multi-story, domed dining room. Dining reservations recommended. (707) 884-3335
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Gualala Arts Festival Concert
Saturday, April 2, 7:30 p.m.
Gualala Arts Center
"Spanning the Decades" ...from Frank Jackson to Jeff Oster & from Monk to Vuk to Jekabson.
Primo vocalists and scat masters, Jackson and Oster, present "The Art of Scat" in addition to beloved standards. The concert includes an instrumental Thelonious Monk tribute, Vuckovich's Blue Balkan compositions and the concert premier of "SF Giants, We Do Love Them All," Erik Jekabson's brilliant originals, including his brand new salute to our coast and even more surprises! Featuring master musicians Erik Jekabson, trumpet; Christian Tamburr, vibes; Evan Price, violin; Larry Vuckovich, piano; Jeff Chambers, upright bass and Chuck McPherson, drums. Tickets: $28 advance, $5 more day of event. No-host bar, appetizer buffet.
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Java & Jazz
Sunday, April 3, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.
Blue Canoe Coffee & Tea, Anchor Bay
Chris Doering Combo: Doering, guitar, Karl Young, shakuhachi flute and Keith Abrams, bass guitar, plus other excellent musicians. The music is melodic and intriguing and the richly dynamic and truly moving vocals of Jan Harris as special guest will punctuate the afternoon. Mellow jazz to enjoy over fine coffees and teas, mochas and milkshakes and Franny's famous pastries. (707) 884-1800
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Jazz Film
Monday, April 4, 7:00 p.m.
Arena Theater, Point Arena
Let's Get Lost (1988 - 120 min.) This documentary about jazz trumpeter / singer Chet Baker intercuts footage from the 1950s, when he was part of West Coast Cool, and from his last years. We see the young Baker, he of the beautiful face, in California and in Italy, where he appeared in at least one movie and at least one jail cell (for drug possession). And, we see the aged Baker, detached, indifferent, his face a ruin. Includes interviews with his children and ex-wife, women companions, and musicians. Film Club members free; non-members $8.
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A Whale of an Evening!
Wednesday, April 6, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Gualala Arts Center
View whale-related art by students from Pacific Community Charter Schools and Whale & Jazz sculptures, Bubba Gray and the Blowholes, by Colvin Pitts. At 7:00 p.m., Fred Andrews will host a slide-lecture on the annual gray whale migration, illustrated with whale baleen and bone, followed by the film "For the Whales." Lecture and film are age appropriate for students through adults. Coffee, tea and light refreshments. $5 suggested donation.
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Bones & Jazz
Friday, April 8, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Bones Roadhouse, Gualala
The solid and soulful musicianship of the Keith Abrams Groove Factor, featuring Paul Mueller, tenor sax; Chris Doering, guitar; Gabe Yanez, drums; Abrams on bass guitar and more. Enjoy real Texas wood-fired barbecue, full bar, fine wines and microbrews. No cover charge; reservations recommended. (707) 884-1188
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Romance & Jazz
Saturday, April 9, 5:00 p.m.
Whale Watch Inn, Anchor Bay
Bay Area vocalist, Serafina Brown, crafts deeply beautiful interpretations of both familiar standards and some lesser-known songs, consistently displaying an acute reverence for melody. Accompanied by Rob Ellis, keyboard and Steve Webber, acoustic bass. Enjoy international gourmet buffet and wine tasting by Navarro Winery at sunset overlooking the sea. $40 prix fixe includes jazz entertainment. Limited seating; reservations required. (800) 942-5342
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Elk & Jazz
Sunday, April 10, 4:30 - 7:30 p.m.
Bridget Dolan's Pub, Elk
The simpatico guitar duo of Terry Simcik and Chris Doering interpret jazz classics and standards lovingly and delicately with great taste. Coastal, casual and comfort cuisine. Regular menu, excellent selection of local microbrews and wines. No cover charge; Dining reservations recommended. (707) 877-1820
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Jazz Film
Monday, April 11, 7:00 p.m.
Arena Theater, Point Arena
Tango (1998, 115 min.) Written & directed by Carlos Saura. Nominated for both Oscar & Golden Globe awards, this visually stunning film set in Buenos Aries, tells the story of a director's quest to make the ultimate tango film. It deals with love affairs, musician and dancer freedom of expression and creative conflicts with investors who oppose a scene recreating Argentina's brutal years of political suppression and citizen "disappearances." Tango sets the mood for the upcoming Trio Garufa Arena Theater Festival Concert (April 23, below). Film Club members free; non-members $8.
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History & Jazz
Friday, April 15, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Stewarts Point Store Dance Hall
Tom B's Wailin' Jazzers. Traditional New Orleans jazz at its best in a perfect setting of the era. Tom Barnebey, cornet & trombone; Robert Young, bass saxophone & other reeds; Scott Anthony, guitar & banjo. Full bar, gourmet appetizers, small plates and desserts. No cover charge. Limited seating. (707) 785-2406
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Chowder & Jazz
Saturday, April 16, 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
Gualala Arts Center
Free concert of traditional New Orleans jazz by Barnebey's Hot Four, returning again by popular demand, accompanying the Annual Chowder Challenge ($20 for 15 tasting tickets and commemorative glass). Free admission for music only.
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Arena Cove & Jazz
Sunday, April 17, 6:30 - 9:00 p.m.
Pier Chowder House & Tap Room
Wharf Building, Arena Cove, Point Arena
The Greg D'Augelli - Terry Rodriguez Ensemble; D'Augelli, tenor sax, flute &
acoustic bass; Rodriguez, keyboard. Swinging and intricate acoustic jazz
sounds played by these top-rated musicians. Great seafood and more
overlooking the Arena Cove. Special menu at regular prices. Full bar,
domestic, imported and microbrew beers. Dining reservations recommended. (707) 882-3400
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Arena Monday & Jazz
Monday, April 18, 8:00 p.m.
Arena Theater, Point Arena
Cloudfire world music dance concert. New and unique rhythmic grooves drawing from jazz, tribal, and funk influences.
Gretchen Barton (oud, dulcimer, bansuri flute),
Janet DeBar (didjeridu),
Harrison Goldberg (saxophones),
Dave Jordan (bass guitar) and
Leon Schneiderman
(drums, metallophone). This event is part of the Arena Theater's Third
Monday Music Series featuring local musicians; dance floor open. Adults $5; students $2;
children 13 and under free. (707) 882-3456
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Poetry & Jazz
Thursday, April 21, 7:00 p.m.
215 Main, Point Arena
"Northern California Voices" ...Improvisational jazz by Harrison Goldberg, multi-reeds; Chris Doering, guitar; Keith Abrams, bass guitar; Chris Campbell, drums, accompany Northern California poets: Janet DeBar, Blake More, Amanda Woodward, Richard Di Grazia, Fred Adler, Cheri Ause and Steven "Kush" Kusner.
215 Main is a new wine and beer bar with cabaret ambiance, located in the heart of downtown Point Arena on Main Street / Highway 1. $5 donation (or more) is requested at the door with a one-drink minimum.
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Sunset & Jazz
Friday, April 22, 5:30 & 8:00 p.m. seatings
Sea Ranch Lodge
Ned Ripple and Dennis Fortin, superb guitarists, performing as "On The Air," playing entrancing European gypsy jazz and joyous Fats Waller swing. Impressive sunset views, special menu, à la carte selections, award-winning wines and full bar; dining reservations recommended. (707) 785-2371
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Arena Theater Festival Concert
Saturday, April 23, 8:00 p.m.
Arena Theater, Point Arena
"Tango with Trio Garufa and Friends"
The impeccable Trio Garufa plus fine guest musicians Mayumi Urgino, violin and Ara Anderson, trumpet.
Globally acclaimed international ensemble performing authentic Argentine Tango with integrity. Music from the Golden Era ('30s thru '50s), folkloric music and modern Astor Piazzolla tangos are featured. Exotic, virtuosic and extremely danceable. Sascha Jacobsen (Russia), acoustic bass; Guillermo García (Argentina), guitar; and Adrian Jost (Switzerland), bandoneón & bayan. Bar, snack stand and dance floor open. Tickets: $28 online & at local vendors ($3 off for Arena Theater members at vendors only); $30 at the door.
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Ocean & Jazz
Sunday, April 24, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Top of the Cliff, Gualala
The Ara & Adrian Potpourri, presents both classic and original European-tinged melodic collaborations, interpreted by stellar musicians Ara Anderson, trumpet, and Adrian Jost, bandoneón & bayan (small & large push-button accordions). Unique, enchanting and atmospheric musique. Special Easter menu plus regular dinner and bar menu, full bar. Dining reservations recommended; No cover charge. (707) 884-1539
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Vistas & Jazz
Friday, April 29, 7:00 - 10:00 p.m.
Timber Cove Inn
Dgiin, led by the exciting vocal sister and brother team of Mimi and Gabriel Pirard, perform original Parisian songs with a jazz flavor and unique style. The group brings together various cultures and influences with an irresistible beat. Mimi's extraordinary voice is reminiscent of a young and fresh Edith Piaf. Special menu and à la carte selections available from Alexander's Restaurant. Full bar, no cover charge; dining reservations recommended. (707) 847-3231
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Wine & Jazz
Saturday, April 30, 1:00 - 4:00 p.m.
Annapolis Winery
The Sang Matiz trio plays a spirited blend of Latin and Flamenco sounds with beautiful vocalizations. Its seasoned and worldly young male and female musicians hail from Peru, Chile, Germany and the USA, creating a true "matiz" (harmonious mixture) of danceable, uplifting global music. Yuri, vocals, guitar and composer; Eddie, lead guitar; Tony, congas, bongos and percussion. Celebrate an early Cinco de Mayo in the blossoming orchard and flower-edged tasting room patio and enjoy the views, wines and great Latin Jazz! Bring a picnic to enjoy under the trees. Fine Annapolis wines available for purchase; light refreshments available. Donation $5 to $25. (707) 886-5460
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Phoenix & Jazz
Saturday, April 30, 6:00 p.m.
Phoenix Restaurant, Point Arena
Polished guitarist, 17-year-old Kai Devitt-Lee is following in the footsteps of the other now famous Santa Rosa guitarist, young Julian Lage. Devitt-Lee will perform solo Flamenco and will be joined by Chris Doering, guitar and Keith Abrams, bass guitar on lilting jazz flights of fancy. Regular menu, beer & wine bar; dining reservations recommended. (707) 882-1619
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Throughout the Festival
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Whale Watching
Open daily, 10:00 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
Point Arena Lighthouse
Set in one of the most spectacular, yet peaceful, surroundings on the northern California coast, the Point Arena Lighthouse and surrounding grounds are one of the best places to view whales on the Mendonoma coast.
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Studio 391
Friday - Monday, 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Cypress Village Gallery District, Gualala
Enjoy fine art and a customized jazz playlist while browsing a unique selection of glass blown seashells and glass kelp, kiln-formed glass nests and ceramic urchin bowls. Highlights include the handcrafted decoupage 'ocean' floor featuring life under the sea, the biggest work of art in the gallery. And don't miss the opportunity to whale watch from the Whale Watching Deck under the clock tower, directly above the gallery.
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Past Festivals
Past Festivals
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"Gualala and Point Arena are truly best-kept secrets for many travelers in Mendocino County," said Hal Wagenet, Chair of
Visit Mendocino County,
the travel tourism office.
"A gorgeous coast, great hospitality, and for a musician like me the jazz is simply fantastic."
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Venue Map
2011 Festival Sponsor
Rams Head
Realty & Rentals
Jazz Appreciation Month
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The Gualala Arts Center, located at 46501 Old State Highway in Gualala, CA,
is open weekdays 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., and weekends from noon to 4:00 p.m.
Please call (707) 884-1138 for more information, or email
info@gualalaarts.org.
Join us in celebrating the 50th Anniversary of Gualala Arts, 1961 - 2011
Serving the coastal communities of northern Sonoma & southern Mendocino Counties.
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