We're winding down here at Wolf Trap in anticipation of our upcoming Holiday break, but before we all divert across the country to spend time with friends and family, we put together this little best-of collection pulled from a year's worth of blogging. End of year is always a popular time for best-of lists, so we figured we'd join the party. Plus we're especially proud of our blogging output this year and think a little show-and-tell is in order!
10) Paul Anka & Puppy Love - just good old-fashioned frivolity. Who doesn't like looking at pictures of dogs in amusing situations and wearing zany outfits? There is an intrinsic tie to Wolf Trap here I promise.
9) Happy Anniversary! - an amazing retrospective in honor of our 40th anniversary.
8) Alison Krauss & Union Station: The Wolf Trap Review - one of the finer performances at Wolf Trap this year.
7) Instant Opera at Wolf Trap = Instant Laughs - a wonderful guest post from a leading member of Wolf Trap's Club 66 on the innovation and hilarity behind "Instant Opera."
6) How to Picnic at Wolf Trap: Dips and Sangria - sage advice on how to picnic at Wolf Trap.
5) An Artistic Adventure Series - An exclusive glimpse inside the making of Wolf Trap's upcoming Face of America: Spirit of South Florida. We're just months away from the seventh installment of this epic, multimedia presentation celebrating the spirit and history of South Florida National Parks.
4) A Lesson in Lawn Rushing - We don't mess around with our lawn rushing and we recommend you don't either. Here's your chance to learn from the best.
3) Children's Theatre-in-the-Woods 2011 is Underway! - this entry boasts one of the best videos made all year. Thanks to Irene Rojas for her great work on this.
2) How Three Interns Spent their Summer Vacation - demonstrates the excellence of the nationally ranked Wolf Trap Internship Program.
1) Our Brand New Three Minutes with the Artist Series - Spend three minutes with Battlefield Band, Sonny Landreth and The Ahn Trio. The fun we had making these videos and the candidness of each artist's response were more than enough to make this our favorite post(s) of the year.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Monday, December 19, 2011
Wolf Trap 40th Anniversary Highlights
With our 40th Anniversary year coming to a close, we decided to ask some the Wolf Trap staff about their anniversary highlights. This is what they had to share!
Matt Martz, Assistant, Communication and Marketing
My favorite moment had to be attending the Wolf Trap Ball for the first time. I wasn’t able to attend in 2010, but what better way to attend than to start with one that celebrates the last 40 years of Wolf Trap’s rich history? It was great to see so many people who wanted to be involved in Wolf Trap’s mission and vision, not just to have a good time (which are a dime a dozen these days in D.C.). The decorations, food, drinks, and dancing were all phenomenal as well, with no detail overlooked. Oh, and getting a quarter page picture in The Washington Post Sunday Style section didn’t hurt either.
Cate Padgett, Program Assistant, Education Outreach
Most people would consider themselves lucky if at some point in their life, they met one of their idols. Through an amazing summer internship at Wolf Trap, I was fortunate enough to meet mine! Mr. Cosby and I first met the summer of 2009 during my internship in the Program & Production department here at Wolf Trap. Our first encounter involved hotel security, a duffel bag full of sandwiches, and a lot of laughs.
I had the pleasure of meeting him again this summer. As I was walking to see his show with my parents and boyfriend, it was by fate that my supervisor from my previous internship saw me and called me backstage. I left my parents and boyfriend standing outside waiting for me while I chatted it up with Mr. Cosby. He proceeded to make me feel horrible about ditching them and asked them to come in and join us. After a few “zerberts” and wisecracks at my dad, it was time to head to the lawn for a wonderful night spent under the stars with good company and great entertainment.
Danielle Rohar, Program Assistant, Institute
Professionally, 2011 had some major highlights for me, but the one thing I will remember from Wolf Trap’s 40th year is finally seeing my middle school idol perform. And no, it wasn’t Dolly Parton, or Aretha Franklin, or even k.d. lang (of course, all were phenomenal!). I had been waiting 12 years to see Michelle Branch and almost fell off my chair in excitement when I saw that she would be playing with the Goo Goo Dolls, another of my ‘90’s favorites. I have no shame, and maybe a little pride, in admitting that I still knew all the lyrics to those songs that got me through the tween years!
Stefanie Hranek, Accounting Manager
My boyfriend, Scott, and I attended 20+ shows this summer. The diversity of shows Wolf Trap offers allowed us to take a chance on some that we probably never would have gone to otherwise. Some were right up our alley, while others were new but fun experiences. We braved the rain, horrid heat, and the traffic to sit on the lawn for all kinds of different performers. The jazz of Swamp Romp (or “Swamp Thing”, as Scott calls it), the dance-in-your-seat songs of MAMMA MIA!, and Motown hits of the The Temptations & The Four Tops were just a few from the long list of Wolf Trap memories made this summer. We look forward to repeating our “performance” in the 41st season!
Jennifer Schnizler, Chelsea Musante, Juliet Prillaman, Jackie Dolan
Jackie Dolan, Program Coordinator, Special Events
In one word, this summer was a whirlwind. My first summer as a full-time Wolf Trap staffer was one filled with working events, attending concerts, learning lessons, and spending time with great people. The highlight of my summer happened when it came to a close with the last Chairman’s Dinner of the season on August 30th.
Although the evening started off with a few hurdles, the event was a success. All of the elements came together - enthusiastic guests, smooth dinner service, a wonderful program by the Face of America – Spirit of South Florida choreographer, David Parsons, and a very important component considering the characteristic thick humid air of this summer… beautiful weather!
To top the night off, I went to enjoy the Lyle Lovett performance at the Filene Center with family and friends after the event. Growing up, tunes like “That’s Right (You’re Not From Texas)” and “She’s No Lady” were frequently played on full volume throughout the house by my Step-father, so it was great to finally hear them live. On the lawn under the stars, I enjoyed a glass of red wine and listened to the country, folk, jazz, and blues styling’s of Lyle Lovett and his [amazing] Large Band, and reflected on what a crazy, and wonderful, summer I had.
Melissa Chotiner, Director, Public Relations
Taking my daughters to see what they consider their first REAL concert featuring Miranda Cosgrove this summer at Wolf Trap was definitely a highlight for me. You can see they enjoyed it just as much as I did from their reviews here.
Another great thrill was meeting Marvin Hamlisch. For Wolf Trap’s 40th anniversary I had the privilege of coordinating on-camera interviews with some big name artists who have become part of the Wolf Trap family, so to speak, for a video we showed at the annual Wolf Trap Ball. Of course I was a little nervous before each one --not sure about the mood or personality of each artist. Mr. Hamlisch came in and greeted me nonchalantly --no handlers, no tour managers, no reps --just me, Marvin, the camera crew and one piano in the Center for Ed lecture hall. Mr. Hamlisch spent at least 30 minutes if not longer sharing his thoughts on Wolf Trap, followed by banging out a few pieces on the piano. You can catch some of the interview in the Happy Anniversary video here.
Matt Martz, Assistant, Communication and Marketing
My favorite moment had to be attending the Wolf Trap Ball for the first time. I wasn’t able to attend in 2010, but what better way to attend than to start with one that celebrates the last 40 years of Wolf Trap’s rich history? It was great to see so many people who wanted to be involved in Wolf Trap’s mission and vision, not just to have a good time (which are a dime a dozen these days in D.C.). The decorations, food, drinks, and dancing were all phenomenal as well, with no detail overlooked. Oh, and getting a quarter page picture in The Washington Post Sunday Style section didn’t hurt either.
Cate Padgett, Program Assistant, Education Outreach
Most people would consider themselves lucky if at some point in their life, they met one of their idols. Through an amazing summer internship at Wolf Trap, I was fortunate enough to meet mine! Mr. Cosby and I first met the summer of 2009 during my internship in the Program & Production department here at Wolf Trap. Our first encounter involved hotel security, a duffel bag full of sandwiches, and a lot of laughs.
I had the pleasure of meeting him again this summer. As I was walking to see his show with my parents and boyfriend, it was by fate that my supervisor from my previous internship saw me and called me backstage. I left my parents and boyfriend standing outside waiting for me while I chatted it up with Mr. Cosby. He proceeded to make me feel horrible about ditching them and asked them to come in and join us. After a few “zerberts” and wisecracks at my dad, it was time to head to the lawn for a wonderful night spent under the stars with good company and great entertainment.
Danielle Rohar, Program Assistant, Institute
Professionally, 2011 had some major highlights for me, but the one thing I will remember from Wolf Trap’s 40th year is finally seeing my middle school idol perform. And no, it wasn’t Dolly Parton, or Aretha Franklin, or even k.d. lang (of course, all were phenomenal!). I had been waiting 12 years to see Michelle Branch and almost fell off my chair in excitement when I saw that she would be playing with the Goo Goo Dolls, another of my ‘90’s favorites. I have no shame, and maybe a little pride, in admitting that I still knew all the lyrics to those songs that got me through the tween years!
Stefanie Hranek, Accounting Manager
My boyfriend, Scott, and I attended 20+ shows this summer. The diversity of shows Wolf Trap offers allowed us to take a chance on some that we probably never would have gone to otherwise. Some were right up our alley, while others were new but fun experiences. We braved the rain, horrid heat, and the traffic to sit on the lawn for all kinds of different performers. The jazz of Swamp Romp (or “Swamp Thing”, as Scott calls it), the dance-in-your-seat songs of MAMMA MIA!, and Motown hits of the The Temptations & The Four Tops were just a few from the long list of Wolf Trap memories made this summer. We look forward to repeating our “performance” in the 41st season!
Jennifer Schnizler, Chelsea Musante, Juliet Prillaman, Jackie DolanJackie Dolan, Program Coordinator, Special Events
In one word, this summer was a whirlwind. My first summer as a full-time Wolf Trap staffer was one filled with working events, attending concerts, learning lessons, and spending time with great people. The highlight of my summer happened when it came to a close with the last Chairman’s Dinner of the season on August 30th.
Although the evening started off with a few hurdles, the event was a success. All of the elements came together - enthusiastic guests, smooth dinner service, a wonderful program by the Face of America – Spirit of South Florida choreographer, David Parsons, and a very important component considering the characteristic thick humid air of this summer… beautiful weather!
To top the night off, I went to enjoy the Lyle Lovett performance at the Filene Center with family and friends after the event. Growing up, tunes like “That’s Right (You’re Not From Texas)” and “She’s No Lady” were frequently played on full volume throughout the house by my Step-father, so it was great to finally hear them live. On the lawn under the stars, I enjoyed a glass of red wine and listened to the country, folk, jazz, and blues styling’s of Lyle Lovett and his [amazing] Large Band, and reflected on what a crazy, and wonderful, summer I had.
Melissa Chotiner, Director, Public Relations
Taking my daughters to see what they consider their first REAL concert featuring Miranda Cosgrove this summer at Wolf Trap was definitely a highlight for me. You can see they enjoyed it just as much as I did from their reviews here.
Another great thrill was meeting Marvin Hamlisch. For Wolf Trap’s 40th anniversary I had the privilege of coordinating on-camera interviews with some big name artists who have become part of the Wolf Trap family, so to speak, for a video we showed at the annual Wolf Trap Ball. Of course I was a little nervous before each one --not sure about the mood or personality of each artist. Mr. Hamlisch came in and greeted me nonchalantly --no handlers, no tour managers, no reps --just me, Marvin, the camera crew and one piano in the Center for Ed lecture hall. Mr. Hamlisch spent at least 30 minutes if not longer sharing his thoughts on Wolf Trap, followed by banging out a few pieces on the piano. You can catch some of the interview in the Happy Anniversary video here.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Best of 2011: Part 5
This post is from Lee Anne Myslewski, Administrative Director, Wolf Trap Opera and Classical Programming.
Best Show at Wolf Trap
Firstly, let me say that this is a wholly unfair question, as we have such a breadth of genres and performers that come through our two venues…. it’s like going to the grocery store on an empty stomach and only being able to pick one thing! (Which we all know never works out…)
So my Best Show goes to two very different groups:
The Wolf Trap Opera Alumni Concert at the Filene Center was a special evening for me in many ways. To meet such a wonderful, warm group of people who counted Wolf Trap as crucial to their artistic development was an event in and of itself. But knowing that they had donated their services? Well, it made the experience that much richer, that much more meaningful. Additionally, the fact that we were in rehearsal when a 5.8 earthquake rattled through Northern Virginia just reinforces my opinion that it was an earth-shaking (get it?) occasion. Some of the finest music-making I've heard in my musical life was on that stage, that night. (And I wasn't alone in feeling that it was a special evening - The Washington Post's Anne Midgette named it one of her top 5 performances of the year!)
The other contender? Earth Wind and Fire. It was a show that I attended with family and friends, and we had a blast! We sang, we laughed, we may have shook our booties a little bit…Those guys have a great, high-powered show, full of songs that I recognized (am I dating myself? Maybe…), and others that I knew but never attributed to EWF. And I loved seeing two generations on the stage together!
Best Show Somewhere Other than Wolf Trap
Fidelio, at Houston Grand Opera. This house produces some of the most consistently stunning operatic work in the nation, and it's teeming with former Trappers. (Coincidence? I’m not sure…) I hadn't ever seen this piece before, Beethoven's only opera, but it was playing when we swung through Houston on the audition tour this fall. After having heard hundreds of arias and feeling, let's be honest, a tiny bit jaded about all things operatic, this powerful paean to true love and fidelity renewed my love for the art form. At the beginning of the second act, Florestan (played by WTOC Alum Simon O'Neill, last seen at the FC in the 2007 production of Carmen with the National Symphony) is chained in a dungeon, singing of his faith in his beloved. The set was dark, and the most beautiful, anguished, hopeful sound came spinning out of the blackness…and just grew until in enveloped the entire audience. (Even without amps, Simon goes to 11.)
Best Recording/Release of the Year
I'm a singer-songwriter junkie and have been listening to Gabriel Kahane's Where are the Arms almost non-stop for several weeks. While he comes from a classical home (Dad Jeffrey is a conductor/composer/pianist, and Steve Blier has programmed some of Gabriel's art songs on his recital series at The Barns.), his music is accessible and his lyrics are heartbreaking. For an introspective start, try “Merritt Parkway” or “Icebox”.
What I'm looking forward to in 2012
In The Barns, violinist Rachel Barton Pine. She's an amazingly accomplished violinist, but what you probably didn't know is that she also plays violin in a heavy metal band called Earthen Grave. I don't know if she'll pull any of the metal out for her Discovery Series show, but just knowing that she has varied musical interests makes me want to hear her.
And I have to mention the vocal concert featuring Opera Company Alums and our own Kim Pensinger Witman – their musical responses to Terre Jones’ photographs from his upcoming book America’s National Parks: Through the Artist’s Lens will be a fantastic night of music and stunning visuals. Outside of the Barns, I’m excited to see Ryan Adams (seems to be a popular choice among my colleagues!), The Black Keys, and a vocal concert programmed around the Dallas Museum of Art's Gaultier's exhibit.
Best Show at Wolf Trap
Firstly, let me say that this is a wholly unfair question, as we have such a breadth of genres and performers that come through our two venues…. it’s like going to the grocery store on an empty stomach and only being able to pick one thing! (Which we all know never works out…)
So my Best Show goes to two very different groups:
The Wolf Trap Opera Alumni Concert at the Filene Center was a special evening for me in many ways. To meet such a wonderful, warm group of people who counted Wolf Trap as crucial to their artistic development was an event in and of itself. But knowing that they had donated their services? Well, it made the experience that much richer, that much more meaningful. Additionally, the fact that we were in rehearsal when a 5.8 earthquake rattled through Northern Virginia just reinforces my opinion that it was an earth-shaking (get it?) occasion. Some of the finest music-making I've heard in my musical life was on that stage, that night. (And I wasn't alone in feeling that it was a special evening - The Washington Post's Anne Midgette named it one of her top 5 performances of the year!)
The other contender? Earth Wind and Fire. It was a show that I attended with family and friends, and we had a blast! We sang, we laughed, we may have shook our booties a little bit…Those guys have a great, high-powered show, full of songs that I recognized (am I dating myself? Maybe…), and others that I knew but never attributed to EWF. And I loved seeing two generations on the stage together!
Best Show Somewhere Other than Wolf Trap
Fidelio, at Houston Grand Opera. This house produces some of the most consistently stunning operatic work in the nation, and it's teeming with former Trappers. (Coincidence? I’m not sure…) I hadn't ever seen this piece before, Beethoven's only opera, but it was playing when we swung through Houston on the audition tour this fall. After having heard hundreds of arias and feeling, let's be honest, a tiny bit jaded about all things operatic, this powerful paean to true love and fidelity renewed my love for the art form. At the beginning of the second act, Florestan (played by WTOC Alum Simon O'Neill, last seen at the FC in the 2007 production of Carmen with the National Symphony) is chained in a dungeon, singing of his faith in his beloved. The set was dark, and the most beautiful, anguished, hopeful sound came spinning out of the blackness…and just grew until in enveloped the entire audience. (Even without amps, Simon goes to 11.)
Best Recording/Release of the Year
I'm a singer-songwriter junkie and have been listening to Gabriel Kahane's Where are the Arms almost non-stop for several weeks. While he comes from a classical home (Dad Jeffrey is a conductor/composer/pianist, and Steve Blier has programmed some of Gabriel's art songs on his recital series at The Barns.), his music is accessible and his lyrics are heartbreaking. For an introspective start, try “Merritt Parkway” or “Icebox”.
What I'm looking forward to in 2012
In The Barns, violinist Rachel Barton Pine. She's an amazingly accomplished violinist, but what you probably didn't know is that she also plays violin in a heavy metal band called Earthen Grave. I don't know if she'll pull any of the metal out for her Discovery Series show, but just knowing that she has varied musical interests makes me want to hear her.
And I have to mention the vocal concert featuring Opera Company Alums and our own Kim Pensinger Witman – their musical responses to Terre Jones’ photographs from his upcoming book America’s National Parks: Through the Artist’s Lens will be a fantastic night of music and stunning visuals. Outside of the Barns, I’m excited to see Ryan Adams (seems to be a popular choice among my colleagues!), The Black Keys, and a vocal concert programmed around the Dallas Museum of Art's Gaultier's exhibit.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Best of 2011: Part 4
Favorite show at Wolf Trap:
It's a total no-brainer for me given my life-long love affair with Bela Fleck & The Flecktones. My hands down fave was Béla and the tones with special guests Carolina Chocolate Drops and Abigail Washburn & the Village in July. Many speculated that this would be the final tour with the Flecktones so to miss this performance would have been unforgivable. It was especially gratifying to experience the "original Flecktones" with Fleck choosing to showcase original member Howard Levy on the piano and harmonica. His contributions are distinctly different from horn wizard Jeff Coffin, who was left off this tour likely because of much needed down time after a long couple of years on the road as a touring member of the Dave Matthews Band. It was unbelievably nostalgic to hear Flecktone songs as they were originally recorded with Howard Levy. Having seen these guys in a live setting multiple times throughout the U.S., I've heard multiple versions of Flecktone classics, "Sinister Minister," "Sunset Road," and "The Yee-Haw Factor," but never in their true, original form. I'm supremely glad I knocked this one off my concert bucket list.
Favorite Show Not at Wolf Trap:
Another no-brainer...man this is easy!
My Morning Jacket with Neko Case as support completely blew the roof off of Merriweather Post Pavilion. I've seen "The Jacket" a few times prior, including a close 2nd performance at the same venue in 2010, but on the strength of their new record "Circuital," this show was totally bananas. In my opinion they are jousting with Wilco as the best American rock band both in terms of their variety of musical output and monetary value for their shows. They explode through the ceiling (watch this whole clip if you have time) with epic jaw-draw droppers "The Way that he Sings," "One Big Holiday," or "Magheeta," but also counter with sing-a-long folk anthems "Golden," and "Wonderful." Only kicker to an MMJ show, you have to like it loud. And I do.
Favorite Recording/Release of the Year:
This is certainly tricky as I thought 2011 was a particularly strong year for new music, but I'm going to go with Civilian from Wye Oak. Their performance at The Black Cat was also up there as one of my favorite shows of the year. I can't remember the last time I went to a show and didn't talk the entire time. Wye Oak is a little under the radar but made a serious splash in 2011 with this record which made quite a few prominent "Best of 2011" lists. The band is comprised of a male/female duo from Baltimore who feature a seemingly simple sound with a trio of electric guitar, drums and digital effects, but it's orchestrated and mixed beautifully to the point where the songs actually come across as highly intricate. Jenn Wasner's vocals are hauntingly beautiful and draw you into a very indefinable insular listening experience that succeeds in blocking out all other worldly distractions. It's a total treasure - one that demands your attention immediately.
What I'm looking forward to in 2012:
I probably stream 2-3 hours worth of music from Spotify each day and I've noticed lately that not a lot of new records I want to check out are available. My guess is that certain bands find they're not making enough cash from streaming services so are choosing to withhold newer releases. Since Spotify is such a big part of my life, I'm really looking forward to some of the kinks being worked out between bands who don't favor streaming services for whatever reason. Blitzen Trapper and The Black Keys, I'm talking to you. I'm also looking forward to getting back to a festival after a hiatus in 2010. I'm thinking Austin City Limits.
It's a total no-brainer for me given my life-long love affair with Bela Fleck & The Flecktones. My hands down fave was Béla and the tones with special guests Carolina Chocolate Drops and Abigail Washburn & the Village in July. Many speculated that this would be the final tour with the Flecktones so to miss this performance would have been unforgivable. It was especially gratifying to experience the "original Flecktones" with Fleck choosing to showcase original member Howard Levy on the piano and harmonica. His contributions are distinctly different from horn wizard Jeff Coffin, who was left off this tour likely because of much needed down time after a long couple of years on the road as a touring member of the Dave Matthews Band. It was unbelievably nostalgic to hear Flecktone songs as they were originally recorded with Howard Levy. Having seen these guys in a live setting multiple times throughout the U.S., I've heard multiple versions of Flecktone classics, "Sinister Minister," "Sunset Road," and "The Yee-Haw Factor," but never in their true, original form. I'm supremely glad I knocked this one off my concert bucket list.
Favorite Show Not at Wolf Trap:
Another no-brainer...man this is easy!
My Morning Jacket with Neko Case as support completely blew the roof off of Merriweather Post Pavilion. I've seen "The Jacket" a few times prior, including a close 2nd performance at the same venue in 2010, but on the strength of their new record "Circuital," this show was totally bananas. In my opinion they are jousting with Wilco as the best American rock band both in terms of their variety of musical output and monetary value for their shows. They explode through the ceiling (watch this whole clip if you have time) with epic jaw-draw droppers "The Way that he Sings," "One Big Holiday," or "Magheeta," but also counter with sing-a-long folk anthems "Golden," and "Wonderful." Only kicker to an MMJ show, you have to like it loud. And I do.
Favorite Recording/Release of the Year:
This is certainly tricky as I thought 2011 was a particularly strong year for new music, but I'm going to go with Civilian from Wye Oak. Their performance at The Black Cat was also up there as one of my favorite shows of the year. I can't remember the last time I went to a show and didn't talk the entire time. Wye Oak is a little under the radar but made a serious splash in 2011 with this record which made quite a few prominent "Best of 2011" lists. The band is comprised of a male/female duo from Baltimore who feature a seemingly simple sound with a trio of electric guitar, drums and digital effects, but it's orchestrated and mixed beautifully to the point where the songs actually come across as highly intricate. Jenn Wasner's vocals are hauntingly beautiful and draw you into a very indefinable insular listening experience that succeeds in blocking out all other worldly distractions. It's a total treasure - one that demands your attention immediately.
What I'm looking forward to in 2012:
I probably stream 2-3 hours worth of music from Spotify each day and I've noticed lately that not a lot of new records I want to check out are available. My guess is that certain bands find they're not making enough cash from streaming services so are choosing to withhold newer releases. Since Spotify is such a big part of my life, I'm really looking forward to some of the kinks being worked out between bands who don't favor streaming services for whatever reason. Blitzen Trapper and The Black Keys, I'm talking to you. I'm also looking forward to getting back to a festival after a hiatus in 2010. I'm thinking Austin City Limits.
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Best of 2011: Part 3
Today's post is from Meg Porta, Director, Major Gifts in Wolf Trap's Development Department.
Photo from lucindawilliams.com
Best Show at Wolf Trap
Each year, my husband and I attend a lot of musical performances, from classical to rock ‘n roll, and 2011 was no exception. A quick tally shows that we attended at least 24 concerts during the past year at Wolf Trap and seven other venues, so it’s hard to pick a favorite for the year. I guess I would cast my vote for favorite Wolf Trap show with the Lucinda Williams show on July 19. I have seen Lu a few times before, but for this performance she was completely “on” in a way I haven’t seen before – her song selection was excellent, her delivery on target and she performed with passion and intensity. Add to that a great performance by Amos Lee to open the night, and who could ask for more?
Photo by The Comet
Best Show somewhere other than Wolf Trap
For favorite show at a venue other than Wolf Trap, the nominee is Shelby Lynn’s November 8 show at the Birchmere – just Shelby and guitar. Shelby’s records are great, but until you see her live you can’t fully appreciate her artistry in my opinion. She has a wonderful ability to make a personal connection to her audience and she uses the full dynamic range of her voice – strident and powerful to softest, gentle whisper in the space of seconds – incredibly effectively.
Best Recording/Release of the Year
For favorite album release of the year, I’ll have to go with Gillian Welch’s The Harrow & The Harvest. Although (Time) The Revelator still stands as my favorite Gillian disc, it’s been years since Gillian’s last album was released, so this was a very welcome addition.
Photo from paxamrecords.com
What I'm Looking Forward to in 2012
Nothing replaces live music performance, so 2012 will surely be chock full of good shows as well. A quick look at my calendar shows that we’ll be starting in January with shows by two great artists – Ryan Adams at Strathmore and Aimee Mann at Birchmere. And then, we’ll be back at The Barns at Wolf Trap in February for opera….and so it goes.
Best Show at Wolf Trap
Each year, my husband and I attend a lot of musical performances, from classical to rock ‘n roll, and 2011 was no exception. A quick tally shows that we attended at least 24 concerts during the past year at Wolf Trap and seven other venues, so it’s hard to pick a favorite for the year. I guess I would cast my vote for favorite Wolf Trap show with the Lucinda Williams show on July 19. I have seen Lu a few times before, but for this performance she was completely “on” in a way I haven’t seen before – her song selection was excellent, her delivery on target and she performed with passion and intensity. Add to that a great performance by Amos Lee to open the night, and who could ask for more?
Best Show somewhere other than Wolf Trap
For favorite show at a venue other than Wolf Trap, the nominee is Shelby Lynn’s November 8 show at the Birchmere – just Shelby and guitar. Shelby’s records are great, but until you see her live you can’t fully appreciate her artistry in my opinion. She has a wonderful ability to make a personal connection to her audience and she uses the full dynamic range of her voice – strident and powerful to softest, gentle whisper in the space of seconds – incredibly effectively.
Best Recording/Release of the Year
For favorite album release of the year, I’ll have to go with Gillian Welch’s The Harrow & The Harvest. Although (Time) The Revelator still stands as my favorite Gillian disc, it’s been years since Gillian’s last album was released, so this was a very welcome addition.
What I'm Looking Forward to in 2012
Nothing replaces live music performance, so 2012 will surely be chock full of good shows as well. A quick look at my calendar shows that we’ll be starting in January with shows by two great artists – Ryan Adams at Strathmore and Aimee Mann at Birchmere. And then, we’ll be back at The Barns at Wolf Trap in February for opera….and so it goes.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Best of 2011: Part 2
2011 was a very good year, but I have a feeling that 2012 is going to be even better. And I hope I'm right! Very briefly, here's my Year in Review.
Photo by Teddy Wolff
Best Show at Wolf Trap
With 97 shows to choose from, this is a challenging decision. All of our shows are good, but when it comes to narrowing it down to the best, one name comes to mind: Elvis.
This was Elvis Costello's seventh appearance at the Filene Center so it's not the first time I've seen him on our stage. But there was something particularly special about this show. Costello owned the stage, the audience, and his music in a way that was truly mind blowing. This was all about the songs, and, yet, the whole performance also showcased the connection Costello has to his fans and his natural showmanship.
There was something else about this night that to this day still gives me goosebumps. Before his performance, Costello briefly met a young fan, a young fan who considers him to be the one and only musical love of her life. Her name is Roxanne. Costello was gracious in chatting with her, taking a few photos. He was genuine in his conversation and generous with his time. When Roxanne took her seat in the pit for the show, she was beaming.
Halfway through the show, Costello, who had caught sight of her seat location, called her up on stage, had her spin the giant spinning songbook, and then let her pick the song of her choice. He played the first few notes of her selected song, before ripping into the chorus of Sting's "Roxanne" because he had remembered her name and then returned to her choice. Ladies and gentlemen, that is a rock star.
Best. Show. Of the summer.
Photo by The Washington Post
Best Show Somewhere Other Than Wolf Trap
I see many, many shows every year. That's what happens when your job is also your passion. In the span of just a few days I saw both Lady Gaga and Bon Jovi at the Verizon Center. One show was great; one, not so much. I'll leave it at that. Even with so many shows to pick from, this category was the easiest to choose. Best show somewhere other than Wolf Trap: Foo Fighters at The Verizon Center on 11/11/11.
Dave Grohl is a rock god. Not only is he a rock god, he is also a local hero. When he speaks to the audience, you feel like you are talking to your college friend, someone who gets where you were in 1995 because he knows exactly where he was in 1995. You are in the audience, watching this college friend shred through song after song after song for more than 2 hours, and you realize that he's also playing a sold out show at the arena in his hometown. Killer.
If I have to pinpoint one moment in all of 2011 in which I felt most alive, in which my heart and pulse were pounding, and my mind blank of everything but that very moment, it is the Foo Fighters show. For that reason alone, best show of 2011.
Best Recording/Release of the Year
This is another very difficult category to narrow down, so I simplified with some help from my itunes and Spotify history. The album I listened to the most in 2011: Dawes' Nothing is Wrong.
I discovered Dawes on the Wolf Trap stage. They appeared twice in summer 2011, performing as special guest to both Bright Eyes and Alison Krauss. Nothing is Wrong was released in June, and I've had it in constant rotation ever since. The album is well crafted; the music is fantastic; it is a cohesive listening experience. But what makes it the best in my book is that the songs speak to me.
I myself look a few moments older when I learned that love is not as simple as I thought. It starts to feel more real and the wounds all start to heal, whether I want them to or not. -"Coming Back To A Man"
Oh, it’s a little bit of everything. It’s the matador and the bull. It’s the suggested daily dosage. It is the red moon when it’s full. All these psychics and these doctors, they’re all right and they’re all wrong. It’s like trying to make out every word when they should simply hum along. It’s not some message written in the dark, or some truth that no one’s seen, it’s a little bit of everything. -"It's A Little Bit of Everything"
If you haven't heard this album from start to finish, go do yourself a favor. You're welcome. Now listen on repeat.
Photo by Andrew Propp
What I'm Looking Forward to in 2012
There are countless shows I am looking forward to in 2012. Cowboy Mouth (1/26), Augustana (2/4), and Band of Skulls (3/24) at 9:30 Club. Ryan Adams at Strathmore (1/24). The Black Keys and Arctic Monkeys at the Verizon Center (3/9). Mark Morris Dance Group performing L'Allegro at the Kennedy Center (1/26-28). Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet at George Mason's Center for the Arts (3/10). And that only takes me through the first quarter of 2012!
Without question though, the very biggest and very best thing I am looking forward to is the world premiere of Face of America: Spirit of South Florida on September 8, 2012. If you didn't follow the filming of this project, you can catch up here. I am completely biased, but I know this project will be spectacular and stunning. And I can't wait!
Best Show at Wolf Trap
With 97 shows to choose from, this is a challenging decision. All of our shows are good, but when it comes to narrowing it down to the best, one name comes to mind: Elvis.
This was Elvis Costello's seventh appearance at the Filene Center so it's not the first time I've seen him on our stage. But there was something particularly special about this show. Costello owned the stage, the audience, and his music in a way that was truly mind blowing. This was all about the songs, and, yet, the whole performance also showcased the connection Costello has to his fans and his natural showmanship.
There was something else about this night that to this day still gives me goosebumps. Before his performance, Costello briefly met a young fan, a young fan who considers him to be the one and only musical love of her life. Her name is Roxanne. Costello was gracious in chatting with her, taking a few photos. He was genuine in his conversation and generous with his time. When Roxanne took her seat in the pit for the show, she was beaming.
Halfway through the show, Costello, who had caught sight of her seat location, called her up on stage, had her spin the giant spinning songbook, and then let her pick the song of her choice. He played the first few notes of her selected song, before ripping into the chorus of Sting's "Roxanne" because he had remembered her name and then returned to her choice. Ladies and gentlemen, that is a rock star.
Best. Show. Of the summer.
Best Show Somewhere Other Than Wolf Trap
I see many, many shows every year. That's what happens when your job is also your passion. In the span of just a few days I saw both Lady Gaga and Bon Jovi at the Verizon Center. One show was great; one, not so much. I'll leave it at that. Even with so many shows to pick from, this category was the easiest to choose. Best show somewhere other than Wolf Trap: Foo Fighters at The Verizon Center on 11/11/11.
Dave Grohl is a rock god. Not only is he a rock god, he is also a local hero. When he speaks to the audience, you feel like you are talking to your college friend, someone who gets where you were in 1995 because he knows exactly where he was in 1995. You are in the audience, watching this college friend shred through song after song after song for more than 2 hours, and you realize that he's also playing a sold out show at the arena in his hometown. Killer.
If I have to pinpoint one moment in all of 2011 in which I felt most alive, in which my heart and pulse were pounding, and my mind blank of everything but that very moment, it is the Foo Fighters show. For that reason alone, best show of 2011.
Best Recording/Release of the Year
This is another very difficult category to narrow down, so I simplified with some help from my itunes and Spotify history. The album I listened to the most in 2011: Dawes' Nothing is Wrong.
I discovered Dawes on the Wolf Trap stage. They appeared twice in summer 2011, performing as special guest to both Bright Eyes and Alison Krauss. Nothing is Wrong was released in June, and I've had it in constant rotation ever since. The album is well crafted; the music is fantastic; it is a cohesive listening experience. But what makes it the best in my book is that the songs speak to me.
I myself look a few moments older when I learned that love is not as simple as I thought. It starts to feel more real and the wounds all start to heal, whether I want them to or not. -"Coming Back To A Man"
Oh, it’s a little bit of everything. It’s the matador and the bull. It’s the suggested daily dosage. It is the red moon when it’s full. All these psychics and these doctors, they’re all right and they’re all wrong. It’s like trying to make out every word when they should simply hum along. It’s not some message written in the dark, or some truth that no one’s seen, it’s a little bit of everything. -"It's A Little Bit of Everything"
If you haven't heard this album from start to finish, go do yourself a favor. You're welcome. Now listen on repeat.
What I'm Looking Forward to in 2012
There are countless shows I am looking forward to in 2012. Cowboy Mouth (1/26), Augustana (2/4), and Band of Skulls (3/24) at 9:30 Club. Ryan Adams at Strathmore (1/24). The Black Keys and Arctic Monkeys at the Verizon Center (3/9). Mark Morris Dance Group performing L'Allegro at the Kennedy Center (1/26-28). Cedar Lake Contemporary Ballet at George Mason's Center for the Arts (3/10). And that only takes me through the first quarter of 2012!
Without question though, the very biggest and very best thing I am looking forward to is the world premiere of Face of America: Spirit of South Florida on September 8, 2012. If you didn't follow the filming of this project, you can catch up here. I am completely biased, but I know this project will be spectacular and stunning. And I can't wait!
Monday, December 12, 2011
Best of 2011, Part #1
Today's post is from Matt Martz, Wolf Trap's Communications and Marketing Assistant
It was surprisingly difficult to write this blog post and choose my favorite moments, given that my 2 main New Year’s resolutions for 2011 were to 1) see more live shows, and 2) expand my music collection at a faster rate (I’m pretty terrible at actually getting music, as much as I love listening). Despite the dozens of concerts and even more albums I added to my iTunes, I’ve managed to narrow them down.
Favorite Concert at Wolf Trap:
This was a close win, but I have to give it to The Goo Goo Dolls. They played a perfect mix of some newer, albeit lesser known, material along with all their hits. They knew what the sold-out crowd came to hear, and they delivered it 10-fold. Parachute and Michelle Branch were fantastic special guests, with the entire night running without a single low point, just high energy from beginning to end. (Their excellent lighting sure didn’t hurt the mood either.)
Runner-up:
Had to be Dolly Parton. Not only did she play her extensive list of hits, but her personality won over every person in the crowd. She told great stories of growing up and all the crazy things that she’s done throughout her life, laced between her biggest hits. It was impressive to see that after over 50 years in the business, her voice hasn’t faltered one bit.
Favorite Concert not at Wolf Trap:
This was an unfair advantage, but it had to be the 2011 CMA Music Festival in Nashville, TN. The 4-day long festival featured condensed set lists from some of this biggest names in country, including Sugarland, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Zac Brown Band, and Lady Antebellum, to name a few. Knowing I was in the heart of the country music capital with tens of thousands of fans as die-hard as I am just elevated the entire experience that much more. We weren’t exactly front-row (see photo), but worth it nonetheless.
Runner-up:
Noah and the Whale at 9:30 Club. I was lucky enough to have just found out who they were a few months before the show, and it fell right on my birthday weekend! The stars clearly aligned, and they played almost every track on their newest album, Last Night on Earth (an amazing album that I’ll get to in a moment). Their live music was even better than on the album (a rare feat in our current lip-syncing era). Side note: I was going to pick Adele’s 9:30 Club appearance for this, but come on, let’s give some others a chance ;).
Favorite Album of the Year:
Florence + The Machine: Ceremonials. Florence + The Machine’s first album is still one of my all-time favorites, and she somehow managed to top herself with this one. Her songwriting has actually gotten a little more…relatable (for lack of a better word) to the masses, but not lost any of its clever approach and fantastic metaphors/analogies. Between her writing, singing, and all those instruments, I don’t know how she does it, but she needs to never stop.
Runner-up:
Honestly? It’s a tie even for this. While Florence + The Machine hit it out of the park and across the river, LeAnn Rimes and Noah and The Whale got a few solid hits in too with Lady and Gentleman and Last Night on Earth, respectively. Great songwriting by NATW and incredible covers by Ms. Rimes, both of whom have some pretty stellar vocals.
What I’m looking forward to in 2012:
As trite as this may sound—doing it all again. While “forcing” myself to go see more concerts and add more music to my collection was a particularly heavy cross to bear (ha.), I can’t say I won’t do it again. Before 2011 I was not big on spending money on impermanent things (i.e. vacations and concerts), but after traveling to Thailand and Nashville in the span of 3 weeks, seeing 63 (yes, I counted) acts between May and October, and adding 75 (added that too) albums to my collection, I can’t imagine a better way to spend my cash. Here’s to round 2!
It was surprisingly difficult to write this blog post and choose my favorite moments, given that my 2 main New Year’s resolutions for 2011 were to 1) see more live shows, and 2) expand my music collection at a faster rate (I’m pretty terrible at actually getting music, as much as I love listening). Despite the dozens of concerts and even more albums I added to my iTunes, I’ve managed to narrow them down.
Favorite Concert at Wolf Trap:
This was a close win, but I have to give it to The Goo Goo Dolls. They played a perfect mix of some newer, albeit lesser known, material along with all their hits. They knew what the sold-out crowd came to hear, and they delivered it 10-fold. Parachute and Michelle Branch were fantastic special guests, with the entire night running without a single low point, just high energy from beginning to end. (Their excellent lighting sure didn’t hurt the mood either.)
Runner-up:
Had to be Dolly Parton. Not only did she play her extensive list of hits, but her personality won over every person in the crowd. She told great stories of growing up and all the crazy things that she’s done throughout her life, laced between her biggest hits. It was impressive to see that after over 50 years in the business, her voice hasn’t faltered one bit.
Favorite Concert not at Wolf Trap:
This was an unfair advantage, but it had to be the 2011 CMA Music Festival in Nashville, TN. The 4-day long festival featured condensed set lists from some of this biggest names in country, including Sugarland, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, Zac Brown Band, and Lady Antebellum, to name a few. Knowing I was in the heart of the country music capital with tens of thousands of fans as die-hard as I am just elevated the entire experience that much more. We weren’t exactly front-row (see photo), but worth it nonetheless.
Runner-up:
Noah and the Whale at 9:30 Club. I was lucky enough to have just found out who they were a few months before the show, and it fell right on my birthday weekend! The stars clearly aligned, and they played almost every track on their newest album, Last Night on Earth (an amazing album that I’ll get to in a moment). Their live music was even better than on the album (a rare feat in our current lip-syncing era). Side note: I was going to pick Adele’s 9:30 Club appearance for this, but come on, let’s give some others a chance ;).
Favorite Album of the Year:
Florence + The Machine: Ceremonials. Florence + The Machine’s first album is still one of my all-time favorites, and she somehow managed to top herself with this one. Her songwriting has actually gotten a little more…relatable (for lack of a better word) to the masses, but not lost any of its clever approach and fantastic metaphors/analogies. Between her writing, singing, and all those instruments, I don’t know how she does it, but she needs to never stop.
Runner-up:
Honestly? It’s a tie even for this. While Florence + The Machine hit it out of the park and across the river, LeAnn Rimes and Noah and The Whale got a few solid hits in too with Lady and Gentleman and Last Night on Earth, respectively. Great songwriting by NATW and incredible covers by Ms. Rimes, both of whom have some pretty stellar vocals.
What I’m looking forward to in 2012:
As trite as this may sound—doing it all again. While “forcing” myself to go see more concerts and add more music to my collection was a particularly heavy cross to bear (ha.), I can’t say I won’t do it again. Before 2011 I was not big on spending money on impermanent things (i.e. vacations and concerts), but after traveling to Thailand and Nashville in the span of 3 weeks, seeing 63 (yes, I counted) acts between May and October, and adding 75 (added that too) albums to my collection, I can’t imagine a better way to spend my cash. Here’s to round 2!
Thursday, December 8, 2011
Look no Further than Wolf Trap for your Complete List of Holiday Gifts
Today's post is from Heidi Kibirsky, Wolf Trap's Marketing Director.
Did you know that you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday list at Wolf Trap? It's true! There's only one catch, your gift recipients have to like the arts. But who doesn't, right?
For the person who likes to be at the front of the line, get them a Wolf Trap membership, so they have access to tickets before the public.
For the spouse or roommate that loves to sing in the shower: tickets to Sing-A-Long Sound of Music.
For the new mommy or daddy, register them for Baby Artsplay!™ classes.
For the outdoorsy friend: tickets to Face of America: Spirit of South Florida or America’s National Parks: Through the Artist’s Lens.
For the opera lover: a copy of the Grammy®-nominated recording of the 2007 Wolf Trap Opera Company production of Volpone.
For the person from “The North Star State": tickets to A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor.
For your friend who won the Air Guitar contest, register them for Group Guitar lessons.
For the coworker with the bad jokes: tickets to Chicago City Limits, The Second City, or the 25th Annual Evening of Comedy.
For the young professional new to the DC area: a membership to Wolf Trap’s Club 66.
For your friend that gets the most beads at Mardi Gras: tickets to BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Buckwheat Zydeco, or Wolf Trap’s 23rd Annual Louisiana Swamp Romp.
For the person in the next cubicle always tapping their pen or pencil, sign them up for Community Drum Circle.
For the GLEE lover: tickets to Jeri Sager or Marvin Hamlisch.
And for the hard to buy for person, perhaps a Gift Certificate to Wolf Trap that can be used to buy tickets for any available performance at the Filene Center, The Barns at Wolf Trap, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, or to purchase items at the gift shops or concessions stands.
Happy shopping!
Did you know that you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your holiday list at Wolf Trap? It's true! There's only one catch, your gift recipients have to like the arts. But who doesn't, right?
For the person who likes to be at the front of the line, get them a Wolf Trap membership, so they have access to tickets before the public.
For the spouse or roommate that loves to sing in the shower: tickets to Sing-A-Long Sound of Music.
For the new mommy or daddy, register them for Baby Artsplay!™ classes.
For the outdoorsy friend: tickets to Face of America: Spirit of South Florida or America’s National Parks: Through the Artist’s Lens.
For the opera lover: a copy of the Grammy®-nominated recording of the 2007 Wolf Trap Opera Company production of Volpone.
For the person from “The North Star State": tickets to A Prairie Home Companion with Garrison Keillor.
For your friend who won the Air Guitar contest, register them for Group Guitar lessons.
For the coworker with the bad jokes: tickets to Chicago City Limits, The Second City, or the 25th Annual Evening of Comedy.
For the young professional new to the DC area: a membership to Wolf Trap’s Club 66.
For your friend that gets the most beads at Mardi Gras: tickets to BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Buckwheat Zydeco, or Wolf Trap’s 23rd Annual Louisiana Swamp Romp.
For the person in the next cubicle always tapping their pen or pencil, sign them up for Community Drum Circle.
For the GLEE lover: tickets to Jeri Sager or Marvin Hamlisch.
And for the hard to buy for person, perhaps a Gift Certificate to Wolf Trap that can be used to buy tickets for any available performance at the Filene Center, The Barns at Wolf Trap, Children’s Theatre-in-the-Woods, or to purchase items at the gift shops or concessions stands.
Happy shopping!
Where are they Now?
We had a number of "Special Guest" artists come through Wolf Trap this year that were a little more under the radar than some, but ended up completely blowing our socks off. From an individual standpoint, the artists I view as part of this grouping are, Dawes, Carolina Chocolate Drops, and Punch Brothers. I don't mean to leave out other support acts like the Shadowboxers or Paul Thorn Band, but I was particular compelled by summer performances from the first three (plus Paul Thorn is a regular at The Barns, and we already know how great he is.) Consequently, I feel as if it's part of my year end blogging responsibility to tell you what heights these three amazing talents have risen to since their appearance at Wolf Trap earlier this summer.
Dawes
I've been a major champion of this Northern California band since back in mid 2009 when they were barely selling out IOTA in Arlington, VA. This summer, they passed through Wolf Trap not once but 2x as special guest acts for both Bright Eyes, and Alison Krauss & Union Station in conjunction with the release of their sophomore album, Nothing is Wrong. Since that time, the band's career has totally exploded. There are endless accolades I could point to, but on the short list, they launched an international headlining tour with the Portland based Blitzen Trapper which recently stopped at The Black Cat; jammed out with Mumford & Sons at the 20th anniversary concert of the World Cafe in Philadelphia; were booked as a co-headliner for the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival in January, and made both Rolling Stone AND Paste's top 50 album of the year lists. WOW. Rock on fellas. We'll see you back at Wolf Trap as a headliner soon no doubt.
Carolina Chocolate Drops
The Carolina Chocolate Drops debuted this summer at the Filene Center as the special guest for Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and made quite the impression on a crowd that was relatively unprepared for such a distinct experience. Their mastery of old-time music featuring a musical blend of banjo, fiddle, guitar, harmonica, snare drum, bones, jug and kazoo was jaw-dropping. They were all seated and played as if they were performing in front of 20 people sitting around a jam session in the backyard of their house. It was rootsy, intimate, inspiring and spiritually overpowering.
As a result of the Carolina Chocolate Drops' summer tour with Fleck and the Original Flecktones, these North Carolinians generated a whole new wave of fans, and took to the road on a winter headlining tour which wraps tomorrow at The Mercy Lounge in Nashville. The response to their 2010 record, Genuine Negro Jig was so impressive that they headed back into the studio to record a follow up EP, Carolina Chocolate Drops/Luminescent Orchestrii, scheduled to be released in late January via Nonesuch records. The Drops also found time to work with Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music to curate an exciting and unique show, Keep a Song in Your Soul: The Black Roots of Vaudeville, which held residency through early November. Finger crossed that we have them back here very very soon.
Punch Brothers
Probably the most well established of this three band commentary is the Punch Brothers, fronted by Chris Thile, mandolin wizard, founding member of Nickel Creek, and one of the most well-respected new-grass musicians in the world. What was initially a project designed as somewhat of a creative outlet for Thile to unload the emotional baggage from his divorce has turned into a full-fledged musical super group boasting several international tours, a GRAMMY award for Best Contemporary Folk Album, and a soon to be released third album.
Since the band's appearance at Wolf Trap, they went on a brief tour with a guy you may have heard of named Paul Simon. Not a bad guy to associate yourself with. Their 2nd record Antifogmatic was official certified platinum, they put the finishing touches on their third record to hit in early 2012, and banjo player Noam Pikelny released a solo record, the making of which was parodied by Funny or Die.
That's where they are now! Time to get on board with these three incredible bands if you haven't already.
Dawes
I've been a major champion of this Northern California band since back in mid 2009 when they were barely selling out IOTA in Arlington, VA. This summer, they passed through Wolf Trap not once but 2x as special guest acts for both Bright Eyes, and Alison Krauss & Union Station in conjunction with the release of their sophomore album, Nothing is Wrong. Since that time, the band's career has totally exploded. There are endless accolades I could point to, but on the short list, they launched an international headlining tour with the Portland based Blitzen Trapper which recently stopped at The Black Cat; jammed out with Mumford & Sons at the 20th anniversary concert of the World Cafe in Philadelphia; were booked as a co-headliner for the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival in January, and made both Rolling Stone AND Paste's top 50 album of the year lists. WOW. Rock on fellas. We'll see you back at Wolf Trap as a headliner soon no doubt.
Carolina Chocolate Drops
The Carolina Chocolate Drops debuted this summer at the Filene Center as the special guest for Béla Fleck and the Flecktones and made quite the impression on a crowd that was relatively unprepared for such a distinct experience. Their mastery of old-time music featuring a musical blend of banjo, fiddle, guitar, harmonica, snare drum, bones, jug and kazoo was jaw-dropping. They were all seated and played as if they were performing in front of 20 people sitting around a jam session in the backyard of their house. It was rootsy, intimate, inspiring and spiritually overpowering.
As a result of the Carolina Chocolate Drops' summer tour with Fleck and the Original Flecktones, these North Carolinians generated a whole new wave of fans, and took to the road on a winter headlining tour which wraps tomorrow at The Mercy Lounge in Nashville. The response to their 2010 record, Genuine Negro Jig was so impressive that they headed back into the studio to record a follow up EP, Carolina Chocolate Drops/Luminescent Orchestrii, scheduled to be released in late January via Nonesuch records. The Drops also found time to work with Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music to curate an exciting and unique show, Keep a Song in Your Soul: The Black Roots of Vaudeville, which held residency through early November. Finger crossed that we have them back here very very soon.
Punch Brothers
Probably the most well established of this three band commentary is the Punch Brothers, fronted by Chris Thile, mandolin wizard, founding member of Nickel Creek, and one of the most well-respected new-grass musicians in the world. What was initially a project designed as somewhat of a creative outlet for Thile to unload the emotional baggage from his divorce has turned into a full-fledged musical super group boasting several international tours, a GRAMMY award for Best Contemporary Folk Album, and a soon to be released third album.
Since the band's appearance at Wolf Trap, they went on a brief tour with a guy you may have heard of named Paul Simon. Not a bad guy to associate yourself with. Their 2nd record Antifogmatic was official certified platinum, they put the finishing touches on their third record to hit in early 2012, and banjo player Noam Pikelny released a solo record, the making of which was parodied by Funny or Die.
That's where they are now! Time to get on board with these three incredible bands if you haven't already.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
NSO @ Wolf Trap: A First Look at Summer 2012
It is December here in Seattle where the ever-futuristic 1960’s Space Needle has been transformed into the nation’s tallest Christmas tree and where, if you are a musician, you are involved in one of two holiday occupations; Messiah or Nutcracker. I am not even halfway through my service as court conductor of the benevolently caloric Sugar Plum Fairy but my thoughts are already turning to more summery ones and our 8th season of the NSO @ Wolf Trap.
I am particularly excited about this coming summer where for the first time we’ll have pirates, munchkins, sharks, planets, and joyful odes all sharing the spotlight with the incomparable Marvin Hamlisch, as well as John Williams’ greatest film scores. In fact great movies and Broadway musicals are the overarching themes of our 2012 July/August festival (well not quite, since we do have an all Beethoven program in there for good measure – I guess we could title it “Ludwig is Bustin’ Out All Over” but then some people might object). Ever since we premiered the live version of The Wizard of Oz in 2006 it has taken the world by tornado and become an instant Wolf Trap tradition.
Those ever menacing balletic Sharks and Jets will jeté through the upper West Side of Manhattan (TBA) in Bernstein’s spin on Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers. A new version of Gustav Holst’s The Planets (TBA) will light up the sky, courtesy of stunning imagery from NASA, and an evening of great sci-fi scores by the solar system’s favorite composer, John Williams, will transport us to a galaxy far, far away. Singers will sing, tambourines will shake, and the Age of Aquarius will once again be in the ascendant in a program that will make you wish you had kept those corduroy flared jeans and patchouli oiled tie-dyed T in our presentation called “Broadway Rocks!” Then again, everything rocks when the NSO plays the Filene Center on balmy summer night.
Look for updates here, and a wintry thought or two as we get closer to Groundhog’s Day--speaking of which it’s almost time to start conducting the Overture to the Nutcracker, which in the month of December has turned me into Bill Murray listening to that darned Pennsylvania Polka. But then again, everyone has a mania for the ballet that’ll candy cane ya!
I am particularly excited about this coming summer where for the first time we’ll have pirates, munchkins, sharks, planets, and joyful odes all sharing the spotlight with the incomparable Marvin Hamlisch, as well as John Williams’ greatest film scores. In fact great movies and Broadway musicals are the overarching themes of our 2012 July/August festival (well not quite, since we do have an all Beethoven program in there for good measure – I guess we could title it “Ludwig is Bustin’ Out All Over” but then some people might object). Ever since we premiered the live version of The Wizard of Oz in 2006 it has taken the world by tornado and become an instant Wolf Trap tradition.
Those ever menacing balletic Sharks and Jets will jeté through the upper West Side of Manhattan (TBA) in Bernstein’s spin on Shakespeare’s tale of star-crossed lovers. A new version of Gustav Holst’s The Planets (TBA) will light up the sky, courtesy of stunning imagery from NASA, and an evening of great sci-fi scores by the solar system’s favorite composer, John Williams, will transport us to a galaxy far, far away. Singers will sing, tambourines will shake, and the Age of Aquarius will once again be in the ascendant in a program that will make you wish you had kept those corduroy flared jeans and patchouli oiled tie-dyed T in our presentation called “Broadway Rocks!” Then again, everything rocks when the NSO plays the Filene Center on balmy summer night.
Look for updates here, and a wintry thought or two as we get closer to Groundhog’s Day--speaking of which it’s almost time to start conducting the Overture to the Nutcracker, which in the month of December has turned me into Bill Murray listening to that darned Pennsylvania Polka. But then again, everyone has a mania for the ballet that’ll candy cane ya!
Holiday Sing-A-Long Recap
Another successful Holiday Sing-A-Long at Wolf Trap is in the books. In fact, it was HUGELY successful with 5500 people in attendance! It certainly helped matters that it was a balmy, partially sunny day with temperatures rising into the mid-50s.
While traversing the Filene Center grounds looking for good photo and video opportunities, I spoke with several moms and dads who brought along their first-time little ones to experience the magic of Holiday Sing. Do they know or understand the meaning of the words to the songs? No, not really but even at the young age of 1 or 2, it was evident they were wrapped up in the music, the communal vibes, and the overall ebullient spirit of the event.
We weren't quite sure if they'd show up this year due to their busy schedules (i.e. competitive dance-off), but once again we were graced with the presence of Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer! They made a brief appearance on-stage during their respective songs. And finally, we were visited by Merry Old St. Nick, who made everyone's face light up like a Christmas tree, or a menorah!
Photograph by Teddy Wolff
Wolf Trap's annual day of holiday merriment wouldn't have been complete without the candlelight vigil recessional during the closing number played by the United States Marine Band, and sung by regional choral groups and 5500 Filene Center patrons. As always, it's a beautiful sight and certainly beckons all to return next year to make this event a family tradition.
While traversing the Filene Center grounds looking for good photo and video opportunities, I spoke with several moms and dads who brought along their first-time little ones to experience the magic of Holiday Sing. Do they know or understand the meaning of the words to the songs? No, not really but even at the young age of 1 or 2, it was evident they were wrapped up in the music, the communal vibes, and the overall ebullient spirit of the event.
We weren't quite sure if they'd show up this year due to their busy schedules (i.e. competitive dance-off), but once again we were graced with the presence of Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer! They made a brief appearance on-stage during their respective songs. And finally, we were visited by Merry Old St. Nick, who made everyone's face light up like a Christmas tree, or a menorah!
Photograph by Teddy Wolff
Photograph by Teddy Wolff
Friday, December 2, 2011
Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long 2011
With December right around the corner, people at Wolf Trap are preparing to dive head first into the holiday season! It’s sometimes challenging to think of the holidays without bringing up Black Friday specials and Christmas sales at the mall, but on every first Sunday of December at the Filene Center, all that disappears.
This year on Sunday, December 4, Wolf Trap’s annual Holiday Sing-A-Long will take place at 4pm at the Filene Center, and you are ALL INVITED! What is it you ask? It’s an evening of singing holiday songs led by the President’s Own United States Marine Band and local choirs from the DC area. The Wolf Trap Holiday Sing-A-Long is the only winter event held at the Filene Center and it’s FREE. Truly, what better way to welcome in the 2011 holiday season than in by singing with friends and family? Oh and I forgot to mention, three very famous magical guests will be performing as well. Why, none other than Frosty the Snowman, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and Santa Claus!
As our magical friends are aware, much happens behind the scenes at the Holiday Sing-A-Long, and one organization that is always present is the Vienna Woman’s Club. In a tradition that began many years ago by Wolf Trap founder Catherine Filene Shouse, the Vienna Woman’s Club generously bakes and serves cookies, cider, and hot chocolate for the USMB and all the performers backstage. The Holiday Sing-A-Long truly wouldn’t be the same without their help.
Also helping in this festive production are Ticonderoga Farms and our very own Wolf Trap staff! All the beautiful Christmas trees and greens seen on stage are donated by Ticonderoga and the two enormous wreaths that hang above the performers are assembled by Wolf Trap employees. A few days before the Holiday Sing-A-Long, the Wolf Trap staff step away from their desks to participate in our annual Wreath Stuffing. People come to work in jeans with gardening gloves in hand prepared to get a little dirty for a good cause.
That’s the Holiday Sing-A-Long in a nutshell! Here are a few last things to remember:
- Bring an unwrapped toy! Toys for Tots will be at the entrance of the theater collecting new unwrapped toys to give to children in need.
- Bring a coat! There have been some years warm enough for tank tops but most years it’s rather chilly.
- Bring a candle! During the closing song, “Silent Night,” everyone brings out their candles and lights them before quietly exiting the theater.
- Bring your best shower singing voice and your friends and family! No one’s here to judge, everyone’s here to have a great time.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Tonight at The Barns: Steve Solomon
I just got off the phone with Steve Solomon, and in the 120 seconds it took us to discuss the logistics of the brief interview I'm going to conduct with him tonight after his show, the guy had me laughing hysterically as he gave me a couple off-the-cuff anecdotes from his new production, "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish and I'm Home for the Holidays!" His gift for impersonations and imitations is right up there with the greats. In fact, he's boiled it down to a total science. Just two minutes with him, and you feel like it's time spent with close friends or those crazy, eccentric members of your own family.
Solomon is a product of the Sheepshead Bay neighborhood in Brooklyn, an area known for its high concentration of immigrants from the former Soviet Union, and also rich with Italians, Irish, Jews, Turkish, Chinese and some Spanish. He was raised in a multi-ethnic home, constantly surrounded by a stable of zany relatives. Despite his acquisition of a doctorate in education and a subsequent career as a successful school administrator, he always knew in the back of his mind that his family history held a certain secret to success...a key to unleashing laughter from audiences who all probably could relate to his own memorable moments in some capacity. Thus was born "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish and I'm in Therapy." Met with rave reviews and stellar audience acclaim throughout the country, the show highlights voices, dialects and sound effects that add a richness and hearty flavor to his hilarious family anecdotes.
Tonight and tomorrow at The Barns, Solomon presents a brand new iteration of this popular show with "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish & I'm Home for the Holidays!" The master dialectician takes you on a journey of a man who returns home for the holidays, only to be thrown in the mix of his dysfunctional family's uproarious antics. There's even original music to be heard.
Naturally I'm sure you've all seen the holiday time classics on-stage at your local community theater or from an equity group. A Christmas Carol, It's a Wonderful Life, A Miracle on 34th Street, they're all terrific. But isn't it time to experience something brand new around the holidays?
We encourage you to stop by The Barns tonight or tomorrow and experience the confounding family situations that make you remember why you left home in the first place.
Solomon is a product of the Sheepshead Bay neighborhood in Brooklyn, an area known for its high concentration of immigrants from the former Soviet Union, and also rich with Italians, Irish, Jews, Turkish, Chinese and some Spanish. He was raised in a multi-ethnic home, constantly surrounded by a stable of zany relatives. Despite his acquisition of a doctorate in education and a subsequent career as a successful school administrator, he always knew in the back of his mind that his family history held a certain secret to success...a key to unleashing laughter from audiences who all probably could relate to his own memorable moments in some capacity. Thus was born "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish and I'm in Therapy." Met with rave reviews and stellar audience acclaim throughout the country, the show highlights voices, dialects and sound effects that add a richness and hearty flavor to his hilarious family anecdotes.
Tonight and tomorrow at The Barns, Solomon presents a brand new iteration of this popular show with "My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish & I'm Home for the Holidays!" The master dialectician takes you on a journey of a man who returns home for the holidays, only to be thrown in the mix of his dysfunctional family's uproarious antics. There's even original music to be heard.
Naturally I'm sure you've all seen the holiday time classics on-stage at your local community theater or from an equity group. A Christmas Carol, It's a Wonderful Life, A Miracle on 34th Street, they're all terrific. But isn't it time to experience something brand new around the holidays?
We encourage you to stop by The Barns tonight or tomorrow and experience the confounding family situations that make you remember why you left home in the first place.
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