Sunday Afternoons at CBS

Our Musical Valentine

Grace and her talented friends are a much-anticipated Valentine tradition.   For a decade or more she has been bringing some of the most gifted singers and accompanists to the CBS stage in an afternoon of romantic songs, laughs, and a sing-a-long or two.   As a bonus, Grace's traditional home-made Valentines are always a treat!

JAYME STONE                Mar. 11, 2012

Room of Wonders

Influenced by a series of maestros from Tony Trischka to Bill Frisell, Japanese poetry, Brazilian literature, and featuring what he calls a "tiny symphony that takes place inside an imaginary light bulb," Stone's album The Utmost won the 2008 Juno Award (Canadian Grammy) for Instrumental Album of the Year.  Africa to Appalachia was the 2009 Juno World Music Album of the Year, and his Room of Wonders ("the title perhaps refers to the inside of his head--Stone's rich, unfettered imagination--as he pursues music inspired by folk dances from around the world." Toronto Star) has recently been nomimated for a Juno for Instrumental Album of the Year.

A Good Time with Canada's Foremost Roots Band

Taking a rare break from parenthood and their beloved Victoria, The Bills return with their multi-instrumental melange of European textures, rhythms of Latin America, melodies of the Romany peoples, and traditional styles from musical coast to musical coast of their own country.  The quintet--renowned for masterful musicianship, lush vocal arrangements, exuberant live performances, evocative songwriting, spontaneous humor, and innovative interpretations of tunes from around the globe--remain a fresh and exciting force to be reckoned with on the roots music scene.

Latin, World, Classical, and Jazz Guitar Artistry

One listen to the Bay Area native's virtuosity, emotionally compelling melodies, and rhythmically eclectic grooves will inspire guitar fans to echo Robinson's idol, Larry Carlton, who said, "James is an extraordinary talent who deserves to be heard."

One reviewer describes Robinson's complex chords, challenging rhythms, and streaming melodies as "broad as the bay itself."  Favored Nations Entertainment founder Steve Vai, who has built a thriving creative home for guitar legends "dedicated to fostering the art of their axe," most recently has added James Robinson to the label's diverse roster.

Robinson's albums have shown an eclectic approach incorporating jazz, flamenco, and a deep sense of improvisation.

Ernie Bucio Tribute Concert

Call Her "The Queen of Jazz"

Doreen Ketchens on a hot clarinet and vocals, and husband Lawrence H. Ketchens on an equally hot tuba, valve trombone, bass, and piano, have earned the name "Show Stealers" with their spicy show-stopping New Orleans jazz performances throughout the world.  They have received rave reviews from newspapers, magazines, radio and television, have represented New Orleans and America on several important international occasions--and performed for four United States Presidents.  "We represent New Orleans in a way very few people experience; even those who have visited the city," says Doreen, also known as "The Female Louis Armstrong," "Queen Clarinet," and "Miss Satchmo."  "Our concerts are full of wonderful music and fun.  'Shucks, you'll even learn something.'"

This concert is sponsored by Gottschalk's Music, and will be followed by a no-host "New Orleans"-style meet-and-greet dinner with Doreen & Lawrence at the Barkin' Dog (209.572.2341).  Tickets are available from Gottshchalk's (133 Burney, Modesto--209.523.5326) and Congregation Beth Shalom (209.571.6060).

The weekend will include a free New Orleans Jazz clarinet, tuba, and vocal clinic with Doreen & Lawrence at the Clarion Hotel on Sat., Nov. 12, beginning at 2:30 pm.  More information available through Gottschalk's Music.

Doreen & Lawrence will also play a few selections at the New Orleans Travelin' Band fundraiser at the Barkin' Dog the evening of the Nov. 12; several local bands will also be featured.  Contact the Barkin' Dog or 499-4926 for further details.

A Gathering of Modesto Blues & Jazz Greats

Eli Lester's true passion has always been blues and jazz guitar.  The five-time MAMA (Modesto Area Music Awards) winner will bring Big Earl & the Cryin' Shame--fronted by Earl Matthews--and other local musicians with him to his home at CBS.  Eli has toured extensively and has shared the stage with Robben Ford, Tommy Castro, Huey Lewis and the News, Robert Cray, & Chris Cain.  Raised in Modesto, Eli has recorded an album with Sony's Work Group, and has been teaching music since 1999.  Eli promises this hometown musical mix "will send you home smiling."