Wednesday, July 29, 2009

Jazz at the Parlor Gallery



Dear Friends,

A fabulous evening a jazz! If you missed the July 25 jazz event, don't miss the next event on August 22 when Parker and friends return to delight and inspire us.

Four exceptional young musicians: Johhnie Mercier, piano, Parker McAllister, bass, Travis Antoine, trumpet, and Manny Laine, drums. All in their late teens to mid 20's and have taken on classical jazz and bumped it up to their own style of swing and bop. Young people playing classical jazz in this day and age--it was great!
We also had 2 surprise artists: John Polite, trumpet; and the extroadinary jazz and gospel vocalist, Ndelka Prescod, who delighted guests with a beautifully lyrical rendition of "Round Midnight." The audience loved Nedelka, who leads her own music group, Conscious Uprising.

Long-time jazz lovers, along with newer jazz lovers gathered to hear great music in a beautiful gallery setting for mutual love of art, music, and life. Please join us next time and support our new young artists.

I can go on and on, but I'm getting ready to go on vacation tomorrow. (Yea! my sister and I are taking a sister-trip of sun, books, and sleep.) Thanks so much to all of the generous supporters of the Parlor Gallery.

Best wishes,
Sheila

Thursday, July 23, 2009

An Evening of Jazz at the Parlor Gallery





Dear Friends,

I'm very excited to host an evening of jazz with my son, Parker, and a few of his friends. As many of you know, Parker has been playing piano since he was 4 years old. Actually, he started at 2 playing all sorts of instruments very loudly--particularly drums.


As a parent whose followed and supported her son's interest in music from the very beggining, I am so pleased that he has taken ownership of his passion and has been building an exciting music career.

And now, by popular demand, Parker is playing for friends and family this Saturday. The line-up for the evening include: Travis Antoine: Trumpet; Johnny Mercer: Piano; Parker McAllister: upright/electric bass; and Manny Laine: Drums.

We're asking for $15 donation to support back-to-college funds--but all are welcome regardless. Please join us for a fun-filled evening and support our young musicians.

Best wishes,
Sheila

Saturday, July 11, 2009

Willie Torbert Exhibit Extended to July 25

Dear Friends,

Some have expressed interest in the Torbert exhibit but are having a tough time squeezing it in between summer fun and travels and I don't want anyone interested to miss this vibrant, soulful and diverse group of original fine artworks that include beautiful watercolors, collages, and drawings.

The opening was fun-filled as well as saddened by the sudden death of Michael Jackson. As you can imagine, the interest in the artwork competed with the overwhelming emotional discussions surrounding Michael. Everyone had a a Michael Jackson story covering several generations.

Then the highlight of the event was when Jennifer and Parker (my musician niece and son) hit the piano and bass and started reminiscing MJ tunes. If I say so my self (mom's prerogative) Parker played soulful and melodic bass solos that had us all poppin' and almost dancing.

Don't miss the exhibit. We'll be here Saturday's and Sunday's through July from 2:00 to 6:00 and will open by appointment. Willie Torbert will join us Tuesday evening.

Best wishes,
Sheila