InConcert Sierra presents “Jazz on the Ranch” on September 9

What: InConcert Sierra presents Jazz on the Ranch fundraiser
with The Ken Hardin Trio and Kurt Andrew Hansen

When: September 9, 2012 at 4pm

Where: River Highlands Ranch and Vineyards, Smartsville, CA

Cost: Donations requested

Contact: www.inconcertsierra.org

Jazz on the Ranch

“This is going to be the best jazz party of the year, I can’t wait,” says Keith Porter, board president of InConcert Sierra. As we head toward the end of summer, enjoy a lazy afternoon and an outdoor picnic while listening to great music at InConcert Sierra’s annual fundraiser, Jazz on the Ranch with the Ken Hardin Trio and Broadway baritone, Kurt Andrew Hansen.

“Kurt Hansen was with us last season at Jazz on the Pond, and we’re bringing him back by popular request.” says Ken Hardin, pianist and artistic director of InConcert Sierra. Expect to hear famous jazz tunes in the style of some of the world’s favorite headliners such as Quincy Jones, Grover Washington, John Coltrane, and Bobby Darin.

The concert will also highlight saxophonist and composer Jerry Grant, and will premiere his new composition “Plus 2” written specifically for Ken Hardin. “He’s the only jazz pianist around who can actually play this piece,” says Grant. The KH3 includes Ken Hardin (piano), Kit Bailey (percussion) and Mickey Bennett (bass). Opening the festivities will be the popular local band “Then Again” with Kathy Chastain (vocals), Steve Nicholson (bass, vocals), and James May (guitar, vocals) performing nostalgic classic rock and roll.

Entertainer Kurt Andrew Hansen won the 2010 “Outstanding Actor in a Musical” by ‘Stage Scene LA’ for his performance as Sweeney Todd. He performed on Broadway in Mamma Mia! in the role of each of the three dads opposite Tony nominated actress Carolee Carmello, and in the Tony award-winning musical Miss Saigon During his career, Hansen has performed throughout the world, and in various roles in TV and film including two award-winning festival films. Jerry Grant was recently the music director for Ewing Productions “Next to Normal.”

During his career, Grant composed music for over 500 Hollywood films and television during the 1980s and 1990s including shows such as Quantam Leap, Magnum P.I., Greatest American Hero, Hired to Kill, and many more. Equally impressive on saxophone, Grant is listed in the Encyclopedia of Jazz Musicians for both his performance and composition. “We’ve got a great show planned with lots of surprises,” says Hardin.

“Jazz on the Ranch (formerly Jazz on the Pond) is our annual fundraiser which supports our concert season and educational programs. We don’t charge admission, but we request that everyone participates with a donation or pledge, by purchasing raffle tickets, or bidding on silent auction items. We definitely have fun. This is my favorite event of the season.” says Porter.

InConcert outgrew its “Jazz on the Pond” venue and is moving to a new location, 15 minutes west of Grass Valley off Hwy 20. “I loved the Goddard’s pond setting, yet River Highlands Ranch and Vineyards is a perfect replacement. I like the nice big stage. The setting is different, but the grounds are equally well kept with gorgeous views and an abundance of green lawn areas for picnics. I won’t have to jump in the pond either – which was pretty darn cold.” says Hardin.

River Highlands Ranch and Vineyards will be selling wine, and Bill’s Chuckwagon will offer $7 sandwiches for those who don’t bring a picnic or who want to add a little authentic ranch cookin’ to the experience. Be sure to bring your own lawn chairs or blankets. For more information and a list of auction items – visit www.inconcertsierra.org or call the office at 530-273-3990.

(Text and photo: InConcert Sierra)