News from Britt Hill – October 2015

Earlier this spring, I attended a private in-home concert in Grants Pass. It was a weeknight and, as usual, my day was long and hurried. I even considered not going to the concert, or going and staying for only a few songs. But, in this business, we are always looking for the next great performing artist to grace our venue. So, I went. I stayed. And I did not want it to end.

Mike Meyer, concert producer from KRVM, had it right when he wrote, “Moody Little Sister is the next great band to emerge from Portland. Their songwriting is emotionally moving and structured beautifully with solid instrumentation. Their music is a rare combination of moment-by-moment inspiration and well-planned folk/rock presentation. Their live show is self-revealing with intimacy in their descriptions of these special songs.”

Moody Little Sister is a duo made up of singer and pianist Naomi Hooley and guitarist/producer Rob Stroup. Together they construct a rich and meaningful performance and we can’t wait to share these wonderful artists with our community. We hope you can come to this special show on Friday, October 23, 7:00pm, at an indoor concert on the Britt Stage.

Later in the fall, our Education and Engagement department is bringing the Globe Saxophone Quartet to the Rogue Valley from November 16-21. During their residency, the Globe Sax Quartet will be visiting Jacksonville Elementary School, North Medford High School and Central Point Middle School. They will also be performing at Southern Oregon University and Bigham Knoll Ballroom in Jacksonville.

This winter, consider bringing your sweetheart to Britt’s inaugural orchestral benefit dinner and dance featuring China Forbes of Pink Martini. China will be joined by Teddy Abrams and a couple of members of the Britt Orchestra for an elegant Valentine’s evening of gourmet dining and entertainment in an intimate setting at the Inn at the Commons. Space is limited to 300 and reservations are now being accepted for this February 11, 2016 event.

We also have an update on the Crater Lake Project. Britt has commissioned composer Michael Gordon to write a site-specific piece inspired by Crater Lake National Park (CLNP), to be premiered by members of the Britt Orchestra on Friday, July 29 and Saturday, July 30, 2016 at CLNP. Over the two consecutive days, there will be multiple performances each day in order to connect as many people as possible to the music and landscape. The event will be open to the public, and there will be no admission charge for the concert. Britt is offering exclusive weekend packages to CLNP that include transportation, lodging, special events and conversations with the musicians.

As you can see by this quick overview of program activity in the coming months, there is no slowing down for your Britt team! For tickets or more information on any of these activities or events, please check out our website at www.brittfest.org.