Laurie’s Living Room Concerts

The Madison jazz scene continues to show its resiliency. As the number of jazz events in Madison clubs trends downward, jazz is springing up in a variety of other non-drinking establishments. The MMC is leading the way with frequent events at Capitol Lakes, a new series of creative improvised music (free jazz) at Escape Java coffeehouse, and last weekend’s successful mini-jazzfest at Art in the Barn in Fitchburg.

This Saturday another new venue will host a jazz event. Longtime Madison bassist Laurie Lang is presenting the second in an evolving series of concerts at the Faith Community Church on Park Street. Interestingly, this church used to be the jazz club called Bunkies. There are no pews. It is set up coffeehouse style with couches, round tables with chairs,  a Kawai grand piano, and a full PA with great sound. Drinks and desserts will be available during the performance as part of the cover charge.

Last month Laurie hosted an event for a high school band doing music for young people, mostly originals, a few covers, and some of it improvisational in nature. This Saturday, Laurie and John Becker will perform a concert of John’s jazz compositions. Laurie describes John’s songs as a hybrid of Bill Evans, Dave Brubeck, and Vince Guaraldi. John plays piano and drums, and sings. Laurie will play bass. Here’s the publicity blurb:

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Laurie’s Living Room Concerts Presents:

“Time Stands Still”

A unique evening of storytelling, through music and spoken word.

On Saturday, July 25^th John Becker and Barb Schultz-Becker will share their journey from disappointment to parenthood. John has recorded his struggles, victories, sorrow and joy in musical compositions that tell the story of “Time Stands Still,”

John is a prolific writer of beautiful music, joyful elementary school music teacher and well- respected jazz artist. He has shared his music in concert halls, clubs, churches and schools. John grew up in Wisconsin doing concerts with his extremely musical family, studied music at UW completing a bachelor and masters degree program, and then worked as a professional musician in LA. In recent years, he has returned to Wisconsin gotten married, become a parent and still gracefully shares his music with many.

Laurie’s Living Room Concerts create a venue that is informal and yet respectful of the artists. It is a gathering to offer a performance space that is cozy, warm and inviting while showcasing the beauty of the art being presented. We ask for a donation to cover the costs involved and provide you with a distinctive performance experience.

Come:

Saturday, July 25^th. 2009

7:30 – 9:30pm

Faith Community, 3 N. Park St., Madison

Coffeehouse style performance: $10 suggested donation/per person: This donation will include the performance, an open dessert table with drinks and a $5off coupon toward a CD.