SATURDAY 2/26: VPIS Concert Series Begins with Jazz Duo

These intimate concerts feature local musicians performing in the home of a FC City resident. Doors open at 7pm, concerts begin at 7:30. Concert location will be given to ticket purchases after receipt of payment. Tickets are $25 ($20 for VPIS members). For reservations, contact Bruce Turner at 703-608-1948 or e-mail to turnerblues@gmail.com.

Saturday February 26, 2011: Eric Waters (Guitar) and Judy Thompson (Violin)

Eric Waters and Judy Thompson are a guitar and violin duo who play unique interpretations of traditional classical jazz standards as well as original compositions. Eric began playing professionally in the 70’s and has toured extensively in US and Canada with such notables as the legendary Chuck Berry and Brazilian guitar virtuoso Carlos Barbosa-Lima. His vocal and instrumental compositions have received prizes in regional and national competitions. He is also a contributing author to Guitar Player Magazine and has made several

local radio and television appearances. Eric is Adjunct Instructor of Guitar at GW University. Judy Thompson performs throughout the DC area. She studied violin at the Casals Conservatory in San Juan, Puerto Rico and the University of North Texas, during which time she was a member of the Fort Worth Symphony. Following graduate studies, she had an illustrious military career in the Washington DC area as a member of the US Air Force Band, including the Force Strolling Strings. Judy has had the honor of performing for all the American presidents since Richard Nixon, and many heads of state abroad.  For more information got to: http://www.watersguitar.com

Saturday March 19, 2011: The Veronneau Band

The Veronneau Band is an acoustic, Latin Jazz and Gypsy Swing group. The group is led by Quebecoise vocalist Lynn Veronneau and accompanied by the twin acoustic guitars of Ken Avis (UK), David Rosenblatt (US/Brazil) and Pete Walby (US) on percussion. Equally at home in an intimate jazz club or a world music or folk festival, Veronneau are audience favorites performing in English, French, Portuguese and Spanish. Lynn Veronneau lights up the stage, engaging the audience with her vocal interpretations. The acoustic guitars of Ken Avis and David Rosenblatt, and the percussion of Pete Walby provide the rhythm, harmony and energy to propel the music from Brazilian Bossa Nova and Samba to French Chanson and standards of the American song book. Together they bring fluidity and playfulness to the tunes. The multi-national band perform music inspired by the retro sounds of jazz from around the world. Veronneau’s first album,’Joie de Vivre’ will be launched on CD in March. Canadian j azz critic Jordan Richardson described it as ” a cultural compendium of musical styles surrounding an astonishing voice – an exciting offering for those thirsting for something unique and beautiful. Veronneau performs regularly at festivals, clubs and other venues was recently nominated for 3 WAMMIE Awards – Best Jazz Group, Best Jazz Vocalist, Best Newcomers.  For more information go to: http://www.veronneaumusic.com