Local musicians give thanks to Sonoma venues and community

With the Thanksgiving holiday upon us, several local singers and players were asked what they are thankful for, music wise.|

There is a common feeling that there is more live music going on in Sonoma than there really should be. We are, after all, a sleepy little outpost that doesn't even show up on the TV weather maps. How can we have so much great music, so many fun venues and so many accomplished musicians?

The answer is not clear, but the musicians who live here in the Sonoma Valley are all thankful for the bounty. With the Thanksgiving holiday upon us, several local singers and players were asked what they are thankful for, music wise. Some also offered what they might like to see happen in the near future to make it an even more vibrant scene.

The musicians who responded to this decidedly non-scientific survey all mentioned one very important aspect of the local musical happenings. To a player, they mentioned 'community,' and the importance of it.

Adam Traum, guitarist and band leader, said, 'I am thankful for the music community in town and the great artists I get to play with and see.' Traum plays locally as a solo artist and as a member of the Straw Wattles.

Michael Fecskes is an accomplished cellist and artistic director of the Valley Vibes Orchestra, the youth orchestra here in Sonoma. He said, 'In the year to come, I'd like to see even more students in Sonoma Valley have opportunities to share in this experience through singing or playing of instrumental music. It is one thing for kids to see lights and share in gift-giving, but to be the generator of joy themselves will be really special.'

Singer and bass player Sue Albano gave heartfelt thanks: 'I am extremely thankful for the gift of music in my life and all that it has brought forth. All the joy, anticipation, challenge, connection and friendships that I treasure.' Albano fronts the local band Scarlett Letters.

Ace harmonica player Steen Berrig responded thoughtfully, 'I would like to give a special thanks to the community of musicians in the Valley and beyond, whose lending hand of support in times of need is always extended. Be it a fundraiser or encouraging a fellow budding musicians, the courage love and support of my fellow Sonomans flows from their collective hearts.' Berrig frequently joins in the fun at Murphy's Irish Pub on Monday nights.

Local singer Sheila Whitney responded, 'As a musician in the Sonoma Valley, I love the variety of music I can perform: classical, jazz, pop, choral… they are all available for me to participate in.' For the next year, Whitney would like 'another music festival… something homespun.' Whitney performs at many venues in Sonoma, is the music director at Trinity Episcopal Church, sings with the Sonoma Valley Chorale, and also teaches voice and speaking lessons.

Music empresario Dale Henry Geist gave a nod to the future by saying, 'I'm grateful for how kids are supported in making music by great teachers like Mikey Cannon, Adam Traum, Leta Davis, and more.' Geist owns a design firm and manages an outfit called Queer Country.

Fred and Jackie Holzhauer have a band called Acoustic Soul. They teamed up and responded with: 'We are always glad to be in this environment where music thrives.' Jackie teaches guitar and voice at Cannon School of Music.

Local drummer's drummer Roy Blumenfeld offered, 'I'm thankful for the venues that still have live music and for all the folks who come out and support our music.' He has dreams of big changes, and said, '2020 should be the year of the opening of a large concert hall in Sonoma called Sonoma City Limits.' Blumenfeld plays locally with Dave Aguilar and is a founding member of the seminal rock band the Blues Project. He added a general wish of 'more cowbell.' Ain't that just like a drummer?

Josh Yenne is an accomplished and busy sideman who plays guitar, bass and pedal steel guitar in several bands. He added this to the conversation: 'I am thankful that around this area most event planners understand that it is not really an event without live music. Almost every winery event, farmers market, etc., hires live music. I am also thankful that we have so many amazing and world-class musicians around here and we are all very supportive of each other'.

Yenne has a new country band called the Pitchforks that plays at Starling Bar this Sunday at 3:30 p.m.

Live Band Karaoke taskmaster and bass player John Arntz said, 'I am thankful for the incredibly supportive community of musicians, venues and music lovers in the Valley.' Arntz plays his bass this coming Sunday at Murphy's with the band Sonoma Sound Syndicate.

Jenni Purcell is a wonderful singer and guitarist who added, 'I came here and found such a supportive and welcoming community of musicians to share my art and talent with. I have grown as a musician by sitting in with so many great players and bands.'

Sonoma is also a great place to blossom as a musician. Up-and-coming bass player Felicia Ballard said, 'I am grateful for finally finding a place where I belong. A place where I am greeted by name and with hugs all around – finally.' Ballard can be found playing the bass both at Murphy's on Mondays and on Sundays in the St. Andrews church band.

Nary a negative note was mentioned. No complaints of 'less talking or more tipping.' The love of playing music with and for friends is about all these local musicians are looking for. Head out and give thanks to them soon, you will enjoy it. And keep in mind that they will not turn down the tips.

And I am thankful for being able to say Happy Thanksgiving from all of us.

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