The Golden Belt Community Concert Association has announced its schedule of concerts for the 2014-15 season and has launched its membership campaign, which will continue through May 17.
With the theme, “Nights to Remember,” the season will feature six concerts offering musical memories of “Old Blue Eyes,” the piano magic of Floyd Cramer, rock and roll hits of the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s and the musicians who made them, country music legends and their music. Concerts take place at the Great Bend Municipal Auditorium.
The 2014-15 season will feature the following concerts:
Simply Sinatra, Sept. 18 – Steve Lippia anchors the quintessential remembrance of “Old Blue Eyes.” He is more than a “sound-alike.” His Las Vegas appearances and national tours have cemented his place as a champion of the Great American Songbook. Lippia’s exceptional vocal skills have made him one of the most prominent, in-demand vocalists in the country, establishing him among the finest interpreters of standards and traditional pop music.
Let’s Hang On! Oct. 18 – This group of eight seasoned entertainers is all about preserving the music and style of the iconic Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. “Let’s Hang On!” respectfully pays tribute to all the classic “Seasons” details while also paying tribute to the Broadway show, “The Jersey Boys.” The group captures the trademark vocal virtuosity, tight harmonies and crisp choreography that made The Four Seasons one of the greatest vocal groups of all time.
Fernando Varela, Nov. 6 – Once described as “Pavarotti at 21,” Fernando Varela has the power and raw emotion of rock and opera in one voice. His melodious antics at an early age imitating Michael Jackson helped Varela develop a strong tenor voice, paving the way for his discovery on YouTube by one of Jackson’s producers, hit-maker and 16-time Grammy Award winner David Foster. Varela’s two new studio albums, “Prelude” and “Inspiration,” feature beautifully orchestrated songs, from his signature “Orbison Medley” to John Denver’s “Annie’s Song.”
Paul McDermand, Jan. 16 – Paul McDermand, Caribbean/pop steel drum and marimba percussionist, began his career in Chicago. At age 19, he assumed the percussionist duties for a popular theatrical production called “The Magic Man” starring David Copperfield. He has performed with such performers as Natalie Cole, Tony Bennett, Johnny Cash, Liberace, The Temptations and the Moody Blues. He later anchored the rhythm section of the New York national revival tour of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Jesus Christ, Superstar,” featuring the stars of Norman Jewison’s 1973 motion picture.
Jason Coleman, Feb. 12 – Jason Coleman pays tribute to the piano magic of his grandfather Floyd Cramer. In his concerts, he highlights the far-reaching influence of his grandad’s “slip notes” as he plays a nostalgic lineup of country, pop and easy listening standards, including many that featured Floyd on the original recordings or were Floyd’s own self-penned hits. Coleman continues his concerts, doing his part to ensure that “the legacy continues.”
Live From Nashville, April 2 – Nashville-based Matt Davenport Productions celebrates the songs that gave Music City its name – from rural roots to sold-out stadiums. The production features the music of Hank Williams and Patsy Cline as well as the latest from Nashville. This fully produced song and dance spectacular boasts stellar stagecraft, country singers and dancers backed by a bona fide band of Nashville sidemen.
Association volunteers are contacting present members for their membership renewals. They need to respond by May 17 for guaranteed renewal. They may renew online at www.goldenbeltcca.org if they wish. Anyone who is not a current member and wishes to purchase a membership may contact Linda Jerke, 793-9440.
Admission to concerts is by season membership only. No single concert tickets are available. Memberships will be counted May 16 and 17 at GBCCA Headquarters located at the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce, 1125 Williams. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. May 16, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. May 17. Anyone wishing to inquire about a membership may do so in person by going to the headquarters on one of those dates. The membership drive ends May 17.
Early Bird Special
Membership dues received by May 31 for the Early Bird Special are $45 for adults; $10 for full-time enrolled students; $100 for a family membership including two adults and all dependent children living in the same household; and $100 for a grandparent package for two adults and up to four minor grandchildren.
The price of dues increases after May 31 for all categories except full-time enrolled students.
For more information, visit the association’s website: www.goldenbeltcca.org.
