All Gershwin

Famous brothers George and Ira Gershwin host Gershwin Galore at Old School House Art Centre in Qualicum Beach

The first show of 2014 at the Old School House Arts Centre is devoted to one of the most well-loved songwriting teams of the twentieth century.

Gershwin Galore will take place Jan. 12 and will be a variety of instrumental and vocal combinations from classical as well as jazz numbers penned by the famous brothers George and Ira Gershwin.

The program will feature vocalist Miranda Sage with pianist and vocalist Tony Booker, clarinetist Liam Hockley, pianist Ron Hadley, bassist Joey Smith and drummer Hans Verhoeven.

Sage released her first CD Standards and Originals in a Jazz Key in 1997 was met with wide critical acclaim. She sings regularly in Victoria with the 18-piece Swiftsure Big Band and in other small combos. Sage’s latest CD Daydream has garnered extensive airplay and enthusiastic acclaim on CBC, KPLU and other major stations.

Booker is an accomplished musician, composer and conductor.  Since earning a Masters at UVic in 1984, Tony has worked as a piano/organ accompanist on the UVic faculty and as a freelance pianist and organist.

Hockley graduated from Ballenas Secondary School and holds a Master’s degree from the University of British Columbia. He received his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Victoria, graduating with distinction in clarinet performance. He is currently pursuing a Doctor of Musical Arts in clarinet performance at UBC.

Gershwin Galore runs from 2:30 to 4:30 at The Old School House Arts Centre. Tickets are $16 for non-members, $13 for members and can be purchased by phone as the centre doesn’t open until Jan. 12. Call 250-752-6133. For more on this and other upcoming shows visit www.theoldschoolhouse.org.

Parksville Qualicum Beach News