Published in the May 8 – 21, 2019 issue of Morgan Hill Life

Photo courtesy Get Classical
Filip Pogady will perform May 24 in Morgan Hill.

The NorCal Music Festival  is coming to the Bay Area and features more than 40 concerts in less than 25 days May 17 through June 10. The second annual NorCal Music Festival will see more than 70 up-and-coming musicians from almost 20 different countries in performances up and down the Bay Area. The NorCal Music Festival is based right here in Morgan Hill, hosted by the Advent Lutheran Church 16870 Murphy Ave.

You can expect chamber music performances Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday nights, each week, along with orchestra masterworks Friday nights. All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. and include a wine reception at intermission.

International violin sensation, Filip Pogady will perform the Sibelius Violin Concerto May 24, 25 and 26 in Morgan Hill, Santa Clara, and San Francisco, respectively. Other works worth mentioning are the Sorcerer’s Apprentice from Disney’s Fantasia, Smetana’s Molda and Liszt’s Hungarian Rhapsody No. 2.

Recently appointed Principal Second Violinist, Ani Bukujian, of the San Francisco Ballet, will premiere the Kyle Jones Violin Concerto in the final which closes out the festival June 7, 8 and 9.

The NorCal Music Festival has seminars and master classes that are open to the public and more than 13 performances each week running through June 10. Visit www.norcalmusic.org for a full schedule of events, ticketing, and information to learn how you can support the organization to help create more opportunities for under-represented minorities in the performing arts.

  • •             •

On another note, I am looking forward to my next column showcasing the music of the 2019 Morgan Hill Mushroom Mardi Gras. This is two full days of music on two stages and live music inside the premium wine tent May 25 and 26.

  • •             •

Clos LaChance will feature a variety of live music with their Groovin’ On the Grove Series. On Mother’s Day May 12 the featured act is The Cook ‘N Fenny Combo from 1 to 4 p.m. On May 19 the grove will be groovin’ with Jeff and Julie Stramatz from 1 to 4 p.m. I had a chance to catch Jeff and Julie in action. Their vocal harmonies are spot on and Jeff’s guitar picking on his large bodied jumbo Boulder Creek guitar is very impressive. Bring a picnic lunch or snacks.

  • •             •

Finally, check out Jakes Wish Dog Rescue fundraiser from noon to 6 p.m., Sunday, June 2, at Kelly Brewing Company. This is a benefit for Jakes Wish Dog Rescue which consists of a system of volunteers and foster homes in the area. They are a 501(c)3 non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to rescuing dogs in need from surrounding communities. It will feature a giant silent auction with fabulous prizes including wine packages and vacations. Live music is provided by two bands Knee Deep and Beagle At The Door. For more information, visit www.jakeswishrescue.org or /www.facebook.com/JakesWishRescue.

Got a music tip? Email [email protected].