UKIAH — This Saturday, Parducci Winery”s Acoustic Caf? series presents pianist Elena Casanova performing Tangojazzmania. The festivities start around 7 p.m. with gates opening at 6 p.m.
Casanova is known regionally as one of the finest pianists around impeccably performing Cuban, classical, jazz and just about anything she decides to lay her hands on. The musicians who will accompany her include Steve Baird, Will Siegel, Ernie Wolf, Al Diiorio, Randy Weimer, Cherie Sheraque, Delbert Gutierrez, George Huzaruk, Joel Cohen, Clovice Lewis and Brian Hanson.
Casanova has most recently performed with the Ukiah Symphony and in the yearly Professional Pianist Concert as well as “Concerts with Conversation” with Elizabeth MacDougall at the Tallman Hotel. A graduate of University of Redlands, Casanova said she enjoys playing solo recitals as well as chamber music.
Casanova said that, being a native of Cuba, her passion for Latin music has led her to explore outside her classical training. Casanova said she has really enjoyed working with some of the local jazz musicians.
Casanova”s theme for this concert is exploring the tango throughout the musical world in a variety of styles: from movie themes to classic tunes to modern tango and tango-influenced flamenco, jazz and rock ”n” roll. This concert will span the classics of Carlos Gardel and Astor Piazzolla to original compositions by Clovice Lewis. “We”re going to have a good time,” Casanova said.
General Admission costs $12 and tickets are available at Parducci Wine Cellars tasting room, by calling 463-5357 or online at parducci.com/Wine-Store/Event-Tickets.
Food will be available from the Potter Valley Caf? and North State Street Caf? with part of the drink proceeds benefiting the Alex Rorabaugh Center (The ARC). Seating fills quickly so be sure to show up early enough to get a seat at 6 p.m.
Spencer Brewer is ringmaster of direct to consumer business for Mendocino Wine Company.
