Sandro Dominelli for Best Jazz Recording of the Year.
Going into the Western Canada Music Awards, the former St. Albert jazz drummer was facing some tough competition from John Hyde, Kent Sangster's Obsessions Octet, Karl Schwonik Quartet and Will Bonness.
But at the Sunday, Oct. 24 awards gala held in Kelowna, Dominelli carried the vote for his jazz recording of The Alvo Sessions. It was recorded at New York's Lofish Studios with Dominelli's pulsing grooves, the Indian inspired playing of Rez Abbasi and the electric bass chords of Chris Tarry.
Although the Gazette was unable to reach Dominelli, he writes on his website, “We are honoured to have received this recognition and thank all of you for your support of The Alvo Sessions.”
Dominelli will perform with Dave Babcock at the Yardbird Suite on Tuesday, Nov. 2.
St. Albert Theatre Arts Guild Entertainers (STAGE) likes to party and on Friday, Oct. 29 the newly formed theatre arts group is hosting a karaoke and open mike night at the St. Albert Rugby and Football Club.
While STAGE is using this event as a fundraiser for its upcoming season, organizers view it as an opportunity for the community to come out and meet members of the group.
“I know that there will be some stand-up and some music performances from a few members of the group, and of course there has been a lot of interest in the karaoke,” says artist director Beth Rogers.
A karaoke song list will be available and anyone eager to perform during the open mike portion is invited to bring instruments.
“It is Halloween-themed, so there are some little prizes, gift certificates for best costumes, best couples costume and best team.”
Bar snacks and a cash bar are offered. The rugby club is at 51 Riel Drive. Tickets are $15. Less than 30 tickets are available and can be obtained by emailing [email protected].
Country singer Colleen Rae is pulling out all the stops at Halloween with a 10th anniversary party at Rednex Bar and Grill in Morinville on Saturday, Oct. 30.
“She's been an acquaintance for 14 years. I first met her at Cook County Saloon and I've been trying to get her for years,” says Rednex owner Don Lien.
Known for her strong, warm vocals, Rae's big album What You Need Is Me charted about seven singles including You Can Get There From Here and What You Need is Me.
“She's very attractive. She's very personable and very polite. She talks to everyone. On stage, she's very energetic and she always shows a lot of enthusiasm.”
Opening for Rae is local rock band Chronic Rock. Rednex is located on 10413 – 100 Ave. Advance tickets are $10 or $15 at the door. Call 780-939-6955.
Poet's Ink, headed by Andy Michaelson, Tim Cusack, Joanne Osborne-Paulsen and their scribbling subversives, host a monthly meeting at Profiles Public Art Gallery on Thursday, Oct. 28 from 7 to 9 p.m. The public is welcome. No charge.
