Two “Masters of the jazz guitar” will be on stage at Main Street when world class guitarist John Stowell teams up with local legend Draa Hobbs on December 12 at 8 pm. Adding vocals to the duet will be Putney’s Libby McCawley.
Hobbs, Stowell and McCawley will present “An evening of spontaneous improvisations,” based on familiar standards from the classic American songbook as well as seldom heard pieces by Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and others.
International Critics poll winner John Stowell has been called “Jazz’s wandering minstrel,” having played across Europe, South America, Australia, and the former Soviet Union. Holding his guitar at a distinct angle, Downbeat Magazine said, Stowell “plays guitar as if he were surrounded by fine crystal.” Influenced as much by pianists and horn players as he is by guitarists. The Los Angeles Times says, “John Stowell’s style with standards is a delightful departure from the road well-traveled. He transcends the label of jazz guitarist.”
Grafton guitarist Draa Hobbs has been performing in clubs and concerts throughout New England, and is one of the premier, contemporary jazz guitarists in the Northeast. Writing for the Brattleboro Reformer, William Ballard says Hobbs “represents jazz at its best.”
Local residents are also familiar with Libby McCawley, who has been deeply involved with Main Street Arts musical productions for a number of years. Most recently she appeared in Les Miserables and in MSA’s touring production of “Jacques Brel is Alive and Well and Living in Paris.”
Besides being a jazz fan, McCawley is also Stowell’s brother. She said, “John is based on the West Coast and so this is a rare opportunity for us to perform together. I’m very excited.”
Main Street Arts Managing Director Margo Ghia said, “Main Street Arts is very excited to have these wonderful musicians on our stage together. It should make for a wonderful evening.”
The concert begins at 8 p.m., December 12. Advance tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. To reserve your seats call Main Street Arts at 802-869-2960.