Wednesday, June 30, 2010

The Salon Wrap-Up for June 27, 2010 - "Glitter and Be Gay"

The rainbows were high and the flags were flying on Sunday night, as The Salon celebrated Pride Week with the theme "Giltter and Be Gay." The Special Guest Performer of the evening was Terese Genecco, while Jonathan Whitton (fresh from a 2010 MAC Award for Special Production) stepped into Shaynee Rainbolt's shoes as a last-minute replacement as Guest Co-Host (and he looked fabulous in them!). Shaynee is fine - she was just delayed in Phoenix over the weekend. Our wonderful Mark Janas is back too! Fresh off his job in Maine playing for "Always, Patsy Cline," he sported the shirt he wore in the show – a wonderfully appropriate country-style shirt with two yellow treble clefs.

Jonathan Whitton first stepped to the stage – which was adorned with feathered rainbow banners carried in the Pride parade earlier in the day – and sang "Terrero" in his rock-tenor, accenting the melody with a rock falsetto. Throughout the evening, Jonathan was able to flit and flirt his way through the performers, interviewing them and bantering with some witty repartee each time! After Jonathan, Sierra Rein blues'd up the Huey Lewis & The News tune "The Power of Love," a song about the Universality of love from the movie Back to the Future. Then Bobbie Horowitz sang "When the Curtain Goes Up," a song written by herself and John Meyer. Celia Berk then lovingly sang "I'm Glad There Is You," by Jimmy Dorsey and Paul Madeira. Then we had the Anniversary Couple of the week, Mike McDonald and Joey Infante (who had brought in the flags on either side of the stage – one says "Together" and the other says "30 years"). They both wore tuxedo jackets, bow ties, and bicycle shorts! Joey first sang "Wearing My Shoes" in a Ragtime style. Then Michael sang a salute to the 1920's entitled "What is This World Coming To?", which included excerpts from "Baby Face" and "Five Foot Two."

Bobbie Horowitz

After that gay romp, we had Sunny Leigh, who performed a jazzy version of "It Might As Well Be Spring," and she felt gay in a melancholy way doing it. Then songwriter Richie Eisenberg sang something close to the "Glitter" theme and with augmented lyrics for the occasion – "Sparkle." Dan Furman and Salon Producer Tanya Moberly brought up Dan's crowd-pleasing song, "Pluto's Not a Planet Anymore," and the audience knew exactly when to sing along with the "Bring Pluto back!" anthem. We then had Bill Zeffiro take to the piano and mic to sing "The Parting of the Ways." Returning to The Salon for another week's performance, Marc Ostrow performed his original "How Could You Cheat On Me?" - a song which contains a deceptively funny ending!

Speaking of funny endings, Joan Jaffe was next, performing "Down in the Depths" in her usual hilarious manner, taking up the stage to all her advantage. Marya Zimmer sang a jazzy version of "Lullaby of Birdland." Then Liz Ulmer wowed the crowd with "Just to Look at Him" by the late Brian Lasser, and Mark Watson sang "Song of the Sand" from La Cage Aux Folles. Singing and playing from his new show, New World Waking, Steve Schachlin performed the song "Gabi's Song." Marnie Klar then did a mashup-medley of "Primitive Man" by Cole Porter, followed by Barry Manilow's "Man Wanted" from Copacabana. To finish the first half, Erin Cronican performed "Infinite Joy," a song by gay musical theater composer William Finn.

With Special Guest performer Terese Genecco, you get three performers for the price of one. Describing herself as the "love child of Judy Garland and Dean Martin," Terese joked that she's automatically qualified for pre-rehab (as opposed to pre-school). But her enthusiasm, energy and voice certainly qualifies her as one of the great, new New York jazz and big band institutions. Terese and her Little Big Band have made a splash in recent years, and The Salon was so excited to have her this evening. She started out with "Ain't That a Kick in the Head" to commemorate her love-Dad Dean Martin. She then brought the audience to tears with "If I Was a Boy," a beautiful heartbreaking song (written by Maria Gentile and Karen Cole) that fit the theme of the evening perfectly. To finish her set, Terese sang "In My Drag," written by Phillip Swann (music) and Mark Winkler (lyrics) from their new musical Play It Cool.

Mark Janas was welcomed back to his Classical Corner and talked about the power of harmonic structure, using “Maria” from West Side Story to illustrate. Then Tanya Moberly sang “What More Can I Say?” one of my favorite William Finn songs from Falsettos. Birthday Lady Candice Oden sang “Someone to Watch Over Me” with Bill Zeffiro at the piano, and the crowd celebrated by singing Happy Birthday while she was delivered a dessert with a birthday candle by the Etcetera Etc. staff. And what do you get when you cross a priest and a psychiatrist and have him sing? Why, Father Jeff Hamblin, MD (who has been a supporter and frequent audience member of The Salon for quite a while!), who sang “The Impossible Dream.”

After the Padre, we had some room for encores – Mark Watson beautifully sang “Sing the Ballad of Sad Young Men,” and Joey Infante & Mike McDonald performed “Besa Me Mucho,” with Mike on piano and Joey singing in Spanish. Dan Furman, a whiz at the black & whites, played out a beautiful jazz tune, then Steve Schachlin had the audience singing along with the chorus on his piece “Time to Come Out” from his show New World Waking. Bill Zeffiro encored his new original tune (and a new favorite, I might add), “Universal Truth.” Sunny Leigh joined Bill Zeffiro to duet on “You’re Just in Love,” and then Richie Eisenberg sang an utterly dirty parody to “The Man Who Never Returned” entitled “The Man Who Never Got Laid.” Marnie Klar returned for another song as well, singing “Liontamer” from Stephen Schwartz’s The Magic Show. Erin Cronican (with Bill Zeffiro at the piano) sang “Even Though” from the musical I Love You Because, and Dr. Sue sang “Columbus Cabin Girl,” set to the tune of an old folk song. And finally, to complete the evening’s gay escapades, our host Jonathan Whitton sang “Dinner at Eight.”

Reminder that this Sunday, July 4th - there will be NO SALON in honor of Independence Day frivolities, so eat lots of hot dogs and watch fireworks instead!

The week after that, July 11th, the theme will be “The Long And The Short Of It.” Guest Host/Pianist will be Chris Haberl, and our guest Co-Host will be the fabulous Jamie deRoy. Our Special Guest will be Cindy Marchionda.


Joey Infante
-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
Spelling mistakes? URL's I missed? Did I mess up? Please email me.

Wednesday, June 23, 2010

Update from Producer Tanya Moberly - June 23, 2010

SALON, that Bistro & MAC Award winning open mic created and hosted by Mark Janas, returns to Etcetera, Etcetera - 352 West 44th Street, NYC 10036 - on Sunday, June 27th from 7PM to 10:30PM.

To honor Gay Pride week in New York, the optional theme for the evening is "Glitter and Be Gay!” So sing out loud, sing out proud – sing a song, written by or about your favorite homosexual!

Remember, any material, on or off theme, is always welcome at Salon.

Mark Janas is back!!! (Mark has been in Maine doing “Always... Patsy Cline”. Click on http://www.danosgood.com/projects/ClineWebSEQ.mov for a video sample.)

Our Co-Host will be the MAC & Bistro Award winning, Last Minute Super Hero Jonathan Whitton! (Shaynee Rainbolt has been delayed in Phoenix.) Jonathan is best known for his turn in HEDWIG AND THE ANGRY INCH and has recently returned from a southeastern tour of THE LAST FIVE YEARS. He will debut his new solo-collaboration GRACE: A JEFF BUCKLEY PROJECT this fall. For more information: jonwhitton.com.

Our Special Guest will be the Spectacular Bistro & Multiple MAC Award winner, Terese Genecco! Terese appears with her Little Big Band on the last Tuesday of every month (June 29th* July 27th * August 31st * September 28th * October 26th * November 30th * December 28th) at The Iridium Jazz Club, 1650 Broadway (51st st) NYC 10019, 212-582-2121. Sets at 8pm & 10pm. For more information: www.teresegenecco.com.

There will be a $10 cash cover at the door, collected by 'Etceterette', Marnie Klar, and a $12 food/drink minimum (cash or credit) per person. (For further information visit www.etcrestaurant.com or call 212-399-4141). There are no reservations; seating is on a first come/ first served basis, with one intermission. Doors open at 6:15 and sign up begins at 6:30 with 'Etceterette', Erin Cronican.

Salon will now continue every Sunday EXCEPT NEXT WEEK through Labor Day!!!

July 4th: NO SALON

July 11th: “The Long And The Short Of It”
Guest Host/Pianist: Chris Haberl
Co-Host: Jamie deRoy
Special Guest: Cindy Marchionda

July 18th: “Cy Coleman”
Co-Host: Jana Robbins
Special Guest: TBA

July 25th: “Demo Night with Peter Millrose”
Co-Host: Julie Reyburn
Special Guest: Hector Coris

You will have the option to pay a $30 fee to Peter Millrose for a studio quality recording of your live performance. Reservations and payments will be taken in advance for guaranteed slots. (Contact Tanya at 646-637-2806 or tanyamoberly@juno.com) Mark is willing to offer rehearsal time earlier that afternoon to those participating.

For more information on Peter Millrose:
http://millrosemusic.com/millrosemusic.asp

http://millrosemusic.com/photos.asp

-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
Spelling mistakes? URL's I missed? Did I mess up? Please email me.

Monday, June 21, 2010

The Salon Wrap-Up for June 20, 2010 - "June Jazzathon"


Special Guest Susan Winter

Jazz music is the power of now. There is no script. It's conversation. The emotion is given to you by musicians as they make split-second decisions to fulfill what they feel the moment requires.

—Wynton Marsalis

Sunday was filled with improvisation, licks, syncopation, back phrasing, blue notes, and the Barry Levitt rule that if the audience snapped, it had to be on beats 2 and 4! Yes, the theme was "June Jazzathon," and folks brought in classic jazz standards, brand new jazz compositions, and even jazzed up some Broadway and rock blues classics for the theme! On the piano, and hosting the event in place of Mark Janas, was the incomparable Barry Levitt, while on the upright bass was charming, funny, and groovy singer-songwriter Ritt Henn. Co-Hostess of the evening was Helena Grenot, who recently debuted her show "Damned If I Know" at Don't Tell Mama earlier in May. Special Guest was Susan Winter, who is opening up (or re-revealing after 3 years) her MAC-nominated show "Million Dollar Matinee" at Don't Tell Mama, June 21, 29th and 30th.

And two congratulations were consistently celebrated from Salon members on stage: the birthday wishes to singer Jillian Lauraine, and wishes of a happy anniversary to Joey Infante and Michael MacDonald!

Helena Grenot got the jive going with the Dizzy Gillespie number "A Night In Tunisia." That opened the stage up for newcomer Ruth Cruson to belt out "The Trolley Song" - Ruth is working on a new Cabaret show with Director Joey Infante, which will arise by the end of the year. Then Lou Iacovino - a regular Salon attendee - brought up "The Best is Yet to Come," a classic Sinatra swing song. After Lou, MAC Award-winning hostess of the Wednesday Night at the Iguana series Dana Lorge took to the stage and sang a HILLLLLARIOUS song to birthday lady Jillian, "Up Yours." This Wednesday, June 23rd, will mark the 1 year anniversary of the Wednesday Night at the Iguana series with fellow host Richard Skipper, and will feature Barry Levitt on piano and Saadi Zain on bass, along with many other special guests, to celebrate the event. After Dana, Sunny Leigh sang the sweet "There Never Will Be Another You," which included an interlude written by Sunny and Barry Levitt - and Sunny says she will have another show in the Fall.

We had an out of town couple, and Sam Supowit represented his home state of Arizona by effortlessly playing the piano and singing Billy Joel's "Movin' Out." Then Susan Dymond, yet another welcomed newcomer to The Salon, deftly maneuvered through "How High The Moon" - she is getting a show of her own ready for the fall season. After Susan, Deb Berman - sorry - Bistro Award-Winning Deb Berman sang the swinging "Nobody Else But Me." Next, the always stylish Bobbie Horowitz sang "Never a Freshman Again," in honor of Jillian's birthday. Bobbie's book "Find Your Mini Q's: Reveal the Star You Truly Are" is currently in the hands of editors and should be published in July! Then we had the birthday girl herself, Jillian Laurain, sing "Make Me Rainbows." The audience then did a lovely round of "Happy Birthday" and "You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby" for Jillian, who will perform at the Metropolitan Room under the direction of Peter Napolitano, July 24th at 5pm!

To round out the first half, we had Stephanie Zagoren with "Bye Bye Blackbird" (during which there was a heavy dose of audience snapping on the 2's and 4's). We then had a debut from Berlin, Germany with Gesine Heinrich, belting out "Nevertheless," then Edie Stokes flirted her way through "Do Nothing 'Till You Hear From Me." Then, Helena Grenot brought Peter Napolitano to the stage to introduce the song he wrote lyrics to, "Damned If I Know," which is also the title to Helena's recent show. He wrote this special material with Barry Levitt. Peter has been busy as of late, as he is directing both Jillian Lauraine's upcoming show and Barbara Porteus' show at Feinsteins, has a song written by himself and Matthew Ward in Susan Winter's show, and is now a staff writer for NiteLifeExchange.com! Next to sing was Dani Rhodes with "Kissing You"; Dani will be out of NYC doing "The Buddy Holly Story" in Connecticut! Arianna next sang a unique interpretation of "The Man That Got Away." Finally, Michael MacDonald took to the piano to sing "You Made Me Love You" to Joey Infante, who turned it around and sang "True Love" back. 31 years, guys - you made it happen!

After the break, we had our lovely Special Guest Susan Winter! Her show "Million Dollar Matinee" opened last night at Don't Tell Mama and there are two more shows June 29th and 30th at 7pm! She has also recently won the 2010 MAC Award for her CD "Love Rolls On." She will also be seen at the Iridium Jazz Vocalist Festival July 13th and Tuesday, June 1st, sharing the stage with Karen Oberlin. For Salon, she sang "Going My Way," "Come Dance With Me," "You'll See," and "No One Ever Tells You." She was marvelous!!!

Barry then took us on a road trip down "Route 66" for the "Barry's Corner" segment of the evening. After Barry's Corner came "Ritt's Niche," although I'm not sure if there's a niche big enough for Ritt Henn and his upright bass! Ritt sang the title tune from his CD "Goin' Back," which was very appropriate for Father's Day. Then Tanya Moberly sang "Overlap" by Ani Difranco - Tanya will be singing with Bill Zeffiro at the Borcalino Room this Thursday at Flute Grammercy, and will also bring back her "Theater Songs" show with Ritt Henn and Mark Janas to Don't Tell Mama on September 30th. Next, Richard Eisenberg sang a song fresh from his writing desk - "Never Too Late," a lovely optimistic-filled song. Barbara Proteus (Feinstein's on July 31st and August 1st at 8:30 folks!) then jazzed up a version of "It Might As Well Be Spring" from State Fair. Barbara, along with several other Salon members, will also sing at Don't Tell Mama for the MAC Summer Preview Showcase, July 16th.

To ratchet the energy of the evening even higher, Kevin McMullan brought "Minnie The Moocher" back to the microphone, finding even more audience response participation than ever. Then Brandon Bain - returning to the Salon for the second time - cooed "Dindi" (using the Portuguese pronunciation: dʒĩˈdʒi) by Antonio Carlos Jobim. Brandon, with his cool demeanor and smooth vocals, epitomized the jazz theme of the evening and certainly made an impression! After Brandon came Maria Zimmet - who is promising us a show in the next few months - and expertly floated and zipped through a jazz rendition of "Cheek to Cheek." Marc Ostrow then returned to the piano from last week and sang an original romantic jazz waltz piece, "Would You Like to Go Out for Some Coffee." (the answer is yes, Marc!)

We then got a house call from Dr. Sue Horowitz, who reinterpreted Fiddler on the Roof to reflect the wishes of a female Tevye in "If I Was a Rich Goil." Then Craig Pomrantz sweetly sang "Rain Sometimes." Craig is returning to the Metropolitan Room July 21st and 22nd before heading back to Los Angeles and Palm Springs for a few more shows. We then had Joan Jaffe (whose CD "Joan Jaffe Sings Funny..." was released just last week!) - she sang "I'm All Smiles." Joan is also directing Louisa Poster's show at Don't Tell Mama on July 12th, will be seen at the MAC Summer Preview Showcase on July 16th, and will be having a CD release party at Don't Tell Mama's on July 29th! Making her Salon debut, Lenore Stefanik sang "My Romance" with lovely soprano vocals. Then our wonderful co-host Helena Grenot completed the evening with "No Regrets."

Next week! June 27th: the theme will be “Glitter and Be Gay” in honor of Gay Pride Week! The Co-Host of the evening will be Shaynee Rainbolt, while the Special Guest will be Terese Genecco. Get out your songs from Falsettos, La Cage aux Folles, songs written by composers and lyricists in the LGBT community, or perhaps songs about pride, positive optimism, or anything evoking the "I am what I am" tenant.

And now for some pics - taken from my iPhone, please forgive blurriosity:



Helena Grenot, Ritt Henn & Barry Levitt



Gesine Heinrich, Helena Grenot



Kevin McMullan, Maria Zimmet


Joey Infante, Susan Winter


Brandon Bain, Deb Berman


"Ritt's Niche"


Dani Rhodes, Barry Levitt, Arianna


Dr. Sue, and an anniversary cake!

-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
Spelling mistakes? URL's I missed? Did I mess up? Please email me.

Friday, June 18, 2010

Update from Producer Tanya Moberly! June 19, 2010

SALON, that Bistro & MAC Award winning open mic created and hosted by Mark Janas, returns to Etcetera, Etcetera - 352 West 44th Street, NYC 10036 - on Sunday, June 20th from 7PM to 10:30PM.

The optional theme for the evening is "June Jazzathon”!

Remember, any material, on or off theme, is always welcome at Salon.

Mark Janas is in Maine doing “Always...Patsy Cline” through June 26th. Click on http://www.danosgood.com/projects/ClineWebSEQ.mov for a video clip!

Our Guest Host/Pianist will be the Incredible Barry Levitt! Barry's illustrious history includes being a President Emeritus of MAC, winning the 2007 MAC Award for Best Jazz Group, being Artistic Director of The Lyrics & Lyricists series at The 92nd St Y as well as being a musical director On and Off Broadway. Current shows include Barbara Porteus at Feinstein's, (540 Park Ave at 61st St, NYC 10021, 212-765-5454), Marcus Simeone at The Metropolitan Room, (34 West 22nd St, NYC 10010, 212-206-0440), Terese Genecco and her little big band at The Iridium, (1650 Broadway at 51st St, NYC 10019, 212-582-2121) and Helena Grenot at Don't Tell Mama, (343 West 46th St, NYC 10036, 212-757-0788). Barry is currently in negotiations to start a Sunday Jazz Brunch in Manhattan.

Our Co-Host will be the Hilarious & Heartwarming Helena Grenot! Helena will be bringing her show “Damn'd If I Know” back to Don't Tell Mama in October. In the meantime, you can catch her every Wednesday at The Iguana (240 West 54th St, NYC 10019, 212-765-5454) and every Sunday at Salon, (Etcetera, Etcetera, 352 West 44th Street, NYC 10036).

Our Special Guest will be the Sensational MAC & Bistro Award winning Susan Winter! Susan is reprising her show “Million Dollar Matinee” on June 21st, 29th & 30th at 7pm at Don't Tell Mama, 343 West 46th St, NYC 10036, 212-757-0788. She'll also be featured in The Jazz Vocalist Festival at Iridium, 1650 Broadway at 51st St, NYC 10019, 212-582-2121 on July 13th at 6pm.

On Bass will be the Remarkable MAC & Bistro Award winning Ritt Henn! Ritt's upcoming gigs include Sarah Rice at The Laurie Beechman Theatre (407 West 42nd St, NYC 10036, 212-695-6909), Metro Jam hosted by Jenna Esposito at The Metropolitan Room , (34 West 22nd St, NYC 10010, 212-206-0440), Julie Reyburn at Feinstein's (540 Park Ave at 61st St, NYC 10021, 212-765-5454), Tanya Moberly at Don't Tell Mama, (343 West 46th St, NYC 10036, 212-757-0788) and many more! For details please visit www.ritthenn.com.

There will be a $10 cash cover at the door, collected by 'Etceterette', Dani Rhodes, and a $12 food/drink minimum (cash or credit) per person. (For further information visit www.etcrestaurant.com or call 212-399-4141). There are no reservations; seating is on a first come/ first served basis, with one intermission. Doors open at 6:15 and sign up begins at 6:30 with 'Etceterette', Arianna.

Salon will now continue every Sunday (except July 4th) through Labor Day!!!

June 27th: “Glitter and Be Gay”
Co-Host: Shaynee Rainbolt
Special Guest: Terese Genecco

July 4th: NO SALON HAPPY 4th!

July 11th: “The Long And The Short Of It”
Guest Host/Pianist: Chris Haberl
Co-Host: Jamie deRoy
Special Guest: Cindy Marchionda

July 18th: “Cy Coleman”
Co-Host: Jana Robbins
Special Guest: TBA

-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
Spelling mistakes? URL's I missed? Did I mess up? Please email me.

Monday, June 14, 2010

The Salon Wrap-Up for June 13, 2010: "A Girl and a Guitar"

Tracy Stark
You know that old saying, "When life gives you lemons, make lemonade?" Well, The Salon was dealt two lemons in the form of The Tony Awards and a bit of rain to distract performers from arriving and singing on our stage. Hey, we get it - it's a tough night to fill! However, for those who did came to Etcetera Etcetera last night to perform and watch others, we made it a lemon-drop-martini of an evening! And to be sure, I was on Twitter seeing the stream of Tony Award announcements, so we were kept up to date with the other events of the evening.

The theme was "A Girl and A Guitar," celebrating wonderful female singer-songwriters, past and present. Featured Guest Host and pianist was singer-songwriter-music director-MAC Award winner Tracy Stark, who effortlessly flowed from rock piano to Broadway styles with ease the entire evening. The Guest co-host was Gretchen Reinhagen, who recently performed a run of Janis Joplin's Pearl as part of the Under the Cover series (presented by Lennie Watts, with an all-girl band behind her featuring Musical Director Tracy Stark took to the piano, while bass and guitar was provided by Lisa Brigantino and Donna Kelly on drums). And speaking of Lisa Brigantino - she was our very Special Guest Performer! Her new CD, "Wonder Wheel," has now been released and she will be having a special CD Release party THIS FRIDAY 6/18 at Rockwood Music Hall. Last night, she sang a number of tunes from this CD -- if her all-band CD version has anywhere near the high energy and quality of her acoustic guitar version, I highly recommend catching her CD or attending her CD release party!

Since we were at relatively low attendance, many singers got to sing multiple times, which was a fantastic opportunity to hear people sing different styles, try new material, even pick out oldies-but-goodies to share from their repertoire books. First up was co-host Gretchen Reinhagen, who thanked us "both" for coming (ha ha), then sang the beautiful "Life's Been Kind (Memory to Wear)," an original by Tracy Stark. Then she introduced Dawn Derow up to the stage to perform in her Salon debut. Dawn has a new show, You Live, You Learn, which is continuing at Don't Tell Mama with Tracy Stark on piano, Sean Harkness on guitar, Donna Kelly on drums, plus a couple of backup singers - June 22nd and June 25th. For The Salon last night, she sang the Indigo Girls' rock anthem "Fleet of Hope," with backup vocals by Tracy. Next, Sunny Leigh rocked out with "Harper Valley PTA," a sensuously funny country music song (written by Tom T. Hall) that would eventually help Jeannie C. Riley become "the first woman ever to top the U.S. pop and country singles charts with the same song" (Wikipedia). It was a great choice for the evening! After Sunny, Sierra Rein brought out some Carol King with "I Feel the Earth Move." Then, Etceterette Jan Brennan sang the first standard song of the evening, "Not Exactly Paris," by Michael Leonard and Russell George.

Dawn Derow

Tanya Moberly

Our first girl (aka Woman) with a guitar of the evening came to perform - our own Tanya Moberly, singing and playing "All I Want," by Joni Mitchell. Tanya will be singing with Bill Zeffiro at The Borcalino Room at Flute on June 24th, 40 East 20th street. Then singer-songwriter Marc Ostrow injected some testosterone into the mix and sang his original piece entitled "Someday, You'll Make Someone Happy" (which, he said "should be played on guitar").

Marc Ostrow

After Marc, we began some repeats! Dawn Derow returned to sing an original that she wrote for her friend entitled "My Shelter from the Storm," which had a great pop rock sensibility. Our ever-smiling waiter-singer David Ballard then interrupted his work to sing "Stormy Weather." After that, Etceterette Janice Hall came up to sing the first song Judy Collins ever wrote, "Since You've Asked." Sierra Rein then sang a favorite song of her father's for his Birthday, "If I Loved You" from Carousel. After her, Jan Brennan brought a Bette Midler belter-Broadway-Baby-"tits out to here" song, "I'm Singing Broadway." Tanya Moberly returned with her guitar and tenderly strummed through The Beatles' "I'm Only Sleeping," Marc Ostrow played and sang a sweet original entitled "I'll Stay With You While you Sleep," David Ballard quickly came back (the rotation was quick, folks!) to sing "Not a Day Goes By," and Sierra Rein sang her 2nd Carol King piece of the evening with "(You Make Me Feel Like A) Natural Woman." Janice Hall then turned the tables on the theme and claimed that Kurt Weill once played the guitar, then sang the bitingly funny "Surabaya Johnny." To end the first half, Etceterette Jan Brennan popped back on stage and sweetly sang "The Song is You."

Lisa Brigantino was the special guest of the evening, and epitomized the theme in every way; a girl, guitar, singer-songwriter with a great attitude, rockin' voice, interesting and playful songs, and a guitar strumming technique that made it hard to take a picture of her that wasn't blurry! She is fierce, folks! Lisa began her special guest set with her original song "This Town." After quickly and deliberately re-tuning her guitar, she sang "This Used to Be a House," which was inspired by a conversation with a homeless lady, she said. A second retuning (which was fascinating for me to watch) got her ready for her third set song, "Go And Find It," which had a great Irish brogue-rock feel. As stated above, her CD Release party will take place this Friday, June 18th at 7:30 pm at the Rockwood Music Hall, 196 Allen St, NY, NY, 10002. She will perform with a full band, which includes Tomi Millioto on guitar, Helen Destroy on drums, Jeremy Chatzky on bass, and special guest vocalists Lori Brigantino, Susan Haefner and Jerry Snee! $5 cover, 1 drink minimum. 21+ unless accompanied by parents only. On July 15 and 21st (Don't Tell Mama, 6:30pm) Lisa will perform her Cabaret act, Inside Vickie and Nickie, with her sister Lori - apparently the two of them play 9-10 instruments throughout the semi-autobiographical(ish) comedy-music-filled show.

Lisa Brigantino

After this rockin' set, Gretchen Reinhagen then stepped up and joined Tracy and Lisa to sing the lead vocals of Janis Joplin's "Me & Bobby McGee." Then it came time for Tracy's Corner, featuring songs from her own personal collection of originals (sorry if I get these titles wrong, Tracy!). First, she sang "If I Touched Your Heart," which was inspired by a friend's personal difficulties (as Tracy said, "Sometimes good stuff comes out of a bad situation). Then she played "Camera," a song that won her a 2006 Great American Song Contest Honor Award. After Tracy, Tanya Moberly sang "The Diner" by Ani Difranco. Then Irenka Jakubiak had her Salon debut, singing "I Can't Make You Love Me" made famous by modern-day lady with a guitar, Bonnie Raitt. Keeping on the female songwriter theme, Sierra Rein then sang "Fifteen Pounds (Away From My Love)" by Marcy Heisler and Zina Goldrich.

Gretchen Reinhagen & Lisa Brigantino

Marc Ostrow then brought a brand new comedic song to the piano, one fresh from the composing desk that he described as "The Ramones meets Dr. Demento" entitled "I've Been Unfriended on Facebook." Stephen Wilde then popped in to sing "I Could Be In Love With Someone Like You" by Jason Robert Brown (cut from The Last Five Years). It was then that I announced that La Cage Aux Folles' director Terry Johnson won a Tony, and Janice Hall was quick enough to tie that into the fact that she was about to sing "La Vie En Rose"...a song in French! Jan Brennan then sang the bluesy "Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans?" and Irenka Jakubiak came back to sing James Taylor's "You Can Close Your Eyes." We were then treated to a week-old, bouncing baby of a new song by Bill Zeffiro, a wry but sweet song entitled "Lower Your Expectations."
Janice Hall - "La Vie En Rose"

We then had just enough time to invite Lisa Brigantino back to the stage to sing one of her funny songs, "A Motel Room in the Dangerous Part of Town." To complete the evening, we were treated to our second Tracy-Lisa-Gretchen trio, this time with Gretchen rockin' out to Joplin's "Get it While You Can," which was spectacular.

Lisa's fingers fly in a blurry flash!

And on that note: last night at The Salon, I certainly "got it" (live music performed by talented women and men on pianos and guitars) "while I could," and tonight I'm going to watch the Tony's on my DVR. Best of both worlds? CHECK!

NEXT SALON is on June 20th, next Sunday - Theme: “June Jazzathon” Guest Host/Pianist: Barry Levitt, with co-host Helena Grenot and Special Guest Susan Winter! PLUS! Bass man Ritt Henn will be there as well, so if you want him to slap his bass with you, be sure to bring an extra copy of your music for him to read. This is a great opportunity to try out some cool jazz tunes or just to be able to wear that French beret and have an excuse to grow a soul patch. Either way, works for me!

Bill Zeffiro

-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
Spelling mistakes? URL's I missed? Did I mess up? Please email me.

Thursday, June 10, 2010

The Salon Update from Producer Tanya Moberly

SALON, that Bistro & MAC Award winning open mic created and hosted by Mark Janas, returns to Etcetera, Etcetera - 352 West 44th Street, NYC 10036 - on Sunday, June 13th from 7PM to 10:30PM.

The optional theme for the evening is "A Girl & a Guitar” - Joni Mitchell, Janis Joplin, Carole King, Tracy Chapman, Sheryl Crow, Carly Simon, Ricki Lee Jones, Shawn Colvin, Indigo Girls, etc... (Of course there is also James Taylor, Bob Dylan, Paul Simon, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, The Beatles, etc...)

Remember, any material, on or off theme, is always welcome at Salon!

Mark Janas is in Maine doing “Always...Patsy Cline” through June 26th.

Our Guest Host/Pianist will be the Amazing, Multiple Award winning Tracy Stark! Tracy has now compiled 4 MAC Awards, a Bistro Award and a Dottie Burman Songwriter of the Year Award. For Tracy's busy schedule, please visit www.tracystark.com.

Our Co-Host will be the Delightful Nightlife, Bistro & MAC Award winning Gretchen Reinhagen! Gretchen has just announced that she has joined the family at RNM Representation. For more information about Gretchen visit www.gretchenreinhagen.com.

Our Special Guest will be the 'Musically Unique' Lisa Brigantino! Lisa will be performing with a full band at Rockwood Music Hall, 196 Allen Street, NYC 10002 on June 18th at 7:30pm to release her latest CD, “Wonder Wheel”. She will also be playing a prime spot in The Black Potatoes Music Festival in Clinton, NJ on July 10th. For more information about Lisa visit: www.lisabrig.com.

There will be a $10 cash cover at the door, collected by 'Etceterette', Janice Hall, and a $12 food/drink minimum (cash or credit) per person.  (For further information visit www.etcrestaurant.com or call 212-399-4141). There are no reservations; seating is on a first come/ first served basis, with one intermission. Doors open at 6:15 and sign up begins at 6:30 with 'Etceterette', Jan Brennan.

Salon will now continue every Sunday (except July 4th) through Labor Day!!!

June 20th: “June Jazzathon”
Guest Host/Pianist: Barry Levitt
Co-Host: Helena Grenot
Special Guest: Susan Winter
On Bass: Ritt Henn

June 27th: “Glitter and Be Gay”
Co-Host: Shaynee Rainbolt
Special Guest: Terese Genecco

July 4th: NO SALON

July 11th:Theme TBA
Guest Host/Pianist: TBA
Co-Host: Jamie deRoy
Special Guest: TBA

You can now visit our website www.markjanasthesalon.com and blog: www.markjanasthesalon.blogspot.com, as well as our page on Facebook thanks to our Tech Goddess, Sierra Rein.

Wednesday, June 9, 2010

The Salon Wrap-Up for June 6, 2010 - "Vicissitudes"

Erin Cronican here! Sierra Rein has taken a well deserved vacation from blogging, so I am filling you in on the great time that was had last Sunday.

It was a wild and wacky night as Salon regulars and some newbies settled in for “Vicissitudes” - starting with the fact that no one could really pronounce the word (though we had fun trying!) Webster’s dictionary defines “vicissitude” as:

1 a : the quality or state of being changeable : mutability b : natural change or mutation visible in nature or in human affairs
2 a : a favorable or unfavorable event or situation that occurs by chance : a fluctuation of state or condition (the vicissitudes of daily life); b : a difficulty or hardship attendant on a way of life, a career, or a course of action and usually beyond one's control c : alternating change : succession

Our Guest-Host for the evening was Bill Zeffiro, who was filling in for Mark Janas as he works his magic at Maine State Music Theater. Our co-host was the straight from Las Vegas and ever sparkling, Vicki Van Tassel. When asked about the genesis of this evening’s theme, Vicki intimated that there would be lots of changes afoot. Little did we know that she meant costume changes, of which there were at least 30 (including a clear plastic trench coat hiding an itsy bitsy teenie weenie silver sequin bikini... you had to be there.) Vicki kicked off the show by singing, “I’m So Fuckin Happy” and “The Masochism Tango” - the latter a hilarious melody by Tom Lehrer (which is included in his show Tomfoolery.)


Vicki soon handed it over to the Salon attendees - first to Paul Bodden, who crooned the 1930 standard, “I’m Confessin’.“ Thad McGar was next with a bouncy little song called, ”The First Warm Day in May“ and was followed by a charming rendition of ”I’m Glad I’m Not Young Anymore,“ sung and played by Matthew Ward. Matthew took the time to graciously thank Mark Janas for having vicissitudes in his career, which allowed so many other people to co-host. Yay! Sunny Leigh was up next (accompanied by Barry Levitt) who sang the Bert Williams tune, ”Nobody.“ Another pairing then went to the stage, this time Sigali Hamberger on microphone and Nick Levin on piano, performing Nick’s tune, ”Synesthesia“ (which is defined as ”a sensation that normally occurs in one sense modality occurs when another modality is stimulated“ - for example, seeing the color yellow and feeling cold... perfect for our theme!) Michael Colby then sang ”Changing Times“ with music by Steven Silverstein and lyrics by Colby (accompanied by Matthew Ward.) Michael is writing/co-producing They Changed Broadway at the Forum Theater on June 13.

Next up, Kevin McMullan taught us how to choose a blues name (you take physical affliction, like being small, large, skinny, loud; plus the name of a fruit; plus the name of a president, et voila!)- he choose the name Lil’ Kiwi Madison and sang ”Why Can’t a Man Sing the Blues.“ It was a tough act to follow, but Louisa Poster held her own by singing the classic, ”Orange Colored Sky.“ Helena Grenot then silenced the crowd with a heartbreaking rendition of Melissa Manchester’s ”Through the Eyes of Grace.“ Helena will be back at The Salon on June 20, when she co-hosts with Barry Levitt. Edie Stokes then followed with the gorgeous song, ”Gone With The Wind,“ which, Bill Zeffiro pointed out, came out a full year before the movie was released.


Barbara Porteus next gave her us interpretation of the Rodgers & Hammerstein classic, ”Love, Look Away“ (accompanied by Barry Levitt.) Stephanie Zagoren then shared her love of Gershwin with, ”The Man I Love“ (how apropos!) A relative newbie to the Salon, Candice Oden, then wowed us with the compelling tune, ”Happy Days Are Here Again.“ Following Candice was Erin Cronican, who sang the gentle and hopeful piece, ”It’s Amazing The Things That Float“ from Peter C. Mills’ The Flood. Next up we had our door Etceterette, Arianna, sing Gilbert & Sullivan’s ”Tis Done- I Am A Bride“ from The Yeoman. Mark Watson gave in to producer, Tanya’s, wishes and used a microphone on his wonderful tune, ”Here’s That Rainy Day.“ And Floor Etceterette, Maureen Taylor, delighted us with the beautiful, ”Can You Tell The Moment?“ And thus ended Act I of this week’s Salon.

Act II of the Salon was kicked off by none other than the ”Crown Prince of New York Cabaret“ - our Special Guest, Steve Ross. Steve brought amazing poise and confidence to the piano and his voice, and regaled us with a medley of ”Puttin’ On The Ritz“ and ”Steppin’ Out With My Baby,“ then steered us into Cole Porter territory with ”After You, Who?“ and then finished his lovely set with ”I Guess I’ll Have To Change My Plan.“ Next up, Steve will be appearing in London, doing his show, ”An Evening with Steve Ross.“

Guest-Host Bill Zeffiro then came back to the piano to do Zeffiro’s Corner. He started by inviting his co-host, Vicki Van Tassel, back to the mic to sing the title tune from Road to Ruin (which is rumored to be getting a full production later this year.) He then sang his hilarious, new song, ”Lower Your Expectations.“ Producer Tanya Moberly then teased and provoked us with ”Two’s Company.“ Danielle Erin Rhodes was up next, singing the powerful ”A New Life“ from the ultimate show about changes/mutations, Jekyll & Hyde. Zita Geoffroy then joined us on stage with ”My Own Space.“

After this, Tanya was feeling generous, so she started inviting singers back to the stage for encores. Kicking off the encores were Erin Cronican and Candice Oden, who did a Wicked 1-2 punch with ”Popular“ and ”The Wizard and I.“ Next, we brought back Stephanie Zagoren to sing ”A Foggy Day.“ Salon Board member Stephen Wilde then popped in, and gave us a rousing, ”I Could Be In Love With Someone Like You“ which is the cut tune from The Last Five Years by Jason Robert Brown (which was replaced with ”Shiksa Goddess.”) Matthew Ward joined us again with “We’re Gonna Be Alright” and Barbara Porteus graced us with her soprano tones with The Secret Garden’s “How Could I Ever Know?” Paul Bodden returned to the stage with “Easy Living” and Kevin McMullan gave us a more serious, “Like A Straw In The Wind.” Edie then shocked and delighted the audience with a song about wanting to be a “wicked woman” while Helena channeled a French chanteuse singing, “Chanson” from The Baker’s Wife.

Etc Etc’s fearless server, David Ballard, then sang a gorgeous rendition of “Younger Than Springtime” and received thunderous applause, while Arianna made us hoot and holler with “What’s Wrong With Me.” Thad McGar took the stage again, this time with Kurt Weill’s “September Song.” Maureen Taylor then brought up Matthew Ward to accompany her on the beautiful “My Place in the World.” Mark Watson (sans mic again!) delivered the sweet and simple, “I’ll Be Seeing You” and Danielle Erin Rhodes woke up the joint with her version of Kiss’s “Let Me Know” (and accompanied herself with her own arrangement!) And to close out the evening, Bill Zeffiro and Vicki Van Tassel sang a lively and fun version of Irving Berlin’s “Pack Up Your Sins.“

Next week our wonderful guest-host and pianist will be Ms. Tracy Stark for the theme of “A Girl and a Guitar.” Our Co-Host will be our very own birthday girl, Gretchen Reinhagen and our Special Guest will be Lisa Brigantino. And Sierra Rein, The Salon’s regular Blogette, will be back at the keys.

PS: Be sure to tape/DVR the Tony Awards, then come hang out with entertainment that rivals the best in the business!

-Erin Cronican
Co-Blogette for The Salon

Friday, June 4, 2010

The Salon Update from Producer Tanya Moberly

SALON, that Bistro & MAC Award winning open mic created and hosted by Mark Janas, returns to Etcetera, Etcetera - 352 West 44th Street, NYC 10036 - on Sunday, June 6th from 7PM to 10:30PM.

The optional theme for the evening is "Vicissitudes”. Defined in the dictionary as: change or constant alternation (like night and day), mutability; unpredictable changes or variations that keep occurring in life; fortune, shifting circumstances, ups & downs. You get the picture.

Remember, any material, on or off theme, is always welcome at Salon!

Mark Janas is in Maine doing “Always...Patsy Cline” through June 26th.

Our Guest Host/Pianist will be the Magnificent Bill Zeffiro! You can catch Bill every Tuesday 9pm-12am at La Mediterranee, 947 Second Avenue, NYC 10022, 212-755-4155 and on the last Thursday of every month in The Borsalino Room at Flute, 40 East 20th St, NYC 10003, 212-529-7870.

Our Co-Host will be the Vuluptuous & Versatile Vicki Van Tassel! Vicki will be co-hosting “Erotic Broadway's Vintage Variety” on June 30th at 8pm at The Triad, 158 West 72nd St, NYC 10023, 212-362-2511. For more information, visit www.eroticbroadway.com.

Our Special Guest will be the 'Crown Prince of New York Cabaret' himself: Steve Ross! For more information regarding Steve's busy, international schedule, visit www.steveross.net.

Our Blogette for the evening will be Erin Cronican!

There will be a $10 cash cover at the door, collected by 'Etceterette', Arianna, and a $12 food/drink minimum (cash or credit) per person. (For further information visit www.etcrestaurant.com or call 212-399-4141). There are no reservations; seating is on a first come/ first served basis, with one intermission. Doors open at 6:15 and sign up begins at 6:30 with 'Etceterette', Maureen Taylor.

Salon will now continue every Sunday (except July 4th) through Labor Day!!!

June 13th: “A Girl and a Guitar”
Guest Host/Pianist: Tracy Stark
Co-Host: Gretchen Reinhagen
Special Guest: Lisa Brigantino

June 20th: “June Jazzathon”
Guest Host/Pianist: Barry Levitt
Co-Host: Helena Grenot
Special Guest: Susan Winter
On Bass: Ritt Henn

June 27th: “Glitter and Be Gay”
Guest Host: Shaynee Rainbolt
Special Guest: Terese Genecco

July 4th: NO SALON

-Sierra Rein
The Blogette for The Salon
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