Greg Hester Jazz

MEALS takes a giant first step

Well. the first meeting of the Music, Epicurean And Libation Society (MEALS) in the form of a jazz and wine brunch has come and gone now, and while we can't say that the thing went off without a hitch, I'd have to say, on balance, it was a pretty dandy affair.

A crowded venue (Bistro-V Restaurant in Sebastopol) added to the overall buzz, proprietor Rick Vargas'  food was fantastic and the music, provided by Greg's trio (Rick Webber and Kendrick Freeman) was as we expected, first-rate, besides all of which,  we had a great mix of people. One guest (I think it was John Westley) remarked that 'next time we do this, we should pick a place where the food is not so good so it won't be so crowded'.

Here's how  Steve Russell, saw it:

Sonoma County’s elite organization devoted to food, wine, music and fun (not necessarily in that order), MEALS, (Music, Epicurean and Libation Society) kicked off the 2006 season with a brunch at Bistro V in Sebastopol. A trio led by the internationally acclaimed Greg Hester provided the music.

 Located at 2295 Gravenstein Highway in Sebastopol Bistro V provided a warm, comfortable setting, good food and an intriguing wine list. One nice touch, for those to whom this is an issue, was the inclusion of vegetarian items on the menu. Another bonus was provided by chef/owner Rick Vargas when he sat in on the drums for one tune proving he can “cook” in more than one medium.

As Greg’s 54th birthday loomed a mere five days in the future MEALS took the opportunity to celebrate the coming milestone event. Balloons on the piano added a festive touch and the Family Hester generously provided a delicious carrot cake for dessert.

Before the music began there was some concern at my table regarding the sound quality, as Bistro V is a long, low ceilinged room. When the trio started – with Greg on piano, Steve Webber on bass and Kendrick Freeman on drums –all worries were laid to rest. The sound was just fine and the trio was too. All three musicians were in fine form and played off each other beautifully.

The group played two excellent sets that delighted MEALS regulars, MEALS newbies and those diners for whom the music came as a pleasant surprise.

This was an auspicious beginning for MEALS in the still young year and Loren Abbey is to be thanked for his vision and his tireless efforts to make it a reality. The Russell household looks forward to enjoying many other such get togethers. Hopefully those of you who could not attend this event will be fortunate enough to make the next one. Trite as it may be, the more the merrier. - SteveRussell

Jazz in March

Greg finally sent his schedule over, so I'll post it. Better late that never, I guess:

Tuesday, March 14: Mainstreet Station, Guerneville; Greg Hester, Solo Piano; 7-9PM

Friday, March 17: Main Street Station, Guerneville; Jazz Trio, Greg Hester, Piano, with Vernelle Anders, Vocals; Jim Passarell, Bass; 7-10PM

Saturday, March 18: Mainstreet Station, Guerneville; Jazz Trio, Greg Hester, Piano, with Robin White, Vocalist and Jim Passarell, Bass; 7-10PM

Tuesday, March 28: Mainstreet Station, Guerneville; Greg Hester Jazz Piano Solo; 7-9PM

Friday, March 31: Mainstreet Station, Guerneville; Jazz Trio, Greg Hester, Piano, with Elena Welch, Vocals; Adam Thompson, Bass; 7-10PM