John McClellan and Kirk Hanser began performing together in 1996 while working to produce an international conference and competition in St. Louis, MO. Very quickly, Hanser and McClellan became known for their choice of entertaining musical programs, their technical prowess, and their ability to connect with audiences. Over the years, they have become recognized by critics and audiences alike as one of the most enjoyable and highly respected American chamber music groups. The Hanser-McClellan Duo have been heard on several CDs, with their most recent feature recording, La Vida Breve, receiving much critical and audience acclaim. Classical Guitar Magazine (U.K.) declared their performance on this recording as exhibiting “…sheer swagger and verve.” Most recently, John and Kirk recorded and produced tracks with Vince Gill, Tommy Emmanuel, Mark Knopfler (Dire Straits), the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet and many, many others to create a CD celebrating the musical life of their dear friend, Chet Atkins, on the CD release Slightly Above Below Average. In 2015, Hanser and McClellan were offered a residency as guest professors for the guitar department at the prestigious Paris Conservatory, becoming the first duo from outside of the conservatory’s own walls to be given such an honor. Their educational work in America includes numerous camps, workshops, and master classes, as well as working with kids at the K-12 levels in the U.S. sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts. Over the years, the Hanser-McClellan Guitar Duo has performed for such musically diverse events as the Sheldon Classics Series in St. Louis, MO, the Crypte Ararat (Paris, FR), the Wilhelmkirche (Bad Nauheim, Germany), the Kansas City Guitar Society, the South Bay Guitar Society (San Francisco), the Great Artist Series in Austin, TX, the International Guitar Foundation of America Conference (1999 & again in 2005) and are standing, annual “special guests” at the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society Festival.
Endorsements:
The HMGD performs and records using D’Addario Pro Arte strings, Hand-made classic guitars by luthier Keith Adams (Bonnie, IL), and Steel-string acoustic guitars courtesy of Gibson Guitars
Access to hall 2 hours prior to event start for soundcheck and warmup
Armless chair onstage (not a barstool, adjustable piano bench OK)
Sound reinforcement IF NEEDED (can be provided for small venues if needed - please inquire)
Sound engineer (as needed, depends on audience size and venue)
Reasonable lighting for performance area
Cover from environmental elements
Grupo Atlántico is an ensemble of folk dancers whose purpose is to share the rich tri-ethnic heritage (African, Indian and Spanish roots) of the Caribbean and coastal regions of Colombia, South America. Select from solo presentations, group performances or educational workshops. All these programs include examples of different music, rhythms and percussive instruments. The symbolism of costumes, dance steps and body movements are explained in cultural and ceremonial contexts, with the use of live music, posters, slides, and videotapes. These joyous, earthy dance traditions of Latin America offer exciting glimpses of authentic Colombian Carnival, Native American customs, African and Spanish artistic influences in the New World.
Will be provided according to kind of program requested.
Groovethang is a seven-piece band that has become known for their “faithful reproduction” of the hits of some of music’s most popular groups. Artist such as Steely Dan, Earth, Wind and Fire, The Doobie Brothers, Chicago, All Green and the Bee Gee’s are all the basis of themed shows that Groovethang can perform impeccably. The band consists of vocals, percussion, trombone, bass guitar, sax, keyboard, drums and lead guitar. Groovethang plays everything from dance and pop, to soul and variety. Groovethang gets you dancin’ in the streets, out of your seats and wall-to-wall on the dance floor.
1-1/2 hours to load in and check
“This explosive four-piece outfit, led by John King on bass, with Adaron “Pops” Jackson on keys, James Jackson on drums, and Shaun Robinson on guitar, draws upon jazz, funk, fusion, gospel, and R&B repertoires to deliver a powerful and unapologetic sound that excites and thrills audiences. When this band hits the stage, there are no boundaries. The only guarantee is a night of world-class music that is Good 4 the Soul!”
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Gloria Attoun (Ah-TUNE) comes from the river town of Augusta, Missouri. Gloria writes and sings songs that pay homage to the rich sounds of roots music, while staying true to her own vision, sharing the connectedness of our common experiences in her songs. Gloria has recorded two solo CDs and three albums in other musical partnerships. Her songs are included in the compilation albums: “Magnificent Missouri Music” and “River Voices and Songs.” Her song, “Wrong Side of the Road” was featured on National Public Radio’s “Car Talk.” She has shared the stage with folk-greats, such as, Claire Lynch and Bryan Bowers and has performed in a variety of festivals and music venues. Gloria brings along guitars, mandolin, banjo, octave mandolin, harmonica, and other gadgets and shares insights on the process of songwriting, creativity and inspiration with humor and warmth.
PA with One vocal Mic, one instrument mic, two line-ins. If presenter doesn't have a PA system, Gloria has one for an audience under 150 people.
Dr. Gladys Coggswell brings to the stage African American experiences in Missouri, plus traditional folk tales, one woman dramas, vocal music history, interactive storytelling and workshops. She is the recipient of numerous awards. This author of “Stories from the Heart-Missouri’s African American Heritage,” published by the University of Missouri Press is also available for writing workshops. Gladys received an Honorary Doctorate’s Degree from the University of Missouri St. Louis. She also does motivational speaking for all ages.
PA system
The Gateway Ringers is an auditioned community choir, comprised of handbell ringers from the St. Louis metropolitan area. Our mission is to inspire excellence in musicianship and heighten awareness of handbell music. The music we play is a mix of classical, popular, and religious music. The group was formed in the fall of 1995. The Gateway Ringers are members of the Handbell Musicians of America (formerly AGEHR). Gateway performs using five octaves of Malmark handbells and six octaves of Malmark Choirchimes®. The group is currently under the direction of Charles Peery. The group is organized as a not-for-profit organization, and auditions are held every two years.
Two hours for set-up and warm up, electricity for lights, designated space for dressing rooms. Performance space must be large enough for 15 three foot tables plus two sets of chimes. Visit our website for more details.
The Gateway Men’s Chorus is St. Louis’s premiere gay men’s chorus. Under the direction of Mr. Al Fischer, the chorus presents three subscription concerts a year (Holiday, spring, and summer) at various locations in St. Louis. Programs toured with the full chorus will generally be the concert currently in preparation or most recently performed. Smaller groups are also available.
Suitable stage area and choir risers to accommodate 100 (full chorus), a tuned acoustic piano, a modest sound reinforcement and lighting capabilities. All venues must be ADA compliant for our special needs members.
Singer/Songwiter/Performer
Mostly self-contained with excellent sound equipment for most venues. Additional sound might be needed for larger venues.
New Orleans-style brass band, playing everything from traditional jazz to 70s funk, with a little Chicago blues, Southern rock, and St. Louis R&B in the mix. The Funky Butt Brass Band has been named Best Soul/Funk Band by the Riverfront Times Music Awards for the past four consecutive years. The band is known for its high-energy performances that appeal to a wide range of audiences.
Prefer PA provided (a stage plot is available on our website); ideally, require 45-60 minutes to set up, but can be ready in 20 minutes under festival circumstances if necessary.