Sierra Performing Arts concert features soloist Sandra Hughes
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Mischelle Sandowich
Special to the Sun
Every artist needs a place to express their talent. In years past, one could take their act to the 'Gong Show,' or more recently, with some flair, and a lot of luck, one could land a spot on 'American Idol.' But what for the small town performer? Sierra Performing Arts (SPA) has answered that call with the Saturday Evening Concert series. According to accomplished pianist Helen Smoot, the concerts are a comfortable environment for performers to express their talents. "We encourage people to perform," said Smoot.
That is exactly the encouraging atmosphere that recent performer Sandy Hughes encountered prior to performing Dec. 6 at the most recent Saturday concert. She has been very thankful for the helpfulness of those involved with Sierra Performing Arts. "Most people won't work with you," said Hughes, "but Mark McGuire has been great. We have rehearsed a lot," she said. "He has taken the time to help me with my voice."
McGuire, who works together with Smoot to organize the concerts, accompanied Hughes on the piano. Together they performed ten songs from the 20's-60's, many of which were show tunes, including Gershwin's 'Love is Here to Stay' from an American in Paris and 'Somewhere' from West Side Story.
Hughes, who teaches English and Drama at Kern Valley High School, dressed the part of nightclub singer with a glamorous full-length green velvet halter dress and an alluring smile as she sang.
The Master of Ceremonies, Chuck Smith, donning a tuxedo and a top hat, commented before the performance. "We have such talent in this valley—it's amazing," he said.
Smoot, vice-president of SPA, began the concert with 'Artistry in Rhythm' by Stan Kenton, a piece that reminded McGuire of all the times as a kid he "...watched some old movie soaked in the peculiar angst of the 50's…romances doomed from the start...nighttime street corners lit by a scrawl of neon…the women beautiful but cold and distant…the men grim, determined to pursue a goal into whatever hopeless iniquity it might lead."
In addition to accompanying Hughes, McGuire played three solo pieces, which he arranged himself, including 'I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face,' from My Fair Lady. When asked about the arrangements, he confessed that he played the pieces differently each time--the art of improvisation.
The highlight and crescendo of the concert was the closing performances by Smoot. Schubert's 'Serenade' arranged by Liszt was fabulous and topped only by 'Soiree de Vienna Concert' a paraphrase on J. Strauss Waltz Themes arranged by Grunfeld. The final piece was so exciting that former church pianist Violet Bailey, commented, "I have never heard anything in my life so profound as that last piece by Helen."
While members of the audience lined up to congratulate Smoot on her playing, she acknowledged that she has put more time into her playing as of late. Where she used to dabble in ceramics and other distractions, she has been more focused on piano. "I'm so much happier. Music's my thing," she said. "I used to just whip something together, but I have spent two to three months on these pieces." It showed.
The Saturday Evening Concerts are held the first or second Saturday of each month in Room G at Cerro Coso Community College, 7:00pm. If you are interested in performing in, or attending an event, contact SPA. There is more information on their website at sierraarts.net.
