Mendocino Stories and Music Series "Alex de Grassi" February 4, 2012

In a benefit event for MUSE (Mendocino Unified School Enrichment), in a tribute to the endless support of Peggy Merrill, Mendocino Stories and Music Series will showcase projects that have grown from MUSE support of art and music in Mendocino schools. A silent student's art auction, the Improv Club, and choral groups will be featured. Highlighting the evening, Alex de Grassi will be performing his New York Guitar Festival (2010) commissioned solo guitar score for Chaplin’s classic black and white skating film THE RINK (1916). Chaplin plays a love struck waiter with a passion for skating-- Alex plays guitar. Doors open at 6:30PM and performances start at 7:30PM at Crown Hall in Mendocino.

Alex de Grassi has been a unique voice in the world of acoustic guitar for over 30 years; his innovative approach to composing and arranging for solo steel-string guitar has influenced generations of players. From his first solo performances in university coffeehouses and as a street musician to his engagements at prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall, the Kennedy Center, and the Montreux Jazz Festival, Alex has followed his own vision and helped lay the foundation for contemporary finger style guitar.

For the student showcase, Mark Oatney, K-8 art teacher, will display 14 student art pieces available as silent auction items. Photos are at Mendocino Stories Facebook page. Improv Comedy, featuring high school improv club members coached by Doug Nunn, and choral presentations by Kim Bratton’s Chamber Singers will start out the evening’s entertainment.

Since its inception in 2001, MUSE has offered grants totaling $652,272 to programs at all grade levels and in all academic areas. Their mission: to bring together the community and its resources to save and enhance existing programs and to support new programs in Mendocino Unified School District. MUSE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation formed by parents, teachers and community members concerned with maintaining and enhancing the excellent educational programs that have been the heritage of the Mendocino Unified School District.

All ages welcome! Advance tickets will be available at Out of this World in Mendocino, Cheshire Books in Fort Bragg, and by calling 707-937-1732. $20 in advance, $25 at the door and special Patron tickets for $75. Discounted prices for students and their families at the door. For more information call Pattie at 937-1732 or email pattie@mendocinostories.com