Courtyard sounds: If you haven’t felt ready to commit the funds to a concert at Mondavi Center’s Jackson Hall, note that there are other ways to enjoy the performing arts center’s programming.
One of those is the Mondavi Center’s Corin Courtyard. The early, 6:30 p.m. concerts are not only free, but they are located in a prime outdoor event space, replete with a wine and beer bar, food truck, ample shade and a marvelous sound system.
Sacramento’s own jazz songstress Vivian Lee recently held court on the stage with her able quartet and played a set of her own tunes as well as songs from Antônio Carlos Jobim, Dave Brubeck, Rodgers & Hammerstein and more.
Lee’s quartet delighted fans and newcomers alike with a set that didn’t leave anybody feeling left out. Major props for the inclusion of older fare like “The Surrey with the Fringe on Top” and “Take Five.”
Lee looked aglow this particular evening, often starting songs with her lone finger snaps. Her band of seasoned musicians also added their own special swing and jazz elements. Of worthy mention was drummer Jeff Minnieweather, who played with such dynamics and finesse, one couldn’t help but stare in awe—or, as others demonstrated, film a video.
Many might assume playing an outdoor show is risky with this region’s frequent weather changes. Instead, it proved to be the perfect precursor to the later Jackson Hall show with jazz diva Cécile McLorin Salvant. It drew quite a large crowd. Not only was every table and seat taken, but many others improvised to find a good view, even taking over a staircase.
There’s just one more Corin Courtyard show until the 2016-17 season. It’s Sacramento’s indie-pop violinist Joe Kye, who will perform on Wednesday, May 11, leading into an evening with classical cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
My only critique of the outdoor series? Book more. Book lots more.
(SN&R)