It may be easy to sometimes forget, but music is all around us, all the time! No, I’m not talking about the background noise piped in through sound systems at the local department store, but the fact that on any given night on the Central Coast, you can find some great live music, you just have to look for it.
This last year was no exception as the number of venues in the area grew—as well as regular live music options from local wineries and bars—giving more time to bands or singer/songwriters. Plus, the renewed efforts of local nonprofit ensembles added much to the local scene.
Locals like their music served up fresh, in a variety of different flavors. Those looking to diversify their acoustic palate can always learn about the freshest, locally sourced, and sustainably produced music here in Local Notes, which turns a spotlight on the latest and greatest in local music.
Take a look back at some of 2015’s musical moments, and tune your ear for the year to come, because life is too short to not enjoy the best live music available.
Teaching with songs
WonHeart facilitators Joelyn Lutz and Patrick Mahan performed at local elementary schools—including Battles Elementary School on April 17 (pictured)—giving kids musical tools to help abate bullying.
Rocking outdoors
Santa Maria Valley’s newest outdoor music venue is the picturesque amphitheater at Presqu’ile Winery, which also features regular live music inside the winery.
Musical oasis
The Luis Oasis Ukulele Band welcomed locals of all ages to strum on soprano, baritone, and tenor ukuleles for their weekly Wednesday rehearsals and local performances.
Special guest
The New Times Music Awards were a resounding success on Sept. 25 this year, including performances by winning artists and special guest Kenny Lee Lewis (pictured) of the Steve Miller Band.
Drone on
Local musician and martial arts instructor Neil Miyamoto began hosting regular didgeridoo crafting sessions and jam circles in September at CovenTree Books and Gifts, showing how to play various rhythms and use circular breathing.
Art of outreach
The Santa Maria Philharmonic Society renewed its support for youth outreach, performing several free concerts for local students in Santa Maria.
Contact Arts Editor Joe Payne at jpayne@santamariasun.com.
This article appears in Dec 31, 2015 – Jan 7, 2016.