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Hamilton Spectator
30-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Hamilton Spectator
City of Brantford honours Frank and Nancy DiFelice
The City of Brantford honoured Frank and Nancy DiFelice, founders and producers of the Brantford International Jazz Festival, during an event at the Sanderson Centre for Performing Arts on Thursday, July 24, 2025. The DiFelices, who are longtime musicians themselves, first started producing the Brantford Downtown Jazz series back in April of 1998. As the monthly event continued to increase in popularity, they later launched the Brantford International Jazz Festival in September 2008 alongside Peter MacNames. Over the years, the festival brought in artists like Frank Sinatra Jr., Manhattan Transfer, the Count Basie Orchestra, Al Jarreau, Chuck Magione, Peter Appleyard, the Glen Miller Orchestra, Guido Basso, Joey DeFrancesco, Matt Dusk and more. Early on, the festival attracted around 8,000 visitors, eventually hitting up to 25,000 people during its three-day run and ultimately boosted tourism, putting the city on the map as a destination for live music. Last month, Brantford city council unanimously approved a resolution, moved by Ward 4 Councillor Richard Carpenter, to officially recognize the couple's 26-year-long legacy with a commemorative plaque and special event Although the two officially said goodbye to the festival with a farewell event last November, their new plaque, which will be permanently displayed on the Local Music Recognition Wall inside the Sanderson Centre, will forever honour the DiFelices' contributions to the city's cultural and musical life. During the special event, friends, family, elected officials and several community members gathered together to celebrate both Frank and Nancy. 'Frank and Nancy, thank you for the 26-plus years you devoted to enriching our community with music and culture,' said Larry Brock, MP for Brantford-Brant South-Six Nations. 'Your vision and initiative in founding the Brantford International Jazz Festival, brought world class talent into our city, drawing thousands of fans from near and far. Your passion, your dedication and tireless efforts have given music lovers a chance to experience outstanding performances, and we are deeply grateful for all you've done. Your legacy will live on right here in this beautiful theatre in the heart of Downtown where you held the jazz festival.' Carpenter added that it was the DiFelices' passion for the music that made their events so special. 'Frank and Nancy didn't just bring music to Brantford, they brought people together,' he said. 'Their events became a stage not only for internationally renowned performers, but also for local talent, helping to nurture our own arts community and inspire a new generation of musicians who love jazz. They told stories through music, bridging generations, building connections and enriching the cultural heritage of Brantford.' Frank and Nancy later reflected on fond memories of the festival, and thanked everyone who had ever been involved in their events, as well as the city for organizing the evening's celebration. 'We're so humbled by what's happened here tonight,' said Frank. 'I can't believe it; this is just really beautiful. …The Brantford International Jazz Festival is something that Nancy and I will never ever, ever forget so I thank you from the bottom of my heart for everything.' Kimberly De Jong's reporting is funded by the Canadian government through its Local Journalism Initiative. The funding allows her to report rural and agricultural stories from Blandford-Blenheim and Brant County. Reach her at . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Otago Daily Times
10-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Otago Daily Times
Toot'n'Croon turns 20
Lesley Askin (left), Alison Kerr, Chris Lang, Lynne James, Bevan Rogers (sitting), Geoff Tavendale, Hartley Ferrar, Lyall Walker, Jeni Sanderson, Warrick Sinclair (soundman). PHOTO: SUPPLIED Canterbury band Toot'n'Croon will celebrate their 20th anniversary on Saturday night. The band, which was formed in 2005 by Rangiora doctor Bevan Rogers, has played at many celebratory events and in many venues over the years. The band members have changed, but the foundation remains, and all the while their music has continued to be as popular as it was when they began, having changed with the times and the audience. It was Manhattan Transfer that inspired Rogers to get into the swing of forming a band, which still enjoys singing songs of the American harmony jazz group Manhattan Transfer he heard in the Christchurch Town Hall. ''When Manhattan Transfer sang the song Operator I noticed that the crowd really loved it, so I sent away to America for the sheet music — no internet downloads in those days — and in October 2004 I sang Operator at the doctors' concert (NZ Association of Artist Doctors), with the choir and piano, rhythm and brass backing me. ''It was such a blast that I thought, I want to do this more often than once a year. I'm getting older, so now is the time to start my own band.'' Their first public performance was in a variety concert in the Rangiora Town Hall to mark the 60th anniversary of the end of World War 2. It was only after the band had been going for five years that they started putting on evenings of stand-alone Toot'n'Croon music. ''The first was at Rossburn Receptions but we soon swapped to the Rangiora RSA, and we found that we were popular enough to put on about three evenings a year.'' Initially 'Toot'n'Croon sang songs from the 1940s, but as their audience grew younger, the music became bouncier with popular numbers, mostly from the 1950s and 1970s. ''Over time we found what sort of music was the most popular with people, and we have slowly changed to singing popular danceable music, mostly from 1950s rock and roll to 1970s Neil Diamond.'' The band's greatest love is having the audience sing along, tap their feet and dance, says Rogers. They have four singers – Bevan Rogers, Lesley Askin, Lynne James and Chris Lang. They perform songs with as much harmony as possible, supported by Alison Kerr on piano, Hartley Ferrar on saxophone, Jeni Sanderson on bass guitar, Geoff Tavendale on guitar and Lyall Walker on drums.
Yahoo
06-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo, Ron White: 12 things to do in the Coachella Valley, April 7-13
It's officially Coachella festival week, my friends. But don't fret, I'm going to tell you about all the other events going on in the desert so you can avoid the festival crowds (but scroll to the end of this article if you're a festivalgoer who wants more attendee info). From a free wellness festival to a Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo concert, there's no shortage of things to do in the Coachella Valley this week. (And if you'd like to submit an upcoming event of your own for a future roundup, scroll to the bottom for directions.) There's so many options, it's hard to know where to start. Here's our top picks for things to do in the Coachella Valley and surrounding communities from Monday, April 7-Sunday, April 13. Two art forms combine in this show, which is closing this week, at Gallery in Rancho Mirage. "Sound and Vision 2025" showcases over 100 visual art pieces by 16 recording artists: Cheryl Bentyne (Manhattan Transfer) Exene Cervenka (X) Marti Jones Dixon Jill Emery (Hole, Mazzy Star) Juliana Hatfield (Blake Babies, Lemonheads) Shinji Horimura (Japanese Taiko Drum Master) Gill Landry (Old Crow Medicine Show) Jon Langford (Mekons, Three Johns, Waco Brothers) Stefan Murphy (The Mighty Stef, The Sleeveens) Johnette Napolitano (Concrete Blonde) Jeb Loy Nichols Fredrik Nilsen (Los Angeles Free Music Society) Kurt Ralske (Ultra Vivid Scene) Nathaniel Russell Rennie Sparks (The Handsome Family) Deb Talan (The Weepies) Russ Tolman (True West). When: Now through April 12 Where: Gallery, 71-590 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage Cost: Free admission, with artwork available for purchase More info: Prepare for a roller coaster of emotions during The Bent's latest production, "The Cake." As the press release states, the story follows Della (played by Sonya Boyd Reavis), a North Carolina baker who is thrilled when her late best friend's daughter, Jen (played by Sarah Elizabeth Woolsey), asks her to bake her wedding cake. "But when Della learns that Jen is marrying another woman, she finds herself at a crossroads, torn between her devotion to her beliefs and the love she has for someone she considers family. As Della wrestles with her decision, her eyes open to the shortcomings of her own marriage. 'The Cake' peels back layers of faith, tradition, and personal growth, revealing the messiness — and beauty — of human connection." Note: There will be a one-time ASL performance on Friday, April 11 (contact boxoffice@ for ASL reserved tickets). When: Now through Saturday, April 12 Where: The Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs Cost: $42 More info: If you missed their Modernism Week performance, this is your chance to see their special encore. Celebrating the 60-year anniversary of the creation of the Monkees, cover band Gand Band presents "Hey Hey We're the Monkees!" this week. Winner of the CV Independent's Best Local Band for four years running, this dynamic husband-and-wife team bring their Chicago sound to the desert monthly, and this week's show is a complete Monkees tribute. Veteran bluesman Gary Gand handles the six strings, keyboardist Joan Gand grooves on classic Hammond B-3 style organ and blues piano, and special guests join them at nearly every performance, including beloved performers from both Chicago and San Diego. When: 7-8:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 9 Where: Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, 401 E. Amado Road, Palm Springs Cost: From $17.85 More info: The students of College of the Desert invite the public to the Walter N. Marks Center for the Arts for the final show of the school year. Join students, professors and other COD staffers in celebration of this student art community Thursday, April 10, at the opening reception featuring refreshments, light bites, live entertainment and a student art market where you can purchase original pieces. Can't make it? No worries, come anytime between April 10 and May 9 to check out the exhibit. When: Reception is 4-7 p.m. Thursday, April 10, and the show runs April 10-May 9 Where: College of the Desert Walter N. Marks Center for the Arts, 43-500 Monterey Ave., Palm Desert Cost: Free admission More info: The 2025 PSIPC Triennial International Piano Competition kicks off this weekend with the preliminary rounds, which are all open to the public and free of charge to attend. Come see some of the most talented young pianists in the country compete in the 2025 Junior International Competition, which is comprised of all solo acts. As the website says, "The 2025 Palm Springs International Piano Competition promises to be a celebration of musical virtuosity and boundless potential," and will ultimately feature 25 competitors vying for a $10,000 prize. When: April 11-19 (check website below for specific times) Where: Temple Isaiah, 332 W. Alejo Road, Palm Springs Cost: Free admission, but online reservation required More info: Come watch a student performance that will touch your heart this week. The 'AIDS Quilt Songbook' is a "collection of songs and poems dedicated to those impacted by AIDS — honoring lives lost, acknowledging the stigma and fear surrounding the disease, and offering a tribute to those affected since its emergence in the early 1980s," as the press release states. The 90-minute production will feature recently composed songs, including a new song composed by University of California, Riverside graduate student Rory Fewer. The performance showcases choreography by CSUSB instructor Terrill Corletto and costume design by Catherine Erickson. Professional artist Kevin Blickfeldt, known for working with the opera boy band VOX on "America's Got Talent," and critically acclaimed baritone Jawan Jenkins will join the CSUSB students for this special one-night performance. When: Doors open at 6:30 p.m., show at 7 p.m. Friday, April 11 Where: California State University, San Bernardino Palm Desert Campus, Indian Wells Theater, 37-500 Cook St., Palm Desert Cost: Tickets are $11.74 for students, $13.74 for seniors, veterans and alumni, and $16.99 for general public. In addition, attendees must purchase a parking permit on the ParkMobile website, the ParkMobile app, or by scanning the QR code on one of the green signs in the campus parking lot – using Zone 7100. The cost to park on campus is $10 per vehicle. More info: Strap in for this musical time machine ride back into the 1970s this week at the Palm Springs Cultural Center. Modern Men Coachella Valley Men's Chorus will take audiences on a journey through the sounds of the '70s during their spring concert, which will feature tunes from The Carpenters, The Beatles, Carole King, James Taylor, ABBA, and other favorites. Audiences can also expect to hear hits from Donna Summer, Kool & the Family Gang, KC & the Sunshine Band, the Bee Gees and more at this lively concert, so prepare to get sentimental and prepare to groove. When: 7 p.m. Friday, April 11 and Saturday, April 12 and 3 p.m. Sunday, April 13 Where: Palm Springs Cultural Center, 2300 E. Baristo Road, Palm Springs Cost: $25-$50 More info: Come celebrate three decades of Agua Caliente Casinos this week with a concert headlined by rock legends Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo. As the press release says, "Her staggering vocals and take-no-prisoners attitude, along with his trailblazing artistry as a guitarist, producer and songwriter, forged the undeniable chemistry and unique sound that created eternal rock hits including 'We Belong,' 'Invincible,' 'Love Is A Battlefield,' 'Promises In The Dark,' 'We Live For Love,' 'Heartbreaker' and Hell Is For Children.'" Expect to hear many of those hits and more at the event, which will also feature games, a diverse offering of bites by local food trucks and themed cocktails. When: 8 p.m. Friday, April 11 Where: Agua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, 401 E. Amado Road, Palm Springs Cost: Tickets range from $49.50 to $289.00 (complimentary valet and self-parking will be available on-site) More info: Not headed to Coachella festival but still looking for something fun to do in Indio this weekend? Head downtown for a free wellness festival that doubles as a Coachella livestream watch party. Attendees can expect a live DJ set, yoga sessions, immersive sound baths, and local and regional vendors including Everbloom, Deaux, True Awakening Studio, Secret Poke and That's The Spirit. When: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday, April 12 Where: Center Stage, 82-881 Miles Ave., Indio Cost: Free admission More info: More: Head to Indio for free yoga, sound baths and a Coachella livestream watch party April 12 If you want to learn how the National Environmental Policy Act works and what Trump's EO means, this free California Desert Coalition workshop is for you. This timely, one-day opportunity featuring Advocates of the West, an environmental law firm expert on NEPA, will help you empower yourself to defend the desert you love, as the event website says. When: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 12 Where: Bell Center Community Room, Copper Mountain College, 6162 Rotary Way, Joshua Tree Cost: Free, but registration required More info: Coachella isn't the only music festival happening in Indio this weekend. Indie-O, a multi-venue, one-day fest in downtown Indio, features a long lineup of local bands, including Tourists, Hollow Crown, Giselle Woo & The Night Owls, Elektriclucie, Salton City Surf Club, Daytime Moon and more. One wristband gets you into all three venues, which are each hosting six or more local bands. Note: This event is happening at the same time as the Echo Lounge event taking place all day Saturday in downtown Indio, so you can easily walk from one event to the other. When: 11 a.m. Saturday (check website below for full schedule of acts playing throughout the day) Where: Music House Indio, 82-777 Miles Ave.; The Oasis on Miles, 82-713 Miles Ave.; and Little Street Music Hall, 82-707 Miles Ave. (all in Indio) Cost: $25 per person for general admission, $100 VIP package for two More info: Renowned comedian Ron White catapulted into the limelight as the cigar-wielding, scotch-savoring humorist of the Blue Collar Comedy Tour phenomenon. But his career has taken him far beyond the era of shows with Bill Engvall, Jeff Foxworthy and Larry the Cable Guy. Now, White is a Grammy-nominated comic and a celebrated feature film actor, and this week, he's bringing his act to the desert. As the press release states, "At his core, Ron White remains an exemplar of timeless storytelling. His narratives weave the fabric of his existence, spanning from his upbringing in a Texan hamlet to the reflections of his everyday encounters, ultimately culminating in his ascension as one of America's most celebrated comedians. The unrivaled resonance of his humor is evident in the fact that all four of his comedy albums not only scaled the Billboard Comedy Charts but also claimed the coveted #1 position." When: 8 p.m. Saturday, April 12 Where: The Show at Agua Caliente Rancho Mirage Resort & Casino, 32-250 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage Cost: From $75 More info: To submit an event for The Desert Sun's consideration in future 10 things to do stories, send an email to with the time, date, location and price of admission for your event, as well as a brief event description. Photos are not required, but are highly encouraged as part of the submission. Tip: Send your submission as early as possible to make sure we have it in time, and to make sure your event jumps out in our inbox, put "10 things to do submission" in the email subject line. This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: What to do in Palm Springs: 12 things to do in the desert this week
