On Wednesday evening, Tony Lindsay, lead singer of the original Santana, performed at Town Plaza Park tonight with Santana Tribute band CARNAVAL!, concluding the 22nd year of Jazz on the Plazz.
“We know how fortunate we are to have such wonderful artists perform in Los Gatos,” said Jonathan Knowles, chairman of the board for Los Gatos Music & Arts (LGM&A), which produced the “Sounds of Summer” series. “Our reputation, our venue and our hospitality, allows us to secure returning international and local recognized talent, and to attract newer artists.”
Behind The Curtain
Knowles, along with Teri Hope, founder and president, and Ginger Taylor McDonald, secretary, and 50-or-so volunteers, all help out to make this happen. In just a few hours our Town Plaza is transformed into a stage
Chairs are arranged, food and drinks set out, and folks arrive on foot, by electric and pedal bike, or in their car to enjoy an outdoor evening of jazz—some as early as three in the afternoon.
In the Plaza’s outer areas, out a bit from the VIP area and center stage, folks set up their portable chairs, camping tables and picnic nibbles. Candelabras have even been spotted. Others choose to take advantage of the hospitality area, where—for a small fee—local foods and wines are offered, under the towering redwoods.
Hope is a true jazz heroine who, from behind the scenes, arranges the various artists. She founded this venue to bring live music to Los Gatos, and promote art and music education for youth. Hope understands how to treat artists that come to town. Organizers say their focus is to make the experience as enjoyable and professional as possible.
The Mission
As the summer brochure states, “Los Gatos Music & Arts is dedicated to nurturing the arts through concerts, festivals, workshops, master classes and educational activities for youth.”
LGM&A has the communities’ generous support.
Every Wednesday over the past nine weeks, the Plaza saw the community pitching in to support the mission of this small 501c3 nonprofit.
LGM&A Gala
The upcoming annual silent-and-live auction Gala will be raising funds to support LGM&A’s mission.
This year it will be held at Hotel Los Gatos, on 210 E. Main St., Sunday, Sept. 22, from 6pm-10pm.
Black Tie is suggested and “vintage glam” wear is encouraged.
Delicious bites and libations to be provided by Dio Deka.
There will be a 360-degree photo booth and on-site parking.
Los Gatan Elaine Cardinale noted the Gala will likely sell out.
“It is the best ticket in Town, and the music of Gunhild Carling, the queen of swing, will entertain us,” she said. “Plus, we are helping in supporting music and arts in our communities.”
