Saturday

Oct 02-Oct 044
Ramsey Lewis Trio: Songs from the Heart: Ramsey Plays Ramsey

Dinner:
Friday & Saturday
5:30pm to 10:30pm
Yoshi's San Francisco
1330 Fillmore Street
San Francisco, CA 94115
Phone: 415.655.5600
Jazz Club
Ramsey Lewis Trio: Songs from the Heart: Ramsey Plays Ramsey
Oct 02-Oct 4, 2009

Friday - Saturday 8pm & 10pm shows $35
Sunday 7pm show $35

At the age of 74, Ramsey Lewis has not only continued to be active in the jazz world, but he's also forging ahead with a newly inspired creative instinct as a composer. This re-envisioned artistic sensibility is showcased on his new album, which is a remarkable, refined collection of 12 new originals that he composed over a period of two years. The collection includes music from two commissioned world premiere performances at the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, Illinois, just north of Chicago. Eight songs come from the score of 2007's ballet To Know Her...written for the Joffrey Ballet Company and four pieces come from 2008's Muses and Amusementssuite performed with the Turtle Island Quartet.

Songs From the Heart, Lewis' first trio recording in five years, features eight pieces with bassist Larry Gray and drummer Leon Joyce, and four piano solo performances. To Lewis, the CD marks a turning point in his storied career: he's found new life as a composer.

Joffrey choreography began in April 2007 for the June 2007 performance. A month before the premiere Lewis saw his first rehearsal. The troupe put his recorded demos on and began to dance. “The way they moved brought tears to my eyes," says Lewis. “When I started out in bands when I was 16, people danced to our music. This took me back 50 years, and here I was writing for dancing again."

One of the added bonuses of Lewis' prolific writing has been an enrichment of his pianistic talent. “The composing has informed my playing," says Lewis. “I'm looking at harmony and melody in a different way. I've noticed that my solos have become deeper and more contemplative." On Songs From the Heart, Lewis takes the solo spotlight four times, including the film noir-ish “Long Before She Knew" and reflective muse “The Glow of Her Charm."

The latter arrived when Lewis was working on an intro to the song “In the Still of the Night" that he was performing one evening in Washington, D.C. He was in his hotel room on a grand piano, determined to find a prelude. Once again, his wife offered her wisdom. “Jan was listening to me and said, 'What's that? That's a song, not an introduction. You've got a new song.' And, if course, she was right."

On Songs From the Heart, Lewis offers graceful music, played with a light, gentle, joyful touch, and focused on melody. Writing in the CD liner notes, Lewis pointed out that in the CD's initial planning stages, all artistic and record company parties agreed that Songs From the Heart should be characterized by “heartfelt, lyrical and inspirational" music “that my fans had come to expect."

In the liners, Lewis also noted, “Our desire was to convey a sense of beauty, joy, simplicity and lyricism...I am extremely proud of the results." He adds, “Looking back at all the music that I've written over the last few years, I think I'm coming up with something unique. I think I'm developing a style."
 

ARCATA - Pastels on the Plaza. Stroll the plaza and watch our local artists create pastel works of art on the surrounding sidewalk. Farmers Market will also be open. All proceeds of the event benefit Northcoast Children's Services Programs so come "chalk it up for kids" at Pastels on the Plaza. For more information or to participate, contact Northcoast Children's Services at (707) 825-1302 or (707) 825-1313

BLUE LAKE -  Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze. Directions: Northbound Hwy 101: Guintoli exit - go left. Follow directions to Mad River Beach and look for signs to Corn Maze/Pumpkin Patch toward the big red barn.

CARPINTERIA - Avocado Festival. This annual event that runs through the entire weekend celebrates the regions prime crop with food contests, games and lots of bands and live music. Time: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location: Downtown Carpinteria on Linden, Carpinteria, CA. avofest.com

COSTA MESA - Fall Pet Days. Sponsored by the Animal Assistance League of Orange County in honor of National Pet Wellness Month, this  2nd annual pet fair features animal care information, adoptions, spay and neuter information, training tips, specialty rescue groups, pet related vendors, nonprofit pet organizations, guest speakers and demonstrations. Time:  7 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free admission with a can of pet food. Location: Orange County Market Place, 88 Fair Drive - Orange County Fairgrounds, Costa Mesa, CA 92626. Call (714)893-4393. aaloc.org.

HUNTINGTON BEACH -  Oktoberfest German Celebration. Get out the lederhosen, dirndl and beer stein for a good time with an Oom-pah band from Germany. Beautiful bar maids, scrumptious strudels, and imported draft beers, plus lots of liqueurs to wet the whistle, and plenty of dancing (chicken dance is a must). Time: 7 p.m. Cost: $15, 21 and above only. Location: Old World German Village's German Restaurant, Center Ave., Huntington Beach, CA.

JULIAN - Fall Apple Harvest. A San Diego tradition, the Annual Julian Fall Apple Harvest runs through November 15. This year, the Apple Harvest celebrates its 100th birthday as thousands of visitors venture to this historic East County mining town, nestled in the Cuyamaca Mountains, to sample fresh crisp apples, homemade apple pies and ciders. Visitors can also enjoy acres of colorful fall foliage, charming bed and breakfast inns, art shows, quaint antique shops and live entertainment. julianca.com

LAKE TAHOE - Oktoberfest at Historic Camp Richardson Resort. 15th Annual Oktoberfest is a traditional fest with German Food & Desserts, Over 25 Arts & Crafts Booths, Beer & Wine Garden, Live Music featuring the "Al Gruber Band", Yodeling & Dancing, Hay Rides on Saturday, Pumpkin Patch, Bouncy Castle, Face Painting, Poker Run, Tahoe Gymnastics & Miss Marcia's Dancers, Costume Contest for you & your dog, FREE Parking and MORE! Location: Camp Richardson Historic Resort & Marina, south shore of Lake Tahoe on Highway 89 (Emerald Bay Road). From Sacramento, take Highway 50 to South Lake Tahoe. Go straight thru the in-town streetlight onto Highway 89 toward Emerald Bay. You will see Camp Richardson Hotel and Resort signage on your right hand side.  Call 1.800.544.1801

LA MESA - Oktoberfest. 36th Annual Oktoberfest expects 200,000 to attend the 3-day event at La Mesa Village with 6 city blocks filled with over 300 craft and commercial booths, 5 food courts, 3 beer gardens and a children’s carnival. You don’t want to miss the Grand Daddy of all street fairs and the largest 3-day Oktoberfest West of the Mississippi. Time: Friday October 2nd. 11am till 11:30pm; Saturday October 3rd.11am till 11:30pm; Sunday October 4th. Noon till 6pm. Location: La Mesa Ave. to Alison Blvd. and Spring St., La Mesa, CA. Take the San Diego Trolley, Orange Line (La Mesa Blvd Stop) which will drop you off right in the middle of the event. lmvma.com

LOS ANGELES - LA County Fair. Time: Opens at 10 a.m. weekends, Noon on Wed.-Fri. Event runs through Oct. 4. Cost: $17 general, $12 age 6-12; Free under 6. Parking: $10 car.  Location: Fairplex, 1101 W. McKinley Ave., Pomona, CA. Call: (909) 623-3111. lacountyfair.org

MOORPARK - Bluegrass, Folk and Old Time Weekend. Bluegrass, Folk & Old Time Weekend at the annual Fall Harvest Festival offers amazing bands on the Main Stage beginning at 10am until 5:30 pm. If you play an instrument, come on down to the farm, join a group and jam! Time: 10:00am - 5:30pm (Festival Hours: 9am-6pm). Location: Underwood Family Farms, 3370 Sunset Valley Rd., Moorpark, CA. underwoodfamilyfarms.com

MORRO BAY - Morro Bay Harbor Festival. Morro Bay Harbor Festival presents the 28th annual Morro Bay Harbor Festival. The Harbor Festival offers festival goers the opportunity to both enjoy a weekend in Morro Bay, one of the most majestic scenes encountered along the California coast, as well as to get a true taste of the Central Coast's wine, beer, and cuisine; all while sampling our harbor lifestyle while listening to over 25 bands that play on 3 stages. Dates: Oct. 3 & 4. Time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost:  $8; $10 two day pass. Call: (800) 366-6043. mbhf.com

OCEANSIDE - Eastside Community Fall Fair and Car Show. 16th annual event is a fall fair sponsored by the City of Oceanside and Eastside United Community Action. Event will have a car show and informational booths. All money raised will benefit the Eastside Community. Time: 10am - 2pm Call: (760) 439-9831. ci.oceanside.ca.us.

OJAI - Rock the Trucks Concert. Time: 2 to 10 p.m. Cost: $100 donation. Location: Libbey Bowl, Ojai, CA. rockthetrucks.com

ORANGE- Irvine Park Railroad Pumpkin Patch. Fun for all ages, but designed for kids. Ride the train, play carnival games, hay rides, maze, haunted house, and pumpkins. Pumpkin Patch time: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Cost: No admission, parking fee at Irvine Regional Park is $3 weekday, $5 weekend. Location: 1 Irvine Park Rd., Orange, CA.

PALO ALTO - Great Glass Pumpkin Patch. Marvel at over 8,000 beautiful glass pumpkins hand made by artists and sold Oct. 3 & 4. Time: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Cost: Free admission. Location:  Palo Alto Art Center, 1313 Newell Rd., Palo Alto, CA 94303. The facility is wheelchair accessible. Directions: Take Caltrain to the Palo Alto station, catch Valley Transit Authority (VTA) bus 35 or 86. Buses stop within one to two blocks of the Center. Free parking is located at the Center and on the street. Call: Palo Alto Art Center (650) 329-2366 or Bay Area Glass Institute (408) 993-2244;  greatglasspumpkinpatch.com.

PETALUMA - SlaughterHaunts Haunted House. Time: 5:30-7:30 Kid Friendly 7:30pm-11pm Ages 7+. Cost: 5:30-7:30pm $5 Kid Maze; 7:30-11:00pm $16 SlaughterHouse $6 Ghost Tunnels; $19 Both Attractions; Phone: 707-332-6171; Address: 15 Copeland Petaluma, CA. slaughterhaunts.com
SACRAMENTO - Scandinavian Festival. 26th Annual Scandinavian Festival includes Scandinavian foods and baked goods, entertainment, games and cultural celebrations. Time: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Cost: $4 adult, under 12 free. Location: Divine Savior Catholic Church, 9079 Greenback Lane, Orangevale, CA. Call: (916)682-4888.

SAN DIEGO - Taste of North Park. Tickle your taste buds and let your senses be your guide at the 1st Annual taste of event. the historic neighborhood of North Park opens its doors to foodie fanatics everywhere to share in an unforgettable dining experience. From cafés and bistros to five-star dining, this is the perfect opportunity to sample an array of delicious and diverse cuisines specially prepared for you by top chefs throughout the neighborhood. In addition to satisfying your appetite, visit the participating galleries and boutiques along the way and quench your thirst with an array of complex microbrews or relax with a glass of flavorful red and white wines. Tickets to this tantalizing event are $30 in advance and $35 at the door. Proceeds from this event will benefit the North Park Main Street.  Time: 1 to 5 p.m. Call: (619) 233-5008. northparkmainstreet.com

SAN DIEGO - Haunted San Diego Ghost Tours. Meet to be taken on bus and walk to several of 6 haunted spots in San Diego, including the Whaley House in Old Town which is one of the most haunted places in America. Time: 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. Cost: $33-35. Location: meets at Best Western Hacienda Hotel Downtown, 4041 Harney, San Diego, CA. Book IT

SAN FRANCISCO - Oktoberfest by the Bay. New location at Pier 48 next to AT&T Park. Chico Bavarian Band will perform. Session 1: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Session 2: 6 p.m. to Midnight. Tickets on sale at oktoberfestbythebay.com

SAN FRANCISCO - Ramsey Lewis Trio.  Yoshi's Jazz Club. Location: 1330 Fillmore St., San Francisco, CA. Call: (415) 655-5600. yoshis.com  read more

SAN FRANCISCO - A Taste of Fillmore. Chefs Demos, Fashion Shows and Gourmet Food Sampling and lots of fun activities are included in this weekend event on the streets of San Francisco's Fillmore district. Date: Oct. 3, 2009.  Cost: Free admission. Sampling wristband $20.  Time: Noon to 5 p.m.  Location:  between Pine and California streets. fillmorestreetsf.com

SAN FRANCISCO - Swim Across America San Francisco. 4th annual swim event invites you to jump into San Francisco Bay beneath the Golden Gate Bridge and swim 1.5 miles to Crissy Field in the National Park's Presidio. This fund raiser supports breakthrough cancer research at both UCSF Children's Hospital and Children's Hospital Oakland Research Institute. Making Waves to Fight Cancer! www.swimacrossamerica.org - Gary Emich @ gary@swimacrossamerica.org - (650) 359.-3773.'

SAN GABRIEL - Rhythm and Passion Show. Tango Gaucho Salsa Show is a journey of the senses with a cast of international artists performing to modern interpretations of the world’s most popular Latin dances. Time:  8 p.m., doors open at 7:15. Cost: $25 - $65 in advance or $30 - $70. Location: San Gabriel Mission Playhouse, 320 S. Mission Dr. San Gabriel ,Ca 91766 Tickets: (877) 725-8849. gloriatatango.com or rhythmandpassionshow.com

SAN JOSE - COPPÉLIA, full-length ballet in three acts. Coppélia is a lighthearted ballet that is perfect family fare for its easy-to-understand story, humorous special effects, and exuberant dancing. Derived from a tale by E.T.A. Hoffmann, it is the story of a mysterious old toy maker who creates a beautiful doll so life-like that an entire village is fooled into believing her to be real. A young man becomes captivated by "the girl with the enamel eyes", and his fiancée is not ready to step aside for this new "girl" in town. Time: 8 p.m. Cost: $30 to $85. Location: San Jose Center for the Performing Arts, 255 Almaden Boulevard in downtown San Jose, CA. Ballet Box Office: (408) 288-2800. balletsj.org

SAN RAFAEL - Pacific Pinball Exposition. Hundreds of classic and collector pinball machines will be on display. Fun for the whole family! Time: 10 a.m. to Midnight Cost- Single day admission: $45 for adults, $35 for kids 12 & under. Location: The Exhibition Hall at the Marin County Civic Center, San Rafael, CA. pacificpinball.orgSONORA - Certified Farmer's Market. Amnesia is featured entertainment. Fresh produce, crafts and live entertainment. Location: Theall and Stewart St., Sonora, CA. Time: 7:30 - 11:30 a.m. Call: (209) 532-7735. sonoraca.com

TEMECULA - Pig Racing, Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze at Peltzer Farms. Open daily 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Located 6 miles east of 1-15, take Rancho California Road Exit to Calle Contento. Peltzer Farms, 39925 Calle Contento, Temecula, CA 92591. Call: (951) 695-1115. peltzerfarms.com

TWAIN HARTE - Oktoberfest. With concerts, microbrews, food and crafts. Oktoberfest is the center of creativity, music and fun. At the Twain Harte Oktoberfest 2009 there's continuous live entertainment. Time: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Cost: Free.  Location: Eproson Park, Twain Harte, CA. Call: (209) 533-3473. fireonthemountain.com.

YUCAIPA - Los Rios Rancho Hometown Jamboree. Cost: $15 adult; $10 child. Location: Riley's at Los Rios Rancho, 39611 Oak Glen Rd. #13, Yucaipa, CA. 92399. Call: (909) 797-1005. losriosrancho.com