St. Cecilia Music Center

Announcing Another Stellar Line-up for the 2009/2010 Jazz and Classical Concert Series

Thursday, August 20 2009

GRAND RAPIDS, MI (March 12, 2009) – St. Cecilia Music Center in Grand Rapids began in the late 1800’s through the passion of nine culturally aware women who began St. Cecilia Music Society in 1883 to allow others to study music and a chance to experience world-renowned musicians. The organization has stayed true to its mission for over a century by offering the public an appreciation of music and the ability to hear great musical performances in a beautiful, acoustically superb, intimate setting. The building at the corner of Ransom and Fulton Streets was built in 1894 and has been in continuous operation as a music center since that time. It is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and thrives today as one of the finest establishments to hear and see top caliber musical performances in West Michigan.

The Great Artist Gala will begin the season on October 22, 2009 with jazz legend Ramsey Lewis performing at St. Cecilia Music Center’s annual black-tie gala. Two more world-renowned jazz musicians will perform as part of the jazz series beginning in February. Jazz vocalist Tierney Sutton will be at St. Cecilia with her band on February 11, 2010 and pianist Brad Mehldau will appear with his Trio on April 8, 2010. Classical performers will include the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet on March 20, 2010 in collaboration with the Grand Rapids Community College who is hosting the Mid-American Guitar Ensemble Festival. The Los Angeles Guitar Quartet will give a master class at St. Cecilia Music Center for Festival participants on the day of the concert. On May 6, 2010 St. Cecilia Music Center and the Gilmore Festival present masterful pianist Ingrid Fliter in recital.

“We bring world-renowned artists to perform on St. Cecilia’s Jazz and Classical Series for one night only,” says Cathy Holbrook, Executive Director of St. Cecilia Music Center. “These musicians are some of the most sought-after performers today with amazing careers and accolades to their names. Instead of having to travel to hear these performers, Grand Rapids music-lovers can enjoy them right here at St. Cecilia in the intimate setting of Royce Auditorium in downtown Grand Rapids.”

“We exist to bring music to the community,” Holbrook adds. “Every time we have a concert, ticket sales help with costs but we must raise additional funds to make up the difference. Season ticket sales, our Great Artist Gala fundraising event, as well as corporate, foundation, and individual sponsorships for all of our concerts help us continue our mission. Without the support from generous organizations and individuals we couldn’t bring these world-renowned performers or offer the many other programs that St. Cecilia produces.”

Season tickets to the Classic and Jazz Concert Series are now available at special rates by calling 616-459-2224 or visiting St. Cecilia Music Center at 24 Ransom NE, Grand Rapids, 49503.

Season tickets are $65 for A section seating and $55 for B section seating for the two concerts within each series; All four concerts in both series is offered at $125 for A section seating and $115 for B section seating. Single tickets are $35 for A section and $30 for B section. Area restaurants and caterers will offer a dinner with wine in advance of each concert at St. Cecilia Music Center. Cost for the pre-concert dinner is $30 per person and must be reserved in advance by calling 616-459-2224. There are also season ticket options with dinners.

For tickets to individual concerts and the Great Artist Gala event contact the St. Cecilia Music Center box office at 616.459.2224 or purchase tickets online under Concerts and Events.