Brother Spellbinder (2018 program)

folk, gypsy jazz, indie
Family Area – Rm 207 (crafts in Rm 211) / 5:00 - 6:00

Bring the family to experience this one of a kind band that aims to enchant in the age of disenchantment! Brother Spellbinder creates a whimsical atmosphere with kids’ songs, traditional folk, gypsy jazz, classical and world music. You may bask in a blanket of lullaby music or stomp your feet and clap your hands to a lively folk tune! Your children may be excited to learn more about the cello, violin, or ukulele and luckily the Spellbinders are a friendly bunch, so don’t be shy! Expect a mosaic of originals & covers with unusual arrangements and a memorable sound. The music is suitable for dreamers of all ages.

The daughter of Big Brother & The Holding Co.’s original drummer – Dave Getz – singer/songwriter Alzara Getz grew up in a rock-n-roll scene and learned early that music could move mountains. As a public health social worker her deep interest in how people heal – or not – is a source of inspiration for songwriting. After years of performing with a variety of bay area bands, she decided it was time to lead her own. She formed Brother Spellbinder with guitarist Jamie Wilson in 2012. Wilson was an early graduate from San Francisco’s School of the Arts High School and counters Alzara’s dulcet voice with a dollop of gristle in his vocals and rhythm guitar that resonates with an earthy om. Two cellists round out the lower registers with rich velvet tones: Rice masters graduate Gabriel Beistline, a regular with The Santa Rosa Symphony, Merced Symphony and many others, and Helena Tietze, daughter of a choir director and organist, an accomplished pianist/keyboardist, and a singer/songwriter herself. Lead guitarist Sean Griffin plays ethereal and sensual riffs that expand the heavenly arc and seasoned drummer Steve La Porta steers the songs with creative variations on the march, joyful world beats and rambunctious two-steps to make your feet move.

www.brotherspellbinder.com