The Final Note on Our 2010-11 Season
As they say: leave ‘em on a high note. Last night’s concert starring Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers and a special appearance by Tony Trischka & Territory did just that, putting the final note on our 2010-11 season.
The level of musicianship that graced the Merrill stage was unparalled. This was no gag. Granted, Steve and Tony were the artists known and appreciated in advance, but now I think we can all count the Steep Canyon Rangers and the members of Territory as our favorite new musical discoveries.
Wednesday night’s concert was special for many reasons. It was the kick-off concert for the new tour supporting Steve and the Steep Canyon Ranger’s new recording, Rare Bird Alert. And it was the only concert on that tour that included an appearance by Tony.
Speaking of which, what did you think of that combined-bands version of “The Crow?”
But Steve, Tony and their bandmates were not the only ones sharing their passion for banjo, bluegrass, and yes, comedy. Last night’s audience was one that listens and listens carefully. That intensity was underscored by a steady foot tapping that was completely in step with the energy on stage. All of the musicians commented again and again on what a great audience Portland is and how they appreciated starting the next leg of their respective tours following such a warm, enthusiastic beginning.
I had the joy of watching the second half of the concert from the wings, sitting next to banjo legend Tony Trischka. And I can attest to what his guitarist noted earlier: that Tony is not just one of the best banjo players on earth but also one of the finest human beings you will ever meet. As for Steve, he is the consummate showman. He pulls it all out for his time on stage and is quiet and gracious when he is off. The respect he shows for his fellow musicians is humbling.
We hope last night’s concert struck a high note with you and we’d love to hear from you about your live performance experience.
John Thompson says:
This was a fantastic show. You must have them back again. The Banjos sang and each performer was top notch. Best of all you could se that they were enjoying playing and their spirit and energy quickly spread to the group.. Thank you for having them and do it again soon.
John says:
Hats off to you Portland Ovations for bringing Steve Martin and the Steep Canyon Rangers to Portland. Steve was masterful in blending his gifts for humor and music into one performance that left the audience craving for more. Including Tony Trischka, who is legendary in his right, was such a great complement to the show. Thank you Portland Ovations for bringing Steve Martin, Tony Trischka, and bluegrass music to the Merrill. It was a very memorable evening!
Todd says:
Portland Ovations - you hit a grand slam home run with last night’s performance! Tony Trischka & Territory and Steve Martin & the Steep Canyon Rangers exceeded my expectations! WOW!!! It is one of the best performances that I have ever attended. Congratulations and thank you for everything you do to bring the arts to Portland. I am already looking forward to the 2011/2012 season and you can count on my support! I plan on upgrading my membership next year. I hope they all come back again!
Heidi Hansen says:
Pure magic. I had hoped that Territory and the Steep Canyon Rangers would play together, and “The Crow” was electrifying—you could feel the joy from the stage. What a bonus it was to have Tony Trischka, Steve Martin, local Darol Anger & so many other superb musicians share their love of live performance on the same night at Merrill. My highlight and surprise of the evening though, was the finale spotlight on Nicky Sanders. A maestro fiddler, Nicky synched Martin’s musical humor with technical perfection that was over the top. Thank you Portland Ovations for a great close to this memorable season!
Nancy Mundruczo says:
The concert last night brought us back to our time living in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. We enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you for bringing such wonderful bluegrass to Maine!
Mike & Linda says:
AMAZING show!!!! We had no idea we even liked bluegrass music before last night! Both bands and the vocals were so great. I am already looking forward to next season…....great job and thank you to all!
esther dudley says:
I have been a fan of everything Steve Martin does for 35 years.I might not have ever listened to bluegrass music if he hadn’t been involved with it.Thank you Steve for enlightening me!I’m looking forward to adding many bluegrass tunes to my iTunes library very soon!What a wonderful night!Thank you Portland Ovations and the Merrill Auditorium!
judie clough says:
What a great night! I’ve already signed up for Steep Canyon Ranger’s newsletter….they were incredible. Loved Steve Martin….I hope one, or both…will be returning. Thank you.
Jill says:
What a fantastic performance. Our faces hurt from smiling and our hands hurt from clapping. Our feet weren’t done yet! Thanks for another great season and a one-of-a-kind finale.
Sandi Whiston says:
We enjoyed every moment of Steve and the Steep Canyon Rangers. All of the musicians were exceptional and Steve Martin was so funny and engaging. It was a real treat for Portland Ovations subscribers to have the opportunity to see and hear this great performance. Thank you.
Lynn & Jim Shaffer says:
You did indeed end on a high. What a great performance, and what a treat to see Tony Trishka, Steve Martin, and their bands on stage together. And the Steep Canyon Rangers would draw me back again, with or without Steve Martin. Congratulations on a great season.
Karin Anderson says:
One of the best concerts I’ve ever been to—EVER!