Swan Songs

LIFE + STYLE

Augusta Amusements is wrapping up its season this month with a quartet of performances that will appeal to all types of audiences. Whether a musician that tickles the ivories or a group of good old-fashioned gospel singers gets your toes tapping, these performers are sure to end the season on a high note.

Michael-KaeshammerMichael Kaeshammer — March 7

Toronto-based singer-songwriter and pianist Michael Kaeshammer will bring plenty of excitement to his local fans. Kaeshammer is known for putting on a chilling performance as he sings and plays boogie-woogie, blues, jazz and pop tunes on the piano. From 2001 through 2010, he was nominated for numerous awards, and he has been named West Coast Music Award’s Male Artist of the Year as well as Performer and Musician of the Year. Tickets are $30 and $35.

Blind Boys of Alabama — March 13

You may not have been around as long as this group has, but you most likely have heard of them. The Blind Boys of Alabama, formed in the late 1930s at the Alabama Institute for the Negro Blind in Talladega, have harmonized from the Jim Crow through the Civil Rights eras. If you need a refresher about the legendary group, then you should know that they have enjoyed some of their biggest successes in the last 10 years. The gospel group has won five Grammies and four Gospel Music Awards. The singers were honored with the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2009, and they have received multiple invitations to sing at the White House. Tickets are $59 and $64.

Jim Brickman — March 20

Not only is solo-pianist Jim Brickman known for his master piano skills. He also is known for his popular vocal collaborations with artists such as country songstress Martina McBride, singer Rebecca Lynn Howard and Columbia County’s own Lady Antebellum. During his career, Brickman has earned two Grammy Award nominations, a couple of SESAC Songwriter of the Year Awards, a Canadian Country Music Award, and a Dove Award, presented by the Gospel Music Association. Tickets are $57 and $62.

Al Stewart — March 28

If “Year of the Cat” rings a bell, then you know exactly who is coming to town. Singer-songwriter Al Stewart, who performed here last year, will return to Columbia County to dazzle audiences with his unmistakable style. Stewart was a key figure in British music, and his unique folk-rock sound spread to the United States. He has released 16 studio and three live albums since his debut album, Bedsitter Images. Tickets are $37.50 and $42.50.

All performances begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. For more information, call (706) 726-0366 or visit augustaamusements.com.

 

– Katlin Carter