BELLOWS FALLS-Stage 33 Live, 33 Bridge St., welcomes the return of London-born, Oxford-educated Rupert Wates and his American acoustic folk on Sunday, May 19, at 7 p.m. Tom Pirozzoli will open.
"With the lyricism of Gordon Lightfoot and the attention to craft of Richard Thompson, Rupert's highly developed songwriting is by turns vulnerable and bold, featuring intricate lyrics and memorable melodies, exceptional guitar skills, and a smooth, expressive voice," say organizers in a news release.
He's released 11 solo albums and won dozens of songwriting awards, and his work has been covered by artists in the U.K., Canada, and the U.S., including on two tribute albums to his material.
Although he plays large venues and big festivals, he prefers intimate, up-close audiences in small listening rooms where the emphasis is on the music. "The recognition that regular people are what make the world extraordinary reflects in his vivid, sophisticated songwriting," states the news release.
Pirozzoli's recordings have had national and international success, and he's in the Smithsonian Folkways Collection. He's been on the Top 40 AAA charts, had a featured release at Tower Records, and has worked with artists like Greg Brown, Jesse Winchester, Doc Watson, and Willy Porter. "Sophisticated guitar playing forms a rich backdrop for his warm tenor, with melodies and lyrics exploring a wide range of the human and global experience."
He says his encounters with people, cultures, and ideas while traveling Europe, South America, India, Southeast Asia, China, and Tibet continue to enrich and deepen his music.
Pirozzoli performs only a handful of times annually as he focuses on his fine art career. Stage 33 Live organizers say they are enthused to have him back in the room.
Advance tickets are $15 through stage33live.com or $20 at the door, with 100% of ticket sales supporting the performers. Admission is limited to 40. The event will be recorded and filmed.
This Arts item was submitted to The Commons.