**THE SONGWRITER SOIREE PRESENTS!**
Join us for a cozy and dreamy night at a private fireside residence for this VERY special one-of-a-kind house concert — As part of the NW Songwriter Soiree Retreat pre party!
>>>. GET TICKETS: https://tinyurl.com/3wb6u82u. <<<
Appalachian violins, nostalgic banjos, and soulful stories abound with this special night of two dynamic folk troubadours.
We are so lucky to have the amazing Omar Ruiz-Lopez joining us all the way from Nashville, Tennessee!! And the incredible folk legend Bernice Lewis from Massachusetts!
You won't want to miss this incredible opportunity to see them in such an intimate setting.
LOCATION: A cozy private residence in the Mississippi neighborhood, Portland
Doors: 6:30pm, Show: 7pm
$20adv/$25dos
Please bring a drink, dessert, or snack to share if you feel inspired : )
Get tickets as space is capped at 60 and it will sell out!
>>>GET TICKETS: https://tinyurl.com/3wb6u82u
ABOUT OMAR RUIZ-LOPEZ
Omar Ruiz-Lopez (he/him) is a distinguished musician and educator with a remarkable command over multiple instruments, including the 5-string-violin, cello, guitar, and mandolin. Born in Panama and raised in Puerto Rico, Omar's early exposure to traditional Caribbean folk songs laid the foundation for his deep appreciation for folk music from all over the world.
As a co-founder of the original Americana group, Violet Bell, Omar has made significant contributions to the contemporary folk music scene. His bilingual songwriting and compositional skills reflect a fusion of cultural influences and his dedication to musical excellence. Omar's music is the lovechild of his cultural heritage, a wild affair with diverse musical landscapes.
Omar is not only a skilled performer but also a dedicated educator. His role as a teaching artist and youth orchestra conductor (particularly in the years 2012-2023 with the El Sistema-based nonprofit youth orchestra program Kidznotes) underscores his commitment to shaping the next generation of musicians. He is a firm believer in the transformative power of a well-structured arts education.
As a Latine immigrant and a versatile musician spanning multiple genres, Omar has a unique ability to connect with diverse international audiences. His music serves as a bridge, fostering understanding and appreciation across cultural boundaries.
Of Violet Bell: “One of the best duos working in Americana today" - No Depression Magazine
ABOUT BERNICE LEWIS
Hailing from Massachusetts, Bernice Lewis has been a nationally recognized touring artist for almost four decades. According to Rosanne Cash: “Bernice is one of the keepers of the flame of Real Songwriting.” Lewis — who studied vocal improvisation with Bobby McFerrin, guitar technique with Alex DeGrassi and Guy van Duser, and songwriting with Rosanne Cash and Cris Williamson — has been a featured performer on NPR’s Mountain Stage program, as well as at the Kennedy CenterIn 1987, she was a finalist in the prestigious New Folk Songwriting Contest at the Kerrville (Texas) Folk Festival, where she continues to be a main stage favorite. Her ballad, “Bridges That Hold,” was included in Peter, Paul and Mary’s Lifelines video (PBS).
She has shared the stage with many renowned artists, including Dar Williams, Dixie Chicks, Patty Griffin, Pete Seeger, Ellis Paul, Rory Block, Patty Larkin, and more. She has a fifty year old daily yoga practice, loves good coffee, and her religion is the Grand Canyon.
ABOUT THE SONGWRITER SOIREE (Host)
The Songwriter Soiree is one of the largest communities of songwriters and music lovers in the Pacific Northwest. Founded in 2009 as a monthly living room potluck event, it has grown into a multifaceted organization that offers various experiences for songwriters and music enthusiasts. The Soiree brings together songwriters and musicians of all skill levels and genres, to nurture creativity, deepen our musical expression, foster collaboration, and create an inspiring and supportive space for personal expression.