Calliope Center Stage: Vance Gilbert

Whether with original songwriting or ageless interpretations of covers, Vance Gilbert’s music is a presentation of stunning artistry and soul. Vance Gilbert burst onto the scene in the early 1990's when the buzz started spreading about an ex-jazz singer who was knocking 'em dead at open mics. Word spread and Shawn Colvin invited Vance to be a special guest on her Fat City tour. Gilbert took audiences across the country by storm. Of his opening set for Colvin The Fort Worth Star-Telegram said: “With the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god, it was enough to earn him that rarity: an encore for an opener.”

Gilbert recorded three albums for the Rounder/Philo label—Edgewise (1994), Fugitives (1995), and Shaking Off Gravity (1998). These albums featured a variety of guests, including: Tuck & Patti, Jonatha Brooke, Patty Larkin, Vinx and Jane Siberry. Gilbert’s self-released album Somerville Live (2000) was hailed by the Boston Globe as the disc “young songwriters should study the way law students cram for bar exams.” In 2003, Gilbert released a duo album with Ellis Paul that was called “haunting, artful and lovely” by Boston Magazine and was nominated for the 2004 Boston Music Award. Gilbert’s newest release is entitled Up on Rockfield (2008).

"Vance Gilbert is among the quintessential musical poets." – Dirty Linen

http://www.vancegilbert.com/

This show is ALL AGES and is held at Calliope's newly renovated space at Pittsburgh Center for the Arts. The space features a welcoming, club-like atmosphere and quality acoustic treatments. Soda, wine and beer will be available for purchase.