Jazz at the Museum series resumes in February 2012

MILTON, Ontario, January 25, 2012 /Canada NewsWire/ - The Halton Museum Foundation and the Halton Region Museum have assembled a talented roster following a successful 2011 Jazz series. The fundraising concerts support the Museum's capital renovation programs and take place in the Museum's Hearth Room, every second Sunday of the month from February to May.

"Since the jazz series began four years ago, it has gained a loyal following," said Halton Regional Chair Gary Carr. "These concerts showcase top-notch talent and enhance the profile of the Halton Region Museum, drawing visitors from Halton, Hamilton and the GTA."

Jazz at the Museum 2012 will kick off on Sunday, February 12 with the sounds of Michael Keys. Michael is both a singer and keyboardist with over four decades of experience. He will provide a well rounded performance of jazz, pop and boogie woogie blues.

"I invite residents to mark the 2012 dates in their calendars," said Nancy Field, Manager, Heritage Services. "Our lineup of regionally known artists will appeal to all jazz lovers - and hopefully inspire some new fans to visit the Museum as well."

The series continues through to May. On Sunday, March 11, Rachel Melas takes the stage. Rachel has been a fixture on the Canadian music scene for many years. She is equally at home in a wide variety of genres, including folk, jazz, country, Cajun and Klezmer/swing. On Sunday, April 8, (Easter weekend), jazz vocalist Margot Roi will perform jazz/pop/roots mash-ups and standards, bringing her fresh, textured sound to the Museum while helping to celebrate spring.

The series ends on Mother's Day, Sunday, May 13 with the return of The Three Guitars. This group has had a strong following at the Museum and features performing artist, guitarist and singer/songwriter George Grosman. George is joined by veteran guitarist Tony Quarrington and Toronto-based jazz guitarist, performer and instructor David Dunlap. The trio's performances of songs from the Classic American Songbook, including Gershwin, Porter, Fats Waller and Bohemian Swing will fill the historic, yet intimate venue.

Tickets are available for $20 at the door and include entertainment and complimentary light snacks. Subscriptions are available for all four Sundays for $70. There is also a cash bar (beer and wine). Seating is on a first come first served basis and tickets can be purchased in advance. On entering Kelso Conservation Area, Jazz series guests should mention to gate staff that they are attending the Museum jazz concert, in order to avoid Kelso Conservation Area admission fees.

To purchase tickets or for more information on the Jazz Series or other museum events call 905-875-2200, ext. 27 or visit www.halton.ca/museum, email museum@halton.ca, dial 311, or call 905-825-6000, Toll free 1-866-442-5866, ext. 7935, TTY 905-827-9833. You can also find the Museum on Facebook at www.facebook.com/HaltonRegionMuseum. Check out the fan page for contests and ticket giveaways.

The Halton Region Museum is located inside Kelso Conservation Area in Milton - the site that was originally settled in 1836 by Scottish immigrants. The Alexander family farmed the 200-acre property through four generations. Today, one of the Museum's focal points is the Alexander Barn. The upper two floors of the historic building feature exhibits and artifacts that reflect Halton's natural and cultural heritage. Two unique meeting and reception rooms located in the Barn are available for corporate or social events, group presentations and educational programs.

The Regional Municipality of Halton serves more than 500,000 residents in the City of Burlington, the Town of Halton Hills, the Town of Milton, and the Town of Oakville. Halton Region is committed to meeting the needs of its residents through the delivery of cost-effective, quality programs and services, including water and wastewater; Regional roads and planning; emergency medical services; waste management; public health; Ontario Works (formerly social assistance); children's and seniors' services; social/non-profit housing; heritage programs; emergency management and economic development. For more information, dial 311 or visit Halton Region's website at www.halton.ca.