Coconino Center for the Arts (CCA) announces the newest addition to it's theater: a quality grand piano.
Steve Willis, legendary blues musician and Flagstaff resident, is generously housing his 1982 Kawai GS 7'4"at CCA for the foreseeable future. You may already be familiar with this instrument from Charly's in downtown Flagstaff. Steve has impeccably maintained this piano, and he would like to see it have more use. This loan will transform CCA鈥檚 performing arts offerings enabling more pianists to perform in Flagstaff.
CCA is unveiling the grand piano with a weekend of performance May 24-25. On Saturday, May 24, 7:30 p.m., S.E. Willis will give the inaugural piano performance at CCA. Willis is well known for his mastery of traditional blues and boogie styles. His solo album "Turtle Dove Bounce" (2014) features versions of standards such as the "Pinetop Boogie," the "Cow Cow Boogie" and "How Long Blues," which receive airplay on Blues stations. Willis also plays harmonica and accordion, and sings.
The inaugural performance at CCA will feature Willis paired with his brother, John G. Willis on bass and vocals, plus Arizona blues legend Brian Fahey on drums. Fahey tours regularly with the Paladins, a San Diego based Rockabilly group, and backs many local and national touring acts.
Long time Arizona favorite Kathleen Williamson will open the evening with vocals and guitar, and act as an emcee for the event. Other Flagstaff favorites may sit in as guests.
This will be an evening of outstanding musical performances from current and former Flagstaff locals, a celebration of the piano and the music scene that has produced these artists. CCA extends a thank you to S.E. Willis. ()
On Sunday, May 25, 4-6 p.m., the grand piano celebration continues with "The Living Room" with proceeds benefiting the piano program at CCA. Presented by Kapp茅 Rousseau, "The Living Room" is a performance series designed to offer space for artists who may be underrepresented in the Flagstaff area. Expect a house-concert style event, centered around a warm, intimate setting -- much like gathering in a spacious living room. One might even think of it as a modern-day salon.
More than just a performance, "The Living Room" invites the audience into a shared experience -- a space where connection, curiosity and deep listening come alive. It鈥檚 about breaking down the divide between performer and audience, creating moments of spontaneity, intimacy and collective expression.
The evening will highlight original works, creative expression and a diverse lineup of songwriters and musicians, featuring different musical modalities and instruments -- some familiar, some unexpected -- with an emphasis on storytelling, artistry and connection. The goal is to create an experience that feels personal, alive and truly reflective of the richness of our artistic community.
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