About Billy:
A Billy Jonas performance is an explosion of energy. In singalongs, bangalongs, whisperalongs, as well as improvised songs, his primary instrument is the audience. Everyone becomes part of a performance that reaches out and ". . . touches even the most hardened of hearts." (Fayetteville Morning News)
Concerts begin with a simple "tuning" of the audience; from there a whimsical trajectory carries listeners through stories of life, love, and triumph over 'Murphy's Law.' Jonas' original pieces are played on fanciful "industrial re-percussion" instruments made from found objects. He sings in a clear tenor voice; his guitar work is adventurous, alternately percussive and lyrical.
Jonas' heartwarming work has been enjoyed across North America since 1987. Previously a member of the highly acclaimed duo, "The Billys," he has been featured at prestigious festivals and venues nationwide (see selected venues). Jonas has shared stages with some of the world's favorite acoustic artists, including Patti Larkin, Ani DiFranco, David Wilcox, Richard Thompson, and Pete Seeger.
Jonas' latest CD, "Get Real," for adult/general audiences, is his studio follow-up to "Life So Far". From matters of the heart, to geo-political intrigue, "Get Real" invites the listener to climb into a "percussion-rich" universe full of sonic exploration and emotional adventurousness. "Get Real" is filled with homemade and recycled object instruments, as well as a host of more traditional sounding instruments (guitar, bass, Middle Eastern & African percussion), and LOTS of voices!
Jonas' CD "Life So Far," sparkles with unique perspectives and found sounds. Songs filled with hope, yearning, wonder, and wisdom include special guests David Wilcox, Glen Velez, Robert Moog (on Theramin), and Zimbabwe's Black Umfolosi voice and percussion choir.
In addition to his work with adult/general audiences, Jonas has generated an enthusiastic following for his family show. His CD "What Kind of Cat are You?!" caters to this audience, and received multiple awards including a First Place/Gold from AFIM (American Federation of Independent Musicians), and a Parent's Choice Gold.
Jonas also has released 2 video/dvd's for family/young audiences: "Everybody's in the Band!" and "Bangin' and Sangin.'" Both have garnered critical acclaim, including Parents Choice Awards; "Bangin' and Sangin'" received a New York Times "Best" listing.
Billy Jonas' performances will inspire, inform, and enlighten. His work is born out of respect and reverence, and seeks to honor the creative energy in everyone. Billy provides performances and workshops for adult audiences and/or family audiences.
Billy is accompanied by a full ensemble of singers and re-percussionists at larger venues.
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Underground Hotline:
(973) 762-0119
Website:
http://www.billyjonas.com/
Venue
Maplewood Memorial Library
51 Baker Street Street
Buy tickets
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