Rhythm in Blue Jazz Ensemble

Oct. 7, pianist Phillip E. Kirkland will take to the keyboard on the Gallery Stage from 6-8 p.m.

Born in Beaver Falls, Pa., Phil is a pianist, singer, and songwriter who arrived at DCA by way of Philadelphia. Growing up under the influence of many genres, he forged his own unique approach to composition. His music meanders around the melody in “stylish” ways that awaken a new and refreshing response to music enthusiasts in search of “freedom from the mediocre.”

Tickets are $10 for DCA members, $12 for non-members. Refreshments will be available for purchase. To learn more about Kirkland and to sample his work, visit www.facebook.com/silverfoxmelodies.

DCA is pleased to welcome The United States Air Force “Rhythm in Blue” Jazz Ensemble for a performance in the George B. Todd Performance Hall at DCA on Oct. 13, 7 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public.

“Rhythm in Blue” features the diverse talents of 15 professional musicians whose commitment to excellence has earned worldwide acclaim and military distinction. The band incorporates a wide repertoire of jazz and fusion, from big band swing to cutting-edge contemporary music. Their fabulous vocalist radiates sounds of the great jazz divas and inspires with patriotic classics.

Activated in 1941, The United States Air Force Heritage of America Band has a rich history of inspiring public patriotism and enhancing esprit de corps among all the US military service branches. These world-class musicians are stationed at Joint Base Langley-Eustis in Hampton, Va. They travel throughout the Carolinas, Mid-Atlantic and Northeast regions, presenting over 300 events annually for the general public and in support of Airman morale and protocol events.

Under the leadership of Captain Michael D. Hoerber, the USAF Heritage of America Band remains at the forefront of coPhillip E. Kirkland

mmunicating Air Force core values and preserving and enriching America’s military and musical heritage into the 21st century.

For additional information about this free concert, please call DCA at 410-228-7782 or visit the band’s website www.heritageofamericaband.af.mil.

Catch the sounds of local music favorites at the Final Friday Coffeehouse Open Mic on Oct. 27, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy the listening experience in this friendly, supportive atmosphere for acoustic musicians, or share your talents as a performer on the Gallery Stage.

Call DCA at 410-228-7782 to be added to the lineup. Slots are 10 minutes; piano is available onsite. Admission is free.

On Nov. 18, DCA welcomes the musical ensemble Paul, Liz and Randy to the Gallery Stage for an evening of acoustic music from 7-9 p.m. Paul Harrison, Randy Welch, and Liz Fisher will share original and familiar songs featuring vocal harmonies and multiple instruments, such as guitar, mandolin, harmonica, and wood flute. Relax and enjoy their delightful blend of music styles including folk, blues, pop, and light jazz.

Tickets are $10 for DCA members, $12 non-members. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

For more information on these performances, and additional programs and events at DCA, call 410-228-7782, stop by Tuesday through Sunday at 321 High St. in Cambridge, or visit online at dorchesterarts.org. Programs at DCA are supported by the Maryland State Arts Council, now celebrating 50 years of service to the arts.

Editor’s note: Spectrum is the weekly column of the Dorchester Arts Center. It is written by Barbara J. Seese, executive director.