The Southwest Voice

By: Phillip Scott

The Strolling Strings, an amazing young musicians from fourth to eighth grade Panama-Buena Vista Union School District, will perform at Rabobank Theater on Jan. 9 with jazz violinist Doug Cameron. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for pre-concert music provided by the Strolling Strings.

In this unique concert, Cameron will be bringing his rhythm section as well as augmenting the group with a horn and string section. In conjunction with the concert, Cameron will present his master class program, and the kids will perform a portion of the concert live on stage with him and his group. The master class is funded by the student outreach program of the Bakersfield Community Concert Association.

One of Cameron’s focuses has been working with young musicians in an inspirational master class or workshop environment.

“This has truly been some of the most satisfying work I’ve ever done,” he said. “I believe it is more important than ever that young people become exposed and involved in music. Music is a gift that I am grateful to have in my life, and it’s my hope to be able to share it with as many young people as possible.”

Doug Cameron is one of the true innovators of contemporary and electric violin. With eight CDs to his credit, Cameron has long been an international favorite on jazz radio. An arranger and composer as well, Cameron’s CDs feature many of his own compositions. A veteran of the Los Angeles studio scene, Cameron has recorded and performed with a wide range of artists, including George Benson, Doc Severinsen, Tom Petty, Cher, The Allman Brothers, Dionne Warwick and many others in addition to numerous motion pictures and commercials. Cameron lives and records in Los Angeles where he has a full recording studio in his home and also enjoys having the talents of many top studio musicians and recording artists at his disposal. Many jazz luminaries appear as special guests on Cameron’s various CDs, including David Benoit, Lee Ritenour, Boney James, Gerald Albright, Joe Sample, Russ Freeman from The Rippingtons and Russ Ferrante from The Yellowjackets.

For more information, call 326-0838.