The first event in the Jazz at the Ranch concert series, held on August 25, 2023, dazzled 250 attendees and Rancho Cielo students alike.
The evening began with a VIP Party at 4:30pm to thank all of the wonderful sponsors and committee members who made the concert series possible, all for the benefit of Rancho Cielo students. Rancho Cielo Founder Judge John Phillips spoke of the students during the VIP Party.
“They are the reason behind the Jazz at the Ranch concert series,” he said. “The positive energy on the campus, the kids, the staff and the volunteers. It’s just a real positive place where we have 216 kids turning their lives around and doing something.”
Chef Bert Cutino, founder of the Drummond Culinary Academy at Rancho Cielo, spoke about the inception of the culinary program. Many Culinary Academy students attended the event, serving and assisting with the Star Market cheese table. The goal was always to help students develop fundamental world skills they can take from the Culinary Academy into the real world. “So that’s what we did: we designed it like a restaurant,” Cutino said. “And still, the kids can work in that particular situation because that’s where they’re going to work in real life, right?”
After the VIP party, the general Happy Hour began. Food selections included Chef Bert Cutino’s World Famous Abalone Bisque, BBQ from Stonies Taphouse & Bistro, Star Market cheese, Just Baked pastries, Folktale Winery & Vineyards wine, Other Brother Brewery beer, and California Seltzer Company selections. If attendees wanted to leave with something sweet, Rancho Cielo honey was also for sale.
After happy hour, attendees were ushered into the Sally Hughes Church Amphitheater for a welcome and a performance of the “Star Spangled Banner.”
Tony Lindsay and the Soul Soldiers began their stellar performance at 7:30pm, wowing the crowd with several jazz classics and a few originals. The intimate venue allowed for audience interaction. Lindsay invited attendees to dance, clap and weigh in on the setlist. The sun went down as the night wore on, and the city lights twinkled in the background.
After the performance, attendees were invited to stay for coffee, treats and mingling with the performers.
More about the Jazz at the Ranch concert series:
In addition to great music, each night included heavy hors d’oeuvres prepared by acclaimed Monterey County chefs and libations from local breweries, wineries and Verve Coffee. Plus, pre-concert entertainment was provided by members of the Youth Orchestra Salinas.
Bruce Forman & Cow Bop: Internationally acclaimed jazz guitarist with Texas Western Swing. cowbop.com
The Monterey Jazz Festival Regional All-Star Band & Vocal Ensemble: montereyjazzfestival.org
Youth Orchestra Salinas (YOSAL): yosal.org
Monty Alexander: Grammy nominee and legendary pianist. montyalexander.com
Paula West: A Tribute to Bob Dylan. mspaulawest.com
Thank you to our generous sponsors, including featured sponsor Taylor Farms! This highly anticipated event was an unforgettable experience.
All proceeds raised went to Rancho Cielo’s Mental Health and Arts programs.
The sophomore iteration of Jazz at the Ranch is already confirmed for 2024. Stay tuned for more details!
