MARLINTON, W.Va. — The enchanting tunes of the Mike Gillispie Jazz Flute Quartet are set to grace the stage of the Pocahontas County Opera House on Saturday, November 4, at 7:30 p.m. The performance promises an evening filled with a captivating blend of jazz melodies that span across generations and styles.
The quartet, led by the celebrated flutist and bass flutist, Mike Gillispie, is a testament to the power of musical diversity. Gillispie’s musical odyssey began at the age of 5 when he first picked up the accordion, later transitioning to the flute at the tender age of 7. He continued to expand his musical repertoire, eventually embracing the saxophones. Emerging from the vibrant music community of Washington, Gillispie brings a rich tapestry of musical and graphic arts experiences to the stage. With a performance history that spans continents, he is known not only for his unique fusion of musical and photographic talents but also for his deep-rooted family ties to Pocahontas County, where he spent his formative summers before embarking on a full-time music career.
The quartet’s lineup also includes the esteemed guitarist Thomas Kitchen, renowned for his versatility across jazz and classical genres. As a passionate educator and transcriber, Kitchen seamlessly integrates his international experiences into his performances and educational endeavors.
Adding depth to the ensemble is Dan Griffin, a respected bassist hailing from New York City. Griffin embarked on his musical journey at the tender age of 8 with the accordion before transitioning to the upright acoustic bass at 13. His unwavering passion for music is as remarkable as his illustrious career in clinical psychology, which has earned him accolades as an educator, speaker, and author.
Rounding out the quartet is James Deshler, a drummer whose diverse upbringing in Los Angeles led to a remarkable career that deftly combines jazz with molecular and cellular biology. Holding a PhD from UCLA and a post-doctoral scholar position at Harvard Medical School, Deshler adeptly melds his intellectual pursuits with his musical talents.
This captivating performance at the Pocahontas County Opera House is an event not to be missed, promising a unique blend of high-quality jazz music. Tickets are affordably priced at $10 for adults, and admission is free for those aged 17 and under. Tickets can be secured through the Opera House’s website, the 4th Avenue Gallery in Marlinton, or at the venue on the evening of the performance.
The Opera House’s concert series receives significant support from the West Virginia Department of Arts, Culture, and History, the West Virginia Commission on the Arts, Pocahontas County Dramas, Fairs and Festivals, and the Pocahontas County Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The Pocahontas County Opera House is committed to providing an inclusive and family-friendly environment, with accommodations available for individuals with disabilities upon request. Seating is offered on a first-come, first-served basis, so attendees are encouraged to secure their tickets in advance to ensure they don’t miss out on this mesmerizing musical experience.
