How many musicians can say they’ve had one gig a week for 28 years at the same place?
Few musicians can answer in the affirmative, but RVA’s George Turman proudly can. He’s played virtually every Sunday brunch at the Boathouse at Sunday Park (Brandermill) since 1987. “I’ve watched families grow up. That’s pretty cool!” His low key guitar and vocal show is the perfect Sunday morning fit.
George picked up the guitar at 11 and by 16 around 1967, he played his first paying gig ($5) at Grace Street’s Pizza Inn. He was influenced by Bob Dylan, Peter, Paul and Mary, Joan Biaz, Dave Van Ronk and others of that early to mid-60’s “folk” scene. After a degree in biology he saved his money for a few years and then traveled the west with 2 friends. “When the money ran out we all got jobs. We were in Vail and I took my guitar to an audition and ended up playing there the whole season. That was the beginning really.” He eventually played 6 nights a week for 2 years at another restaurant there and got on the resort tour. He moved back to Richmond after about 9 years.
Today, George plays mostly in the Richmond area with a few regional resort shows thrown in. “A lot of the places I played have been torn down and a Wawa put up.” He had 35 years of playing in bars where the crowd often was more interested in partying than listening to his music, so he appreciates venues such as The Tin Pan, Ashland Coffee and Tea and the Shady Grove Coffee House that promotes listening. It gives him the chance to showcase some obscure song writers and well as his 60’s folk inspired roots.
Saturday night’s crowd at The Tin Pan was somewhere in-between…the bar patrons had lively conversations, while the seated crowd was able to enjoy George’s music. Interaction with his audience, including kids and personal friends, added to the down home “folksiness.” George’s easy going good nature and quick smile makes for easy connections.
PHOTOS BY STAUNTON COTTRELL
[toggle title=”Watch Video”]
[/toggle]
Odds and Ends:
You know you’ve made it when Hardywood Brewery releases a beer in your honor. 331/3 Black Vinyl Stout celebrates Plan 9 Music’s 331/3 years in business. The Saturday afternoon celebration included music by Kepone, Hotel X, The Diamond Center and White Laces, as well as a reunion of current and former employees and customers throughout the store’s run. Owner Jim Bland was truly appreciative and honored – and he really likes the beer.
The Tin Pan has their official grand opening this Friday, March 13 with the Triple Crossing Jazz Project. The purchase of a ticket also reserves your seating.
Friday Cheers’ 2015 schedule has been released and, just as in the past 30 years, it is heavy with acts you may never have heard, but really should. Over the years Cheers has featured acts on the cusp of breaking out nationally. Check out the schedule here.