RANCHO MIRAGE — Grooves at the Westin’s inaugural jazz series, presented by APaulo Music Productions and the Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa, and will feature the legendary band Hiroshima on Saturday, March 28, at 7 p.m. (doors open at 6 p.m.) at the Masters Plaza.
“We are excited to introduce Grooves at the Westin, our first jazz series for spring 2015,” stated a spokesperson for the Westin. “Join us for spectacular nights under the stars, with the picturesque scenery of Masters Plaza and the San Jacinto Mountains. We are honored to present the Grammy-nominated artists that will make a special appearance at Grooves at the Westin. Don’t miss the number one Asian American jazz band in the world right here in Palm Springs.”
Producer and sax man sensation Michael Paulo added, “This will be a great intimate concert series at one of the most beautiful and prestigious resorts on Palm Springs. Please join us once more as we bring you the best entertainment in the valley. Looking forward to seeing you all.
“Our Temecula Wine and Music Festival has been moved to the fall. Please stay tuned for date and venue announcement.”
The jazz concert series started with David Benoit and guest Phil Perry on Feb. 14, and continues with smooth jazz stars Gregg Karakas, Jessy J. Brian Simpson and Paulo on March 21. Hiroshima is the closing act.
Named to the 2014 Top 20 CD list by smoothjazz.com, the vibrant, eclectic and truly original Hiroshima creates a musical world all its own. The mix of traditional Japanese folk music and instruments interwoven with jazz, R&B, salsa and more has been a pioneering voice in contemporary music since the 1970s. After 30 years and 4 million records sold worldwide, the band continues its signature East-meets-West sound.
The Los Angeles-based ensemble is led by Dan Kuramoto (woodwinds, producer/composer) and June Kuramoto (“the world’s greatest koto player,” according to Stanley Clarke), Kimo Cornwell (piano/ keyboards/composer, formerly with Al Jarreau and Maze), Danny Yamamoto (drums/percussion, original member), and Dean Cortez (bass, formerly with Boz Scaggs).
Hiroshima’s website: www.hiroshimamusic.com
Tickets ($45 to $75) are available at www.tix.com/Event.aspx?EventCode=721344. For more information, call (951) 696-0184.
The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort and Spa (www.WestinMissionHills.com) is located at 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage. Discount rooms are available; call (760) 328-5855.
Dinner and concert packages are available for $99 plus taxes and gratuity. Includes a three-course dinner, one glass of house wine, and the chance to oversee and listen to the jazz concert from your reserved fireside lounge patio table on the terrace adjacent to the stage.
Prepaid non-refundable reservations are required and must be made through the host in Pinzimini by calling (760) 770-2150 or emailing pinziminips@westin.com.