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The Spring Harp Festival Blows into La Mesa on Saturday, March 26
Budd Willis and Harmonica John Frazer have put together another monster lineup for the 17th Annual Spring Harp Fest. Staged once again on the natural grass of Harry Griffen Park in La Mesa it’s a full day of headliners. This year the program showcases artist, composer, and producer Lee Oskar, the Grammy-nominated and BMA-winning James Harman, San Diego sensation Billy Watson, plus the Farmers, Karl Cabbage, Harmonica John, Robert Cowan, Richie Strell, and many more… If previous years are any indication, this harp event jump starts the festival season with an entire day of award-winning blues.
World-class chromatic player and San Diego local Billy Watson says he always looks forward to the show. “It’s like a carnival in an amphitheater for harmonica playing. It’s a joy to be able to hang out and listen to all kinds of harmonica players. It is one of the only free events that feature harmonica players with a variety of musical styles. The audience is enthusiastic and the folks running it do a great job. I am grateful to be a part of it, too.”
Watson says he’s always happy to contribute in any way possible. “I enjoy supporting musicians and spreading it around so we can all keep music, especially harmonica music… alive. This year I am proud to have been the catalyst for getting James Harman and Lee Oskar to perform. I hired the band for both giants and it’s going to be spectacular! I can’t wait!”
The show begins at 10am and although it’s free, there is a suggested $10 donation that directly benefits an outstanding educational program called Blues in the Schools. Food and beverages will be in abundance at the venue and it’s guaranteed to be a fun-filled musical experience the whole family will enjoy. See you there!
–T.E. Mattox