By Laura Hunt Little
Grooves at The Westin is a concert series featuring world-class smooth jazz artists in a beautiful resort setting under the stars at The Westin Mission Hills Golf Resort & Spa in Rancho Mirage. Two series each year, one in the Fall and one in the Spring, include 3-4 performances and a community event. Community programs in the past have included fundraising for Desert Cancer Foundation and a performance by the Boys’ & Girls’ Club jazz band, Heatwave.
Grooves at The Westin producer Michael Paulo presented an enthusiastically-received class on Jazz improvisation to music students at Shadow Hills High School in Indio, Friday Nov 17th as part of the resort’s commitment to the community.
The Grooves at The Westin Fall 2017 series featured Euge Groove in October and Michael Paulo with an all-star band featuring Gregg Karukas, Freddie Washington, Land Richards and Grammy award winning singer, Deniece Williams. The final show of the season takes place on Saturday, November 25, starring sax man Gerald Albright. Dates have been set for the Spring series for February 10th, 24th and March 3rd with performers to be announced.
Shows take place on the resort’s Master’s Plaza overlooking the Pete Dye golf course starting at 7pm. Ticket prices range from $45 to $99. The $85 tickets include a VIP Reception to meet the artists and enjoy gourmet appetizers, wine and other beverages. The resort also offers a special three-course dinner and seating for the show at Fireside Lounge on a patio table (weather permitting), neighboring the Masters Plaza. The cost is $99 plus taxes and gratuity. For those traveling in for the concerts, or local residents looking to enjoy a staycation for the concerts, special room rates are available. More information about tickets, dinner reservations and room packages for Grooves at The Westin are available at www.westinmissionhills.com/grooves.
