Vance Gilbert’s Masterful Guitar Work, Rich Vocals, and Sharp Wit Create an Unforgettable Concert Experience

Talented American Singer/Songwriter returns to Horizon Stage November 9, at 7:30 p.m.

 
Vance Gilbert burst onto Boston’s singer/songwriter scene in the early 90s. Buzz spread quickly through folk clubs about this “ex-multicultural arts teacher who was knocking them dead at open mics”. The Philadelphia-area born and raised performer caught the attention of Shawn Colvin who invited him to be a special guest on her 1992 Fat City tour. Gilbert took audiences across North America by storm. "With the voice of an angel, the wit of a devil, and the guitar playing of a god, it was enough to earn him that rarity: an encore for an opener" wrote the Fort Worth Star-Telegram. Ten successful albums later, Vance still gets standing ovations wherever he performs. He is looking forward to stopping at Horizon Stage in Spruce Grove on Friday, November 9, at 7:30 p.m.
Whether performing classic, original songs or ageless interpretations of covers, Vance Gilbert’s music is steeped in humanism and bravery, stunning artistry and soul, and contagious, unbridled joy. Called a musical poet, his catchy, pop friendly melodies support keenly crafted, hard-hitting lyrics. His guitar work is supple and his tenor voice is smooth, warm, and gentle. Vance’s subject matter ranges from the wrenching separation suffered by single parents, to the tug of love’s desire, to the bitterness of being non-white in a Eurocentric culture. His albums are all considered essential additions to any American singer-songwriter collection.
Since working with Shawn Colvin, Vance has toured both on his own and with Arlo Guthrie, Anita Baker, and the late George Carlin. He last performed at Horizon Stage in 2004, where he received enthusiastic reviews.  A brilliant musician, Vance is also a personable performer, a gifted storyteller, and a witty comedian who enjoys tossing unexpected elements into his performances. His November 9 concert is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
Opening for Vance Gilbert will be Edmonton singer-songwriter and step-dancer, Lizzy Hoyt. Lizzy combines energetic and rhythmic fiddling from the Atlantic provinces with country-folk songs from the west. She is a gifted vocalist and musician who has been recognized both nationally and internationally. A 2011 Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee for Traditional Singer of the Year, Lizzy was a finalist in both the John Lennon Songwriting Contest and the USA Songwriting Competition. A multi-instrumentalist with a pure, clear voice and an aptitude for audience interaction, she is truly one of Canada’s foremost up and coming artists.
Tickets to see Vance Gilbert, with opening act Lizzy Hoyt, Up Close & Personal at Horizon Stage on Friday, November 9 at 7:30 p.m. are $30 for adults, $25 for students and seniors, and $5 for high school students through the eyeGO program. Tickets can be purchased at the City Hall Ticket Centre (315 Jespersen Ave), by phone at 780-962-8995, or online at www.ticketmaster.ca.  

“He is that rare performer for whom people lean forward in their seats

as eagerly between songs and they do during them.”

The Boston Globe