Celtic guitarist at CVIC

Staff Reports

The Carson Valley Arts Council 2008-09 concert series begins with Celtic guitarist Tony McManus, 7 p.m. Dec. 12 at the CVIC Hall, 1602 Esmeralda in Minden.

A wine, beer and cheese reception sponsored by Tahoe Ridge Winery is at 6 p.m. Desserts by Bravo Cafe & Bakery served at 8:30 p.m. Admission is a $15 donation at the door.

McManus is an acoustic Celtic folk guitarist from Ireland who taught himself to play from listening to his family's record collection. He participated in musical sessions in Glasgow and Edinburgh and was nominated as Musician of the Year by both the BBC Folk Awards and the Scottish Traditional Music Awards. In 2002, "Ceol More" was on the Acoustic Guitar magazine Album of the Year list and was named Album of the Year at the Live Ireland Awards.

Since 2004, it's been the vision of the nonprofit Carson Valley Arts Council to provide a premier venue for the arts. The old Copeland lumber building was identified as having potential to be transformed into a multifunctional cultural arts center and theater and in January, the CVAC received a donation from Big George Ventures enabling the down payment on the building.

Throughout this year, the CVAC has accomplished its due diligence and is in position for the first phase of a capital campaign to pay off the $1.5 million owed on the building. Owning the building free and clear will qualify CVAC for brick and mortar grants from large foundations to allow for the renovation of the building into a multifunctional arts venue, to eventually revitalize downtown Minden and promote cultural tourism and stimulate the economy in Carson Valley.

To kick off Phase I of the CVAC capital campaign, Big George Ventures will match every dollar donated by Carson Valley residents or businesses up to $25,000 for the next three months. Information, cvartcouncil.com or 782-8207.

The 2008-09 concert series continues with Great Basin Brass on Jan. 16, flamenco guitarist Kaweh on Feb. 6, blues guitarist Chris Cain on March 13 and Mumbo Gumbo on May 8.