Tonight we had originally scheduled an evening with Irene Sazer's Real Vocal String Quartet. In recent weeks we've learned that Irene was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkins Lymphoma. While this is a serious disease requiring difficult treatment, there is strong hope for a full recovery. In place of the planned performance, the other members of the quartet and an all-star line-up of musical colleagues have put together an exhilarating night of music to benefit the Sazer-Hopf family and help continue funding the quartet's latest recording project. Depending on her condition on the night of the show, Irene may be joining the quartet for a few selections.

The Real Vocal String Quartet offers a vibrant synthesis of world and roots music with jazz, classical, and pop sensibilities, and regales their audience with a groove-filled concoction of violins, viola, cello, voices, thumps, thunks, and plucks. Led by violinist, composer, arranger, and vocalist Irene Sazer, a founding member of the famed Turtle Island String Quartet, the Real Vocal String Quartet offers a stirring mix of genre-hopping originals and arrangements. From Kenyan songs and Brazilian choros to American and Irish fiddle tunes, the group travels the world, voices weaving in and out, percussion and rhythm on string instruments adding spice to the sound. The ensemble includes violinist and violist Dina Maccabee (Aurora Septet, Charming Hostess), cellist Jessica Ivry (Shotgun Wedding), violinist Alisa Rose (A.J. Roach, Homespun Rowdy).

Also on hand will be pianist and singer-songwriter Vienna Teng, Suzy Thompson (Bluegrass Intentions, Aux Cajunals), Amy Hofer (Amy & Karen), Erik Pearson (Crooked Jades), Sheldon Brown (Clarinet Thing), Gerry Tenney (California Klezmer Orchestra), Kaila Flexer, John Schott, Amy X Neuburg, and Ramon & Jessica. Check back for the names of additional musicians who'll be part of this event.