Unlikely trio likely to start a Tradition

Published: Sunday, Dec. 4, 2011 10:57 p.m. MSTBy Hillary Bowler, Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — Marvin Goldstein , Vanessa Joy and Thurl Bailey teamed up for a well-received concert, "Classy & Classic Christmas," on Friday at the Grand Theatre.

"This is the first of what I hope is an annual event," Goldstein said during the performance. Judging by the audience's reaction, that seems a definite possibility.

The concert began with a medley of Christmas songs the three artists performed together, providing an immediate preview for the variety of the rest of the show.

From the archiveUnlikely trio likely to start a Christmas tradition– Dec. 3, 2011Utah music favorites combine talents, hope to start new holiday tradition – Dec. 1, 2011LDS singer's new CD features contemporary, uplifting music – Aug. 8, 2011LDS singer's music goes beyond Mormon market – May 11, 2011LDS singer's music goes beyond Mormon, Utah market – April 12, 2011The first half included selections from each of Bailey and Joy's latest albums, "A Song for You," and "The Voice," respectively. Added to that was Goldstein's energetic performance of a medley of songs from "The Sound of Music."

Joy gave a thrilling performance of "Don't Rain on My Parade" and the audience warmed up to Bailey's youngest son performing "Cats in the Cradle" with his father.

The program was balanced with spiritual, thought-provoking tunes, and upbeat ones, plus equal alternating stage time for the performers. One minute the audience would be erupting in laughter, the next they'd be silent — moved by a soulful song.

Though they veered slightly from a typical Christmas program, the trio maintained themes of family, friendship and joy which they said suited the season.

Following a brief intermission, the group launched into extra fun Christmas numbers, getting the audience singing and clapping along and even getting 11 volunteers to help sing "The Twelve Days of Christmas" on stage.

From Broadway hits to Christmas hymns to "Marvin the Red-nosed Piano Player" with an accordion, the program was certainly lively.

Sprinkled throughout the performance were constant jokes and teasing.

"I can hold a note longer than (Vanessa) can. Watch," Goldstein said as he held a piano key down.

"I guess we went a little over time. I do that all the time," Bailey said, making a quick-witted reference to his professional basketball career.

Their family-friendly sense of humor drew heavily from the culture of the area, each others' pasts and, of course, Bailey's height. The audience was pleased with all of it.

The performers' ending number, "We Wish You a Merry Christmas," was met with a standing ovation from much of the audience.

As the attendees filed out of the theater, they spoke of how much they enjoyed the show and headed for the lobby to buy CDs or meet the trio.

One audience member seemed exasperated over the fact that the event didn't sell out.

Goldstein shrugged over the situation, stating that there are conflicting events everywhere this time of year.

"The first time is always rough," Joy said. But, she added, after a while "people start expecting it. That's what makes it a tradition."

Joy, Bailey and Goldstein were pleased with the turnout and response and are hoping to make their show a staple in the future Utah holiday arts scene.

Utah music favorites combine talents, hope to start new holiday tradition.

Trio hopes holiday show has makings of tradition

Published: Thursday, Dec. 1, 2011 4:55 p.m. MSTBy Hillary Bowler, Deseret News

SALT LAKE CITY — Musicians Marvin Goldstein and Vanessa Joy have been collaborating on albums and in performances around the world nearly constantly for the past two years.

Now, they are looking forward to the "debut of the trio." Former Utah Jazz forward Thurl Bailey will join Goldstein and Joy for a Christmas concert, "Classy and Classic Christmas," on Dec. 2 at 7:30 p.m. at The Grand Theatre.

Click to enlargeprovided by Vanessa JoyVanessa Joy, Thurl Bailey and Marvin Goldstein perform in "Classy and Classic Christmas."From the archiveUnlikely trio likely to start a tradition – Dec. 4, 2011Unlikely trio likely to start a Christmas tradition– Dec. 3, 2011LDS singer's music goes beyond Mormon market – May 11, 2011LDS singer's music goes beyond Mormon, Utah market – April 12, 2011LDS singer's music goes beyond Mormon, Utah market – April 12, 2011"He's such a nice guy," Goldstein said of Bailey, who has followed up his NBA career with a singing career. "He's almost as humble as I am — you can quote that."

The trio believes this show has the makings of a new kind of holiday tradition.

For starters, they say, they are a diverse group. Goldstein's Jewish upbringing and 50-plus years of experience in music, Joy's vast singing experience and motherhood, and Bailey's professional basketball career give the performers varied backgrounds.

Goldstein, an accomplished pianist and arranger known for multiple songbooks and albums, said he admires Bailey's passion for music and believes it may even exceed his passion for basketball.

Bailey explained that he certainly loves basketball, and it was "very good at paying the bills." But his love of music runs deep.

"My love of music started way before any basketball came in my life," he said.

Bailey in turn spoke highly of Joy and Goldstein. The three are thrilled for the chance to combine their talents in one concert.

According to Joy, the concert will include songs from each of the performers' latest albums, plus recognizable Christmas favorites.

Goldstein added that there will be plenty of audience participation throughout. Each performer's personality and performing style will add to it.

"It's a unique blend of all of us," Joy said.

They hope the performance will serve as a great kickoff to the holidays for families.

"I really hope that people just get in the spirit of Christmas," said Joy, to which Goldstein added: "My hope is that they'll recognize that they need to celebrate Hanukkah too," spurring the duo to laughter.

"It's the holiday season," Bailey said. "We want to start it right for families. It's definitely a family affair."

And to do that, the trio says, they'll just do what they love and make music together.

"We are just going to be on fire and love being part of it," Goldstein said, adding that their energy on stage will hopefully transfer to the audience.

"I'm very passionate about what I do," Bailey said. "I hope that through my performance, people feel a sense of inspiration."

Email: hbowler@desnews.com

I am excited to announce that Marvin's Blog is up and running.  This is where you will find all the latest and up-to-the-minute news.  Marvin wants you to participate!  Please feel free to comment on post.

First, I would like to show you around the new website.  This is all things Marvin.  This new site not only includes the usual stuff like upcoming events, photos, videos, and music; now it is inclusive of his other sites - Peace with Music, Gold 'n Joy and Hello Tours. 

There are several very important parts of the website. 

• You can receive a free download when you sign up for the newsletter. That is located at the top of the right side panel. 
• The Street Team is located in the top menu.  This is to help spread the word about Marvin and gives you the opportunity to win FREE merchandise. 
• Your can go to Marvin's social sites from this website.
• And you can listen to Marvin's beautiful music from the right sidebar.
• At the bottom of your web page you will see a red bar.  This has lots of extras.  Check it out!

It is an honor to be able to assist Marvin in making his new website and social networking.  Marvin is an amazing talent and a remarkable man.  If you don't already know this hang around and you will!

Lynda Esplin

Marvin's Helper

What is your opinion of the new website and Facebook fan page?

Don't Miss This Concert!