Traveler and Lyra Launch Electrifying Red Dirt Concert Series

The Red Dirt Concert Series is set to launch its ninth season on May 2 at the Posse Grounds Pavilion, offering free concerts every Friday this spring. The opening night will feature a world music theme, showcasing Lyra followed by Traveler from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Jason Vargo, Special Events Coordinator for Parks and Recreation, emphasized Traveler’s unique musical approach, rooted in Scott Jeffers’ global travels and the diverse instruments he collected. Lyra, composed of Maryanne Kremer-Ames and Allen Ames, has been a notable presence in Sedona since 1987. Their performances shine, particularly with Allen’s innovative six-string instrument, the violira, which expands the typical range of a violin.

“It’s a free concert, so you can’t lose there,” Jeffers stated, urging the community to enjoy live music as a vital part of life. He emphasized the distinct sound of Traveler, asserting that attendees would experience something truly unique. The group consists of Jeffers on vocals and violin, alongside Zack Egan on guitars, Adam Rebeske on cello and upright bass, and Jason Wiedman on drums.

Describing the band’s repertoire, the Sedona city website notes their compositions are influenced by diverse landscapes encountered during travels. Their set for Red Dirt will comprise all-original music, starting with an acoustic segment before transitioning to electric, a departure from their usual performances due to the complexity of their instrumentation.

Jeffers expressed his excitement for playing at the Posse Grounds Pavilion, noting how the music aligns beautifully with the natural surroundings. He draws a significant portion of his inspiration from nature, which he believes enriches the music he creates.

Kremer-Ames explained that Lyra’s performance style encourages a dynamic exchange of leads and solos, creating an engaging experience for audiences. She detailed the versatility of the violira, which bridges lower instrumental ranges, allowing for rich musical interaction. This adaptability has led Lyra to explore a variety of genres, including classical, pop, and jazz, with a recent focus on gypsy swing.

Vargo assured that ample parking will be available for attendees of the Red Dirt Concerts. Despite the quality of the shows, attendance tends to remain modest, with 400 to 500 people typical. This allows for an intimate concert experience at the pavilion. He urged locals to join in before the series gains wider recognition.

The series will continue into September, with the full schedule accessible on the Parks and Recreation website at sedonaaz.gov.