Renowned Musician Visits Dixon

Internationally known harmonica master Corky Siegel’s visit to Dixon next week will include sessions with local students, a master’s workshop, a public meeting and book signing, and the marquee event, a concert at The Next Picture Show.

Siegel, a concert pianist and singer/songwriter will perform to a sold out audience at the gallery, at 113 W. First St., at 7 p.m. Oct. 6.

“When we started working on bringing Corky here as part of our ongoing concert series, we talked with him about the possibility of doing some things that would open up opportunities for the community,” said Bonnie Kime, executive director of The Next Picture Show.

“We are thrilled that students at both Reagan Middle School and Dixon High School will have the chance to hear Corky’s history and see why he has such a passion for music,” said Kime, adding that he also will perform a short concert for the students.

Siegel will visit Reagan Middle School in the morning and Dixon High School in the afternoon on Oct. 5. At 11 a.m. on Oct. 6, he will be meeting the public and signing his new book, “Let Your Music Soar.” The concert is that evening. To have your name put on a waiting list for tickets, call the gallery at (815) 285-4924.

Siegel is the winner of the Lila Wallace/Reader's Digest/Meet the Composer's national award for chamber music composition and The Illinois Arts Council Fellowship for Music Composition.

For more information on Siegel, visit his website at www.chamberblues.com.

This concert continues The Next Picture Show’s efforts to bring quality musical performances to the area. Noted folk singer Bonnie Koloc performed at the gallery in June and singer/songwriter and National Slide Guitar Champion Kraig Kenning performed in September.