On Saturday, May 22 a Sheraton Tucson Hotel and Suites’ ballroom was transformed into what felt like someone large living room for a private performance. Arizona Entertainment and Events selected this more intimate venue to present renowned guitarists Marc Antoine and the Sahnas Brothers.

As guests gathered in the reception area, they were greeted by staff, sponsors, a buffet of hors’ dourves and a bar.  In the VIP suite, guests were treated to an unplugged performance by the Sahnas Brothers and a Q&A session with the artists. They shared some of their music background and experiences over the years in the music industry. It was interesting to watch brothers Thano and Demitri interact as only brothers can and the more comical side of Antoine. VIP guests also had the opportunity to take photos with Antoine and the Sahnas Brothers.

As the Sahnas Brothers took the stage for the first set and began to play, it became obvious that the night was going to be special. The duo performed a collection of pop classics and melodic songs arranged for Spanish Guitar. Their performance went way beyond “well rehearsed” to a whole new level of musicianship. Their music is who they are and it is great that they are willing to share it with us. How the two of them can get that much sound out of two guitars is incredible.

During the intermission, light desserts and coffee were available for guests in the reception area. The artist were not locked up in some room but mingling in the reception area as well.

French-born Marc Antoine took the stage with a guitar in one hand a glass of wine in the other. I never considered the guitar an appendage, but watching Antoine play makes me rethink it. Antoine played a few of his hits accompanied by his “digital band” with the smooth jazz vibe we love. BUT, his solo performance was nothing less than phenomenal. To see the intensity in his execution, the skill in his technique, the sounds coming from his guitar all combined for a stimulating experience. We sat in awe as we watched Antoine play. It was so good not even he could sit still.

After a few solo selections, Antoine was joined on stage by the Sahnas Brothers. The three guitarists performed a number of songs that showcased their individual and collective talent. These guys were as much fun to watch as they were to listen to. It was as casual as a jam session yet the music was at a level only few can achieve.

A guest from Phoenix, a performer himself, said “I have never seen anything like this.”

Patricia Possert, founder and CEO of Arizona Entertainment and Events has been getting emails about the show.

“The Antoine concert was fabulous. I have been to concerts all over the world. This concert was as good as any I have attended.  Thanks, you have some loyal followers.”

- Barry K.

“Last Saturday evening was a delight!  Thank you so much for the experience.  The entire evening was a moment to be remembered.  I look forward to seeing you again at future events.  Thanks for the quality of performances you bring. Enjoy your day.”

- Olga

There are shows and there are concerts. This was an experience.

For more info:

Barney Hilton Murray Photography

AZ Entertainment and Events

Ecclesi (born Stephan Isom) grew up in South Sacramento, CA. Being a participant and victim of gang activity, drug use, illegal activity and jail time finally came to a screeching halt, when he accepted Christ from a jail cell in 1998.

From there, he has never looked back! Being raised on hip hop, and rapping since 1989, Ecclesi realized this genre of music can go to a completely new level. From 1999 to today, he has recorded 2 group projects, and 2 solo albums, before launching the current “Push The Red Button” Mixtape.

Ecclesi is the husband of the very beautiful Amea, and together they raise 3 children, in Phoenix, AZ. They also serve as 2 of the Executive Leaders of Faith On Fire Church, as Assistant Pastor, and Worship Leader. Ecclesi’s aim is to redefine modern urban culture, by way of Kingdom influence.

http://www.myspace.com/ecclesi

http://www.facebook.com/ecclesi

On May 21st the Arizona Christian Men’s Basketball Association and St. Paul United Methodist Men held its second men’s fellowship and open gym. The event for adult men was attended by men from age 36 to 63.

After a brief overview about AZCMBA and its mission to promote men’s health education, prevention and early detection, founder Barney Hilton Murray shared some facts about sodium and calories. For example: if you eat 500 calories more than you need each day, it adds 3,500 calories a week. At this rate, you could gain one pound each week – 52 pounds in a year.

During the Men’s Minute, the pastor of St. Paul United Methodist Church, Billy Still shared the spiritual connection between living a Christian life and healthy living. In his talk, Pastor Still encouraged the men to pursue a healthy lifestyle not just for their own benefit but for the benefit of their families as well. Pastor Still is teaching a series called Step by Step: A Year of Transformational Living. More information is available on the church website at http://www.stpaulsumctucson.org/worship/step_by_step.htm.

Some of the men shared their challenges and failures with regards to not being the best examples and how their children now have the same bad habits.

After this somewhat therapeutic discussion, everyone agreed that this was one of the areas that we all were going to be making some changes.

The men decided that for the June 3rd Friday Knights, since it is Father’s Day weekend, that fathers can bring there sons or little brothers to the gym.

For more information:

www.3rdfridayknights.com

or join us on Facebook at:

www.facebook.com/azcmba

The next 3rd Friday Knights

Location:

St. Paul’s United Methodist Church – Life Center and Gym

8051 E. Broadway

Tucson, AZ 85710

Contact Info:

520-390-4723

Barney Hilton Murray

azcmba@gmail.com

www.azcmba.com

Date and Time:

Friday June18, 2010 – 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Cost: Free

Age Restrictions: Adult men 18+