24 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS The Woodstock native and nature aficionado is branching out with her inaugural music getaway, Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains, a small gathering in the Catskills in New York, from May 26-29. The four-day venture features saxophonist Richard Elliot, keyboardist Keiko Matsui and multi-instrumentalist Vincent Ingala. She explained what music fans can expect for the intimate getaway that should serve as a relaxing early summer excursion for jazz and nature lovers. “The resort is in the pristine Catskill mountains, and you have a river running next to the whole property with incredibly gorgeous cabins. It’s a magical place in the mountains and Richard, Vincent and Keiko will be there during the day to share things about themselves,” she said. “We’re going to have daily Q&A’s and interviews. We’re calling it ‘Beyond Backstage.’ If you are going to be wandering around the resort, well, they will be too. We’ll have cocktails together and hang out by the campfire. There are shows at night. “It’s like you are going to a resort with your favorite artists. There’s a pool, and you can go hiking or get a massage.” The get-together is limited to 60 people to maintain a personal touch. Webster will be hosting every event. Music in the Mountains is a big endeavor for the budding entrepreneur, but the vocalist said she is more than up for the challenge. “All of the people in our (smooth jazz) world have tried their hand at it,” the affable artist said. “Mindi (Abair) is doing her thing, Rick (Braun) has his, and I was thinking, ‘I am from a really cool part of the country, and I have good connections like this resort, that’s just beautiful.’ APRIL 23 Seabreeze Jazz Festival After-Party Pompano Joe’s Seafood House Panama City Beach, Florida www.seabreezejazzfestival.com May 26-29 Lindsey Webster’s Music in the Mountains Full Moon Resort Big Indian, New York www.lindseywebstermim.org SEPT. 19 10th Year Anniversary Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition The Vince J. Whibbs, Sr. Community Maritime Park Pensacola, Florida www.gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.com continued from page 23 “It’s owned by my childhood best friend’s dad, so I’m building my career and place in the world. I’ve done so many of these at this point, like Brian Culbertson’s Getaway and Dave Koz’s cruise, so I know what people like, and what the artists like.” While she is modeling this music destination after what her peers have accomplished, Webster wants to create an annual event unlike any other iteration and deliver an unforgettable experience. “I’m really good at organizing events, so I’m going to give it a shot, and see if we can create something unique. We don’t want to do what everyone else is doing. We want to make it our own, while creating a great experience for everyone. Make it cool. That’s what I want.” As she heads out on tour and numerous high-profile showcases, including the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Webster is focused on leaving her past struggles behind and moving toward a higher consciousness and musical excellence. Music in Me will no doubt open opportunities for her to stretch her talents. “I’m ready for what comes next. You just have to keep on keeping on, as they say,” she said, chuckling. “I’ve got good support around me. I’ve got my husband Omar, who is always supportive and listens, and my dad, who is always encouraging. “To be honest, sometimes, I still can get overwhelmed by little things that pile up, but I keep it moving and surround myself with great people. “Musically, I’m shooting for the stars. You’re going to see me on the Grammys,” she said, breaking out in a hearty laugh. “I mean, who doesn’t want to be successful? I just want to have a career that sustains my family and makes me happy. That would be perfect.” For more information about Webster, visit LindseyWebsterMusic.com. Photo: Chase Pierson ON TOUR
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