Though only twenty-two, guitarist Anna Troy already has a lifetime of experience when it comes to music. A respected guitar instructor, multiple San Diego Music Award Nominee and former Elektra Records recording artist, Anna has seen the ups and downs the music business can offer -- perhaps the perfect introduction to the blues. Following her four year stint alongside her sister in pop duo The Troy’s, and with the support and influence of several established San Diego blues artists, Anna began writing and performing her own songs in the genre two years ago.

Saturday, April 26
4:15 PM - 5:30 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

Since moving to San Diego in 2006, Astra Kelly has become well-known on the local music scene. Her solo style has developed into a sound she calls acoustic soul. It fuses her Chicago roots in acid jazz, funk and blues, with acoustic rock and folk elements. Astra’s lyrics read like poetry and speak of emotional transformation and personal freedom. She has toured extensively, both as a solo performer and as a member of various other projects . She has also had the privilege to open for such acts as Stanley Jordan, Meshell Ndegeocello, David Wilcox and Widespread Panic to name just a few. Astra has released four records on her Rockaway record label.

Saturday, April 26
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

Barbara Nesbitt left home at fifteen and found herself among a group of jam-and-groove-oriented musicians in Virginia. She met Bernie Lee who put a guitar in her hands and, before long, they were playing gigs and Barbara found a new home on stage. In 2005, she followed her heart to San Diego and quickly developed fast friendships and fans among the supportive network of musicians. Barbara won the San Diego Music Scene Cream of the Crop singer/songwriter competition and was nominated for best female singer for the inaugural HAT Award. She wrote the words and music for her debut album, A Million Stories and she has opened for artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Lyle Lovett and Robert Earl Keene to name just a few.

Saturday, April 26
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

The Cathryn Beeks Ordeal is groove laden acoustic folk rock that takes you on a musical road trip.  Combining a little bit of every genre, the music's catchy hooks and heavy harmonies stay with you long after the party is over.  The group consists of Cathryn Beeks and long-time writing partner Matt Silvia on guitar/vox, Willy B on guitar/vox, Jef Johnson on bass, Rob Garbo on hand drums and Becky Fleming on sax and flute. The San Diego Reader says this about Desert Music, the group’s newest album: "Desert Music is a great album. It's tight and professional. The album has a cohesive motif without all the songs being too similar.  Beeks's voice is a mixture of Bonnie Raitt and Jewel…”

Saturday, April 26
12:15 PM - 1:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Date)

Sunday, April 27
12:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Date)

Christopher Dale springs from the fertile musical ground of Java Joe’s, the San Diego venue that has also nurtured the likes of Jewel and Jason Mraz. With a style that may be described as James Taylor meets Tom Petty at a Jimmy Buffet concert, this seven-time San Diego Music Award nominee mixes his many influences together to form one unique artist. Whether he’s performing solo or with his band, Christopher intoxicates listeners with honesty, heart and sheer energy. Despite a variety of musical honors, including performing at the American Music Awards to name just one, it is Christopher’s connection with the audience that best defines him as an artist.

Sunday, April 27
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

Multiple award winners and perennial favorites The Coyote Problem don’t have a phony bone in their collective body. They write, record and perform authentic, honest, unpretentious, salt-of-the-earth folk rock with heart, wit and guts. Raised on the truth-over-flash aesthetic of Neil Young, the heartbreaking pathos of Gram Parsons and the tireless work ethic of Buck Owens, The Coyote Problem comes early, stays late and leaves it all on stage. Their recordings shine, they look great on TV and their logo is unbelievably cool, but when you hear them play live none of that matters – and you finally get it. So that’s what everybody’s talking about.

Saturday, April 26
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Date)

Sunday, April 27
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Date)

Dave Humphries hails from Durham City in the Northeast of England and has lived in San Diego since 1996. While living in England Dave played in various bands that performed at clubs and pubs throughout the U.K. Dave has been a frequent guest at The San Diego Acoustic Awards Show. His last CD 38 Days was nominated for Best Local CD in San Diego. His fourth CD, and so it goes...., will be available March 2008. It features Beatles Legend Tony Sheridan on five of the 11 tracks.

Sunday, April 27
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

Gypsy blood inspires the playing of David de Alva. Whether it is a stirring journey into the heart of Spain, a sensuous taste of the Brazilian beat, or an unforgettable voyage into the mystical Mediterranean world, David’s music transports you through time and space, on the wings of imagination. His style, now recognized as one of the best in the field, expresses the explosion of rhythms and emotions that contain the passion of the Spanish people. He has performed in New York, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Madrid, Seville, Rio de Janeiro, San Francisco, Seattle and San Diego. David de Alva takes you into the heart of the Spanish culture.

Sunday, April 27
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

An old soul in a new age, Derren Raser stands out from the monotonous fray of popular music. Witty, well-spoken and wise beyond his 20-something years, Derren will move you with his thoughtful lyrics and haunting melodies. His ballads are old-fashioned folk stories and beautiful tributes to love lost and found. He is a regular on both the San Diego and Los Angeles music scenes. Derren and his music have recently been featured on NPR's All Songs Considered, and in 944 Magazine, The Union Tribune, The Troubadour, Olathe Daily News, and numerous online publications. Derren is currently promoting his self-released album, King of I'll Tell You Next Week.

Saturday, April 26
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

Check in with The Donnis Trio at a local coffee shop or nightclub and you will be treated to a mix of upbeat and soothing acoustic tunes that are both tastefully organic and endlessly soulful. The lilting guitar and robust vocals of singer/songwriter Nate Donnis combine seamlessly with the graceful slip-sliding of Denis Sluka on electric upright bass and the syncopated rhythms of percussionist Phil Woodring. The resulting sound is unique yet familiar, and connects to audiences of all ages and backgrounds. The band's debut album All Directions showcases masterful songwriting and musical synchronicity. The 14 featured original songs resonate with sleek acoustic arrangements, honest lyrics and rich vocals.

Sunday, April 27
4:15 PM - 5:30 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

Emersen, formerly Emerson Band, has proven to be one of the truly original bands to emerge from San Diego’s musical incubator in the last couple of years. Brett Wagner and his childhood friend, Daniel Crawford, created Emersen. Their combined jazz-based musical style resulted in Wonder -- the lead single on their new EP Radio Waste. Wonder begins subtlety with a retro Rhodes melody and then quickly kicks you in the knees, and you surrender to catchy choruses and bouncy bass riffs. The entire seven-song EP keeps you listening and exudes originality. Keep your ear to the local airwaves or look for Emersen on tour near you. Expect nothing less than amazing.

Sunday, April 27
12:30 PM - 1:45 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

2007 and 2006 San Diego Music Award winners in the category of Best Americana Performer, the Grams remain one of San Diego's busiest, hardest-working acts. Their sound brings together the American heartland, California beaches, the Straight-of-Gibraltar, and the Orient -- flavored with a rock attitude. Originally comprised of three virtuoso's Chuck Schiele (vocals, guitar), Craig Yerkes (guitar, vocals) and Sweet Elise (violin, vocals), they have expanded to include drummer/vocalist Billy Coomes and bassist Tony Sandoval. To mark the beginning of their busy concert and tour schedule for the new season, The Grams will release their anticipated second CD, Love Factory, in April 2008 at Anthology.

Saturday, April 26
4:00 PM - 5:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Fir)

Sunday, April 27
2:00 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 4 (India & Fir)

Lindsey Yung is a prominent singer/songwriter on the San Diego music scene and she performs frequently throughout the Southern California area. She has garnered applause from fans and praise from critics alike with her album Fusion, and in 2006 she won the Los Angeles Music Award for the category Female Singer/Songwriter of the Year. Lindsey has an undeniable vocal gift and lyrical ability to inspire and to connect to her audience. She is currently recording a new album which is due out in summer 2008.

Saturday, April 26
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

Manny Cepeda began performing at the age of seven and never stopped. His passion and love for music is rooted in a family history rich with musical professionals. Both study of music and 50 years of performing make Manny a fountain of knowledge in the Latin Music genre. He was the leader of the famous Navy Steel Band and he traveled the world with the United States Navy Show Band. Manny has also performed with such famed bands as Babo Jimenez, Ricardo Ray and Willie Colon and he has opened for headliners such as Tito Puente, Sammy Davis Jr., Tony Vega and Arturo Sandoval. Manny brings the art of Latin music to life.

Sunday, April 27
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

Marie Haddad's music has been described as "somewhere between Kate Bush and Leonard Cohen.” Marie had to sell her piano in college, but she missed playing so much that she would regularly visit various San Diego hotels in the middle of the night to practice on the grand pianos found in their ballrooms.  After playing in various San Diego bands, Marie began publically performing her own songs. In 2007, she earned a San Diego Music Awards nomination following the release of her debut CD A Beautiful Road. Marie, joined by drummer Nasr Helewa (Static Halo) and bassist Jason Hee (Billy Midnight), is currently finishing songs for her sophomore CD release.

Sunday, April 27
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

Paper Moon is a San Diego-based guitar duo featuring a blend of infectious instrumental guitar styles, ranging from original Latin Jazz, Flamenco, Gypsy Swing, New Age and ambient compositions to jazz standards and classical works with a modern, quirky flair. Guitarists Scot Taber and Daniel Dever teamed up in 2004 to pursue their mutual interests in American and European Jazz, South American rhythms, Spanish gypsy styles, the Classical guitar canon, and contemporary ambient and electronic music. The duo has received an enthusiastic response from audiences at jazz clubs, festivals, and private engagements all over southern California.

Sunday, April 27
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Peggy Watson and David Beldock are two of San Diego's most established and respected singer-songwriters. They are known for their rich emotion-filled voices, great harmonies, stellar guitar work and humorous stage presence. They have performed as solo artists, as a duo, and with various bands. Both are award-winning songwriters who have shared the stage with artists such as Dave Carter, Janis Ian, Taj Majal, Tom Paxton, Barnaby Finch, Deborah Liv Johnson, Jeff Berkley, Peter Bolland, Lisa Sanders, Carole Ames and many others.Both Watson and Beldock have been nominated for San Diego Music Awards, and Beldock's song, Feel the Wind, won a second place prize in the international John Lennon Songwriting Contest.

Saturday, April 26
2:15 PM - 3:30 PM - Stage 5 (India & Fir)

San Diego’s own veteran blues guitarist, Robin Henkel performs slide guitar and country blues with a virtuosity rarely seen in Southern California. Early
in childhood Robin was intrigued by the sound of the blues. At age 11 he attended a performance by Josh White in Seattle. This left a huge impression. Since then he has molded his own style from listening to the masters of country blues--artists such as Robert Johnson, Fred McDowell, Muddy Waters, Elmore James and others. His CDs Acoustic Blues and Highway were awarded Best Blues CD at the San Diego Music Awards. Robin’s solo performances are an awesome “must see.”

Saturday, April 26
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Sunday, April 27
3:30 PM - 4:45 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Sara Petite is a modern-day June Carter with the lyrical sense of Dolly Parton. Strongly rooted in classic country, bluegrass and classic rock, she falls firmly under the genre of Americana. Sara's inspiration comes from fond memories of home and her many travels throughout the United States, Canada, Mexico and Europe. She earned the grand prize at the 2006 Portland Songwriting Contest for her song Coming Home. Sara has played clubs, festivals, dive bars and grocery stores from San Diego to Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, Arizona, Nashville, Mississippi and Europe.  She has opened for great acts such as Todd Snider, Ralph Stanley, and many others. Sara is currently finishing her third European tour.

Saturday, April 26
4:00 PM - 5:00 PM - Stage 3 (India & Cedar)

Scott Wilson first started playing in bands in Los Angeles while in college, releasing CDs with VFX and Cruel World, playing local venues, and touring Europe. He then returned to San Diego, playing at Twiggs and Lestat’s, and with the Gandhi Method and The Cathryn Beeks Band. In September 2005, he released his first solo album, Kaleidoscope’s End. Scott is now playing with his new solo band, performing acoustic and electric alternative rock in San Diego and Los Angeles. Scott's music features a diverse array of influences ranging from The Beatles to Nirvana and from Led Zeppelin to Jellyfish. Scott is currently working on a follow-up album to Kaleidoscope’s End.

Saturday, April 26
3:30 PM - 4:45 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

Simeon Flick is a heritage artist on the rise, performing accessibly innovative folk-jazz, alternative R&B, alt-country and pop-rock music. He is slowly building a formidable reputation and a connoisseur following with his soulful voice, adroit musicality, engaging live performances, and memorable songs with poignant, erudite lyrics.  As a San Diego-based solo artist he has co-billed with Jimmy Gnecco of OURS, Veruca Salt, Transfer, Peter Sprague, Gregory Page, Steve Poltz, Earl Thomas, Carlos Olmeda, Lisa Sanders, Berkeley/Hart, Tom Brosseau, Steph Johnson, and Thomas Lee (late of Bo Bice). His goals are modest: To make a sustainable living through music, ease the human condition, and to be the soloist in the choir.

Sunday, April 27
3:30 PM - 4:45 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

The Smart Brothers are not your average folk group. Dubbed by many as a modern musical variety show, the high-energy trio sings, dances, and plays an army of musical instruments from around the globe. Expect to see everything from lutes and ukuleles to saxophones and slide whistles. Apart from being gifted multi-instrumentalists, spirited performers, and intrepid troubadours, the three brothers- Jay, Lou, and Mickey Smart- feature powerful vocal harmonies set in catchy all-original tunes. Dressed in dapper tailored suits and armed with charm to spare, The Smart Brothers' live performance is an event that will have you on your feet dancing and singing.

Sunday, April 27
12:00 PM - 1:15 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

Always an amazing presence at ArtWalk, Steph Johnson offers up her finest this year. Backed by musicians who support Anoushka Shankar, Ike Turner, and Diana Krall, Steph is more than ready to perform the original songs from her 2006 release Genesee Avenue, as well as the new material from her upcoming album set for release in early 2008. Steph has been nominated for multiple San Diego Music Awards, opened for major artists such as Poncho Sanchez and Vonda Sheppard, and has received local praise for “carving a niche of her own... a jazzy mix of folk, blues and light funk.” Steph’s rare talent captures your attention with the first note.

Saturday, April 26
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Steven Ybarra is a meteor of musical talent who offers a heartfelt group of songs with the release of his new album Love Love Love. After spending years touring the US in a band, and sharing the stage with the likes of the Gin Blossoms, Hootie and the Blowfish, and Lit, he has branched into his own solo career.  The San Diego Music Awards has honored him more than three times and the San Diego Songwriter’s Guild recognized him with a platinum prize for his cross-genre songs. Whether you privately savor his CD or catch him playing live at the House of Blues, Steven’s signature vocal intimacy will not leave you unmoved.

Saturday, April 26
3:30 PM - 4:45 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Tom Griesgraber is one of San Diego's worst kept secrets and a favorite at ArtWalk. One of the few full-time Chapman Stick players in the world, his music and skill on this unusual 12-string guitar/bass/synth hybrid mesmerizes audiences and music industry pros alike. Typically performing over 125 shows a year, Tom has toured throughout the United States and Europe with artists like The California Guitar Trio, Jerry Marotta and the Tony Levin Band and has performed several times for Grammy events. If the unusual sight of the Chapman Stick doesn't draw you in, the music will. Tom's sound blends rock, pop, jazz and musical textures of the world.

Saturday, April 26
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Stage 1 (India & Beech)

Sunday, April 27
12:00 PM - 4:00 PM - Stage 1 (India & Beech)

As an accomplished performer and songwriter, Will Edwards borrows stories from his extensive touring to create the kind of road-worn songs that people from all walks of life relate to and understand. Inspired by common themes and personal experience, Will’s latest record Contradiction (2008) exposes an artist shifting his identity and reflecting on his unique exposure to Main Street America as a working songwriter. Blending folk traditions with modern perspectives, Edwards strikes a harmonic balance between his own musical origins and compelling new insights into his life and times. With performances in Vancouver, London and beyond, audiences are rediscovering the unique power of songs and music.

Saturday, April 26
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM - Stage 7 (India & Grape)

Sunday, April 27
1:45 PM - 3:00 PM - Stage 2 (India & Cedar)

Academy of Dance Arts inspires dancers of all ages to learn a variety of styles from ballet and tap, to jazz, hip hop and more.

858.538.3718
13185 Black Mountain Rd, San Diego, CA 92129

Sunday, April 27
2:30 PM - 3:00 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Ballet Folklorico Tapatio teaches students ages 2 to 14 from San Diego area schools to bring the dances of Mexico alive.

619.251.1314

Saturday, April 26
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Sunday, April 27
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

CoSA is a performing arts training academy within a high school. Our students focus on individual growth and creativity.

Saturday, April 26
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Sunday, April 27
1:45 PM - 2:15 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Eveoke Dance Theatre cultivates compassionate social action through evocative performance, arts education and community building.

619.238.1153
644 7th Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

Saturday, April 26 (Eveoke Adult)
3:40 PM - 3:50 PM - Stage 4 (India & Date)

Saturday, April 26 (Eveoke Youth)
4:00 PM - 4:30 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

The Malashock Dance School offers a comprehensive array of exciting, challenging and fun dance classes for children, teens, adults and professional dancers of all abilities.

619.260.1622
2650 Truxton Rd. Ste 202, San Diego, CA 92106

Saturday, April 26 (Malashock Dance School)
1:30 PM - 2:00 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Monarch School Steel Drum Band instructs students in the craft of the steel drum and plays unforgettable, upbeat Calypso and Caribbean music.

619.685.8242
808 W. Cedar St. San Diego, CA 92101

Saturday, April 26
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)

Sunday, April 27
3:15 PM - 3:45 PM - Stage 6 (Date & State, Amici Park)