The global pandemic of the last year took a heavy toll, most importantly in terms of friends and family we lost and the financial impact we all felt, but also in the dramatic changes to our daily and yearly traditions. As Northern Nevadans, we’ve missed so much of the fun and culture that define our region. We’ve missed sports, rodeo, tourism, Artown, and our local festival offerings of classic cars, hot air balloons, and mouthwatering ribs. And so many of us have longed for the return of … LIVE MUSIC. THE GOOSEBUMPS One iconic Reno event aiming to revive the Truckee Meadows’ concert scene is Rhythm & Rawhide, Where French Horns Meet Longhorns. Since 2004, the Reno Rodeo Foundation has been putting the ‘fun’ in fundraiser by offering an evening of country music vocalists and expert symphony orchestras. The trademark juxtaposition of popular country songs in a powerful philharmonic context has made this concert not only the foremost ‘place to be seen,’ but also just one of the coolest venues for music buffs to kick up their boots. As the Reno Rodeo Foundation’s Executive Director Clara Andriola puts it, “The blend of a symphony with a Nashville country recording artist is not only an amazing sound, it’s simply magical. The experience literally gives me goosebumps and makes me want to dance right out of my seat.” THE VENUE This September, with the remarkable support and sponsorship of the Dolan Auto Group, Rhythm & Rawhide will mark a new chapter by moving outdoors, to Bartley Ranch and its Robert Z. Hawkins Amphitheater. It’s common knowledge that September evenings in Reno can be a delight and, as Reno Rodeo Foundation President Scott Peterson notes, “What better venue to enjoy a great meal, a cold beverage, and a concert? People jump at the chance to attend, and the fact that we can raise money for our cause while hosting this event … it’s perfect.” In addition to the new setting, the Bartley venue will allow a more family-friendly atmosphere than in the past, with tickets of multiple price points furthering this concept. Attendees will have the option of VIP treatment with an elevated food experience in an exclusive dining area, reserved concert seating, and/or general concert admission. THE TALENT If you follow the heart of country music from Nashville, you’ve heard of King Calaway, the headliner for this year’s Rhythm & Rawhide. The success of their 2019 album Rivers earned them appearances on The TODAY Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and the Garth Brooks Stadium Tour. They’ve also opened for Rascal Flatts and have performed with the likes of Darius Rucker, Sara Evans, and Ricky Skaggs.
Local and widely renowned conductor Jason Altieri will share the stage with King Calaway.
Andriola notes, “How often does Reno see artists that have performed at the Grand Ole Opry? … rarely. How often does Bartley Ranch host artists of this caliber? … almost never. We’re extremely excited to have King Calaway on our stage, playing your favorite country toe tapping songs.” The orchestra will be led by symphonic legend Jason Altieri, the charismatic conductor many of us know as Director of Orchestras at University of Nevada, Reno. Fewer of us know of Dr. Altieri’s national acclaim (Carnegie Hall, Disney, and performances in 50 states!), his international acclaim (opera houses around the globe), or his advocacy for music education and youth outreach. The alchemy of Altieri, King Calaway, and local musicians on a single stage is irresistible and should not be missed. THE CAUSE Since its founding in 1986, the Reno Rodeo Foundation has impacted Northern Nevada by distributing over $7.8 million into its communities. This includes $1.9 million in scholarships, another $1.9 million to help clothe foster children, a literacy program for children who find themselves in Family Court proceedings, and significant financial aid to medically challenged youth. The foundation’s mission includes “supporting children with extraordinary needs in 14 Northern Nevada Counties” and they’re certainly doing so. Andriola estimates the foundation serves over 80,000 children annually. For Ryan Dolan, CEO of Dolan Auto Group, signing on as the presenting sponsor was an easy decision. “Dolan Auto Group is always striving to help make our community an even better place to live. We are grateful to be a part of Rhythm & Rawhide and support the Reno Rodeo Foundation’s many programs that make such a positive impact for so many children in our community. We encourage everyone to come out, have a great time and support an incredible organization.” THE SCOOP Mark your calendar for Saturday September 11th at Bartley Ranch in south Reno. Festivities will begin at 5 PM and the performance at 7:30 PM. Sponsorship and ticket options can be found at RenoRodeoFoundation.org.
Jeff Turnipseed is Rhythm & Rawhide Committee Chairman for the Reno Rodeo Foundation. This article was provided and paid for by Plumas Bank. Interested in spotlighting a local nonprofit? Email Associate Publisher Melissa Saavedra at msaavedra@nevadanewsgroup.com for details.
Local and widely renowned conductor Jason Altieri will share the stage with King Calaway.
