String of Pearls band swings into Pioneer Church

The six-member String of Pearls band swings into Cathlamet on June 14, for the Pioneer Church Association’s second presentation of its 2008 concert series. The concert begins at 7 p.m. at the historic Pioneer Church performance hall located at the corner of Main and Columbia, downtown Cathlamet.

String of Pearls, a west coast swing, jazz and dance band based in the Astoria area, is led by pianist Lee Stromquist. The group features trombonist Bob Joiner, guitarist Dave Drury, and bassist Jerry Pedersen along with other top jazzmen. Pedersen, a son of Puget Island, is a veteran jazz musician and a member of the North Coast Big Band. Vocalist Connie Anne Conway appears with String of Pearls. Music for the evening includes “Route 66”, The Lady is a Tramp”, and “Makin’ Whoopee!”

The Oregon audience can take the 6:15 p.m. ferry from Westport to Puget Island and drive into Cathlamet. Ferry service is $3 per car. There is a 9 p.m. and 10 p.m. ferry returning to the Oregon side.

Tickets for the performance are $12.50 adults, and $8 youth, 12 and under. Seating may be purchased at the door the night of the performance or in advance by contacting the PCA, P.O. Box 24, Cathlamet, WA 98612, or by telephone,

360 849-4328; or by email at pca1896@hotmail.com.