The Black Rose Acoustic Society celebrated its 20th anniversary Nov. 28, featuring a concert by the Flying W Wranglers. The societyís goal is to foster the appreciation of acoustic music in the community through jam sessions, concerts, classes and workshops.Jeff Smith is one of the organizers of the group. ìAnything that fits into the acoustic genre we are open to,î Smith said. ìWe have had bluegrass, country, jazz, even gypsy swing.îOpen-mic nights and other performances are held at the Black Forest Community Center the second and fourth Friday of every month. Smith said if someone is interested in open mic, he or she needs to contact the Acoustic Society at least a day before the event to sign up to sing. ìYou are allowed about five songs,î he said. ìThen, we do an intermission with some food sales. The feature act is next and that is what the club has to pay for, the musicians.îThe public is welcome, but the club is member-based as well. Memberships range from $15 per year for an individual, $30 for a family; or $50 to be considered a donor and $100 to be a patron. Smith said memberships not only help support the club, but also lowers the cost of a ticket to various programs and concerts.Smith said the Acoustic Society sends a bi-monthly newsletter to all members. Group classes are held every spring and fall. In the past, classes included ukulele, mandolin and the fiddle.ìWe do jam sessions every Thursday at the Colorado Springs senior center,î Smith said. ìIt is a great place to come out and play, especially if you have never played in front of people before. It is very low stress. It is important to get out and play with people.îMore information and upcoming concerts can be found at http://blackroseacoustic.org/index.php.
