Mar 26 2009
The Osher Marin Jewish Community Center In San Rafael
The Osher Marin Jewish Community Center located in San Rafael, California is “the” destination for community events and services. I was lucky enough to attend a jazz concert at the center about a month ago. We went to see vocalist Sony Holland and her trio perform at this beautiful venue.
Being the first time there, I had no idea what to expect. I was simply in awe of this center. The concert area is much larger than I thought it would be. There are table vignettes strategically arranged so that no matter where you are seated your view of the performance is perfect. It is large in size yet intimate in comfort level.
For me, the lighting was great. So many times I attend concerts where the lighting is so poor you can barely see the stage. In this venue I was able to get a couple of photos during the performance without a flash which came out fine. Believe me, that is very important and I was pleasantly surprised.
I have followed Ms. Holland’s music for the past six years all over the Bay Area and overseas. I have been to many premier jazz venues, hotels, cafes etc… I have to say that the venue here at Osher Marin has the absolute best sound system I have ever heard. The sound was crisp and right on target. I have never heard Sony and the band sound so good. Before the performance there was someone who happened by while the band was rehearsing behind closed doors and uttered ” Is that live? “ It was that good. Whoever is in charge of that sound system knows their stuff.
The center itself is home to many programs, services and events. The staircase as shown above leads to a world class fitness center and award winning swimming pool which was voted the best in Marin for the second year in a row. There are Summer camp programs and educational services all in a family friendly atmosphere along with events to include concerts, lectures and so much more.
There are volunteers who take care of the patrons by offering snacks and beverages before each show. Friends of the Kanbar Center for the Performing Arts hosted a champagne and petit four reception after Sony Holland’s concert. It is this community based interaction which makes Osher Marin so special.
For more detailed information including a calendar of events please visit the Osher Marin website.
I would like to thank the Friend of the Kanbar Center for the Performing Arts who took the photos for this post including the ones displayed in the video above. You are very much appreciated. The video was created as a tribute to the Osher Marin JCC and to thank them for a fantastic evening. The song “In Marin” was written by Jerry Holland with vocals by Sony Holland.
