National TV Show Films Episode at Texas Winery & Vineyard Close to Dallas

On Saturday night, June 11, 2011, Wales Manor Winery hosted its summer concert series Music Under The Stars featuring award-winning, Texas singer-songwriter Jon Christopher Davis, and several other acts. It was an incredible experience of live music under a blanket of twinkling Texas stars. Highlighting the night was the fact that the national television show, Troubadour TX, a new documentary style reality series directed by producer and singer-songwriter Stacy Dean Campbell, chose McKinney's Jon Christopher Davis and Wales Manor to record an episode of their nationally syndicated show. The show offers a peek into the lives of singer-songwriters trying to make their place in the music world. The evening was a spotlight on Texas music, Texas wine, and parts of Texas history, and knowing Troubadour TX was filming, added even more excitement to the air. The artists took the stage, a stone backdrop which was beautifully crafted to look like an old Texas mission similar to the Alamo.

We rounded up some friends to make the short drive with us, only about twenty-five minutes up Central expressway in between McKinney and Princeton. The price for the event was not too bad, only $10 per person and you were encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, and even a picnic basket. Outside beverages like wine and beer were not allowed, and I believe it would be a faux pas to bring your own wine to a winery. Finding parking was easy, and then a short walk, under a giant stone entry way, down a quaint lamp lit path to a clearing where the stage was clearly viewable by all guests. The immediate feeling was one that we were far enough away from our jobs, and whatever other worries we may have had, that we would be able to relax and hear some great music. The night was about the wine just as much as it was about the music. We started the night with a bottle of Wales Manor award winning white wine Blanc Du Bois and settled in to hear some great music. We also discovered a frozen peach flavored wine drink served at the concert called a "Wineurita" that was absolutely delicious. We kicked back and soaked up every minute.

The night started off with Kirk Thurmond, Tyler Hammond, and Hayley Orrantia taking the stage. Hayley Orrantia is a young singer-songwriter from Highland Village, Texas who has a great voice and great promise. Although not touring yet, Ms. Orrantia hopes to begin touring and showcasing her voice and writing ability to a wider audience. Kirk Thurmond played a progressive style of guitar similar to Dave Matthews, and has a great voice. Tyler Hammond also brought a unique style and although it was country, his music was such that you could not put it in any certain category box. Overall, the opening acts were above average in skill and performance ability. Rough enough to still be gritty and original.

The headliner, Jon Christopher Davis (a cross between the Eagles and Bruce Springsteen) took the stage around 8:30 p.m. and rocked the house. Born in Bonham, Texas, Mr. Davis is the son of a Las Vegas lounge singer, and a father who played honky-tonks. His love of music goes back for his entire life, and this comes across in the melodies of his music and the depth of his lyrics. He has written songs for artists like Dolly Parton, and while I will always love Dolly, I enjoy hearing songs performed by the songwriter who penned them, and the stories of the inspiration for the songs. Mr. Davis also travels with band mate Michael Clay, who is the co-founder of the Texas Music Project, a non-profit organization working with the State of Texas and educators in Texas schools to raise awareness about music education and its importance in the growth and development of students in Texas.

Interspersed throughout the night between the musical acts, and worth mention for their entertainment value, was a rough group of old west outlaws and a Marshall bent on stopping them from ruining the night for the guests. The Trinity River Desperados mixed in a gunfight showdown, and a quick draw competition. They also made the owner of the vineyard, John (Josey) Wales, do a little dance while dodging bullets. It was fun to watch and was an interesting transition idea between the musical acts.

My wife and I, having recently moved from California to Texas, only discovered this true Texas vineyard, a few weeks ago. Wales Manor is one of the front runners upholding the rich tradition of Texas wine making. Located in Collin County, sits what they call, "The Best Little Winehouse In Texas." Founded in 1999 by John (Josey) Wales, they take pride in producing a variety of fabulous wines and also providing support to Texas musicians by hosting the Music Under The Stars series. They offer free tours and free wine tasting on weekdays and on the weekend. It's easy to find out about the upcoming concerts and events by signing up for the newsletter on their website or just popping in for a free wine tasting tour with their wine expert, Brennan Maloney.

You won't find Wales Manor's wines in stores, restaurants, or for sale on the internet; they sell every drop they make and are only open about 40 days a year and average over 12,000 visitors. Wales Manor has become a cult winery and is known for promoting the arts with Grammy, platinum and gold recording artists. If you want a bottle, be prepared to be entertained!

Sources:

http://www.walesmanor.com/
http://troubadourtx.com/
http://www.texasmusicproject.org/
facebook.com/hayleyorrantia
http://jonchristopherdavis.com/
http://www.justcoolmusic.com/
http://www.trinityriverdesperados.com/