As seasons change, so do paths. For That Guitar Man, a familiar melody is shifting into a new composition. After another vibrant summer serenading crowds at “The Hill” in Central Park, a significant transition is underway, moving from a life deeply rooted in music towards the compelling world of playwriting. But before fully embracing this new act, there’s one more encore you won’t want to miss: the annual year-end concert, a tradition, and this year, a farewell to a cherished venue.
Thanksgiving Reflections and December Anticipation
Let’s pause and appreciate the harmony music brings to our lives. As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the power of melody and rhythm. Get into the spirit, because Saturday, December 16th, promises to be a memorable night filled with music, laughter, and community. This concert isn’t just another performance; it’s a celebration of years of music, a bridge between chapters, and an invitation to share in a special moment.
A photo of David Ippolito, That Guitar Man, smiling and holding his guitar, overlaid with "THANKS 2023"
Connecting Live Online: “It’s Just Us” Continues
The online community “It’s Just Us” remains a vibrant space for connection and music. Weekly online gatherings have become a beloved tradition, bringing together people from across the nation and the globe. These sessions offer a chance to connect, share, and enjoy music in an intimate online setting. If you’re new to this online family and want to join the next virtual get-together, simply reach out to [email protected] for the link.
A pumpkin pie, symbolizing Thanksgiving tradition and warmth of community
A Landmark Announcement: Farewell to Merkin Concert Hall
This year’s annual concert carries extra significance. It marks the final performance of That Guitar Man’s year-end musical tradition at Merkin Concert Hall. For years, this venue has been a home, a stage, and a backdrop to countless musical memories. This December 16th concert is a special opportunity to bid farewell to 2023 and to this cherished venue in a night filled with music, joy, and camaraderie.
Tickets for this significant event are officially on sale now! Gather your friends, make plans, and secure your seats early. This is the year to fill Merkin Concert Hall with music, laughter, love, and the warmth of wonderful people. Don’t miss out on being part of this special farewell.
Banner for the December 16th concert at Merkin Concert Hall, featuring That Guitar Man and event detailsStaying Connected: Weekly Live Streams
Until the December concert, you can catch That Guitar Man live online every week. Join the “It’s Just Us” online hangouts every Sunday at 4:00 PM Eastern. Check back for updates and links to join these informal and engaging live sessions.
A photo of David Ippolito, That Guitar Man, with a fan named Joy, highlighting the personal connection with his audience
Summer at “The Hill”: Music and Community in Central Park
This past summer at “The Hill” in Central Park was another chapter filled with music and connection. Despite smaller crowds and the park showing its age, each performance was a chance to share songs and smiles with people from around the world. Denise joined That Guitar Man on stage again this season, adding her voice to the musical tapestry. The ever-present Goose Whisperer kept watch, and the performances were streamed live, extending the reach of the music and messages. The songs and stories resonated deeply, creating memorable moments throughout the summer.
A crowd of people enjoying a performance at "The Hill" in Central Park
Another view of the audience at "The Hill", capturing the engaged atmosphere
People dancing and enjoying the music at a Central Park performance
That Guitar Man performing with Denise, showcasing collaborative musical moments
Dean, the "Goose Whisperer," at "The Hill," a familiar figure at the Central Park performances
Etgar dancing at "The Hill," reflecting the joyful and expressive audience participation
Etgar singing along with That Guitar Man, highlighting the interactive nature of the performances
“It’s Just Us”: Your Online Music Community
Born during the pandemic, “It’s Just Us” has evolved into a thriving online community centered around music and connection. Streaming live twice a week, it brings together a diverse group of people from across the country and around the world. Typically live on Wednesdays at 4:00 PM Eastern, joining Patreon provides automatic email notifications for every online gathering. It’s a simple way to become part of a cool and supportive community.
Support Independent Music: Become a Patreon Member
Patreon banner for "It's Just Us," inviting viewers to become members
Donate and Support
As an independent artist, maintaining online performances requires community support. If you appreciate the music and connection, consider contributing through PayPal. Every donation, large or small, is deeply appreciated and helps sustain these online gigs. Thank you for your generosity. Stay connected through That Guitar Man’s Facebook page for updates and more: https://www.facebook.com/david.thatguitarman.
Transition to Playwriting: A New Creative Chapter
Exciting developments are unfolding in the world of playwriting. That Guitar Man is transitioning to a new phase, with stage plays gaining momentum. Two plays are nearing production, one in NYC and another on the West Coast. A holiday romantic comedy musical, co-written with composer David Friedman, is being adapted into a made-for-streaming TV movie, opening up yet another creative avenue. More details on these projects will be shared during “It’s Just Us” online sessions.
A photo of scripts, representing That Guitar Man's transition to playwriting
Title card for "The Christmas Elf," the holiday romantic comedy musical
Moments from “Opening Day”
Relive some vibrant moments from “Opening Day” performances, showcasing the energy and connection with the audience.
A crowd enjoying an "Opening Day" performance, capturing the lively atmosphere
Another view of the enthusiastic crowd at "Opening Day"
People dancing during an "Opening Day" performance, highlighting the celebratory mood
Denise performing at "Opening Day," showcasing featured musical guests
A person expressing joy at "Opening Day," capturing audience engagement
More dancing at "Opening Day," emphasizing the interactive performance style
A past crowd shot from a performance, indicative of long-term audience engagement
Reflecting on “The Something’th Annual Year End Concert” 2022
The “Something’th Annual Year End Concert” in 2022 was a highlight, a reminder of the special connection with the audience, both in-person and online. Gratitude extends to everyone who participated, creating a memorable event. The hope is to see everyone return for this year’s final Merkin Hall concert.
A crowd shot from the 2022 year-end concert at Merkin Hall, showing a full house
That Guitar Man and Jaan bowing at the end of the 2022 Merkin Hall concert, signifying a successful performance
Theatrical Explorations: “Jack Flew” and “THE GREEN ROOM”
Last year involved an ambitious theatrical experiment: a live online reading of the play “Jack Flew,” featuring a cast of accomplished actors. This reading was a crucial step in bringing the play closer to full production. Prior to “Jack Flew,” there was also a live online reading of “THE GREEN ROOM.” This exploration into playwriting signifies a shift, a move from the stage to the playwright’s seat, allowing characters to communicate directly with the world. This transition also reflects a desire to contribute to societal change through storytelling.
A cast photo from the online reading of "Jack Flew," showcasing the talented actors involved
Promotional image for "THE GREEN ROOM" play, highlighting That Guitar Man's playwriting work
Creating Together: Community Music Videos
During the pandemic, innovative music videos were created with contributions from the “It’s Just Us” community. These collaborative projects were a fun way to engage and create together online.
CLICK TO WATCH https://youtu.be/IK0slIasdJ4
A crowd enjoying a past performance, representative of the shared experiences with the audience
People dancing at a performance, highlighting the joyful and interactive atmosphere
Another crowd shot from a past performance, showing consistent audience engagement
More dancing at a performance, emphasizing the lively audience participation
A crowd shot from a September performance, indicating year-round musical activity
People dancing at an August performance, illustrating the consistent energy of the shows
More dancers at an August performance, reinforcing the interactive nature of the events
People dancing at a May performance, demonstrating the long-running appeal of the music
Further evidence of dancing at a June performance, highlighting audience joy and participation
Stay Connected and Share Your Thoughts
Visit That Guitar Man’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/david.thatguitarman and leave your comments and thoughts. Newcomers are warmly welcomed, and everyone is encouraged to stay connected for updates and more.
ROCK ON! Thank you for being part of this musical journey.
PEACE.
