The Americana Project class at Pagosa Springs High School is hosting a concert featuring the soulful duet of Ariella McManus and Nicolaas Kraster.
The concert will be held in the high school auditorium Wednesday, May 1, at 7 p.m. The doors will open at 6:30 p.m., and tickets are only available at the door.
Tickets are $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, and those 12 and under will be admitted free.
The students will open the show with original and cover songs.
Hailing from the shores of Sarasota, Fla., McManus is the heart and soul of the musical phenomenon known as Ariella. With a voice that pierces the depths of emotion and a presence that captivates all who listen, McManus is a true force to be reckoned with in the world of music. Her vocal prowess draws inspiration from the legendary Etta James and the incomparable Amy Winehouse, weaving a tapestry of soul and passion that defines the essence of Ariella’s sound.
On the other side of the stage, we have the passionate virtuoso, Kraster, hailing from the town of Fredonia, N.Y. Armed with his guitar, Nicolaas adds a layer of complexity to Ariella’s music that is nothing short of magical. His influences, including the likes of Al di Meola, Paco de Lucía and Roy Buchanan, have sculpted his unique guitar style, enriching the duet’s musical tapestry with a diverse range of genres and textures.
McManus and Kraster have been performing together for an astonishing 14 years, a testament to their unwavering commitment to their craft and, more importantly, to each other. This enduring partnership shines through in every note they play and every lyric they sing, creating an enchanting connection that resonates with audiences worldwide.
Ariella’s musical prowess knows no boundaries. They effortlessly traverse a multitude of genres, from soulful ballads to fiery flamenco, from bluesy melodies to electrifying rock. This versatility is a testament to their boundless creativity and mastery of their instruments.
Beyond the stage and studio, the consistent attribute that defines Ariella is their profound love for each other. Their bond, both musically and personally, infuses their performances with an authentic and powerful connection that is nothing short of mesmerizing.
In the past year, Ariella experienced a meteoric rise on Facebook, growing their following from 6,000 to an astounding 361,000 followers. Many of their reels and video clips have over a million views. Their music has struck a chord with fans around the world.
Ariella is more than a musical duet; it’s a profound and passionate journey through the realms of soul, blues, and beyond. With McManus and Kraster at the helm, their music is a testament to the transformative power of love and the boundless possibilities of harmonious collaboration.
