Gretsch 125th Anniversary Big Event Adds Artists and Industry Sponsors

Legendary drum and guitar manufacturer Gretsch is finalizing plans for an equally legendary celebration of its 125th Anniversary. The "Big Event," to be held at The Highline Ballroom in New York City on November 18, will feature new and veteran Gretsch artists alike, in an eclectic evening of outstanding musical performances.

The night will open with Colourslide, the Gainesville, Florida-based band that was chosen from among 879 world-wide entrants as the winner of the Next Gretsch Greats Unsigned Artist Competition.

Next on the bill will be David Lee & His Mercenaries. This Gretsch guitar artist will no doubt have the house jumping with his special brand of "psychobilly" rock.

International pop/rock stars Fountains of Wayne will follow, making a rare club appearance. The Grammy-nominated band is best known for the hit single "Stacy's Mom," and for albums like Welcome Interstate Managers and Traffic and Weather.

The evening's crack house band will be anchored by tour and studio drum great Stephen Ferrone (Tom Petty, Eric Clapton) and former Saturday Night Live guitarist and musical director G. E. Smith. Keyboard star Chuck Leavell (The Rolling Stones band) will serve as the house band's musical director. Also from the Rolling Stones band will be first-call pop and jazz saxophonist Tim Ries. New York City touring and session bassist Andy Hess along with innovative jazz guitarist and composer, Bob Sabellico, will round out the group.

The house band will not only perform, but will also host a selection of surprise guest artists. Top Gretsch drummers and guitarists have been invited to share their talents for the enjoyment of everyone in attendance.

To help the Gretsch Company celebrate this special occasion, several leading members of the musical manufacturing industry have signed on as co-sponsors. Accordingly, Gretsch, along with industry partners Fender Musical Instruments and Kaman Music Corporation, welcomes the participation of the D'Addario Corporation (makers of Evans Drumheads, HQ Percussion products, and D'Addario guitar strings and accessories), along with Remo, Inc. (makers of Remo drumheads and percussion instruments) and Sabian Cymbals. Also celebrating their 125th anniversary this year are Wente Vinyards, who will be supplying a selection of outstanding vintages for the event.