Self Portrait Don K. Painter of Horizons Vårdö – September 26, 2021
For the past twenty years, Kalervo Karlsson has perfected his art. In the early days, he rocked the Paris fashion industry with his couture fashions created by him and his lovely creative and life partner, Niina of Mania Jewelry fame. Together they enchanted Vogue and Paris and created runway shows that fascinated critics and customers alike. His art had an undeniable edge.
Now the Finnish snow king is back for his art show in Paris, France. As you can see, his vision and art have opened and softened over the years. Kalervo spends most of his summers in the archipelagos at the edge of the world, a place where nature plays with light in the most magical ways. For the past two years, Kalervo has captured these splendid displays, capturing the horizons. Magical!
Jurmo – Don K, Painter of Horizons, February 14, 2021
Don Kalervo’s art is breathtaking. Little wonder that he was invited to exhibit his works in Paris, Helsinki, and back again for a larger exhibit in Paris. 15 Martel, a popular gallery in Paris, carries his works. One of his favorite works is now on the wall of a VP at Nokia Networks.
Don Kalervo, Painter of Horizons, Helsinki – April 25, 2022
Visit the artists at www.donkalervo.com to see a wide variety of his works. Follow him on Instagram and learn of his edgier works. We are sure to enjoy this fine artist’s talent for many years to come.
Currently, he is busy getting ready for his exhibits at The Holy Art Fair in the Truman Brewery on Brick Lane in London in October this year. At The Factory, The Holy Art Gallery on 21 – 31 Shacklewell Ln, E8 2DA, London. These exhibits will be followed by an exhibit at the Athens Gallery on Praxitelous 26, 105 61, Athens, Greece, followed by further showings in Paris and New York. We hope to greet him in the Bay Area and Austin soon.
Scoping out the property at another private event last week
April 4, 2023
“ A good friend is a connection to life — a tie to the past, a road to the future, the key to sanity in a totally insane world.”
~Lois Wyse
¡Hola, mi Gente!
I spent all day Monday into the evening doing repairs and tech improvements to my music equipment with my dear buddy Carlos Reyes. His knowledge and breadth of experience in the tech side of music are truly a marvel. As a musician, he ain’t too shabby either! I enjoyed putting this new system together with him. There are still a few things to do with it over the next weeks, but I’m excited to try it out for the first time at this weekend’s set of gigs. Our shared past has bridged my road to the future.
We’ve had to make a change in a date we advertised last week. It turns out Pairings Wine Bar & Restaurant in Pleasanton has a buyout on Friday, April 21st, and will be closed to the public that night. BUT, it’s also the day they were going to kick off their Friday lunchtime hours, so I’ll be playing for that instead, the same day, but from 12-3 pm. The new details and poster are below in your calendar.
Remember, too, I’m returning to Elevation LVK in Livermore after a long hiatus on Friday, April 14. Details below.
Here comes the rest of your calendar. Gather your friends and join me!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR APRIL 2023
Friday, April 7, Parada New Peru, 7001 Sunne Ln, Walnut Creek, 6-9 pm. Rolando is back at this welcoming restaurant providing authentic Peruvian cuisine in Walnut Creek. Rolando will provide his unique take on the world and popular music outside on their covered patio. Reserve a table by the music at (925) 448-8118, paradakitchen.com.
Saturday, April 8, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns to this jumping-gathering place. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine, signature drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Be sure to reserve your table by the music at www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Sunday, April 9, La Costanera, 260 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, 12-3 pm. Rolando returns for another brunch appearance at this Michelin Star-winning contemporary, authentic Peruvian restaurant overlooking the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a Peruvian culinary experience, libations, and Rolando’s unique take on the world and popular music. Reserve a table by the music at (650) 728-1600, lacostanerarestaurant.com.
Friday, April 14, Elevation LVK, 682 Terminal Circle, Livermore, CA, 6:30-9:30 pm. After 8 months away, Rolando returns for a rare appearance at this unique restaurant at the Livermore Airport in the terminal building overlooking the jet runway. In this unexpected setting, they provide a unique dining experience with seasonal recipes, a full wine list, and more. Rolando will provide the soundtrack on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, weaving a spell of Latin, World, and popular songs that will enhance your evening all the more. All in front of the tarmac while you watch small plains take off and land. Make your reservations early! (925) 800-3839 or info@elevationlvk.com. See www.elevationlvk.com.
Saturday, April 15, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns to this jumping gathering place out on the front patio. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine, signature drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Be sure to reserve your table by the music at www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Sunday, April 16, La Costanera, 260 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, 12-3 pm. Rolando returns for another brunch appearance at this Michelin Star-winning contemporary, authentic Peruvian restaurant overlooking the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a Peruvian culinary experience, libations, and Rolando’s unique take on the world and popular music. Reserve a table by the music at (650) 728-1600, lacostanerarestaurant.com.
Friday, April 21, Pairings Wine Bar and Restaurant, 310 Main Street, Pleasanton, 12-3 pm. Pairings is kicking off special Friday Lunch Hours, and Rolando will be there to mark the day. Swing by this jumping social gathering place in downtown Pleasanton. 100 different wines, wine flights, endless tapas, large plates, and more. Rolando will match the festive energy of playing outdoors (or inside, depending on the weather) with his diverse repertoire of solo guitar and voice. Reserve and join us! www.pairingscellars.com, (925) 398-8846.
Saturday, April 22, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns to this jumping gathering place out on the front patio. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine, signature drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Be sure to reserve your table by the music at www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Sunday, April 23, La Costanera, 260 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, 12-3 pm. Rolando returns for another brunch appearance at this Michelin Star-winning contemporary, authentic Peruvian restaurant overlooking the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Enjoy a Peruvian culinary experience, libations, and Rolando’s unique take on the world and popular music. Reserve a table by the music at (650) 728-1600, lacostanerarestaurant.com.
Friday, April 28, Parada New Peru, 7001 Sunne Ln, Walnut Creek, 6-9 pm. Rolando returns to this welcoming restaurant providing authentic Peruvian cuisine in Walnut Creek. Rolando will provide his unique take on the world and popular music on their patio. Reserve a table by the music at (925) 448-8118, paradakitchen.com.
Sunday, April 30, La Costanera, 260 Capistrano Rd, Half Moon Bay, 12-3 pm. Rolando returns for another brunch appearance at this Michelin Star-winning contemporary, authentic Peruvian restaurant overlooking the harbor and Pacific Ocean. Reserve a table by the music at (650) 728-1600, lacostanerarestaurant.com.
Rolando is available for YOUR private events, corporate events, weddings, parties, concerts, and festivals, VIRTUAL or otherwise.
“We must learn to live together as brothers, or perish together as fools.”
Martin Luther King, March on Washington-1964
Hola, mi Gente!
Well, it’s that time, isn’t it! The moment of truth is but a day, or a week, or a month away… It’s been a hell of a ride, but it ain’t over yet. In spite of record-setting voting, the voice of the people has gradually been rendered less effective by voter legislation applied by those in power and supported by conservative appellate and supreme courts. It’s a disturbing trend. Regardless of the outcome, please, let us heed the words and experience of the great Martin Luther King Jr. I pray to God it isn’t too late for national healing and unity.
I’ll continue to do my little bit of healing through music. I have but one public show this week (the rest are private), and it happens this Thursday night November 5, about 7-9:30pm at Massimo’s in Fremont. It’s my only appearance there this month, so if you’re in the area, you’ve got to check it out. Really nice meals and people, great night out. Make your reservations for outdoor or limited indoor seating. All the details are below.
I also have three appearances this month at Barranco Cocina Peruana in Lafayette. This has been a fun gig from the start! There is limited outdoor and indoor socially distanced seating and limited tables near me, so be sure to reserve early. Details below.
I’ve got another public show next week at Casa Orozco Livermore, details below. I’m fortunate to also have a good handful of private events this month. Be sure to contact me if you’re up for music for your own private event. (510) 282-7778. Let’s do this! See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR NOVEMBER 2020
Thursday Nov 5, Massimo’s Restaurant, 5200 Mowry Ave. Suite M, Fremont, 7-9:30 pm. Rolando’s first appearance at this Fremont gem turned into an intimate concert. He returns for only the third time to this family business, home to generations of authentic Sicilian recipes. They’ve now opened their spacious patio for socially-distanced dining, with Rolando providing your musical ambience. They’ll also have some limited indoor dining available if you prefer. Reserve for limited seating at (510) 792-2000, info@massimos.com. See www.massimos.com.
Friday Nov 13, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Rolando returns to this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables, with some limited indoor seating. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Rolando’s only Lafayette venue! www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Saturday Nov 14, Casa Orozco, 325 South L St., Livermore, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this lively family-owned, award-winning restaurant. The Orozco family will have service outdoors on two large patios under over-sized colorful umbrellas and socially-distanced tables, as well as limited indoor seating. A premium assortment of tequilas awaits you, along with Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Join us for a fun, satisfying night out! www.casaorozcolivermore.com., (925) 449-3045.
Friday Nov 20, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Rolando returns to this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables and limited indoor seating. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature Peruvian drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Reserve early for limited seating. www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Saturday Nov 21, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Rolando returns to this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables. There will be some limited indoor seating as well with reservations. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature Peruvian drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Reserve early for limited seating. www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
NOTICE:
Local venues are working closely with their local and State governments and following strict spacing and sanitizing requirements and guidelines on how to safely open and serve the public in newly created outdoor spaces. After vetting some of these venues for safety personally, Rolando has accepted offers to perform at a choice few venues detailed below. (He wouldn’t take the job if it wasn’t done safely.) If you are healthy, please feel free to come out to our public shows and enjoy life with us while supporting our local economy!
All other shows are private.
Rolando is available for YOUR private events, corporate events, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals, virtual or otherwise. Be the Hero of your Block and get Rolando to play for your own outdoor House Party! Give him a call and he’ll walk you through it. (510) 282-7778
Rolando and Carlos Reyes playing at Barone’s last Friday
“Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go.” -Oscar Wilde
¡Hola, mi Gente!
And some don’t seem to have a clue when everyone wants them to go. Well, we’ll see about how many before long…
Speaking of causing happiness, I had a nice surprise last Friday when violinist Carlos Reyes sat in with me at Barone’s in Pleasanton. He was impressed with the place and will probably be back again in some capacity.
In the meantime, this Friday October 9 I make my debut at Barranco Cocina Peruana in Lafayette from 5:30-8:30pm. They have an award-winning chef who created a lovely Peruvian menu sure to delight. You’ll have THREE chances to catch me there in October. I haven’t played publicly in Lafayette in a lot of years, so don’t miss it. All the details are below, so be sure to make your reservations early, as seating is limited to ensure social distancing. www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Then on Saturday I’m back at Casa Orozco in Livermore. This has always been a blast to play and a fun hang. They may put me in the front patio this time where more of you can see me. All details are below.
Last, there’s still time to be the hero of your block by bringing me to play your outdoor block or house part! Call me and I’ll walk you through how we can do this safely and create joyful memories for your neighbors, friends and family. (510) 282-7778. See you at the show!
Ciao,
Rolando
PUBLIC PERFORMANCES FOR OCTOBER 2020
Friday Oct 2, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John Street, Pleasanton CA, 7-10pm. Rolando returns to one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. He’ll be playing outdoors in the expansive Gardens at Barone’s. Rolando offers you his seal of approval on how safely they run this operation.
Their charming garden area is so big that in the time Before Covid, they used to pack in a couple thousand people there to party to dance bands. Now, they’re limiting attendance to around 35 well-spaced dinner tables and cabana areas, all well-distanced from the stage. All servers and hosts wear masks and/or face shields. And they’ll all be providing their usual fine-dining service, menu and libations. All under the trees and stars. It’s an enchanting and safe way to get out of lock down! Reserve for limited seating at 925.426.0987, info@baronespleasanton.com. www.baronespleasanton.com
Saturday Oct 3, Barone’s Restaurant, 475 St. John Street, Pleasanton CA, 7-10pm. Rolando completes his back-to-back at one of Pleasanton’s premiere dining establishments. He’ll be playing outdoors in the expansive Gardens at Barone’s under the trees and stars. It’s a huge open space with tables and cabanas all safely distanced from one another. All service, menu and libations are first-rate. And Rolando’s music adds to the magic. Reserve for limited seating at (925) 426-0987, info@baronespleasanton.com. See www.baronespleasanton.com.
Friday Oct 9, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Rolando debuts at this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Rolando’s first public Lafayette appearance! www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Saturday Oct 10, Casa Orozco, 325 South L St., Livermore, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this lively family-owned, award-winning restaurant. For these unique times, the Orozco family has moved their service outdoors on two large patios under over-sized colorful umbrellas and socially-distanced tables. Two generations of Orozco familia have expanded their authentic Mexican dishes all from Mama’s recipes. A premium assortment of tequilas awaits you, along with Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Join us for a fun, satisfying night out! www.casaorozcolivermore.com., (925) 449-3045.
Thursday Oct 15, Massimo’s Restaurant, 5200 Mowry Ave. Suite M, Fremont, 6-9 pm. Rolando’s first appearance at this Fremont gem turned into an intimate concert. He returns for only the second time to this family business, home to generations of authentic Sicilian recipes. They’ve now opened their spacious patio for socially-distanced dining, with Rolando providing your musical ambience. Reserve for limited seating at (510) 792-2000, info@massimos.com. See www.massimos.com.
Saturday Oct 17, Elevation LVK, 682 Terminal Circle, Livermore CA 94551, 6:30-9:30pm.- Rolando returns for only the second time to this unique, upscale full service restaurant located at the Livermore Airport in the terminal building overlooking the jet runway. (Wait, what??!!) In this unexpected setting, they provide a unique dining experience with seasonal recipes prepared with love and care, a full wine list, social distanced seating and more. It will all happen outdoors with views of the rolling hills of Livermore Valley, with small planes and helicopters in the foreground. Rolando Morales will provide the soundtrack on guitar, vocals and his pedal board of magic, weaving a spell of Latin, World and popular song that will enhance your evening all the more. Limited seating, so make your reservations early! (925) 800-3839 or info@elevationlvk.com. See www.elevationlvk.com.
Friday Oct 23, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Rolando returns to this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature Peruvian drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Reserve early for limited seating. www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
Saturday Oct 24, Casa Orozco, 325 South L St., Livermore, 6-9pm. Rolando returns to this lively family-owned, award-winning restaurant. The Orozco family has moved their service outdoors on two large patios under over-sized colorful umbrellas and socially-distanced tables. Two generations of Orozco familia have expanded their authentic Mexican dishes all from Mama’s recipes. A premium assortment of tequilas awaits you, along with Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Join us for a fun, satisfying night out! www.casaorozcolivermore.com., (925) 449-3045.
Saturday Oct 31, Barranco Cocina Peruana, 3596 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Lafayette, 5:30-8:30pm. Celebrate Halloween with Rolando as he returns to this wonderful fine dining Peruvian restaurant moved outdoors on extended patios and socially-distanced tables. Enjoy the award-winning chef’s Peruvian cuisine and signature Peruvian drinks, and Rolando’s diverse Latin and World artistry. Reserve early for limited seating. www.barrancokitchen.com, (925) 298-5668.
All other shows are private.
Rolando is available for YOUR private events, corporate events, weddings, parties, concerts and festivals, virtual or otherwise. Be the Hero of your Block and get Rolando to play for your own outdoor House Party! Give him a call and he’ll walk you through it. (510) 282-7778
