Catching Up with Roland's Notes - Roland Takes A Break, But Stays Presenting Concerts
Roland Takes a Break
But Stays Presenting Concerts
Friends and supporters:
Just a few days ago I began to write this email to announce that at the end of the year I would be taking a leave of absence from presenting concerts. After the theft of the Jazz Weekend event I conceived and produced, my dad’s passing, Covid-19’s effects on our industry, new management at the King Center, and my most recent setback, the loss of someone I love very much, I’ve been completely overwhelmed. I felt I needed time to grieve privately, get my affairs in order and go back to private life for a long while.
But after several discussions with my son Justin, my inner circle of friends, and a good long look at the events of the last two weeks, I have decided to slow my life and my business pace down. However, I will continue our mission to provide quality live entertainment in the central Florida area. I am not retiring. I am not quitting.
Businesswise we will be doubling down on our commitment to Contemporary and Smooth Jazz, as well as continue to present concerts from other genres of live music. We will be placing particular emphasis on the new generation of jazz artists. A vision we began bringing to life with our 2019 Smooth Jazz Getaway. And yes, established artists will also perform on our stages.
Expect the unexpected from us in 2023 and beyond. Expect more of what we committed to in 2019 – blazing new trails for the new generation of artists and for fans who appreciate and support them. We will not forget our roots. We’re simply feeding them new and exciting fertilizer.
Having said all that, I will also be taking more personal time to adjust to my new life. Soon I hope to go back to living on a boat, and spend more time cruising Florida waters. I will take more personal time to keep my body healthy, and to reconnect with friends and family.
My only request to you is to continue supporting us by attending our concerts, and sharing our concerts and events with your musical friends and family. Your support is our lifeline to success, for ourselves and for this industry.
In closing, I want each of you to know that you are the fuel that’s kept my business fire burning brightly since 1985. I am honored to know each of you, and I’m grateful that you allow me to bring joy to your lives through the power of music for so many years. I love each of you with all my heart. See you at the shows!
Blessings.
Roland