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Jean Watson Reveals Personal Side For 'Cool Concerts' Series

David Bean

Jean Watson has recorded albums in Nashville and performed her music in the British Isles and beyond, but West Michigan audiences rarely get the chance to hear her as a solo artist. That changes tonight, when the singer/violinist performs on the"Cool Concerts on Thursday Nights" series.

Jean Watson credits former Kalamazoo Symphony concertmaster Barry Ross with reviving her musical aspirations at a difficult time. He learned through the grapevine that Watson, a highly trained, though inactive, musician was living in the area, and convinced her to join the community orchestra he founded. She went on to become a tenured member of the Kalamazoo Symphony Orchestra. Support from other surprising sources, including a former landlord, encouraged Watson to record her own music, travel and perform. She fulfilled a dream to tour Ireland as a performer, where she broadcasts a Christian program on UCB Ireland.

The "Cool Concerts On Thursday Nights" series is held at the First Baptist Church of Kalamazoo. Concerts are free, and begin at 8 pm. 

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Cara Lieurance is the local host of NPR's All Things Considered on 1021 WMUK and covers local arts & culture on Let's Hear It on 89.9 Classical WMUK weekday mornings at 10 - 11 am.
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