While most music promoters tend to go with a “bigger is better” philosophy with their productions, Listen Local, helmed by Cathryn Beeks, is heading in the opposite direction with its latest concert series “The Couch Sessions.” Taking place April 1 at Desi ‘n’ Friends, the show brings audience and performer together in the intimate setting of the club’s upstairs listening room.
“The room itself was inspiration for the Couch Sessions,” said Beeks. “It’s literally filled with couches and also has a nice-size stage. I realized the room’s intimacy was perfect for acoustic gatherings.”
Up to a dozen performers take part each show, with the audience given a particularly intimate view of the action.
“The players perform from their seats, which are also on the couches, and, when applicable, others in the room are encouraged to join musically or vocally, making the show interactive,” Beeks said.
The bill on the April 1 occasion will include Roy Freesinger, Colin Clyne, Lindsay White, Sandi Shaner, Flowerthief and Happy Ron.
“It’s a way for songwriters to get together and share songs, guitar techniques, tunings, ideas, stories and basically whatever else,” Beeks said.
She said the setting gives listeners unique access to the performers.
“The atmosphere is calm, relaxed and very friendly,” Beeks said. “This show gives the listener a chance to ask those questions they’ve always wanted to, such as, ‘Who was the inspiration for that song?’ or ‘Why did you phrase that line that way?’ or ‘Where are you from, what’s your story?'”
White finds the opportunity appealing.
“I think The Couch Sessions can give everyone a better sense of other songwriters’ personalities and stories,” she said. “When you know a story behind a song, it becomes that much more genuine and beautiful.”
Christian Motos of Flowerthief concurs.
“The show’s premise sounded good to me,” he said. “I like that we perform as well as talk about the music. Songs are important. They are one of the things that unite us.”
Although she is a seasoned performer, White admits to a little nervousness from the audience proximity, as well as the caliber of talent that is taking part in these shows.
“Of course I feel some pressure,” she said. “I get pretty nervous around a lot of these people because they’re like local music royalty. They do what they love for a living and that’s where I want to be.”
In addition to promoting shows, Beeks is a musician herself. She rates the local music scene highly.
“It’s thriving, talented and eager for exposure,” she said.
Although she enjoys staging concerts, she said the job can get in the way of her own music.
“It absolutely does. But then, any day job would,” Beeks said.
Though this line of work can be challenging, Beeks considers it a better alternative to the regular 9-to-5 grind.
“Since this job doesn’t have any set hours I find myself constantly at work,” Beeks said. “Thankfully, however, I’m immersed in music, so while I often don’t have the time to write or practice. I’m always inspired.”
Now a well-known organizer of events, Beeks has slowly built a mini-empire of local acoustic shows around town. She is particularly pleased that her reputation for putting on artist-friendly affairs has been key to helping her efforts grow.
“Most bands or artists who play our showcases have a good time and tell others. They appreciate that the shows start on time and that the musicians and their fans are treated kindly,” Beeks said.
While most would find the job of a promoter overwhelming, Beeks loves everything it has to offer.
“I like the people, mostly,” she said. “Musicians are a strange and interesting bunch. But my favorite thing is hearing music for the first time and being swept, taken or blown away. Music is magic.”
The Couch Sessions take place on Tuesday, April, 1 at Desi ‘n’ Friends, 2734 Lytton St. in Point Loma at 8 p.m. The show is geared for 21 and up.
For more information, visit www.myspace.com/listenlocalsd.