San Diego’s city schools have had many wonderful teachers throughout the years, but few have had the impact of Larry Zeiger. Zeiger taught English and the art of film theater at Point Loma High School for 33 years, but his greatest contribution was as volunteer musical theater producer/director at the school. Zeiger’s productions originally started out as a final class project for his senior English students, uniquely using original material and script. By the time he retired in 2007, Zeiger had staged more than 30 musicals, with more than 100 students involved in getting the show to an audience. While he no longer produces plays, Zeiger has written dozens of songs that were never used. On Sept. 26 at 2 p.m. at Baron’s Marketplace, Zeiger will host a five-hour CD release event for his debut album, “Meetchu In Machu Picchu.” Zeiger will perform throughout the event with special guests, including Glen Fisher, Joe Allen, Joel Cobb and Tamara Cooper. The two-disc set, which includes 21 songs, will be available at the show. It will also soon be available on CDBaby, itunes and local coffeehouses Reds and The Honey Bear Cottage. “I write music all the time,” Zeiger said. “I’ve been writing since I was 15 years old.” Work on the album began in November 2007 and wrapped up in July 2009. The lengthy recording time was due to having so many songs and arrangements, as well as musician availability. Among the artists involved are trumpeter Gilbert Castellanos, guitarist Peter Sprague, keyboard player Anthony Smith and drummer Tim McMann. This is the first event of it’s kind to be held at Baron’s Marketplace. According to Debi Tauber, the store’s marketing manager, this CD-release show is an outgrowth of the friendship the store has for one of its best customers. “He’s our neighbor and a good friend,” Tauber said. “When we heard he had an album coming out, we wanted to help give it a really good kick off.” LARRY ZEIGER CD RELEASE Baron’s Marketplace, 4001 W. Point Loma Blvd. Saturday, Sept. 26, 2 p.m. The event is for all ages and there is no cover charge. http://www.zeigerspace.com.
