There are relatively few Denver bands and artists, particularly in the singer/songwriter, indie-folk vein, who do not either know photographer/promoter Art Heffron, or have him to thank for giving them some much-needed support and exposure. Not only can he be seen frequently at live shows, camera in hand, but this month, Heffron’s promotion company Strings & Wood (a non-profit concert series structured to maximize the artist’s take at shows) quietly observed its 4-year anniversary. (An official anniversary celebration show slated to take place later in the year.)
Since its beginnings, Strings & Wood has done much to help such names as Rob Drabkin, Megan Burtt, Gabrielle Louise, SHEL, Dan Craig, and many others to connect with a wider Denver audience, all while sending them home with as much as 90 percent of their ticket sales, something almost unheard of in today’s live music market.
Interestingly, Strings & Wood began almost by accident, as a result of one thing leading to another. After arranging a one-off event for former Burlap to Cashmere frontman Steven Delopoulos, Heffron was asked by Delopoulos to book more shows for him. When Delopolous had to cancel a local concert date, Heffron filled the bill with a lineup of local acts. The show went well, Heffron was inspired—and Strings & Wood was born.
Strings & Wood events began with a monthly Sunday night series at the old Oriental Theater at 44th and Tennyson, eventually expanding to include other known Denver venues like The Walnut Room, the Hi-Dive and even the Gothic Theatre. Whenever possible, Heffron includes visual artists in the shows, arranging for them to display their works in the lobby, or even arranging for live painting during the concert.
The next Strings & Wood show is scheduled for Wednesday, March 6, featuring SHEL and Andy Palmer, an intimate show to be held at Art Heffron's own Studio Loft at 1644 Platte Street. For more information about Strings & Wood, or to get involved financially, visit the website or Facebook page.
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