Tribute to Pete Douglas, Founder of the Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society, and 50 Years of Music at the Douglas Beach House.

Pete’s Tribute on February 16, 2008 was a huge success and well-received by Pete Douglas, even if he was a bit uncomfortable in front of a crowd of 200. Arranged by vocalist/educator, Margie Baker, the evening of entertainment and dinner celebrated Pete’s contribution to jazz and classical music as a presenter. There were some jazz “notables” in attendance, but just like music presentations at the Bach, it’s the audience who means the most for Pete.

Pete was very touched by the email tributes by those who took time to express their feelings about what the Bach Society and Pete’s venue means to them. A consistent theme ran throughout: “Whether it is Pete, the music or the setting; they all seem to just come together and make for a great feeling.” This combination has been Pete Douglas’ goal and success for over 40 years. Our goal in this tribute, was to let him know we appreciate the ambiance and quality he has given us. Thank you for helping.

Tribute presented by Linda Goetz
As Pete’s assistant living in the green room underneath the concert room for the past 4 years, I’m still trying to keep up with Pete’s enthusiasm for “THE” music, as he calls it. What has inspired him to put on so many programs, year after year? During one of our many conversations I got a partial insight when he mused that perhaps presenting “live music is an addiction”, waiting for that next heart-thumping “hit” of musical perfection. It’s a rush when all the elements come together and reach a certain peak between turned-on musicians and semi-stunned audiences. Like a choreographer he sets up the scene: build the house, choose the musicians, invite the audience, arrange the room, and of course, clean the windows. Then, in true Beat tradition, he said he just lets the scene manifest itself, always hoping for one more magical moment. It seems to me that his real satisfaction however, comes from sharing it. He’s happiest sitting back, watching the audience “get off”. It has happened to happens often at his House. He’s helped a lot of people over the years, and I’m very appreciative for this opportunity in my life to be a part of his scene. – Linda Goetz, Assistant to Pete Douglas

A Party for Pete
Paying tribute to Pete Douglas, Founder of the Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society, and 50 Years of Music at the Douglas Beach House.
February 16, 2008 • Domenico Winery, San Carlos, CA
Download full program (pdf)

• 6 - 6:30 SOCIAL HOUR / CONTINUOUS SLIIDE PRESENTATION
• 6:30 -7:30 OPENING REMARKS: Master of Ceremony, Jayne Sanchez, programmer-KCSM-FM
• INVOCATION: Mr. Bernard Foston, Ordained Minister, Dean (ret.) SF City College
  DINNER / SLIDE PRESENTATION
• 7:30 –10 PRESENTATIONS
• PRESENTATION: Bonnie McClung, Mayor City of Half Moon Bay.
• MUSIC PRESENTATION: Michael O’Neill, sax and guests; Band in Residence (Larry Chinn, piano; Ken Plourde, bass; Jerry Pannone, drums)
• MUSIC PRESENTATION: Laurie Antonioli, vocals; Band in Residence
• VERBAL TRIBUTES: Sonny Buxton, programmer KCSM-FM; Tim Jackson, General Manager Monterey Jazz Festival & Kuumbwa Jazz Center
• MUSIC PRESENTATION: Susan Muscarella, Executive Director The Jazzschool, piano; Eddie Marshall, drums; Ken Plourde, bass; Tim Jackson, flute.
• VERBAL TRIBUTE: Jack Douglas, Pete’s Brother
• MUSIC PRESENTATION: Dick Conte, KCSM & KKSF-FM, piano; Al Molina, trumpet; Band in Residence
• VERBAL TRIBUTE: Linda Goetz, Assistant to Pete Douglas
• MUSIC PRESENTATION: Band in Residence
• INTRODUCTION OF GUEST OF HONOR: Masters of Ceremony
• FINAL REMARKS: Pete Douglas

“I was, and still am, on a musical adventure that needs
a live, not virtual, audience to enjoy and support it.”
– Pete Douglas

© 2001-2008 Bach Dancing & Dynamite Society