Spring Harp Fest 2012 Returns to La Mesa on Saturday

With an all-star lineup and even one of music legendary drummers on the slate, the 13th annual Spring HarpFest on Saturday is sure to create harmonica harmony.

The popular event, held annually at Harry Griffen Park in La Mesa, is designed to promote understanding and appreciation of the harmonica  and pass on love of the harmonica to the next generation.

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Donations made at the Harp Fest will help purchase harmonicas to be distributed in local schools as part of the “Blues in the Schools” program, in conjunction with  local blues society, “Blues Lovers United of San Diego.” Over the years, the organization has provided more than 4,000 harmonicas to school children.

This year's featured performer is harp slinger Rob Paparozzi of Blood, Sweat & Tears, who will play with legendary rock drummer Bernie "Pretty" Purdie. U-T San Diego profiled Purdie and his classic percussion contributions, for some of music's biggest names like Aretha Franklin, Steely Dan, B.B. King and Paul Simon.They will play the Harp Fest at 4 p.m.

Here is the entire lineup:

Noon Jon Gindick (solo)

12:30 p.m. Chet and the Committee with Art Faxas

1 p.m. Harmonica John Frazer with the Bayou Brothers

1:30 p.m. Dane Terry with Cadillac Wreckers

2 p.m.  Billy Watson's Intl Silver String Submarine Band

2:30 p.m. Unknown Players Jam

One of the audience's favorite parts of SHF, is the "Unknown Players' Jam." Any harp slinger in attendance has the opportunity to get up and play 12 bars with a great back-up band. The audience decides on the best jammer, who receives a trophy and other prizes.

3 p.m. Jason Ricci

4 p.m. Rob Paparozzi with Bernard Purdie

5 p.m. Gary Sipperly with  Blue Dawg

5:30 p.m. All Star Jam
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The festival runs from noon to 6 p.m. and is a free, family-friendly event.  Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, water, frisbees, blankets and whatever else they need for a day at the park.

In addition to the Saturday festivities, there are other events associated with the SHF this year:

• Thursday, April 5, 6-9 p.m. Rob Paparozzi and drum legend Bernard Purdie are presenting a clinic at Rock and Roll San Diego, 3360 Sports Arena Boulevard. Tickets are $25.

• Friday, April 6, 1-8 p.m. Acclaimed author and musiciam Jon Gindick will be putting on a harmonica clinic and jam at the historic Lafayette Hotel, 2223 El Cajon Blvd. Cost is $65.

• Friday, April 6, 9 p.m. Paparozzi and Purdie will be playing a concert at the Marble Room in the Gaslamp. They will be backed up by the Bayou Brothers.

For more information on the Spring Harp Fest, visit www.springharpfest.org