Some of the surprises we have seen in Clay Kirkland’s previous “Beat the Reaper” concerts are beginning to manifest for his upcoming 79th birthday celebration!

Kirkland grew up playing cello in the school orchestra and baritone horn in the brass band. He loves large ensembles. His “cast of thousands” in many of his previous “Beat the Reaper” concerts was a whole lot of fun for everyone. His seventieth birthday show featured over twenty performers and represented numerous gold and platinum records.

However, Kirkland also loves the clarity and pleasing volume of a small ensemble. Last year’s concert was basically a semi-acoustic trio with Stef Kull on electric keyboard and grand piano, Paul Trunko alternating between his electric Stratocaster guitar and his Gibson acoustic. Kirkland, meanwhile, rocked harmonica through his vintage Mesa Boogie amplifier and played sweetly into his vocal microphone. Many folks in the audience felt it was Kirkland’s best show yet. Kirkland was pleased to say he could hear every note that Stef played!