hello. glad you stopped by.
THE ROUND. 3 songwriters share the stage
other musicians with them
slam poets, live painters...
audience sits in rapt attention
thanks.
please tell a friend.
we don't advertise and are now in Seattle, Portland, and Tacoma
 
email list
of curator/founder
Nathan Marion
 
press 


 
Fremont Abbey Arts Center is undergoing renovations October through December
 
 
special thanks to our long time volunteers:
denise jolly 
poet curator
liz leahy
hospitality, manager
josh sherman
sound & recording
amanda chan
production, setup 
scott erickson
live painting curating help
dana freeman
lighting, stage, production
 
 
and many others who vary each month...
 
 
KIND WORDS
 
" Truly one of the best gigs I've ever had. Very inspiring and encouraging. Thank you so much..."  - Nick Jaina, Portland (Binary Dolls, etc.)
 
THE STRANGER RECOMMENDS, NOVEMBER 2007
"If the idea of a multimedia experience that combines live music, poetry, and visual arts scares you just a bit, you're not alone—local troubadour Mark Pickerel admits his initial reluctance to participate when he was approached last year. In the wrong hands, the Round (a monthly event curated by Nathan Marion) could be a pretentious mess. Instead, it's a relaxed, down-to-earth and—gasp!—fun evening where songwriters trade stories and songs, quality poets ply their trade and visual art happens at the same time. "It's a cool way for different artists to connect," says Pickerel. This month's musicians are Robb Benson, Bre Loughlin, and Lesli Wood, which is reason enough to attend. Take a chance on something new and different. You might be surprised." BARBARA MITCHELL"
 
"Thank you Nathan for the wonderful experience that is The Round. The poets were awesome, and the musicians were amazing and the atmosphere was inviting. At first i was nervous but everyone made me feel as if i was among friends. My friends had a great time and I as well. It was a new experiance and one that my friends and i will remember. Thank you very much, "
Victor Ramirez, 19, (via Urban Artworks)
 
I commend the Fremont Abbey for its involvement and contributions to the Seattle Arts Community. From my experience, the Round and events taking place at the Abbey encouraged nothing but free thought, free speech, and a positive environment to support creativity. At no point was there ever any discussion of attending church or religious practices taking place. Thank you for holding your ground and doing your part to create space for art in our community. -
Matt Gano, Seattle (Youthspeaks)
 
 
  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
   (tacoma's 1st)
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
NEWS...  

.May 13th Round lineup change > Carrie Akre had to move to the July 8th Round due to family obligations. This Round now features: Kim Virant on stage with Jeff Fielder (Sera Cahoone, etc.) and Tony Fulgham (North Twin).  Buddy Wakefield is still performing in the 1st half and has to leave at 9 for another benefit.  Returning favorite, Rose "Rstar" McAleese (Youth Speaks), will finish out the night with a few poems.

GET TO KNOW THIS MONTHS ARTISTS: 

KIM VIRANT - LISTEN
“Kim Virant’s/ new CD Songs From A Small house is one of my favorites of this year." - Mike McCreedy, Pearl Jam

TONY FULGHAM (NORTH TWIN) - LISTEN
"On their debut disc, Seattle's North Twin melds classic and southern rock with roots and country influences along the lines of Go To Blazes or Blue Mountain. Lead Singer and songwriter Tony Fulgham has a big, soaring voice that can go rough or sweet and sounds just right over North Twin's righteous jagged crunch... - Andy Turner-NO DEPRESSION

JEFF FIELDER - LISTEN
"On a quieter note, I've been growing increasingly fond of the gracefully executed solo debut from local wunderkind Jeff Fielder. Tracked at Chroma Sound with owner/engineer Brad Zeffren (and so far without a proper label), Last Disguise is full of Fielder's skillful, multi-instrumental talents and his rich, warm vocals—imagine a more optimistic and child-like version of Jay Farrar with a fine sense of humor and a way with Leonard Cohen covers." - HANNAH LEVIN, THE STRANGER

BUDDY WAKEFIELD - LISTEN 

 .Thanks to New Belgium Brewing for their support September-March.

 

.Thanks to New Belgium Brewing for their support these past 6 months.

.MORE KIND WORDS from The Stranger. Thanks!  

.JUST ADDED POET Danny Sherrard (2007 Natl Slam Champ) to our first "Bonus Round" which is Saturday March 29th with Jon Auer (Posies, Big Star, Sky Cries Mary), Sarah Shannon (Velocity Girl), and Joshua Morrison.
 
.BUDDY WAKEFIELD also tentative with Carrie Akre for our May 13th show.
 
.2ND TUESDAYS - Feb 12 marks the start for our new schedule at the Seattle Round.
  
.THE ROUND RETURNS to the Fremont Abbey Arts Center January 22nd.  After 3+ months of renovations, we'll be open in 'rustic' form for this Round and in even better shape by the February 12th Round.  Poet Brian Elliss (Boston) just added.

My initial experience with the intimate “In the Round” performances included a rotating showcase of musicians, live painting and a poet. (I know what you’re thinking, but it was incredible: a vegan dinner, chairs! A crowd that was respectful and genuinely interested. Not one person standing with their arms crossed cynically, waiting to be impressed.) It was held in the basement of the Fremont Arts Abbey, and though the Round has no official affiliation with their landlords, the space lent a special sacred quality to the packed show. But then the monthly event was uprooted due to renovations and held in venues such as Nectar Lounge, which felt out of place—like seeing your kid sister at a bar. Thankfully, after three months away, the Round is coming home. “I’ve nearly died a few times during the renovation of the Abbey—on a 45-foot roof in the wind and rain,” says Round founder Nathan Marion, “but I’m so excited about the new space and can’t wait for people to come over and see it.” Christening the room tonight are Tomo Nakayama of melodic indie-rock outfit Grand Hallway, singer-songwriter Carrie Biell, and poet Ryler Dustin. After all, there really is no place like home. Fremont Abbey Arts Center, 4272 Fremont Ave. N., 297-6221, www.fremontabbey.org. $5-$10. 8 p.m. All ages. AJA PECKNOLD
 
.ROUND 1 PORTLAND is Feb 2. Groundhog Day. It's a good sign.  Thanks to Lauren, Jan & Stephanie for getting it started down there.
 
.ROUND25 CD now available - Support the Fremont Abbey Arts Center and receive our first Live CD as a thank you gift (recorded by Joshua Sherman).  This first album features songs from DAMIEN JURADO, J. TILLMAN, and JENNA (TROUBLETOWN) - they collaborate on some songs - and poems by DANNY SHERRARD (2007 Natl Champ).  This is a completely unique recording and features some amazingly funny stories & banter in between songs.  email arts (at) fremontabbey.org for info
 

 
ROUND 1 TACOMA = NOV 17 @ School of the Arts Tacoma (Club SOTA)  w/ Robert Deeble, Carrie Biell, Aaron Spiro, Scott Erickson
 
8/23: ROUND ALUMNUS Danny Sherrard takes the 2007 Individual National Poetry Slam Championship!  We are very proud.   Video of him earning his title: HERE
 
6/28: R25 w/ Damien Jurado sells out! 
Thanks to everyone who supported & all the artists who performed.
 
6/2: Danny Sherrard confirmed (Seattle Poetry Slam) for r25. Danny placed in the top 20 at worlds.
 
5/25:  Round 25 is going to be big.  DAMIEN JURADO CONFIRMED.  it's also our 25th birthday, of sorts.

 
the round.
"an intimate evening of collaborative music, slam poetry, & live painting"
"a refreshing take on mixing art forms in one evening"
"a collaborative arts event held monthly since 2005"
 
who.
Founded by Arts Curator Nathan Marion in 2005, The Round developed into a volunteer powered "arts experience" every month on a Monday or Tuesday night in Seattle (and now expanding to Tacoma & Portland).  It's definitely not your normal concert.  What began as 3 musicians sharing the stage has developed into a multi-arts event with live painters and slam poets joining up to 6 or 7 musicians for a night of arts that will never be replicated (though we do record each Round and have so far released Round25 w/ Damien Jurado and more). 
 
Musicians are only allowed to perform once a year which not only keeps it fresh each month, but they are encouraged to tell others they know about the concept.  Slam poets may perform twice in a year, and these poets are GOOD (usually top 20 in the nation).  If you haven't experienced quality slam poetry before, you are in for an ear opening experience.
 
Painters typically are involved around 3 times per year and we also try to involve young developing artists whenever possible.  Artist selection is assisted by Scott Erickson (painter), Angela Dy (Youth Speaks), and Denise Jolly (Seattle Poetry Slam).   Curation of the first few Rounds musicians & painters was also assisted by Tara Ward, and Victoria B.

The Round has included touring artists (Nashville, Philly, LA, NYC, etc.) & folks from the Northwest. Some artists who've been involved include:
Damien Jurado
Mark Pickerel (Screaming Trees, Nirvana)
Denison Witmer
Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes)
Kay Kay & His Weathered Underground
Head Like a Kite 
Paul Hiraga (Downpilot)
Jen Wood (Postal Service/etc.) 2x alumni
Kenny Hutson, Katy Bowser
J. Tillman
Jake Bradley (Over the Rhine, etc.)
Johanna Kunin
Shane Tutmarc (Dolour) 
Laura Gibson 2x alumni
Gabe Archer (The Pale) 2x alumni
Transmissionary Six
Sonny Votolato (Slender Means) 2x alumni
Noah Weaver (U.S.E. etc.) 
Andy Fitts (Airport Cathedral, etc.)
David Broecker (John Vanderslice/Rosie Thomas)
Josh Ottum 2x alumni
Annalynne Williams (Trespasser's William)
Jenna (Troubletown)  
Buddy Wakefield (has toured with Ani Difranco)
Jamie Kilstein (NYC)
Justin Ringle of Horse Feathers (PDX) 
Ritchie of Loch Lomond 2x
Danny Sherrard 2x alumni (2007 National Poetry Slam Champ)
Korby Lenker, Carrie Biell, Graig Markel, Julie Jane, Zera Marvel, Ian McFeron, Nathan McEuen, Denise Jolly, Ryler Dustin, Robert Deeble 2x, Scott Erickson 6x, Emily Leonard 2x, Kate Protage, Victor Ramirez 2x, Matt Gano 2x, Canary Sing, Skye Graves 3x, Lily 2x, Mariel, Angela Dy 3x, and many many more. 

about.
Now held at the Fremont Abbey Arts Center, a non-religous non-profit in a rustic 1914 church building in upper Fremont, The Round began in June 2005 at various venues around Seattle including the bathhouse at Golden Gardens and a beautiful private yard with a grapevine in Greenlake. Each month, Nathan puts together a unique collection of artists to participate in a event who's purpose is not money, but inspiration and change for the artist & the audience. 
 
Through a 2 hour event, young developing artists play/paint/spit together with experienced artists while an attentive audience of approx 100-160 sit and watch in rapt silence.  They better watch closely too, because there are 2 or 3 live painters on the side creating pieces that may change or be covered up by the end of the event.

Different humanitarian non-profits are also featured throughout the year to raise volunteers & awareness. Groups like Water 1st, New Beginnings women & children shelter, Agros Intl, and Boys & Girls Club have been supported.
 
Featuring three to seven musicians on stage sharing songs & backing each other, The Round also has live painters on the side creating whatever comes to their minds.  Sometimes these painters are experienced with live performance, some have never painted in front of an audience before. 

In between a round of music, highly talented poets from Seattle Poetry Slam & Youth Speaks jump up to perform... often times bringing in some of the musicians to back them.  Most of these poets have performed in national competitions and sometimes a touring poet will join in as well.

This event has become trusted for high quality and even higher variety, so crowds come back each month regardless of whether the artists are well known or developing.  Since the musicians & poets are only allowed to play once a year, they often invite their friends to play in future months and sometimes alumni return a year later with a new set of musicians to join them. 

CONTACT: Nathan Marion, Curator - 206.297.6221 - nathan at bluetree.org
Fremont Abbey Arts Center, Seattle, WA - 4272 Fremont Ave N


  
 
SCHEDULE
{2nd tuesdays
in seattle. tacoma &
portland vary.} 
 
{musicians may only play once a year
in each city}
        
R36.Seattle
Tuesday, May 13
Kim Virant
Jeff Fielder
Tony Fulgham
Slam Poets:
Buddy Wakefield
Rose "Rstar"
Live painters:
Skye Graves
Glory Cancro
 
R37.June 10
3 year anniversary!
*Laura Gibson
*Ben Katt (emcee)

R38.July 8
BBQ Party
Carrie Akre
Caroline Moir
guests

R39.August 16
{SATURDAY}
@ Mora Family Farm in Southworth
Alessandra Rose (kindness kind)
guests
rsvp for details

R40.September 9 

 
 
PAST ROUNDS
  
R2.Tacoma
Saturday, April 5
Damien Jurado
Troubletown
Oh Voices
Angela Dy
guests
& special surprises
 
R35.Seattle
Tuesday, April 8
Shane Tutmarc 
(Dolour)
Eric Howk (Lashes)
Star Anna 
Live painters:
Jen Grabarczyk
Cris Ramsdale
Poets:
Matt Gano
Simon Wolfe (Youth Speaks)
 
Bonus Round
SATURDAY,
March 29
w/ Jon Auer (Posies, Big Star, Sky Cries Mary)
Sarah Shannon (Velocity Girl)
Live Painters:
Martha Wallulis
Danny Sherrard 
 
R34.March 11
John Van Deusen (Lonely Forest)
Tara Ward
(Late Tuesday)
Live Painters:
 Jesse Brown
 Aaron Harris
Slam Poets: 
Corbin Bungi (Youth Speaks)
Melanie Masson

 R33.Feb 12

Anti-Valentines Day Special
Jen Wood
Carrie Biell
Cory Gray (pdx)
Billy Hatcher
Steve Norman
Jon Sands
Rose McAleese (youth speaks)
Scott Erickson
Jessica Figueroa 
 
R1 Portland Feb.2
Matt Gano, Brian Elliss (Boston), Ioa (pt juncture wa), Alan Singley, Per Se, Scott Erickson, Martha
 
R32.Seattle
January.22
Carrie Biell
 *sick & unable to attend
Naomi Wachira 
Kevin Large (Widower)
Steve Norman (slide guitar)
Esther Shin (cello) 
Poets Ryler Dustin (Seattle Poetry Slam),  Brian Elliss (Boston)
Painter Skye Graves

R31.Dec 21
HOLIDAY SPECIAL ON A FRIDAY
w/ 2007 alumni
Private Event
@ a secret mansion
Damien Jurado
Danny Sherrard (natl Poetry Slam champ)
J. Tillman
Robin Pecknold (Fleet Foxes)
Robert Deeble
Alessandra Rose (Kindness Kind)
Robb Benson (Dept of Energy)
Bryn Lumsden
Lacey Brown
Phil Woodward
Gwen Owen 
Denise Jolly
Matt Gano
*cellist, violinist

R30.Nov20 
Robb Benson
(Dear John Letters, Dept of Energy)
(Kuma, Daylight Basement)
Lesli Wood
(Ms. Led) 
Poet: Blair
(Detroit)
Tara Hardy (Bent)
Painters:
Scott Erickson
Christen Mattix
 
R1.Tacoma
Nov.17
Carrie Biell
Robert Deeble
Aaron Spiro
Matt Gano
Scott Erickson
more...
@ School of Arts Tacoma (SOTA)
 
R29.Oct23
members of:
Fleet Foxes
Kay Kay & His Weathered Underground,
Head Like a Kite
Poet Denise Jolly
Painters Jen Grabarczyk & Cris Ramsdale
*benefiting New Beginnings women & children shelter 

R28.Sep24
Lincoln Barr, Patrick Porter
 (RedJacketMine, Explone)
Ben London
Joshua Medaris
(Sanford Arms, Burning Rivers)
Victor Ramirez
Skye Graves
 
R27.Aug27

Josh Ottum
(Millpond Records, Friends for Heroes)
Ritchie (Loch Lomond, Portland)
(Seattle Poetry Slam & Poet Populist Nominee)
Dakota & Ronnie (Youth Speaks) 
 
R26.July23
Graig Markel
Zera Marvel
(Tagging Satellites
(Slender Means
Cote Palacios
Maria D'Allessandro
Matt Gano
(S. Poetry Slam)
Mariel Cutler
(Youth Speaks)
 
R25.Jun25
 Damien Jurado
 J. Tillman
 Jenna (Troubletown)
 Danny Sherrard
 Scott Erickson
 Jen Grabarczyk
 
R24.May15
 Ali Ippolito
 Lacey Brown
 Phil Woodward
 Gwen Owen
 Jubilee
 Lily 
 Nicholas 
 
R23.April23
Noah Weaver (USE)
Gabe Archer (Pale Pacific)
Tirzah Archer (Finder)
Julie Jane
Kristen Cochran
Chris Sheridan
poets
 
R22.March19
Robert Deeble
Justin Ringle (Horse Feathers)
John Vecchiarrelli
Canary Sing
Skye Graves
Victor Ramirez
 
R21.Feb12
*2nd Annual Anti-Vday Special*
 
Jen Wood (Postal Service, etc.)
Carrie Biell
Cory Gray
Neil Vickers
Steve Norman
Scott Erickson
Kate Protage
 
R20.Jan15
The Hope
Drew Grow
Bryn Lumsden
Mic Crenshaw
Jen Grabarczyk
Skye Graves
 
R19.Dec.06 
Robert Deeble, Gabe & Tirzah Archer, Andy Fitts, Dana Little, Molly Rose, Tomo (Grand Hallway), C. Charles Bowden, Laura Gibson, Denise Jolly, Ryler Dustin, more
 
R18.Nov.06
Laura Gibson (Hush Records), Paul Hiraga (Downpilot), Transmissionary Six, Jamie Kilstein (NYC),
Scott Erickson, Cote Palacios
 
R17.Oct.06
Colin Spring, Molly Rose,
 
R16.Sep.06
Mark Pickerel (Screaming Trees, Nirvana, etc.), Nick Jaina (Binary Dolls), Denise Jolly, Danny Sherrard, Scott Erickson, more
 
R15.Aug.06
Loch Lomond, Annalynne (Trespasser's William), Tomo (Grand Hallway), Ryler Dustin, more
 
R14.July.06
Katy Bowser (Nashville), Jake Bradley (Over the Rhine), Kenny Hutson, Michael Jarrett (Austin)
 Emily & Wendy Leonard (Nashville)
 
R13.June.06
1st Birthday