Painted Betty to Perform at The Winery at St. George, Jan. 18

What do a fashion model, nurse, philosophy professor, NASA scientist and two full time musicians all have in common? 

They're all passionate about music and members of Painted Betty, a Hudson River Valley band which blends elements of jazz, blues, country, folk and tango. Painted Betty consists of Sonia Ryzy-Ryski (vocals) Deb Madsen (vocals), David Rothenberg (clarinet), Andrew Hall (bass), Tim Hall (guitar) and Eric Starr (drums). 

The group got together three years ago after singing and carrying on together at parties, said Ryzy-Ryski, who is originally from Yorktown. They took to the Open Mic scene in Cold Spring and the rest, as they say, is history. 

On Wednesday, Jan. 18, Painted Petty will perform at in Mohegan Lake at 8 p.m. (doors open at 7 p.m.)

This would be their first time performing at the Winery and members of the band said they look forward to reaching new fans, and performing in such a "stunning space." The band describes their musical style as "Americana, tango, French pop, country, jazz, and death folk."

For singers Sonia Ryzy-Rysk and Deb Madsen it is especially exciting to be performing in Northern Westchester since they grew up in the area. Madsen is from Somers and Ryzy-Rysk grew up in Yorktown, where her mother Fernand taught Spanish at  for more than 30 years.

"We like a wide range of music," Ryzy-Rysk said. "Painted Betty’s an ensemble, and each member brings something different to the group. Instead of trying to conform to a particular style, we just play what moves us. We play each others songs. We love to explore different genres, which makes us unique. Our makeup is unusual: two female lead singers, acoustic guitar, upright bass, clarinet and drums. The blend of this unusual combination is the common thread through the music."

In June, 2011, the group released their debut album, "Fifty Bucks and I’ll Show You," which is comprised of 10 original songs and two unusual covers and was recorded at the famed “Loft Studio,” in Bronxville. Owned by Al Hemberger, the Loft’s history dates to the late 1960s. He and the Loft staff have worked with Christina Aguilera, Procol Harum, NSYNC, Rod Stewart, and Rihanna. "Fifty Bucks and I’ll Show You" is released on the Loft’s own record label, Berger Platters.

Painted Betty’s diversity and chemistry has delighted fans at venues such as the Catskill Chill Festival 2010 and the Depot Theater in Garrison. 

When asked about what they enjoy the most about performing, band members said: "The adulation of fans, the flying bras and panties (and boxers). Oh yeah, and the money."

Become a fan of their Facebook page and check out their website. 

The Winery at St. George is located at 1715 E. Main Street in Mohegan Lake. For more information call (914) 455 - 4272.

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