The winter is behind us. The spring is here, and the weather is perfect for enjoying a fine Italian meal and beautiful music beneath the stars at the Bella Vita Ristorante newly remodeled outdoor patio.

On Friday, May 26, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m., Jerry McFarland takes his turn on the Bella Vita Ristorante patio stage, where under the patio lights he plays and sings his heart out for those who enjoy a fine Italian meal while being serenaded and entertained.

McFarland is a seasoned professional singer/songwriter with a plethora of songs played and sung with the poise and confidence.

Take your pick. Oldies, Rock, American Songbook, Folk and Classical, Elton, Petty, Billy Joel and The Beatles punctuate his original songs with skill and precision.

McFarland has had the pleasure to sing in such venues as the Hollywood Bowl, The Troubadour and Anaheim Stadium, working with great touring musicians such as Cher and Jose Feliciano.

Performing as a vocalist and accompanying himself on guitar or piano, McFarland covers a wide array of styles from soft Latin inspired Jazzy Bossa Nova to soulful Rhythm & Blues Classics. Take your pick…Oldies, Rock, American Songbook, Folk and Classical; covers of Elton, Petty, Billy Joel, Beatles punctuate his original songs with skill and precision.

Career highlights include sharing the stage with great artists such as Bill Medley of the famed Righteous Brothers, The Drifters and many other recognized performers. Jerry has had the pleasure to sing in such venues as the Hollywood Bowl, The Troubadour and Anaheim Stadium.

On Saturday, May 27, from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. guitarist singer/songwriter Alex Ogburn makes his debut on the Bella Vita Stage.

Ogburn provides a truly entertaining experience for listeners through his thoughtful choices of songs which include iconic to more obscure covers mixed with heartfelt Blues and moving original compositions.

This avant-garde acoustic performer’s diverse vocal stylings flow nicely throughout the evening while complimenting his unique, self-taught technique of guitar playing.

He is gifted with a golden voice and extraordinary musical talents on guitar. What makes watching him play even more exciting is that he is a natural lefty and plays the guitar upside down. Like Jimi Hendrix.

It’s most assuredly not just your average acoustic show, so come sit back and relax as he takes you on a musical journey that’s sure to leave you feeling satisfied and enthralled.

Welcome him to his debut performance at Bella Vita. We are sure we will see a lot more of him in the future.

Bella Vita Ristorante is located two miles west of the Courtyard by Marriott on 89A near mile marker 368 at 6701 West State Route 89A.

For reservations and specific directions to the restaurant visit www.bellavitasedona.com or call 928-282-4540