Concert brings Portland's best to Camp Sherman

Last Saturday night House on Metolius featured premier piano composer Michael Allen Harrison and the captivating vocals of Julianne Johnson. The Gorge Living Room, overlooking the Metolius River and the home of the Lundgren family's 1930s Steinway grand piano, was the perfect setting for Harrison and Johnson's well-honed blend of jazz classics, Harrison's original compositions, and a medley of old favorites.

Harrison opened the evening with several of his own compositions and classics like "Ain't Been Around Much Anymore." His playful, soulful renditions suited the setting perfectly. 

The room took on an immediate sense of energy and excitement when he introduced the larger-than-life performer Julianne Johnson. Her personality was powerful, engaging and heartfelt and it was obvious that Harrison adores her.

"We met when I was seven and Julianne was five," said Harrison after their first number. "Our fathers worked together in Portland and we've been friends ever since." 

In 1988, the two began performing together.

"This feels more like a fireside chat than a concert," said Johnson. Her opening song, "You Know How I Feel," set the tone for the evening featuring her clean, smoky, deep voice. Johnson kept the banter light, but when she sang her songs touched the audience deeply.

Harrison and Johnson performed a Burt Bacharach and Dionne Warwick medley that opened with "Walk On By." Johnson literally walked around the audience and danced with a pleasantly surprised audience member, Pete Kershaw. The Kershaws were there to celebrate Judy Kershaw's birthday and they couldn't have been more pleased with the evening.

During their set break, Harrison and Johnson moved through the audience sharing conversation, renewing past acquaintances and starting new ones. The casual atmosphere, delicious food and wine and beautiful setting seems to be catching on. Guests came from Portland and Bend and many took advantage of the House on Metolius' option of spending the night at the property. Both Harrison and Johnson stayed at the property, taking full advantage of the delicious breakfast and comfortable accommodations for just a little bit longer.

At the conclusion of their show, Johnson recounted the drive she and her husband enjoyed as they drove through Camp Sherman and entered the property.

"As we were driving in, I felt a great spirit here. The snow fused with the river, a deer exploded from the bushes in front of us gracing us with its presence ... not too close though," she said. "It reminded me that there is a different rhythm here. It gave us a chance to take a big cleansing breath. House on Metolius is a very special place."