The Earth Tones Trio & Band bridges genres, generations, and grooves with soulful vocals and inspired musicianship. Their diverse repertoire of 60’s classics, blues, and jazz standards strikes those stellar chords in our hearts that inspire love, peace, and harmony.
Tonja Peterson – With soulful roots deeply planted in the Earth, Tonja brings drive, determination, and heartfelt passion to every performance. A natural harmonizer, cajon-playing percussionist, and vocalist, she leads from the heart. Born into a musical family in Stockton, CA, Tonja has called the Sierra Foothills home for over three decades, living happily off the grid on forty acres in Murphys. With a track record of entrepreneurial success and a “point-positive” approach to life, Tonja pours love, peace, and harmony into every note she sings and every beat she plays.
Ron Schaner – A Long Beach native who has lived in Arnold, CA for more than five decades, Ron’s dedication to the Sierra Nevada music scene is as solid as his bass lines. Known for his sound mixing, harmonies, and high-energy stage presence, Ron has been a driving force in numerous local bands. Alongside his partner, Tami Rakstad-Schaner, he runs T&R Productions, produces local events and festivals, and serves as booking agent for Brice Station Vineyards’ Summer Concert Series in Murphys, CA.
Steve Gorman – A seasoned musician who relocated from Gilroy to Angels Camp, Steve’s mastery spans lead guitar, pedal steel, and a variety of genres and arrangements. His performances stretch from jazz scales to blues riffs with equal finesse. Having played in bands from the Sierra Foothills to the Central Coast, Steve brings not only exceptional musicianship but also the comic relief that keeps the band laughing on stage.
Josh Certo – The group’s tempo timekeeper, Josh plays with precision, accuracy, and style. Born in San Jose, his professional drumming career has taken him across the country and around the world. Now based in Soulsbyville, CA, Josh performs with multiple local bands and teaches drumming in the Waldorf School system. He also proudly claims he’s never had to tune his instrument—at least, no one’s caught him doing it.
Ras “Beeken” Dan – Known as the “Musical Multi-Tool,” Beeken is the founder and executive director of the Murphys School of Music. A master of reed and wind instruments—from saxophone to flute, clarinet to harmonica—he plays with both passion and purpose. Based in Murphys, Beeken has performed internationally with reggae, world beat, jazz, rock, and blues greats, yet remains humbled and loves making a difference in every child’s life who wants to take a music lesson from Mr. B!
Please Note: Earlier Time: Doors Open at 4:30 PM and the Show Starts at 6:00 PM!
| No physical ticket, just give your name at the door |
| Kids under 12 are free |
| Doors open 4.30pm, event 6–9pm |
| Dogs welcome on leash, though loud music can hurt dogs ears |
| Food by local vendors available on site |
| You may bring your own food or drink, but strictly no outside alcohol |
| Seating is an open lawn, bring low-back chairs or a picnic blanket |
