The Lee County Library has joined with The ACMA (Americana Community Music Association), to offer free Acoustic concerts of all original music. Concerts will take place inside at the Captiva Memorial Library, 11560 Chapin Ln, Captiva, FL 33924
The ACMA is a Fort Myers based not for profit that promotes local artists who perform their own original songs. Come hear great original music and the stories behind the songs in an intimate Songwriters Showcase. Be prepared to enjoy an evening of professional quality acoustic Americana music. Americana music a coming together of blues, roots, folk and country.
Ralph Leeseberg and Joe Virga
When Joe Virga speaks, he cannot deny his Brooklyn upbringing. When Joe Virga sings, his strong melodious tenor voice cannot be denied. Throughout his childhood, he was called upon to sing in church and school. Upon entering the Navy, Joe spent his free time in the USS Guadalcanal’s boiler room, learning to play guitar and write songs. This hobby has led to a 40 year career of performing, whether it be in a Greenwich Village coffee house, a Barcelona bar or a Southern Florida Folk Festival.
In the late 70’s and early 80’s Joe was part of the open mic scene in Greenwich Village playing at The Speakeasy or Gerdies, along with such talents as Rod McDonald, Suzanne Vega, David Roth and Christine Lavin. He joined the Musician’s Cooperative, Two of his songs My Father’s America and Susan’s Valentine were recorded for Fast Folk Magazine.
The sudden death of his wife forced Joe to abandon the folk scene while he raised his two young daughters. A golden parachute offered by his Wall Street employer led to a move to Fort Myers in 2006 and a return to his singer-songwriter career full time. Joe has performed at open mics and festivals throughout south Florida including South Florida Folk, Sarasota and Will McLean. He has release two CDs Stardust Land and My Father’s America which are available through his website JoeVirga.com. A third CD Urban Renewal is currently in production. Joe enjoys performing throughout Florida, whether it be at a small venue, a festival or a musical conference such as NERFA and SERFA. He loves the Florida Folk Family and is proud to be a part of it.