Performing at The Mansion on James for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is a celebration of love, and what better way to set the mood than with live, intimate guitar music in a historic setting? This year, I had the pleasure of performing at The Mansion on James in Syracuse—a venue steeped in history and elegance. The experience was unforgettable, blending romantic melodies with the charm of an iconic mansion that has hosted countless moments of celebration throughout its storied past.

An Intimate and Historic Setting

The Mansion on James, also known as the Barnes-Hiscock House, is a historically significant landmark in Syracuse. Originally built in the 1850s, this Italian villa-style home was later renovated in the 1890s with Colonial Revival architecture, making it a breathtaking space for events. The mansion, once a part of the Underground Railroad, carries a sense of timeless elegance and significance, adding depth to any gathering held within its walls.

For Valentine’s Day, the mansion was beautifully arranged with candlelit tables and intimate dining rooms. About a dozen couples filled the dining areas on either side of where I played, creating a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere. The warmth of the flickering candlelight, the soft murmur of conversation, and the gentle clinking of wine glasses all contributed to the perfect romantic ambiance.

Curating the Perfect Romantic Setlist

Knowing that music plays a vital role in shaping the experience of a romantic evening, I carefully crafted a setlist to enhance the atmosphere. My performance was entirely instrumental, which I love—solo jazz guitar allows me to explore the depth of each piece, weaving harmonies and melodies together in a way that speaks directly to the heart.

For the romantic portion of the evening, I included well-loved pop love songs such as:

• “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri’s sweeping ballad, a modern favorite for weddings and special occasions.
• “Every Little Thing She Does is Magic” – A lively yet heartfelt tune by The Police, bringing a light, whimsical energy to the night.
• “Isn’t She Lovely” – Stevie Wonder’s joyful celebration of love and beauty, arranged for solo guitar.
• “Love Me Tender” – Elvis Presley’s timeless classic, rich with nostalgia and emotion.

Of course, no Valentine’s Day set would be complete without classic jazz ballads:

• “How Deep is the Ocean” – A hauntingly beautiful standard that perfectly expresses the depths of love.
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• “My Funny Valentine” – Perhaps the most quintessential Valentine’s Day song of all time, bringing a touch of melancholy and deep affection to the night.

Adding to the mix, I played Latin tunes, which always bring an extra touch of romance and sensuality:

• “Bachata En Fukuoka” – A modern Bachata piece that resonated beautifully in the intimate setting.
• “Bésame Mucho” – A song that has transcended generations and genres, exuding timeless passion.

Here is a video of excerpts from the performance.

Closing the Night with Energy and Groove

As the evening progressed and the romantic atmosphere had fully set in, I shifted gears. To keep the energy alive and bring the night to a lively conclusion, I introduced some funk and upbeat Latin grooves into the mix.

The final stretch of my set included:

• “Superstition” – A Stevie Wonder masterpiece, full of groove and irresistible rhythm.
• “Pa’lla Voy” – A salsa classic that infused the room with vibrant energy.
• “Iko Iko” – A New Orleans gem that added a playful, celebratory touch.

The change in energy was well received—patrons started swaying, tapping their feet, and moving along with the music. This dynamic shift ensured that the night ended not just on a note of romance but also one of joy and celebration.

A Warm Reception and Looking Ahead

One of the most fulfilling aspects of performing is connecting with the audience. As the night wrapped up, guests came up to me to express their appreciation. Some shared their favorite moments from the set, while others simply conveyed how much they enjoyed the atmosphere my music helped create. Their warm words and smiles were the perfect way to close out a truly special evening.

Performing at The Mansion on James was an incredible experience. The combination of its historical charm, intimate setting, and appreciative audience made it a night to remember. I look forward to returning and sharing more music in this beautiful venue. Whether for another romantic evening, a wedding, or a special event, I know The Mansion on James will always provide the perfect backdrop for memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

Music has the power to transform an evening, to elevate a special occasion, and to bring people closer together. Playing solo jazz guitar in such a historically rich and intimate space made this Valentine’s Day performance truly exceptional. For those looking for the perfect venue for a wedding, private event, or romantic celebration, The Mansion on James is undoubtedly a top choice. I can’t wait for the next opportunity to bring music to this incredible place once again.

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