The American railroad is the stuff of legend and folklore, inspiring poems, novels, film and song. On Saturday, August 31, Verde Canyon Railroad’s Rhythm on the Rails serves passengers a special blend of trains and tunes with this onboard concert in the Canyon. The brilliant scenery serenaded by the clickety-clack of steel wheels along the rails is an American lullaby. This summer’s musical line-up will equal the thrills of the Canyon’s rare riparian wilderness for an audio-visual sensation hard to find elsewhere.

As the train covers a wide range of scenic highlights, seven musical acts cover a wide range of genres from jazz to blues, rock to country, spoken word to instrumental. The passenger cars each provide an intimate concert venue as the acts travel the length of the train, performing a set of songs in each coach.
Rhythm on the Rails 1
Popular Arizona musician Hans Olson brings his special brand of growling, highway blues and harmonica. Music in Motion showcases Sedona songstress Rosemary Chavez accompanied by Allan Ames and Bryan Sinclair. Storytellers from Jerome, Arizona, Ken and Lynn Mikell entertain passengers with a wide variety of musical instruments, illuminating the music and poetry that followed the western trails. Devon Bridgewater’s Nuance Jazz Trio, a fan favorite, returns with their bold, brassy horns and big band jazz. The Senators, a budding young band from Phoenix, share foot-stomping energy and banjo-swinging enthusiasm with their signature blend of vintage and modern Americana. As Duo Vibrato, Joshua and Miray Rhodes make a stunning ensemble, captivating the audience with their Mediterranean mix of gypsy jazz and classical chamber music. Neil Bunker and Rhonda Hitchcock are Penny Ante, a Phoenix duo that entertains with many of their own originals, as well as cover-songs ranging from the Beatles to Taylor Swift.

Rhythm on the Rails 2

Bands will arrive early to sign autographs and pose for photos at the depot prior to the train’s 1p.m. departure. Passengers may opt for first-class or coach accommodations for this special four-hour concert. First-class, $125 per person, features comfortable living room-style seating with overstuffed chairs and loveseats, service at your seat, hot and cold appetizers, a Champagne toast upon departure and full bar service. Coach pricing is $75 per person with classic Pullman-style seating.

Both classes are climate-controlled and access open-air viewing cars.Why are there so many songs written about trains? Because music and railroads both keep a steady beat. Fads and fashions may change from year to year but true classics never go out of style. Become part of the musical history of railroading and experience Rhythm on the Rails.

Only two hours from Phoenix and 25 minutes from Sedona, Verde Canyon Railroad is the perfect Arizona day-trip, or if you plan to stay over, ask about our Room, Ride and Meal packages. Trains depart at 1 p.m. daily. Reservations are accepted at 800-293-7245 or online at rezweb.com/verde