Beat the heat this weekend with the cool music of John Nilsen, recording artist and pianist extraordinaire, performing in concert on Sunday, Aug. 6 from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., at Escalon United Methodist Church, 2000 Jackson Ave., Escalon.

Nilsen is one of the Pacific Northwest’s most successful performance and recording artists, with 21 albums released and record sales far exceeding a million copies.

“John is an absolutely amazing musician. Bring your family and friends; his music is that good,” said Pastor Peggy Bosch, who helped coordinate Nilsen’s appearance.

There is no charge for the concert, but a free will offering to help cover his expenses will be available. A meet and greet session with refreshments and a chance to talk to Nilsen will be held after the concert.

Over the past 37 years, Nilsen has averaged 240 shows a year, performing countless times in every U.S. State as well as numerous tours in Europe, Asia and Australia. In addition to being a solo artist, Nilsen performs with his two bands: SWIMFISH, a folk-rock band, and The John Nilsen Trio, a mix of folk, classical, jazz and rock.

He has received awards in recognition of his musical and songwriting talents including selection as a Yamaha Signature Piano Artist, a Deering Banjo artist and the Distinguished Alumnus Award from Southern Oregon University for his achievement and leadership in the performing arts. He also speaks and conducts residencies on songwriting and musical performance at schools throughout the country, deriving particular satisfaction from instructing and encouraging young artists.

Nilsen has also appeared with other artists including Jose Feliciano, Jesse Colin Young, David Foster, Marc Cohn, Kenny G, Alex De Grassi, Montreaux and many others.

“Concerts like these are part of the way John ‘gives back’ and we are very grateful he appears here when he is in California,” said Pastor Bosch.

This event is being co-hosted by the Escalon and Farmington United Methodist Churches.