SUMMERFEST 2017
AN EVENING WITH THE REGINA CARTER QUARTET
THE REIGNING QUEEN OF JAZZ VIOLIN
Regina Carter is an extraordinary violinist, a certified genius. The Los Angeles Times calls her “a talented, charismatic player who is almost single-handedly reviving interest in the violin as a jazz instrument.” Wherever this Grammy® nominated violinist performs, she takes her audiences with her on a journey through tradition and creativity.
Regina Carter is an extraordinary violinist, a certified genius. The Los Angeles Times calls her “a talented, charismatic player who is almost single-handedly reviving interest in the violin as a jazz instrument.” Wherever this Grammy® nominated violinist performs, she takes her audiences with her on a journey through tradition and creativity.
Program to be announced from stage. | Regina Carter Quartet |
WATCH!
REGINA CARTER: ‘I’m Going Home,’ Live On Soundcheck
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
PRELUDE 7 PM
Join us for an interview with Regina Carter hosted by Marcus Overton
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SUMMERFEST 2017
SUMMER SERENADES
Wind virtuosi will take you on a musical journey. From the British genteel and aristocratic atmosphere of Elgar to the rarely heard Gemini Variations by Britten. This program brims with disarming quirks and unexpected charms, concluding with Dvořák Serenade for Winds, one of the greatest works for winds since the Mozart Serenade.
BRITTEN | Gemini Variations for Flute, Violin and Piano 4- Hands, Opus 73 Catherine Ransom Karoly, flute; Michelle Kim, violin; Haochen Zhang, Scott Cuellar, piano |
ELGAR | Piano Quintet in A Minor, Opus 84 Haochen Zhang, piano; Cho-Liang Lin, Michelle Kim, violins; Paul Neubauer, viola; Clive Greensmith, cello |
DVOŘÁK | Serenade for Winds and Strings in D Minor, Opus 44 Nathan Hughes, Laura Griffiths, oboes; Anthony McGill, Sheryl Renk, clairinets; Keith Buncke, Ryan Simmons, bassoons; Leyla Zamora, contrabassoon; Keith Popejoy, Tricia Skye, Mike McCoy, horns; Joshua Halpern, cello; Nico Abondolo, bass |
WATCH!
DVOŘÁK: Serenade in D Minor for Wind, Cello and Bass, Op. 44
1. Moderato quasi marcia
Orchestra Academy Ossiach and Ensemble Berlin
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
MUSICAL PRELUDE 2 PM
Rodin Trio performs Beethoven’s Piano Trio in D Major, Op. 70, No. 1
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SUMMERFEST 2017
MOZART’S ENCHANTMENT
Mozart – the very word embodies the experience of sublime beauty. The Quintet for Winds and Piano is an astonishing rarity; few composers tackled this combination. The Divertimento for string trio – a pinnacle of human creativity. The Flute Quartet, featuring SummerFest veteran Catherine Ransom Karoly, an immersion in sheer pleasure.
MOZART | Flute Quartet No. 3 in C Major, K. 285b Catherine Ransom Karoly, flute; Michelle Kim, violin; Colin Brookes, cello |
MOZART | Quintet for Piano and Winds in E-flat Major, K.452 Haochen Zhang, piano; Nathan Hughes, oboe; Anthony McGill, clarinet; Keith Buncke, bassoon; Jennifer Montone, horn |
MOZART | Divertimento in E-flat Major, K.563 Eugene Drucker, violin; Paul Neubauer, viola; Clive Greensmith, cello |
WATCH!
MOZART: Quintet for Piano and Winds in E flat K452
Caspar Frantz, piano; Chris Richards, clarinet; Joost Bosdijk, bassoon; Katy Woolley, horn; Olivier Stankiewic, oboe
recorded live during the Whittington International Chamber Music Festival (Shropshire UK) May 2016 supported using public funding by Arts Council England
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SUMMERFEST 2017
AN EVENING WITH ALISA WEILERSTEIN
One of today’s reigning instrumental soloists world-wide, cellist Alisa Weilerstein returns to SummerFest. Clarinetist Anthony McGill and pianist Inon Barnatan join Alisa for the shimmering autumnal profundities of the Brahms’ Clarinet Trio and the brooding power of Brahms’ Piano Quintet.
J.S.BACH | Cello Suite No.3 in C Major, BWV 1009 Alisa Weilerstein, cello |
BRAHMS | Clarinet Trio in A Minor, Opus 114 Anthony McGill, clarinet; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano |
BRAHMS | Piano Quintet in F Minor, Op. 34 Eugene Drucker, Michelle Kim, violins; Paul Neubauer, viola; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano |
WATCH!
J.S. BACH: Cello Suite No.3 in C Major, BWV 1009, Gigue
Alisa Weilerstein
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SUMMERFEST 2017
FINALE WITH DAVID ZINMAN
An All-Star SummerFest chamber orchestra led by American conductor, David Zinman, whose career has embodied the style-spanning virtuosity and propulsive energy that are our country’s artistic trademark brings SummereFest’s 31st season to a close – and a fitting occasion to look forward to a transformed future.
STRAVINSKY | "Dumbarton Oaks" Concerto |
HAYDN | Sinfonia Concertante Michelle Kim, violin; Clive Greensmith, cello; Nathan Hughes, oboe; Keith Buncke, bassoon |
BEETHOVEN | Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92 Michelle Kim, Cho-Liang Lin, concertmasters; Rhiannon Banerdt, Christina Bouey, Armen Dekevorkian, Bridget Dolkas, Kathryn Hatmaker, Joanna Lee, Philip Marten, Alyssa Park, Jeanne Skrocki, Roger Wilkie, violins; Paul Neubauer, Colin Brookes, Caterina Longhi, Travis Maril, violas; Clive Greensmith, Chia-Ling Chien, Alex Greenbaum, Joshua Halpern, Grace Ho, cellos; Nico Abondolo, Samuel Hager, basses; Catherine Ransom Karoly, Pamela Vliek Marchev, flutes; Nathan Hughes, Laura Griffiths, Andrea Overturf, oboes; Anthony McGill, Sheryl Renk, clarinets; Keith Buncke, Ryan Simmons, Leyla Zamora, bassoons; Jennifer Montone, Keith Popejoy, horns; David Washburn, Jennifer Marotta, trumpets; Jason Ginter, timpani |
WATCH!
David Zinman, conductor; Berliner Philharmoniker
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
PRELUDE 7 PM
Join us for an interview with Maestro David Zinman hosted by Music Director Cho-Liang Lin
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Riccardo Muti, Zell Music Director
Stephen Williams, clarinet
Hailed as one of the greatest orchestras in the world, the multi Grammy® Award-winning Chicago Symphony Orchestra returns to San Diego for an extraordinary evening of music making led by celebrated Italian maestro Riccardo Muti.
Wednesday, October 18, 2017 @ 8:00 pm
Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall
750 B St, San Diego, CA 92101
© Todd Rosenberg Photography
PROGRAM
SCHUBERT | Symphony No. 8 in B Minor, D.759 “Unfinished” |
MOZART | Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K.622 Stephen Williamson, clarinet |
SCHUMANN | Symphony No. 2 in C Major, Op. 61 |
PRELUDE @ 7:00 pm
Arrive early for a pre-performance lecture by Michael Gerdes
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is consistently hailed as one of the greatest orchestras in the world. Its music director since 2010 is Riccardo Muti, one of the preeminent conductors of our day. Founded in 1891 by its first music director, Theodore Thomas, the CSO’s other illustrious music directors include Frederick Stock, Désiré Defauw, Artur Rodzinski, Rafael Kubelík, Fritz Reiner, Jean Martinon, Sir Georg Solti, and Daniel Barenboim. From 2006 to 2010, Bernard Haitink served as principal conductor, the first in CSO history. Pierre Boulez was appointed principal guest conductor in 1995 and then named Helen Regenstein Conductor Emeritus in 2006, a position he held until his death in January 2016. Celebrated cellist Yo-Yo Ma was appointed the CSO’s Judson and Joyce Green Creative Consultant in 2010. Samuel Adams and Elizabeth Ogonek were appointed the CSO’s Mead Composers-in-Residence in 2015.
The renowned musicians of the CSO command a vast repertoire that spans from baroque to new music. They annually perform more than 150 concerts, most at Symphony Center in Chicago, and, since 1936, in the summer at the Ravinia Festival. The CSO also tours nationally and internationally. Since its first tour to Canada in 1892, the Orchestra has performed in 29 countries on five continents during 60 international tours.
Since 1916, recording has been significant in establishing the Orchestra’s international reputation, with recordings by the CSO earning a total of 62 Grammy awards from the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences. In 2007, the CSO launched an independent label, CSO Resound. The 2010 release of Verdi’s Messa da Requiem was recognized with two Grammy awards. Listeners and fans around the world can hear the CSO in weekly airings of the CSO Radio Broadcast Series, which is syndicated on the WFMT Radio Network and online at CSO.org/Radio. In addition, the CSO’s YouTube video of Beethoven’s Symphony no. 9, conducted by Muti, has received over seven million views.
Annually, the CSO engages more than 200,000 people of diverse ages, incomes, and backgrounds through the innovative programs of the Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO. The Institute also manages the Civic Orchestra of Chicago, the only pre-professional training ensemble of its kind affiliated with a major American orchestra.
The parent organization for the CSO is the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association (CSOA), which also includes the acclaimed Chicago Symphony Chorus, directed by Duain Wolfe. Under the banner of its presentation series, entitled Symphony Center Presents, the CSOA annually presents dozens of prestigious guest artists and ensembles from a variety of musical genres—classical, jazz, pop, world, and contemporary.
Thousands of patrons, volunteers, and donors—corporations, foundations, government agencies and individuals—support the CSOA each year. The CSO’s music director position is endowed in perpetuity by a generous gift from the Zell Family Foundation. The Negaunee Foundation provides generous support in perpetuity for the work of the Negaunee Music Institute.
Bank of America is the Global Sponsor of the CSO.
2017 Van Cliburn Gold Medalist
Yekwon Sunwoo (South Korea) was announced as the Gold Medalist on June 10, 2017 at the Van Cliburn Competition Awards Ceremony in Fort Worth, Texas
Sunday, November 5, 2017 @ 3:00 pm
The Auditorium at TSRI
10620 John J Hopkins Dr
San Diego,CA 92121
WATCH!
RACHMANINOFF: Piano Concerto No. 3 in D Minor, Op. 3
Yekwon Sunwoo (South Korea) – Final Concerto Performance
Catch all the medalists’ Competition performances as well as interviews and profiles, and other behind the scenes looks at: http://cliburn2017.medici.tv/en/
MOZART | Romance in A-flat Major, KAnh.205 Rondo in A Minor, K.511 Pinao Sonata in C Major, K.330 |
SCHUBERT | Moments musicaux, D.780 |
RAVEL | La valse |
Musical Prelude 2 PM
Artists from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory will perform.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Some of a Thousand Words
Wendy Whelan / Brian Brooks / Brooklyn Rider
Choreographer Brian Brooks is beloved for his “kinetic thrill and visual power” (The Washington Post), while former New York City Ballet star and principal dancer Wendy Whelan is “riveting, interesting, unusual, intelligent” (The New York Times). LJMS audiences will remember Restless Creature, their winning collaboration in 2015. This Season they return with new solos and duets, full of elegance and electricity, amplified by the remarkable live music of string quartet Brooklyn Rider, hailed as “the future of chamber music” (Strings Magazine).
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
POSTLUDE – Immediately following the performance Marcus Overton hosts a discussion with Wendy Whelan, Brian Brooks and members from Brooklyn Rider
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Paul Taylor Dance Company
MIXED REPERTOIRE PROGRAM FEATURING THE ICONIC WORK
CLOVEN KINGDOM
A national treasure, Paul Taylor Dance Company has been described as a stunning burst of momentum and a cascade of emotion, moving powerfully and powerfully moving. Paul Taylor’s enduringly popular works are a brilliant fusion of bravura dancing, profound emotional insight and glorious musicality that have brought audiences around the world equal measures of message and mastery.
Cloven Kingdom is set to John Herbert McDowell’s freewheeling arrangement – or disarrangement – of music by Arcangelo Corelli, Henry Cowell and Malloy Miller. Cloven Kingdom’s stunning Men’s Quartet will feature a special live percussion performance by Steven Schick and members of red fish blue fish as part of It’s About Time: A Festival of Rhythm. Sound. And Place.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
PRELUDE 7 PM
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Rolston String Quartet
2016 Banff International String Quartet Competition Winner
This award-winning quartet bring a program of works by Beethoven, Schumann and contemporary Canadain composer, Sophia di Castri.
BEETHOVEN | String Quartet, Op. 18, No. 3 |
DI CASTRI | String Quartet No. 1 |
SCHUMANN | String Quartet in A Major, Op. 41, No. 3 |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Musical Prelude 2 PM
Artists from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory will perform.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Paul Huang, violin
2015 Avery Fisher Career Grant Winner
Award-winning violinist Paul Huang returns to La Jolla Music Society after an acclaimed SummerFest debut in 2016, with a virtuosic program of works by Prokofiev, Kreisler and more.
Paul Huang, violin
Helen Huang, piano
DVOŘÁK | Sonatina, Op. 100 |
PROKOFIEV | Sonata in F Minor, Op. 80 |
SCOTT/KREISLER | Lotus Land, Op. 47, No. 1 |
SARASATE | Romanza Andaluza, Op. 22, No. 1 |
SAINT-SAËNS | Sonata in D Minor, Op. 75 |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Musical Prelude 2 PM
Artists from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory will perform.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Academy of St Martin in the Fields
Joshua Bell, violin
Renowned for its distinctive, polished and refined sound, the Academy of St Martin in the Fields, under the leadership of virtuoso violinist Joshua Bell, performs fresh and brilliant interpretations of beloved classical masterworks.
MENDELSSOHN | Overture from A Midsummer Night’s Dream |
WIENIAWSKI | Violin Concerto No. 2 in D Minor, Op. 22 Joshua Bell, violin |
BEETHOVEN | Symphony No. 6 in F Major, Op. 68, “Pastoral” |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
PRELUDE 7 PM
Arrive early for a pre-performance lecture
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SCHUBERT’S SWAN SONG I
Schubert’s Swan Song is a 3-concert exploration of the late works of composer Franz Schubert. Curated by celebrated pianist Inon Barnatan, and performed by a spectacular roster of musicians, the programs are anchored by Schubert’s deeply moving late piano sonatas and include a selection of the composer’s chamber music masterpieces.
SCHUBERT | Fantasy in F Minor for Piano Four-Hands, D.940 |
SCHUBERT | Piano Sonata in B-flat Major, D.960 |
SCHUBERT | Piano Trio in B-flat Major, D.898 |
Benjamin Beilman, violin; Clive Greensmith, cello; Inon Barnatan, Garrick Ohlsson, pianos |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Daniel Liebman, piano
2014 Premio Nacional de Juventud
Award-winning young Mexican pianist Daniela Liebman makes her La Jolla Music Society debut with a program of works by Beethoven, Schubert, Chopin and Prokofiev.
BEETHOVEN | Rondo in C Major, Op. 50, No. 1 |
BEETHOVEN | Sonata No. 24 in F-sharp Major, Op. 78 |
SCHUBERT | Impromptus, Op. 90 |
CHOPIN | Selection of Impromptus, Ballades and Nocturnes |
PROKOFIEV | Piano Sonata No. 3, Op. 28 |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Musical Prelude 2 PM
Artists from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory will perform.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SCHUBERT’S SWAN SONG II
Schubert’s Swan Song is a 3-concert exploration of the late works of composer Franz Schubert. Curated by celebrated pianist Inon Barnatan, and performed by a spectacular roster of musicians, the programs are anchored by Schubert’s deeply moving late piano sonatas and include a selection of the composer’s chamber music masterpieces.
SCHUBERT | Piano Sonata No. 20 in A Major, D.959 |
SCHUBERT | Schwanengesang, D.957 "Swan Song" |
Robin Tritschler, tenor; Inon Barnatan, piano |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Mark Morris Dance Group:
Pepperland
Choreographer Mark Morris, hailed as the “the most successful and influential choreographer alive, and indisputably the most musical,” returns to San Diego with Pepperland, a unique tribute to the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’ Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band. Pepperland features an original score by Ethan Iverson, interspersing arrangements of “Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band”, “With a Little Help From My Friends”, “A Day in the Life”, “When I’m Sixty-Four”, “Within You Without You” and “Penny Lane” with six Pepper-inspired original pieces intended especially for Mark Morris’ profound understanding of classical forms: Allegro, Scherzo, Adagio and the blues.
A live chamber music ensemble of voice, theremin, soprano saxophone, trombone, two keyboards, and percussion will explore and elaborate on Sgt. Pepper’s non-rock and roll influences. This colorful new piece resounds with the ingenuity, musicality, wit, and humanity for which a Mark Morris work is known.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
PRELUDE 7 PM
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
SCHUBERT’S SWAN SONG III
Schubert’s Swan Song is a 3-concert exploration of the late works of composer Franz Schubert. Curated by celebrated pianist Inon Barnatan, and performed by a spectacular roster of musicians, the programs are anchored by Schubert’s deeply moving late piano sonatas and include a selection of the composer’s chamber music masterpieces.
SCHUBERT | Piano Sonata No. 19 in C Minor, D.958 |
SCHUBERT | Fantasy for Violin and Piano in C Major, D.934 |
SCHUBERT | String Quintet in C Major, D.956 |
Benjamin Beilman, violin; Carter Brey, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano; Dover Quartet - Joel Link, Bryan Lee, violins; Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt, viola; Camden Shaw, cello |
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
Born on June 25, 2003 on the island of Bali, pianist Joey Alexander originally learned about jazz from his dad, who exposed his son to a variety of classic albums from his extensive collection. At the age of six, Joey began teaching himself to play piano using a mini electronic keyboard given to him by his father. He was immediately able to pick out the melody of Monk’s “Well, You Needn’t,” but he didn’t stop there. Joey’s dad nurtured his gift of swing and improvisation by taking him to jam sessions with veteran musicians in Bali and Jakarta.
Joey’s musicianship and grasp of jazz fundamentals developed at a remarkable pace, and at age eight UNESCO invited him to play solo piano for an elated Herbie Hancock during the piano great’s visit to Indonesia. Joey later remarked to Hancock, “You told me that you believed in me, and that was the day I decided to dedicate my childhood to jazz.”
At nine, Joey won the grand prize at the first Master-Jam Fest, an all-ages competition in Ukraine which included 200 competitors from 17 countries. By 10, he was performing at jazz festivals in both Jakarta and Copenhagen. An invitation from Wynton Marsalis led to his U.S. debut appearance at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rose Hall in 2014 where he amazed the audience with his musicality, followed by appearances before the Jazz Foundation of America at the Apollo and the Arthur Ashe Learning Center at Gotham Hall. Wishing to encourage the continued development of Joey’s prodigious playing, his parents sold the family business in Jakarta and relocated to the United States. Success did not arrive overnight, however. Promoters were skeptical that an 11 year-old could drive substantial ticket sales and captivate discerning jazz audiences, but soon recognized his ability to absolutely delight audiences, despite the challenges associated with learning a new language. Joey experienced a major stroke of luck when he received an invitation from impresario George Wein to perform on two stages at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival. Joey took full advantage of the opportunity and brought audiences to their feet with his playful musicality and keen sense of swing.
Over the past two years Joey has been paying his dues and honing his craft: learning what it means to be a bandleader, keeping material fresh after repeated performances, and seeking out sidemen who are also collaborators. Along the way, The Joey Alexander Trio has performed at well-known venues and major festivals across the United States and around the globe, including tour dates in Tel Aviv, Marciac, Montréal, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Bern, Prague, Vienna, Perugia, and his native Indonesia.
Media interest in Joey has resulted in appearances and interviews for The Today Show, 60 Minutes, CNN, The New York Times, and a host of other television, radio and print media. This has fueled a rare level of public notoriety for Joey as a jazz musician, entirely unheard of for one his age, both within the jazz community and among the public at large.
 His 2015 debut album for Motema Music, My Favorite Things, garnered two Grammy Award nominations for “Best Jazz Instrumental Album” and “Best Improvised Solo” for his performance of John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps”, making him the youngest jazz artist ever nominated for a Grammy. His performances on the 58th Annual Grammy Awards broadcast – far more magical than what was expected – received standing ovations from the star-studded audience, bringing his talent to the attention of music lovers everywhere, mesmerizing long-time industry professionals, and inspiring other young musicians to pursue their own dreams.
Through all this Joey has remained humble, focused on developing as a player and pursuing his growing interest in composing. His highly-anticipated sophomore album Countdown (set for release in September 2016 on Motema Music) showcases Joey’s remarkable development as a contemporary jazz bandleader and promise as a composer. He develops fresh takes on well-known tunes, combining them seamlessly with his own original compositions in a way which invites both new and seasoned listeners in, and reflects the true emotional heart and soul of his musical personality.
Joey says that his growth as a composer is due to the hours he spends practicing piano in between his school, media and touring commitments – and his rare moments of free time in which he enjoys doing “regular kid things” like watching movies, playing games, swimming, and tennis. “Sometimes, when I’m just practicing or playing something, new melodic and rhythmic ideas come to me, and I realize that I’m actually starting to compose a song,” he says. “I think that writing memorable tunes comes from listening to so much music from composers and artists I like. I actually find it harder to interpret other people’s songs than to write my own, because I have to figure out and feel what the song is about and find a way to make it my own.”
Wynton Marsalis says of Joey, “There has never been anyone that you can think of who could play like that at his age. I love everything about his playing – his rhythm, his confidence, his understanding of the music.” Now, as he enters his teen years, Joey takes another step in charting his artistic direction with the release of Countdown.
“You know, I love both creating music in the studio and performing for people onstage,” he says, “but I have to admit there’s something special about getting a crowd excited by playing jazz live. In most situations I try to be calm, but I love the intense energy that happens between me and the audience. When they express their appreciation in this way, I am inspired to go deeper as a person and musician, improve my craft and create exciting new sounds.”
Building upon the swing and improvisational style that made his first project a critical and popular success, Countdown is a reflection of the growth and maturity of Joey Alexander as an artist, and a confident next step toward a limitless future.
This performance marks Joey Alexander's La Jolla Music Society debut.
OPENING NIGHT CARNIVAL!
Friday, August 3, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Take a walk on the wild side as the festival kicks off with this celebratory program. Legendary cellist Lynn Harrell leads an all-star roster of eight cellists, sharing the stage with beloved soprano Lyubov Petrova, known for her fiery presence and shimmering voice. The evening closes with a delightful salute to feathers, fur, and fins with Saint-Saëns’ humorous musical suite Carnival of the Animals, with text by comedic musical genius Peter Schickele.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Interview with SummerFest Music Director Cho-Liang Lin hosted by Eric Bromberger
OPENING NIGHT CARNIVAL!
BARTÓK · Contrasts for Violin, Clarinet, and Piano, Sz.111
Paul Huang, violin; Anthony McGill, clarinet; Shai Wosner, piano
VILLA-LOBOS · Bachianas Brasileiras No. 1 for Eight Cellos
VILLA-LOBOS · Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5 for Soprano and Eight Cellos
Lyubov Petrova, soprano; Lynn Harrell, Ben Hong, Hai-Ye Ni, Chia-Ling Chien, Yao Zhao, Max Geissler, Jonathan Lo, Alex Greenbaum, cellos
SAINT-SAËNS · Carnival of the Animals
Paul Huang, Cho-Liang Lin, violins; Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, viola; Ben Hong, cello; Peter Lloyd, bass; Pamela Vliek Martchev, flute; Anthony McGill, clarinet; Shai Wosner, Joyce Yang, pianos; Ryan Nestor, percussion; Mark Pinter, narrator
AN EVENING WITH YEFIM BRONFMAN
Saturday, August 4, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Extolled by The Wall Street Journal for “his range of sonority – from lyrical to pungent, to explosive,” Yefim Bronfman is internationally recognized as one of today’s most acclaimed and admired pianists. As a close friend of Cho-Liang Lin, Mr. Bronfman celebrates the music director’s 18-year tenure with a beautiful and rich evening of solo and chamber music masterpieces, including Schubert’s iconic Piano Sonata, D.958, written in the last year of the composer’s life.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Interview with Yefim Bronfman hosted by Eric Bromberger
AN EVENING WITH YEFIM BRONFMAN
MOZART · Sonata in E Minor for Violin and Piano, K.304
Cho-Liang Lin, violin; Yefim Bronfman, piano
SCHUBERT · Piano Sonata in C Minor, D.958
Yefim Bronfman, piano
SCHUMANN · Quintet for Piano and Strings in E-flat Major, Op. 44
Yefim Bronfman, piano; Paul Huang, Emily Kruspe, violins; Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, viola; Lynn Harrell, cello
AN AFTERNOON WITH EMERSON STRING QUARTET
Sunday, August 5, 2018 · 3:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Named “America’s greatest quartet” by TIME Magazine, the distinguished Emerson String Quartet performs an all-Beethoven program, featuring the bewildering and complex Grosse Fuge.
Prelude · 2:00 PM
Interview with members of Emerson String Quartet hosted by Eric Bromberger
AN AFTERNOON WITH EMERSON STRING QUARTET
BEETHOVEN · String Quartet in C-sharp Minor, Op. 131
BEETHOVEN · String Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 130 with Grosse Fuge, Op. 133
Emerson String Quartet:
Eugene Drucker, Philip Setzer, violins; Laurence Dutton, viola; Paul Watkins, cello
MUSIC FROM THE HEART
Tuesday, August 7, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Strings soar in beautifully lyrical works by Stravinsky and Mendelssohn. The evening culminates with Rachmaninoff’s final composition, Symphonic Dances, performed by two of the most accomplished pianists of their generation, Shai Wosner and Joyce Yang. Let your emotions take flight!
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Rolston String Quartet performs Tchaikovsky’s String Quartet No. 1 in D Major, Op. 11
MUSIC FROM THE HEART
STRAVINSKY · Suite Italienne for Violin and Piano
Martin Beaver, violin; Joyce Yang, piano
MENDELSSOHN · String Quintet in B-flat Major, Op. 87
Paul Huang, Anna Lee, violins; Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, Heiichiro Ohyama, violas; Hai-Ye Ni, cello
RACHMANINOFF · Symphonic Dances, Op. 45 for Two Pianos
Shai Wosner, Joyce Yang, pianos
LATE NIGHT WITH LEONARD BERNSTEIN
Wednesday, August 8, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Celebrate the centennial of Leonard Bernstein (1918-1990) with an intimate look into the life and music of this remarkable man, composer, conductor, musician, and father, through the eyes of his daughter Nina Bernstein Simmons.
Leonard Bernstein, a well-known insomniac for whom night was a time for creativity and friendship, was often found entertaining guests late into the night. Hosted by his daughter Nina and featuring soprano Amy Burton and pianists John Musto and Michael Boriskin, this performance is an affectionate, multi-media portrait of the personal side of this singularly public figure.
LATE NIGHT WITH LEONARD BERNSTEIN
Program to be announced from stage.
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER: MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
Thursday, August 9, 2018 · 12:30 PM
Athanaeum Music & Arts Library
New York Philharmonic Principal Cellist Carter Brey, soprano Lyubov Petrova, pianist Saetbyeol Kim, and Fellowship Artist Ensemble Rolston String Quartet are featured in this all-Schubert program. Host Marcus Overton delves into the connection between Schubert’s music and the time in which the composer lived.
Please note, this free event has sold out. Tickets are no longer available.
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER: MUSICAL PERFORMANCE (AUG. 9)
SCHUBERT · Lieder Selections
Lyubov Petrova, soprano; Saetbyeol Kim, piano
SCHUBERT · String Quartet in C Major, D.956
Rolston String Quartet; Carter Brey, cello
49 MINUTES ON THE EDGE: AN EXPLORATION WITH FLUX QUARTET
Thursday, August 9, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
In this first of two 49-minute performances, the acclaimed FLUX Quartet will take the audience onto a new musical plane with a program celebrating contemporary composers. Audience members are invited to mingle at a post-concert gathering with the artists, creating an opportunity for essential dialogue around this next wave of composition.
49 MINUTES ON THE EDGE: AN EXPLORATION WITH FLUX QUARTET
BROWN · String Quartet (1965)
OLIVER LAKE · Hey Now Hey (2017)
LEI LIANG · Serashi Fragments (2005)
NANCARROW · String Quartet No. 3 (1987)
RAND STEIGER · String Quartet (2018) WORLD PREMIÈRE
FLUX Quartet:
Tom Chiu, Conrad Harris, violins; Max Mandel, viola; Felix Fan, cello
ACROSS OCEANS
Friday, August 10, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Dive into this lush, dynamic program bridging the great masterworks of Bruch and Dvorák with one of the most prolific and esteemed Japanese composers working today, Toshi Ichiyanagi.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Cambridge Trio performs Dvorák’s Piano Trio in F Minor, Op. 65
ACROSS OCEANS
TOSHI ICHIYANAGI · String Quartet
FLUX Quartet
BRUCH · Octet in B-flat Major, Op. posth.
Martin Beaver, Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, Luri Lee, Emily Kruspe, violins; Hezekiah Leung, Heiichiro Ohyama, violas; Felix Fan, cello; DaXun Zhang, bass
DVORÁK · Piano Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 87
Gilles Vonsattel, piano; Martin Beaver, violin; Tien-Hsin Cindy Wu, viola; Carter Brey, cello
MY FAVORITE PLAYLIST
Tuesday, August 14, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Cho-Liang Lin’s eclectic artistic palette has led him to diverse musical endeavors, including championing new works. Join us as we shuffle through some of the gems he has discovered, with friends he’s made along the way during his 18 years as Music Director!
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Lecture by Nicolas Reveles
MY FAVORITE PLAYLIST
TURINA · Escena Andaluza, Op. 7 (Scenes of Andalusia)
Paul Neubauer, viola; Saetbyeol Kim, piano; Rolston String Quartet
DEBUSSY · Sonata in D Minor for Cello and Piano
Jian Wang, cello; John Novacek, piano
LEI LIANG · Vis-à-vis, for Pipa and Percussion WORLD PREMIÈRE
Wu Man, pipa; Steven Schick, percussion
MAHLER · Rückert-Lieder
Tamara Mumford, mezzo-soprano; Ken Noda, piano
GINASTERA · String Quartet No. 1, Op. 20
Rolston String Quartet
AN EVENING WITH ADELE ANTHONY & GIL SHAHAM
Wednesday, August 15, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
A string extravaganza featuring the extraordinary Gil Shaham and
Adele Anthony alongside powerhouse violinists and rising stars from
the Bravo! International Music Academy.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Cambridge Trio performs Beethoven’s Piano Trio in B-flat Major, Op. 97 “Archduke”
AN EVENING WITH ADELE ANTHONY & GIL SHAHAM
LECLAIR · Sonata in E Minor for Two Violins, Op. 3, No. 5
Adele Anthony, Gil Shaham, violins
MOSZKOWSKI · Suite in G Minor for Two Violins and Piano, Op. 71
Adele Anthony, Gil Shaham, violins; Juho Pohjonen, piano
BACH/BRAHMS · Presto after J.S. Bach from Five Studies for Piano,
op. Anh. Ia/1
BARTÓK · Selections from 44 Duos for Two Violins, Sz.98
WIENIAWSKI · Selections from Études-Caprices for Two Violins, Op. 18
Adele Anthony, Gil Shaham, violins
JULIAN MILONE · Flower Duet from Delibes’ Lakmé
Song to the Moon from Dvorák’s Rusalka
Bohemian Rhapsody by Queen
Adele Anthony, Gil Shaham, Cho-Liang Lin, Kyoko Takezawa, violins; DaXun Zhang, bass
JULIAN MILONE · En Coulisses for Twelve Violins
Adele Anthony, Gil Shaham, Emily Kruspe, Anna Lee, Luri Lee, Cho-Liang Lin, Kyoko Takezawa, Bravo! International Music Academy students, violins
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER: THE VIOLIN MAKER
Thursday, August 16, 2018 · 12:30 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Renowned contemporary luthier and SummerFest Scholar-in-Residence Sam Zygmuntowicz guides the audience on a journey of instrument making through the history of the great houses of Guarneri and Stradivari to the present day. Festival artists Gary Hoffman, Yura Lee, Cho-Liang Lin, Kyoko Takezawa, and more demonstrate the quality of craftsmanship, artistry, and exquisite sound of these rare instruments from the 17th and 18th centuries. Come and see this priceless collection up close before it is featured onstage at The Glory of Cremona on August 19th!
Free to the public, reservation required.
Please note, parking permits will be required at UC San Diego for The Violin Maker.
49 MINUTES ON THE EDGE: PIANO FOCUS
Thursday, August 16, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
In a spotlight of SummerFest commissions, Marc-André Dalbavie’s Piano Quartet and Pierre Jalbert’s most recent Piano Quintet refashion piano chamber music staples into a vehicle for exploring contemporary harmonies. Following this 49-minute performance, audience members are invited to mingle at a post-concert gathering with the artists, creating the opportunity for essential dialogue around this next wave of composition.
49 MINUTES ON THE EDGE: PIANO FOCUS
MARC-ANDRÉ DALBAVIE · Piano Quartet for Piano and Strings (2012)
John Novacek, piano; Margaret Batjer, violin, Che-Yen Chen, viola; Max Geissler, cello
PIERRE JALBERT · Piano Quintet (2017) WEST COAST PREMIÈRE
Juho Pohjonen, piano; Rolston String Quartet
JOHANNES, CLARA, & ROBERT
Friday, August 17, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Robert Schumann, Clara Schumann, and Johannes Brahms shared one of the most fascinating and yet tragic love triangles in the history of music. The details of their relationship can be traced through letters, and of course, the great music that was written for and played by each of these three iconic musical figures, who continued to inspire each other even after Robert’s untimely death.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Rolston String Quartet performs Webern’s Langsamer Satz and Haydn’s String Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 76, No. 4 “Sunrise”
JOHANNES, CLARA, & ROBERT
BRAHMS · Two Songs for Alto, Viola, and Piano, Op. 91
Tamara Mumford, mezzo-soprano; Paul Neubauer, viola; John Novacek, piano
C. SCHUMANN · Piano Trio in G Minor, Op. 17
John Novacek, piano; Yura Lee, violin; Jian Wang, cello
R. SCHUMANN · Three Romances for Oboe and Piano, Op. 94
Liang Wang, oboe; Juho Puhonen, piano
BRAHMS · Trio in E-flat Major for Piano, Violin, and Horn, Op. 40
Juho Pohjonen, piano; Kyoko Takezawa, violin; Erik Ralske, horn
A NIGHT OF JAZZ WITH JOHN PIZZARELLI TRIO
Saturday, August 18, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Called “madly creative” by the Los Angeles Times, world-renowned jazz guitarist and singer John Pizzarelli entertains and delights with his all-star trio. Let “the genial genius of the guitar” (The Toronto Star) take you on a musical journey exploring the Great American Songbook and beyond.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Interview with John Pizzarelli hosted by Jazz 88.3’s Claudia Russell
Preview Article from The San Diego Union-Tribune
Guitar ace John Pizzarelli returns with his jazz trio for SummerFest concert
A NIGHT OF JAZZ WITH JOHN PIZZARELLI TRIO
Program to be announced from stage.
THE GLORY OF CREMONA: STRADIVARI, GUARNERI, & AMATI
Sunday, August 19, 2018 · 3:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Enjoy a rare opportunity to hear an exquisite collection of string instruments from the greatest lutherie houses of the 17th and 18th centuries on this stunning program. Performed by world-class musicians, these dazzlingly beautiful works from Massenet’s Meditation to Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence—arguably one of the greatest chamber music works every written—come to life before your eyes.
Prelude · 2:00 PM
Lecture by Sam Zygmuntowicz
THE GLORY OF CREMONA: STRADIVARI, GUARNERI, & AMATI
TELEMANN · Concerto in D Major for Four Violins
Cho-Liang Lin, Yura Lee, Anna Lee, Kyoko Takezawa, violins
TCHAIKOVSKY · Mélodie, Op. 42, No. 3
Yura Lee, violin; Saetbyeol Kim, piano
MASSENET · Meditation from Thaïs
Anna Lee, violin; Saetbyeol Kim, piano
SCHUMANN · Adagio and Allegro in A-flat Major for Cello and Piano, Op. 70
Jian Wang, cello; Saetbyeol Kim, piano
DVORÁK · Terzetto in C Major for Two Violins and Viola, Op. 74
Yura Lee, Kyoko Takezawa, violins; Toby Hoffman, viola
MENDELSSOHN · Capriccio in E Minor for String Quartet, Op. 81
Anna Lee, Yura Lee, violins; Che-Yen Chen, viola; Jian Wang, cello
TCHAIKOVSKY · Sextet for Strings in D Major, Op. 70 “Souvenir de Florence”
Kyoko Takezawa, Yura Lee, violins; Paul Neubauer, Che-Yen Chen, violas; Gary Hoffman, Jian Wang, cellos
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
Tuesday, August 21, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
Stroll along the Seine and fall in love all over again with some of the most beautiful works in chamber music written by the foremost French composers of their time. Delight in the sensualistic palette of harmonies and timbres, and let the reverie transport you à Paris!
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Cambridge Trio performs Ravel’s Piano Trio in A Minor
MIDNIGHT IN PARIS
GOUNOD · Petite Symphonie for Wind Nonet in B-flat Major, Op. 216
Catherine Ransom Karoly, flute; Liang Wang, Laura Griffiths, oboes; John Bruce Yeh, Teresa Reilly, clarinets; Keith Buncke, Ryan Simmons, bassoons; Erik Ralske, Dylan Hart, horns
RAVEL · String Quartet in F Major
New Orford String Quartet
CHAUSSON · Concerto for Violin, Piano, and String Quartet, Op. 21
Cho-Liang Lin, violin; Orion Weiss, piano; New Orford String Quartet
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER: MUSICAL PERFORMANCE
Wednesday, August 22, 2018 · 12:30 PM
Athanaeum Music & Arts Library
Hosted by Scholar-in-Residence Eric Bromberger, this Encounter features a virtuosic and exuberant program with Fellowship Artist Ensemble Cambridge Trio and acclaimed violist Eric Nowlin of the New Orford String Quartet.
Please note, this free event has sold out. Tickets are no longer available.
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER: MUSICAL PERFORMANCE (AUG. 22)
HANDEL/HALVORSEN · Passacaglia for Violin and Cello
Anna Lee, violin; Max Geissler, cello
BRAHMS · Piano Quartet in A Major, Op. 26
Cambridge Trio; Eric Nowlin, viola
AN EVENING WITH EMANUEL AX
Wednesday, August 22, 2018 · 8:00 PM
UC San Diego Department of Music’s Conrad Prebys Concert Hall
One of the most versatile and universally respected pianists on the international concert scene, with a career that has taken him to every major venue and orchestra in the world, Emanuel Ax rounds out our celebration of Music Director Cho-Liang Lin with this glorious program.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Rolston String Quartet performs Brahms’ String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 51, No. 2
AN EVENING WITH EMANUEL AX
BRAHMS · Variations on a Theme by Haydn, Op. 56b
Emanuel Ax, Orion Weiss, pianos
SCHOENBERG · Six Little Piano Pieces, Op. 19
Emanuel Ax, piano
MOZART · “Kagelstatt” Trio in E-flat Major, K. 498
John Bruce Yeh, clarinet; Che-Yen Chen, viola; Emanuel Ax, piano
BRAHMS · Piano Quartet No. 3 in C Minor, Op. 60
Emanuel Ax, piano; Cho-Liang Lin, violin; Toby Hoffman, viola; Gary Hoffman, cello
SUMMERFEST FINALE WITH DAVID ZINMAN
Friday, August 24, 2018 · 8:00 PM
Balboa Theatre
How does one say farewell after 18 incredible years? For Music Director Cho-Liang Lin, the answer is easy: in a performance with one’s closest friends and the most resplendent music. Maestro David Zinman, pianists Emanuel Ax and Jon Kimura Parker, and cellist Gary Hoffman join forces with the SummerFest Orchestra and San Diego Master Chorale to celebrate Cho-Liang Lin’s legacy. With the Beethoven Triple and Choral Fantasy on the same program, this is a rare and wondrous occasion—and one you will never forget!
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Lecture by Eric Bromberger
SUMMERFEST FINALE WITH DAVID ZINMAN
ALL WORKS FEATURE THE SUMMERFEST ORCHESTRA
ELGAR · Serenade for Strings in E Minor, Op. 20
BEETHOVEN · Triple Concerto in C Major, Op. 56
Cho-Liang Lin, violin; Gary Hoffman, cello; Jon Kimura Parker, piano
ELGAR · Introduction and Allegro for Strings, Op. 47
New Orford String Quartet
BEETHOVEN · Choral Fantasy in C Minor, Op. 80
Emanuel Ax, piano; San Diego Master Chorale
SHADOWLAND BY PILOBOLUS
Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018 · 2:00 PM
Spreckels Theatre
Created by famed dance company Pilobolus, Shadowland tells the story of a teenage girl, longing for independence, who sleeps, only to wake to something incredible lurking behind her bedroom wall – her shadow. And, she’s off on a journey into Shadowland. Legendary modern dance is combined with high-energy, fast-paced multimedia, merging front-of-screen choreography with projected images to create a narrative with the fluid logic of a dream, powered by the grace of an acrobatic dance, which evinces surprise and joyous delight in a way that is uniquely Pilobolus.
Shadowland was conceived in collaboration with Steven Banks, lead writer for “SpongeBob SquarePants,” with an original score by composer David Poe.
Prelude · 1:00 PM
Prelude interview hosted by John Malashock
Please note, Shadowland will be performed at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM on November 10. Click here to view the 8:00 PM performance listing.
More information about Shadowland is available at pilobolus.org/shadowland.
SHADOWLAND BY PILOBOLUS
Saturday, Nov. 10, 2018 · 8:00 PM
Spreckels Theatre
Created by famed dance company Pilobolus, Shadowland tells the story of a teenage girl, longing for independence, who sleeps, only to wake to something incredible lurking behind her bedroom wall – her shadow. And, she’s off on a journey into Shadowland. Legendary modern dance is combined with high-energy, fast-paced multimedia, merging front-of-screen choreography with projected images to create a narrative with the fluid logic of a dream, powered by the grace of an acrobatic dance, which evinces surprise and joyous delight in a way that is uniquely Pilobolus.
Shadowland was conceived in collaboration with Steven Banks, lead writer for “SpongeBob SquarePants,” with an original score by composer David Poe.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude interview hosted by John Malashock
Dinner Reception · 5:30 PM
Join us for a reception dinner at The Westgate Hotel. Please select Dinner at The Westgate Hotel above for event details and reservation information.
Please note, Shadowland will be performed at 2:00 PM and 8:00 PM on November 10. Click here to view the 2:00 PM performance listing.
More information about Shadowland is available at pilobolus.org/shadowland.
BEGIN YOUR EVENING WITH DINNER AMONG FRIENDS
Join us for a reception dinner at The Westgate Hotel before the evening performance of Shadowland by Pilobolus on November 10, 2018.
The evening will also include a special behind-the-scenes morsel about the performance from Leah Rosenthal, LJMS Director of Programming.
November 10, 2018
The Westgate Hotel
5:30 PM · Champagne Reception
6:15 PM · Dinner
$75 per person – Includes champagne reception, a three-course dinner, and a glass of wine.
For dinner reservations or more information, please contact Landon Akiyama at LAkiyama@LJMS.org or by calling him at 858-459-3724 ext. 216.DANISH STRING QUARTET
Friday, Feb. 8, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Auditorium at TSRI
The Danish String Quartet begins year one of their three year residency with La Jolla Music Society with three unique concert experiences celebrating the quartet’s diverse repertoire and commitment to Scandanavian composers, traditional Nordic folk tunes, and classical music masters. Winners of the 2016 Borletti-Buitoni Trust Award, they have played everywhere from Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center to NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts.
“One of the best quartets before the public today.” – The Washington Post
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude lecture
Online sales have closed. Tickets will be available for purchase at the performance venue on Friday, Feb. 8, beginning at 6 pm.
ADDITIONAL PERFORMANCES BY DANISH STRING QUARTET
DANISH STRING QUARTET: AN EVENING OF NORDIC FOLK MUSIC
Saturday, Feb. 9, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Auditorium at TSRI
DANISH STRING QUARTET: THURSDAY SKÅL!
Thursday, Feb. 7, 2019 · 6:30 PM
basileIE Gallery
DANISH STRING QUARTET
HAYDN · String Quartet in B-flat Major, Op. 1, No. 1 “La Chasse”
MOZART · String Quartet, K. 458 “Hunt”
WIDMANN · Jagdquartett (Hunt Quartet)
NIELSEN · String Quartet No. 1 in G Minor, Op. 13
THE JOFFREY BALLET
Ashley Wheater, Mary B. Galvin artistic director
Friday, March 8, 2019 · 8:00 PM
Civic Theatre
With this program of new and recent works by some of the most exciting choreographers working today, The Joffrey Ballet stays true to its 60-year reputation for innovation and eclecticism. Performed to a live score by Philip Glass, Justin Peck’s In Creases showcases his keen eye for manipulating bodies to form complex geometric structures.
“The Joffrey Ballet… knocks you out with the sheer beauty, power and modernity of its dancing.” – Chicago Sun-Times
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude interview hosted by Molly Puryear
Civic Theatre box office opens for ticket sales at 5:30PM and will-call opens at 6PM.
Please note, there will be a fog effect as part of this performance.
THE JOFFREY BALLET
In Creases
Choreography by Justin Peck
Music by Philip Glass
Encounter
Choreography by Nicholas Blanc
Music by John Adams
Beyond the Shore
Choreography by Nicholas Blanc
Music by Mason Bates
Joy
Choreography by Alexander Ekman
Music by Brad Meldau Trio – Django Django, Tiga, Moby
Please note, there will be a fog effect as part of this performance.
BOMSORI KIM, violin
Sunday, March 10, 2019 · 3:00 PM
The Auditorium at TSRI
Winner of the 62nd ARD International Music Competition, Bomsori Kim has established herself as part of an emerging generation of internationally recognized violinists.
“One of the eminent young, rising stars of the international concert stage.”— Violin Channel
Musical Prelude · 2:00 PM
Performance by students from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory
Online Ticket Sales are now closed. Tickets will be sold at the venue box office beginning at 1 PM, Sunday, March 10. Please call 858.459.3728 for last minute ticket availability.
BOMSORI KIM, violin
BEETHOVEN · Violin Sonata No. 8 in G major, Op. 30, No. 3
SIBELIUS · Three Pieces for Violin and Piano, Op. 79
WIENIAWSKI · Polonaise Brillante in D Major, Op. 4
RAVEL · Sonata No. 2 in G Major
SAINT-SAËNS · Caprice d’après I’Etude en forme de Valse (arr. Ysaÿe)
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
Robert Battle, artistic director
Masazumi Chaya, associate artistic director
Tuesday, March 26, 2019 · 8:00 PM
Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall
Regarded as one of the world’s premiere dance companies, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a recipient of the National Medal of Arts and is recognized by a U.S. Congressional resolution as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World.” Having performed in 71 countries on 6 continents for an estimated 23 million people worldwide—as well as millions more through television broadcasts—Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues to inspire and unite people of all backgrounds around the globe.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude interview hosted by Molly Puryear
Online ticket sales have closed. For last minute ticket availability, please call the Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall Box Office at 619.235.0804.
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
Robert Battle, artistic director
Masazumi Chaya, associate artistic director
Tuesday, March 26, 2019 · 8:00 PM
Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall
Stack-Up: Choreography by Talley Beatty
The Call: Choreography by Ronald K. Brown
Juba: Choreography by Robert Battle
Ella: Choreography by Robert Battle
Revelations: Choreography by Alvin Ailey
Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater two consecutive evenings, March 26 and 27. The performances will feature a different collection of repertory, and both conclude with the company’s iconic masterpiece, Revelations. Click here to view the March 27 performance listing.
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
Robert Battle, artistic director
Masazumi Chaya, associate artistic director
Wednesday, March 27, 2019 · 8:00 PM
Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall
Regarded as one of the world’s premiere dance companies, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater is a recipient of the National Medal of Arts and is recognized by a U.S. Congressional resolution as a vital American “Cultural Ambassador to the World.” Having performed in 71 countries on 6 continents for an estimated 23 million people worldwide—as well as millions more through television broadcasts—Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater continues to inspire and unite people of all backgrounds around the globe.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude interview hosted by Molly Puryear
This performance is Sold Out.
Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater two consecutive evenings, March 26 and 27. The performances will feature a different collection of repertory, and both conclude with the company’s iconic masterpiece, Revelations. Click here to view the March 26 performance listing.
ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER
Robert Battle, artistic director
Masazumi Chaya, associate artistic director
Wednesday, March 27, 2019 · 8:00 PM
Jacobs Music Center – Copley Symphony Hall
Timeless Ailey Act I: Choreography by Alvin Ailey
Timeless Ailey Act II: Choreography by Alvin Ailey
Revelations: Choreography by Alvin Ailey
Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater two consecutive evenings, March 26 and 27. The performances will feature a different collection of repertory, and both conclude with the company’s iconic masterpiece, Revelations. Click here to view the March 26 performance listing.
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center Grand Opening Weekend
OPENING NIGHT
Friday, April 5, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
From Bach to the Beatles, an evening of stunning performances and musical surprises led by superstar violinist Hilary Hahn, celebrated pianist Jean-Yves Thibaudet, ukulele sensation Jake Shimabukuro, jookin phenom Lil Buck, the revered Miró Quartet, creative technologist Osman Koç, and a special convening of SummerFest Music Directors past and present—Inon Barnatan, Cho-Liang Lin, David Finckel, Wu Han and Heiichiro Ohyama.
Please note, this Opening Weekend event is SOLD OUT.
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center Grand Opening Weekend
SEAL: LIVE AT THE CONRAD
Saturday, April 6, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
In a remarkable career that spans more than two decades, London-born multi-platinum singer-songwriter and four-time GRAMMY® Award winner Seal performs an evening of his greatest hits like “Crazy” and “Kiss from a Rose”, as well as timeless classics originated by Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nina Simone from his recent GRAMMY® nominated album Standards.
Please note, this Opening Weekend event is SOLD OUT.
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center Grand Opening Weekend
THE HOT SARDINES: JAZZ AT THE JAI
Sunday, April 7, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The JAI @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Simply phenomenal, The Hot Sardines are on a mission to make famous music of a bygone era come alive through their brassy horn arrangements, rollicking piano melodies, and vocals from a chanteuse who transports listeners to a different time. In the hot jazz movement, The Hot Sardines stand apart for the innovation, verve, and sheer joy they bring to the stage.
Please note, tickets to this event are sold out.
JERUSALEM QUARTET
Tuesday, April 9, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
La Jolla Music Society is happy to welcome back The Jerusalem Quartet – regularly featured on the Revelle Chamber Music series. Since the ensemble’s founding in 1993 and subsequent 1996 debut, these four Israeli musicians have embarked on a journey of growth and maturation. This journey has resulted in a wide repertoire and stunning depth of expression.
“Passion, precision, warmth, a gold blend: these are the trademarks of this excellent Israeli string quartet.” – The New York Times
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude lecture
JERUSALEM QUARTET
HAYDN · String Quartet in G Major, Op. 76, No. 1
DEBUSSY · String Quartet in G Minor
BEETHOVEN · String Quartet in E-flat Major, Op. 127
MIDORI & JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET
Friday, April 12, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Midori regularly transfixes audiences around the world, bringing together graceful precision and intimate expression that allows the listening public to not just hear music but to be personally moved by it. For more than three decades, Jean-Yves Thibaudet has performed world-wide, recorded more than 50 albums, and built a reputation as one of today’s finest pianists.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude lecture
MIDORI & JEAN-YVES THIBAUDET
SCHUMANN · Sonata in A Minor, Op. 105
FAURÉ · Sonata No.1 in A Major, Op. 13
DEBUSSY · Sonata for Violin and Piano
ENESCU · Sonata No. 3 in A Minor
NPR’S FROM THE TOP
Saturday, April 13, 2019 · 6:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Join the studio audience at The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center for a live taping of From the Top, one of National Public Radio’s most popular weekly music programs. From the Top shares the stories and performances of pre-college classical musicians with more than 700,000 listeners each week. Vijay Gupta, violinist, social justice advocate, and 2018 MacArthur Fellow, hosts the program and will be joined by special guests include the San Diego Youth Symphony Chamber Orchestra.
Guest Host: Vijay Gupta, 2018 MacArthur Fellow
Vijay Gupta is a violinist and social justice advocate providing musical enrichment and valuable human connection to the homeless, incarcerated, and other under-resourced communities in Los Angeles. After joining the Los Angeles Philharmonic as a young violinist, Gupta began to give lessons to Nathaniel Ayers, a Juilliard-trained musician whose mental illness led to homelessness. This experience motivated him to play for the homeless and mentally ill living on Skid Row, an area of concentrated poverty and homelessness in downtown Los Angeles and, eventually, to cofound the not-for-profit Street Symphony.
NPR’S FROM THE TOP
San Diego Youth Symphony Chamber Orchestra
IX. Scherzo: Presto assai e molto leggiero from The Comedians, Op. 26 by Dmitry Kabalevsky (1904-1987) with conductor Jeff Edmons
Pianist George Li with the San Diego Youth Symphony Chamber Orchestra
II. Romance. Larghetto from Piano Concerto No.1, Op.11 by Frédéric Chopin (1810-1849) with conductor Jeff Edmons
Piazzolla Trio:
Audrey Park, Violin, 16, from Valencia, CA
Kevin Song, Cello, 16, from San Diego, CA
Michelle Cann, Piano
Primavera Porteña from “The 4 Seasons of Buenos Aires” by Astor Piazzolla (1921-1992)
Vijay Gupta, violin
“Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen
Vijay Gupta, violin, and Kevin Song, cello
II. Très vif from the Sonata for Violin and Cello by Maurice Ravel (1875-1937)
Phoebe Rawn, Flute, 18, from Seattle, WA
Andante Pastoral et Scherzettino by Paul Taffanel (1844-1908), with Michelle Cann, piano
Logan Wadley, Tuba, 18, from Vermillion, SD
I. Allegro pesante from the Sonata for Tuba and Piano by Paul Hindemith (1895-1963), with Michelle Cann, piano
GEORGE LI, piano
Sunday, April 14, 2019 · 3:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Pianist George Li possesses brilliant virtuosity and effortless grace far beyond his years. He captured the Silver Medal at the 2015 International Tchaikovsky Competition and was the recipient of the 2016 Avery Fisher Career Grant.
“…staggering technical prowess, a sense of command, and depth of expression” – The Washington Post
Musical Prelude · 2:00 PM
Performance by students from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory
GEORGE LI, piano
BEETHOVEN · Piano Sonata No.21 in C Major, Op. 53 ‘Waldstein’
LISZT · Sonetto 104 del Petrarca
LISZT · Les jeux d’eaux à la Villa d’Este
LISZT · Réminiscences de Don Juan
DANIIL TRIFONOV, piano
Wednesday, April 17, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
GRAMMY© award-winning Russian pianist Daniil Trifonov has made a spectacular ascent in the world of classical music as a solo artist, champion of the concerto repertoire, chamber and vocal collaborator, and composer. Combining consummate technique with rare sensitivity and depth, his performances are a perpetual source of awe.
“Without question, the most astounding pianist of our age.” – The Times of London
DANIIL TRIFONOV, piano
BEETHOVEN · Andante Favori in F Major, WoO.57
BEETHOVEN · Sonata No. 18, Op. 31, No. 3
SCHUMANN · Selections from Bunte Blätter, Op. 99
SCHUMANN · Presto Passionato, Op. 22
PROKOFIEV · Piano Sonata No. 8 in B-flat Major, Op. 84
ANOUSHKA SHANKAR, sitar
Thursday, April 18, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Anoushka Shankar, sitar
Ojas Adhiya, tabla
Pirashanna Thevarajah, mridangam
Ravichandra Kulur, flute
Danny Keane, cello & piano
Kenji Ota, tanpura
Sitar player and composer Anoushka Shankar—daughter of legendary sitar master Ravi Shankar and former Encinitas resident—is a singular figure in the Indian classical and progressive world music scenes. Her dynamic and spiritual musicality has garnered several prestigious accolades including six GRAMMY® award nominations. In her new program, she draws on classical ragas, referencing the experiences she’s built along the way and experimenting with new ideas in a cross cultural dialogue showcasing the versatility of the sitar across musical genres.
CHRIS THILE
Wednesday, April 24, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Multiple Grammy© Award-winner and MacArthur Fellow Chris Thile, a member of Punch Brothers and Nickel Creek, and now the host of the radio program, Live from Here, is a mandolin virtuoso, composer and vocalist. With his broad outlook, Thile transcends the borders of conventionally circumscribed genres, creating a distinctly American canon and a new musical aesthetic for performers and audiences alike. His most recent album, Thanks for Listening, is a collection of songs of “gentle humor and musical imagination” (Uncut) from Live From Here’s popular “Song of the Week” segment.
GIL SHAHAM & AKIRA EGUCHI
Thursday, April 25, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Longtime friend of La Jolla Music Society Gil Shaham has solidified his renown as an American violin master. Named Musical America’s Instrumentalist of the Year, Shaham is sought after for concerto appearances with leading orchestras and conductors around the globe.
Shaham is joined by longtime collaborator, pianist Akira Eguchi, distinguished for his performances for heads of State, including American Presidents and the Emperor and Empress of Japan.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude lecture
GIL SHAHAM & AKIRA EGUCHI
KREISLER · Praeludium and Allegro
WHEELER · The Singing Turk: Sonata No.2 for Violin and Piano
DORMAN · Nigunim (Sonata No. 3)
J.S. BACH · Partita No.3 in E Major for Solo Violin, BWV 1006
FRANCK · Sonata in A Major for Violin and Piano
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
JEANNETTE SORRELL, conductor & harpsichord soloist
Friday, April 26, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
La Jolla Music Society celebrates San Diego’s vibrant and collaborative arts community with a presentation from the San Diego Symphony. Led by Jeannette Sorrell, 2019 GRAMMY Award-winner and one of today’s most compelling interpreters of Baroque and Classical repertoire, the program of Baroque music will include works by J.S. Bach and Handel.
Please note, Matthew Halls will not participate in this program due to a family health emergency.SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
JEANNETTE SORRELL, conductor & harpsichord soloist
Handel · Selections from Water Music and Fireworks Music Suites
J.S. Bach · Brandenburg Concerto No. 3 in G major, BWV 1048
J.S. Bach · Brandenburg Concerto No. 5 in D major, BWV 1050
Handel · Entrée (Jalousie) and Chaconne from Terpsichore (Il Pastor fido)
Handel · Selections from Water Music and Fireworks Music Suites
GARRICK OHLSSON: BRAHMS EXPLORATION
Friday, May 3, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Since his triumph as winner of the 1970 Chopin International Piano Competition, pianist Garrick Ohlsson has established himself worldwide as a musician of magisterial, interpretive, and technical prowess.
“A born Brahmsian, equipped at the highest level with the necessary speed and power.” — BBC Music Magazine
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude Lecture by Seth Lerer
GARRICK OHLSSON, piano
BRAHMS · Six Pieces, Op. 118
BRAHMS · Sonata in F-sharp Minor, Op. 2
BRAHMS · Intermezzi, Op. 117
BRAHMS · Variations and Fugue on a Theme by Handel, Op. 24
STORM LARGE & LE BONHEUR
Saturday, May 4, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Singer, actor, author, and playwright Storm Large makes a triumphant return to La Jolla Music Society with her band Le Bonheur.
Best known as a guest vocalist for Pink Martini, Storm and her band perform American songbook classics, Broadway tearjerkers, and rock anthems with ferocity and a wicked sense of humor. Enjoy an eclectic mix of sublime and subversive interpretations of classic songs from the rock and roll cannon and the Great American Songbook.
THE TRIPLETS OF BELLEVILLE
Thursday, May 9, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Benoit Charest leads Le Terrible Orchestre de Belleville in the live performance of his original score for the film The Triplets of Belleville, including his ACADEMY AWARD® nominated best song “Belleville de Rendez-Vous.” In the spirit of the film, Le Terrible Orchestre de Belleville transports audiences to the exciting streets of 1920’s Paris and Le Jazz Hot.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude interview by Robert John Hughes
The Triplets Of Belleville on Jazz 88.3’s “Inside Art” Jazz 88.3 FM is a proud media sponsor of this performance.
DAVID FINCKEL & WU HAN
Friday, May 10, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
David Finckel and Wu Han are among the most esteemed and influential classical musicians in the world today. They are recipients of Musical America’s Musicians of the Year award, one of the highest honors granted by the music industry. Their duo performances have garnered superlatives from the press, public, and presenters alike. La Jolla Music Society welcomes these two previous SummerFest music directors home.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Prelude lecture
DAVID FINCKEL & WU HAN
The Unfolding of Music
J.S. BACH · Sonata in G Major for Viola da Gamba and Keyboard, BWV 1027
BEETHOVEN · Sonata in C Major for Cello and Piano, Op. 102, No. 1
MENDELSSOHN · Sonata No. 2 in D Major for Cello and Piano, Op. 58
DEBUSSY · Sonata in D Minor for Cello and Piano
BRITTEN · Sonata in C Major for Cello and Piano, Op. 65
STORM LARGE’S CRAZY ENOUGH
Saturday, May 11, 2019 · 8:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
An autobiographical musical written and performed by Storm Large, Crazy Enough is about staying alive and living fully in the moment. Part cabaret, part confessional, and part comedy, the show reveals how she grew up with a schizophrenic mother and the way music helped her to overcome heartache. In painful and humorous detail, Storm Large takes her audience on a gritty journey, showing us what it takes sometimes just to survive.
“An empowering look at how one woman has managed, despite repeated heartaches and screw-ups, to stay aware of the preciousness of life.” – The Oregonian
MATURE CONTENT: Please be advised that this performance will contain adult content and explicit language. Children below the age of 12 will not be admitted.
Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Storm Large’s Crazy Enough two consecutive evenings, May 11 and 12. Click here to view the May 12 performance listing.
STORM LARGE’S CRAZY ENOUGH
Sunday, May 12, 2019 · 3:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
An autobiographical musical written and performed by Storm Large, Crazy Enough is about staying alive and living fully in the moment. Part cabaret, part confessional, and part comedy, the show reveals how she grew up with a schizophrenic mother and the way music helped her to overcome heartache. In painful and humorous detail, Storm Large takes her audience on a gritty journey, showing us what it takes sometimes just to survive.
“An empowering look at how one woman has managed, despite repeated heartaches and screw-ups, to stay aware of the preciousness of life.” – The Oregonian
MATURE CONTENT: Please be advised that this performance will contain adult content and explicit language. Children below the age of 12 will not be admitted.
Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Storm Large’s Crazy Enough two consecutive evenings, May 11 and 12. Click here to view the May 11 performance listing.
ANAT COHEN QUARTET
Thursday, May 16, 2019 · 7:00 PM
The JAI @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Clarinetist and saxophonist Anat Cohen has taken the jazz world by storm, winning hearts and minds the world over with her expressive virtuosity and delightful stage presence. As JazzTimes says, “With the clarinet she becomes a singer, a dancer, a poet, a mad scientist, laughing — musically — with the sheer delight of reaching that new place, that new feeling, with each chorus.” An established bandleader and prolific composer, the Anat Cohen Quartet program is a unique blend of modern and traditional jazz, classical music, Brazilian choro, Argentine tango, and an expansive timeline of Afro-Cuban styles. The perennial winner of “Clarinetist of the Year” titles from DownBeat, JazzTimes, and the Jazz Journalists Association, Fresh Air‘s Terry Gross credits Cohen with “bringing the clarinet to the world” and The New York Times hails her a “Master.”
Seating will be available on a first come, first served basis at your assigned table. Small bites and beverages will be available from Snake Oil Cocktail Company. Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present the Anat Cohen Quartet at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Click here to view the 9:00 PM performance listing.ANAT COHEN QUARTET
Thursday, May 16, 2019 · 9:00 PM
The JAI @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Clarinetist and saxophonist Anat Cohen has taken the jazz world by storm, winning hearts and minds the world over with her expressive virtuosity and delightful stage presence. As JazzTimes says, “With the clarinet she becomes a singer, a dancer, a poet, a mad scientist, laughing — musically — with the sheer delight of reaching that new place, that new feeling, with each chorus.” An established bandleader and prolific composer, the Anat Cohen Quartet program is a unique blend of modern and traditional jazz, classical music, Brazilian choro, Argentine tango, and an expansive timeline of Afro-Cuban styles. The perennial winner of “Clarinetist of the Year” titles from DownBeat, JazzTimes, and the Jazz Journalists Association, Fresh Air‘s Terry Gross credits Cohen with “bringing the clarinet to the world” and The New York Times hails her a “Master.”
Seating will be available on a first come, first served basis at your assigned table. Small bites and beverages will be available from Snake Oil Cocktail Company. Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present the Anat Cohen Quartet at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Click here to view the 7:00 PM performance listing.RICHARD LIN, violin
WINNER OF THE 2018 INTERNATIONAL VIOLIN COMPETITION OF INDIANAPOLIS
CHIH-YI CHEN, piano
Sunday, May 19, 2019 · 3:00 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Musical Prelude · 2:00 PM
Performance by students from the San Diego Youth Symphony and Conservatory
RICHARD LIN, violin
CHIH-YI CHEN, piano
GRIEG · Sonata No. 3 for Violin and Piano in C minor, Opus 45
POULENC · Sonata for Violin and Piano, FP 119
BRAHMS · Sonata for Violin and Piano in D minor, Opus 108
RAFF · Cavatina Opus 85, No. 3
SARASATE · Zigeunerweisen for Violin and Piano, Opus 20 (Gypsy Airs)
JAZZMEIA HORN
Saturday, June 8, 2019 · 7:00 PM
The JAI @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Grammy Award nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn has a name that speaks for itself, capturing her very essence. Since winning the Thelonious Monk Competition in 2015, Jazzmeia’s star has continued to rise, along with her reputation as an artist with an assured maturity and a vocal confidence far beyond her years. JazzTimes exclaims that Jazzmeia’s “vivacity, imagination, gutsiness and sociopolitical savvy echo the likes of Carter and Abbey Lincoln. Simply put, she is as exciting a discovery as Cécile McLorin Salvant or Gregory Porter.” Her debut album, A Social Call, was released on Concord’s Prestige label to overwhelming acclaim from critics and fans alike, earning Jazzmeia her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Great story-telling, an inspired message, fluid vocals, scat-singing, and spirited group performances – A Social Call features all one would hope to hear from a veteran vocalist of longstanding reputation. As such, the album serves as a clarion call, proudly announcing the arrival of a young, confident musical talent with a bright future ahead of her, blessed with a name that carries its own destiny. Jazzmeia looks forward to her sophomore release in early summer 2019.
Seating will be available on a first come, first served basis at your assigned table. Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Jazzmeia Horn at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Click here to view the 9:00 PM performance listing.JAZZMEIA HORN
Saturday, June 8, 2019 · 9:00 PM
The JAI @ The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center
Grammy Award nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn has a name that speaks for itself, capturing her very essence. Since winning the Thelonious Monk Competition in 2015, Jazzmeia’s star has continued to rise, along with her reputation as an artist with an assured maturity and a vocal confidence far beyond her years. JazzTimes exclaims that Jazzmeia’s “vivacity, imagination, gutsiness and sociopolitical savvy echo the likes of Carter and Abbey Lincoln. Simply put, she is as exciting a discovery as Cécile McLorin Salvant or Gregory Porter.” Her debut album, A Social Call, was released on Concord’s Prestige label to overwhelming acclaim from critics and fans alike, earning Jazzmeia her first Grammy Award nomination for Best Jazz Vocal Album. Great story-telling, an inspired message, fluid vocals, scat-singing, and spirited group performances – A Social Call features all one would hope to hear from a veteran vocalist of longstanding reputation. As such, the album serves as a clarion call, proudly announcing the arrival of a young, confident musical talent with a bright future ahead of her, blessed with a name that carries its own destiny. Jazzmeia looks forward to her sophomore release in early summer 2019.
Seating will be available on a first come, first served basis at your assigned table. Please note, La Jolla Music Society will present Jazzmeia Horn at 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Click here to view the 7:00 PM performance listing.SUMMERFEST OPENING NIGHT:
THE TIME TRAVELER’S SUITE
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2, 2019 · 8 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Inspired by a Baroque dance suite, join us for a time-traveling musical adventure exploring how deeply connected music can be across centuries. After intermission, the journey continues with a new work by the dynamic young composer and pianist Conrad Tao, concluding with Rachmaninoff’s breathtakingly powerful Suite for Two Pianos.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Interview with SummerFest Music Director Inon Barnatan, hosted by Eric Bromberger
SUMMERFEST OPENING NIGHT:
THE TIME TRAVELER’S SUITE
J.S. BACH · Allegro from Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F Major, BWV, 1047
HANDEL · Adagio from Trio for Two Violins and Continuo, Op. 2, No. 5
RAMEAU · La Poule from 6 concerts transcrits en sextour
Entrée de Polymnie from Les Boreades
COUPERIN · Les Baricades Mistérieuses (arr. Ades)
RAVEL · Rigaudon from Le Tombeau de Couperin
STRAVINSKY · Serenata from Suite Italienne for Cello and Piano
CHARLES WUORINEN · Selections from Bearbeitungen Über Das Glogauer Liederbuch
CONNESSON · Techno Parade for Flute, Clarinet and Piano
J.S.BACH · Finale from Brandenburg Concerto No. 2 in F Major, BWV, 1047
Erin Keefe, violin; Stefan Jackiw, Ben Beilman, violins; Masumi Per Rostad, viola; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; Henrik Heide, flute; James Austin Smith, oboe; Anthony McGill, clarinet; Frank Renk, bass clarinet; Inon Barnatan, harpsichord
CONRAD TAO · “All I had forgotten or tried to” (2019) · WORLD PREMIÈRE
Stefan Jackiw, violin; Conrad Tao, piano
HALVORSEN · Passacaglia (after Handel)
Benjamin Beilman, violin; Alisa Weilerstein, cello
RACHMANINOFF · Suite No. 2 for Two Pianos, Opus 17
Inon Barnatan, Conrad Tao, pianos
SONGS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
SATURDAY, AUGUST 3, 2019 · 8 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
From J.S. Bach’s intimate portrayal of a man’s sublime resignation and yearning to Messiaen’s achingly beautiful movement from his Quartet For the End of Time, Songs of Heaven and Earth offers the distinctively unique ideas of three brilliant composers’ perceptions of heavenly voices. The program closes with soprano Susanna Phillips, whose voice The New York Times describes as “warm and shimmering,” singing “Das himmlische Leben” in Mahler’s sunniest and most intimate symphony presenting a child’s vision of the heavens.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Lecture by Eric Bromberger
SONGS OF HEAVEN AND EARTH
J.S. BACH · Ich habe genug, BWV 82a
Tyler Duncan, baritone; James Austin Smith, oboe; Stefan Jackiw, Andrew McIntosh, violins; Masumi Per Rostad, viola; Kenneth Olsen, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; Tina Chong, harpsichord
MESSIAEN · Louange à l’Immortalité de Jésus from Quatuor pour la fin du temps
Stefan Jackiw, violin; Conrad Tao, piano
MAHLER · Symphony No. 4 in G Major (arr. Erwin Stein)
Susanna Phillips, soprano; Erin Keefe, Ben Beilman, violins; Masumi Per Rostad, viola; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; Henrik Heide, flute/piccolo; James Austin Smith, oboe/english horn; Anthony McGill, clarinet/bass clarinet; Valentin Martchev, bassoon; Dustin Donahue, percussion; Inon Barnatan, piano; Patricia Mabee, harmonium; Osmo Vänskä, conductor
ANCIENT VOICES
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4, 2019 · 3 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
An evocation of voices past, this exquisite evening of music features Debussy’s ravishing and quietly revolutionary Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, George Crumb’s mystical Vox Balaenae (Voice of the Whale) for three masked players, Ravel’s magical songs for soprano and chamber ensemble, and one of Rachmaninoff’s most beloved works steeped in the sounds of his childhood, raised in the Russian Orthodox Church.
This concert is dedicated to Jere Robins.
Prelude · 2:00 PM
Lecture by Eric Bromberger
ANCIENT VOICES
DEBUSSY · Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun (arr. Sachs/Schoenberg)
Benjamin Beilman, Erin Keefe; violins, Masumi Per Rostad, viola; Kenneth Olsen, cello; Timothy Cobb, bass; James Austin Smith, oboe; Anthony McGill, clarinet; Henrik Heide, flute; Valentin Martchev, bassoon; Inon Barnatan, piano; Tina Chong, harmonium; Osmo Vänskä, conductor
GEORGE CRUMB · Vox Balaenae (Voice of the Whale)
Rose Lombardo, flute; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Conrad Tao, piano
RAVEL · Trois poèmes de Mallarmé
Henrik Heide, Rose Lombardo, flutes; Anthony McGill, Osmo Vänskä, clarinets; Susanna Phillips, soprano; Erin Keefe, Stefan Jackiw, violins; Masumi Per Rostad, viola; Kenneth Olsen, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano
RACHMANINOFF · Sonata in G Minor for Cello and Piano, Op. 19
Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano
REFLECTION
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6, 2019 · 8 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
A retrospective through music. Ysaÿe’s virtuosic Violin Sonata and Arensky’s moving String Quartet ingeniously pay homage to the great masters before them and to dear friends whom they have lost. Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 15 reflects on his own life and enigmatically quotes works by other composers in this rarely heard transcription for piano trio and three percussionists.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Musical performance by pianist George Li
REFLECTION
YSAŸE · Sonata in A Minor for Solo Violin, Op. 27
Yura Lee, violin
ARENSKY · String Quartet No. 2 in A Minor, Op. 35
Erin Keefe, violin; Yura Lee, viola; Kenneth Olsen, Alisa Weilerstein, cellos
SHOSTAKOVICH · Symphony No. 15 in A Major, Op. 141 (arr. Derevianko)
Philippe Quint, violin; Alisa Weilerstein, cello; Inon Barnatan, piano & celeste; red fish blue fish, percussion
SYNERGY SERIES I: INTERSECTION
with CECILE MCLORIN SALVANT, AARON DIEHL, and INON BARNATAN
Produced by Inon Barnatan and Clara Wu Tsai
WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7, 2019 · 8 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
An unforgettable performance highlighting the symbiotic relationship between classical music and jazz. Cécile McLorin Salvant, three-time GRAMMY® Award winner and “the finest jazz singer to emerge in the last decade” (The New York Times), Aaron Diehl, one of the most in-demand jazz pianists today, who studied classical piano and recently appeared as soloist with the New York Philharmonic and the Cleveland Orchestra, come together with pianist and SummerFest Music Director Inon Barnatan for a not-to-be-missed musical event.
“You get a singer like this once in a generation or two.”
– Wynton Marsalis
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Interview with the artists hosted by Robert John Hughes
PLEASE NOTE, TICKETS TO THIS PERFORMANCE HAVE SOLD OUT.
SUMMERFEST ENCOUNTER:
Classical Transformation featuring Alex Ross
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2019 · 1:00-2:30 PM
The JAI
Alex Ross, award-winning music critic for The New Yorker and author of The Rest is Noise and Listen to This, explores how Beethoven helped to establish the idea of a classical-music repertory. Discover why the great master’s music inspires and poses challenges for contemporary composers today—and all composers since his time.
PLEASE NOTE, TICKETS ARE NO LONGER AVAILABLE FOR THIS FREE EVENT.
If you’re unable to use your tickets for this event, please contact The Conrad Box Office at 858.459.3728. Your seats will be released 10 minutes after the listed start time to allow stand-by guests to attend the event.
MOZART REWORKED
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2019 · 8 PM
The Baker-Baum Concert Hall
Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s music has been reimagined throughout the centuries. This program explores his own reworking of the Wind Serenade for Strings followed by transformations of his music by his admirers: Beethoven‘s Piano Quartet, also originally for winds, Estonian composer Arvo Pärt’s reinterpretation of a movement of a Mozart piano sonata, and finally, Carl Czerny’s brilliant reduction of Beethoven’s favorite concerto by Mozart—all in testament to the composer’s genius.
Prelude · 7:00 PM
Callisto Quartet performs Allegro from Beethoven’s String Quartet Op. 59, No. 2 and Ligeti’s String Quartet No. 1
MOZART REWORKED
MOZART · String Quintet in C Minor, K.406
Brentano Quartet – Serena Canin, Mark Steinberg, violins; Misha Amory, viola; Nina Lee, cello;