1997–1998 Festival Series
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Turtle Island String Quartet
Tuesday, October 7, 1997
“…a unified voice that truly breaks new ground …authentic and passionate …a reflection of some of the most creative music-making today.” – The Boston Globe
Reflecting the influences of jazz, blues, pop, bluegrass and other musical traditions with lively, improvisation-filled string arrangements, the Turtle Island String Quartet has distinguished itself as an innovator that pulses within the parameters of the traditional string quartet. Since its beginning in 1985, the TISQ has been the creator of its own glorious musical world with appearances from concert halls and fine arts centers to intimate jazz clubs and outdoor festivals. This performance marks their solo debut on the Festival Series, following a highly successful engagement in 1992 with the illustrious Dr. Billy Taylor.
Trio featuring Joshua Redman, Christian McBride and Brian Blade
Monday, November 17, 1997
of Joshua Redman—“…the most important new musician in twenty years.” – Pat Metheny
of Brian Blade—“…the greatest young jazz drummer playing today.” – Joshua Redman
of Christian McBride—“…the most promising and versatile new bassist since Charles Mingus” – Time
Presenting some of the finest players the jazz world has to offer, the Festival Series will feature three of the brightest new rising stars in a special evening of eclectic jazz.
Joshua Redman has been on a path of musical success matched by popular recognition in a manner rarely seen in the jazz world. His latest album, “Freedom in the Groove,” debuted at number 1 on the Billboard charts this past year.
Chosen the 1996 New Artist of the Year by both Down Beat’s Critic’s Poll and JazzTimes’ Readers’ Poll, Christian McBride is considered to be one of the most impressive jazz bassists of his generation.
Drummer Brian Blade has appeared with such notable jazz greats as Harry Connick Jr., Kenny Garrett and Pat Metheny.
Pieces of 8
Wednesday, December 3, 1997
The Louise F. Rees Memorial Concert
“…a splendid singing group, a highlight.” – Saint Louis Post Dispatch
This St. Louis-based a cappella octet creates a kaleidoscope of sound which explores America’s diverse musical and cultural heritage while serving up hot harmonies and cool arrangements flavored with the tastes of gospel, Reggae, doo-wop, Cajun and soul. The four men and four women of Pieces of 8 possess voices that combine in a rich, multi-layered orchestral texture through a variety of contemporary and classically influenced songs. Acclaimed appearances include New York’s Lincoln Center and NBC’s “The Today Show.” Pieces of 8 also performs selections specifically developed for young audiences and will join the Festival Series for a three-day community residency.
Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra with Emanuel Ax, piano
Hugh Wolff, music director
Wednesday, February 4, 1998
The Lois M. Nitschke Memorial Concert
“A virtuoso performance in its arsenal of color, touch, accent and glowing tone.” – Los Angeles Times
Renowned as one of the top orchestras in the world, the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra possesses an international reputation for innovative programming and artistic achievement. America’s only full-time professional chamber orchestra, the SPCO has been lauded for its clarity of sound, warmth of tone and brilliance of ensemble. Led by music director Hugh Wolff, the 32-member ensemble will be joined in this performance by the Grammy award-winning pianist Emanuel Ax. Acclaimed for his poetic lyricism and brilliant technique, Ax has distinguished himself in performances with every major symphony orchestra throughout the world, countless recitals and a catalog of highly successful recordings.
Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble
Thursday, March 5, 1998
The Kobacker Concert
“…the vibrancy and accomplished dancing of the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble should come as no surprise.” – The New York Times
One of America’s most exciting young dance companies returns as the Festival Series celebrates 12 seasons of presenting dance on Kobacker stage. For more than 20 years the Alvin Ailey Repertory Ensemble has received critical praise for its emphasis on repertoire, technique and performance, growing into one of the most outstanding components of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. Directed by Sylvia Waters, former principal dancer with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre, the hand-picked ensemble showcases works by some of today’s cutting edge choreographers.