Thursday, February 25, 2010

Review of McCoy Tyner Trio with Savion Glover





We love to hear from our audience members! Send us your review of a recent Alys Stephens Center performance. Thanks to Shermika Dunner for sharing her experience from McCoy Tyner and Savion Glover.

Art in Tandem: Jazz and Tap Meet
By SHERMIKA DUNNER
McCoy Tyner Trio, which consists of McCoy Tyner, piano; Eric Kamau Gravatt, drums; and Reginald Veal, bass, made for a tantalizing musical and art experience at the Alys Stephens Center’s Jemison Concert Hall. Tap dancing phenomenon Savion Glover also performed as well. The evening began with a jazz composition that was light and flirty. The music was playful and reminiscent of a fleeting moment. Interestingly enough, at the end of the song, Tyner announced that it was titled “Fly With The Wind.”
Glover, who graced the ASC in 2007 with a tantalizing performance, was introduced by Tyner. Once again, Glover was not to disappoint. McCoy Tyner Trio and Glover intertwined their talents on Duke Ellington’s “In a Mellow Tone.” Tyner’s hands moved deftly as his fingers struck each key, creating a smooth and melodic consonance that filled the concert hall. Glover faced McCoy in what appeared to be a battle of talents; as McCoy’s hands tapped each key, Glover’s feet moved fantastically while his taps echoed throughout the concert hall. Their interaction was playful and amazing to watch. At times, it seemed as if Glover’s taps could be heard before his feet moved.
Glover was all smiles throughout his performance, as he made wild gleeful gestures with his hands. As the music sped up, so did Glover as spirited taps were executed with an exuberant energy. Each tap was delivered succinctly.
“Blues on the Corner” was another song that combined jazz and tap beautifully. The jazz was introspective and fluid, definitely of the bop style, and had an artful approach as it interweaved with Glover’s tap dancing.
Glover challenged Gravett, and as each rhythmic beat escaped from the drums, Glover’s feet made fantastic movements all over the stage. In “African Village,” with its deep polyrthymic tones, Glover was quick on his feet as McCoy played deep and lush chords. Facing McCoy, Glover echoed the music with his taps, creating both light and hard sounds with his feet.
McCoy Tyner Trio was impressive with their superb ability to engage the listener and send them on a musical whirlwind. The show was simply brilliant. The polyrhythmic fusion included the mesmerizing taps of Glover, and the combination of the two art styles made for a magical evening.

Insight: Why UAB Freshmen Should Take Advantage of Their Freshman Arts Card





Regardless of who you are, where you come from, or what you like, the idea of “free” strikes a nerve in any of us. Free food, free cars, free money – anything labeled “free” is sure to garner attention. And this is the idea that the Alys Stephens Center had in releasing it’s UAB Freshman Arts Card to the incoming students of 2009-2010. Our goal was to allow freshmen to “come into the light,” so to speak, by allowing them to experience a broad range of the arts, whether it be a concert, play, or dance, and all that for free. However, many freshmen have not yet taken advantage of the card yet. If not, you’re missing out. What is better than being able to see someone the likes of the Wailers or the upcoming Monterey Jazz Festival for no cost whatsoever? A standard student ticket costs $20, but with the Freshman Arts Card, you could see two shows (or one with a friend) for free. Why not take advantage? For more information, call (205) 975-ARTS.

UAB’S Alys Stephens Center to Present Liza Minnelli to Open New Season

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center will present musical icon Liza Minnelli Saturday, Sept. 25 to kick off the Center’s new “Alys Stephens Center Presents” 2010-2011 season.
This performance will be the first for Minnelli in Birmingham in 20 years. Birmingham is one of just 11 cities to be included in her 12-show tour.
The Alys Stephens Center’s full season of new performances will be announced on Monday, May 3, when current subscribers will have the first chance to renew their season packages and purchase single tickets. New season package orders can be placed beginning Monday, June 7. Single tickets will go on sale Monday, August 9. For details or for more information, call the Alys Stephens Center Box Office at 205-975-2787 or visit the center online at www.AlysStephens.org.
Legendary American singer and actress Minnelli has won three Tony awards, an Oscar, an Emmy Award, two Golden Globe awards and a Grammy Legend Award for her contributions and influence in the recording field. Minnelli is one of only 12 people ever to have won an Emmy, a Grammy, an Oscar and a Tony award. Minnelli gained international stardom with her 1971 appearance as Sally Bowles in the film version of the Broadway musical “Cabaret.” She was the first person to ever grace the covers of Time and Newsweek magazines simultaneously. Minnelli is highly regarded as one of the most versatile and best-selling entertainers in show business history. Her latest project was a return to Broadway with the show “Liza’s at The Palace…!” which garnered excellent reviews.

Monterey Jazz Festival at the Alys Stephens Center This Sunday, Featuring Legendary Jazz Pianist Kenny Barron



In its fifty-three years of existence, the Monterey Jazz Festival has kept the art of jazz alive in the American limelight. It stands as the longest-running jazz festival in the world, and it – even today – continues to bring joy (and jazz) into the hearts of a plethora of people. It started in 1958 with the likes of Dizzy Gillespie, John Lewis, Shelly Manne, Gerry Mulligan, Art Farmer, Ernestine Anderson, Harry James, Max Roach, Billie Holliday, and the great Louis Armstrong. The festival consists of a touring group, as well as the complete festival, annually held every September at the Monterey Fairgrounds in Monterey, California. The touring group stops all over the United States, from East Coast to West Coast, enlightening people everywhere to the beauty of the American-made art form of jazz. And we, at the Alys Stephens Center and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, as well as the city of Birmingham, itself, are proud – and lucky – to be a part of this legendary tour. Playing at the Alys Stephens Center this Sunday will be drummer Johnathan Blake, bassist Kiyoshi Kitagawa, vocalist Kurt Elling, acclaimed for “his own distinctive sound,” violinist Regina Carter, who, “has been a solid jazz player for many years, prominently with the all-women jazz quintet Straight Ahead; some will remember her previous impressive gig at the Alys Stephens Center,” guitarist Russell Malone, who, “became known as a member of Jimmy Smith’s and Diana Krall’s small groups and Harry Connick’s big band; more recently he has been playing with Ron Carter and in duet with Benny Green or Bill Frisell,” and perhaps one of the pioneers of jazz, itself, legendary pianist Kenny Barron who, as described by many, “is considered one of jazz’s most versatile and lyrical pianists.” The following is an excerpt taken from Kenny Barron’s biography from the official Monterey Jazz Festival website:
“Kenny Barron has an unmatched ability to mesmerize audiences with his elegant playing, sensitive melodies and infectious rhythms is what inspired the Los Angeles Times to name him “one of the top jazz pianists in the world” and Jazz Weekly to call him “The most lyrical piano player of our time.” Kenny was born in Philadelphia in 1943 and while a teenager, started playing professionally with Mel Melvin’s orchestra. This local band also featured Barron’s brother Bill, the late tenor saxophonist. By 1959, and still in high school, Kenny had worked with drummer Philly Joe Jones. At age 19, Kenny moved to New York City and freelanced with Roy Haynes, Lee Morgan and James Moody after the tenor saxophonist heard him play at the Five Spot. Upon Moody’s recommendation Dizzy Gillespie hired Barron in 1962 without even hearing him play a note. It was in Dizzy’s band where Kenny developed an appreciation for Latin and Caribbean rhythms. After five years with Dizzy, Barron played with Freddie Hubbard, Stanley Turrentine, Milt Jackson, and Buddy Rich. The early seventies found Kenny working with Yusef Lateef, who Kenny credits as a key influence in his art for improvisation. Encouraged by Lateef to pursue a college education, Barron balanced touring with studies and earnedhis B.A. in Music from Empire State College. By 1973, Kenny joined the faculty at Rutgers University as professor of music. He held this tenure until 2000, mentoring many of today’s young talents including David Sanchez, Terence Blanchard and Regina Bell. In 1974 Kenny recorded his first album as a leader for the Muse label, entitled Sunset To Dawn. This was to be the first in over 40 recordings as a leader.Following stints with Ron Carter in the late seventies, Kenny formed a trio with Buster Williams and Ben Riley which also worked alongside of Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis, Eddie Harris, Sonny Stitt and Harry “Sweets” Edison. Throughout the 80s Barron collaborated with the great tenor saxophonist Stan Getz, touring with his quartet and recording several legendary albums including Anniversary, Serenity, and the Grammy nominated People Time. Also during the 80s, he co-founded the quartet “Sphere,” alongwith Buster Williams, Ben Riley and Thelonious Monk’s longtime saxophonist, Charlie Rouse. This band focused on the music of Monk and original compositions inspired by him. Sphere recorded several outstanding projects for the Polygram label, among them Four For All and Bird Songs. After Rouse’s death in the 1988, the band took a long hiatus. In 1998, the band reunited with alto saxophonist Gary Bartz, making its debut recording for Verve Records. Kenny Barron’s own recordings for Verve have earned him nine Grammy nominations beginning in 1992 with People Time, an outstanding duet with Stan Getz, followed by the Brazilian-influenced Sambao and Freefall in 2002. Other Grammy nominations went to Spirit Song, Night and the City (a duet recording with Charlie Haden) and Wanton Spirit, a trio recording with Roy Haynes and Haden.Canta Brasil linked Barron with Trio de Paz in a fest of original Brazilian jazz, and was named Critics’ Choice Top Ten CDs of 2003 by Jazziz magazine. 2004’s Images was inspired by a suite originally commissioned by The Wharton Center at Michigan State University and features multi-Grammy nominated vibraphonist Stefon Harris. The long awaited trio sequel featuring Ray Drummond and Ben Riley, The Perfect Set, Live At Bradley’s, Part Two was released in 2005. In 2008, Mr. Barron released his first studio recording in four years with The Traveler, an intoxicating mix of favorite Barron tunes set to lyrics and newly penned compositions. Barron consistently wins the jazz critics and readers’ polls, including Downbeat, Jazz Times and Jazziz magazines. In 2005 he was inducted into the American Jazz Hall of Fame and won a MAC Lifetime Achievement Award. He is a six-time recipient of Best Pianist by the Jazz Journalists Association and was as a finalist in the prestigious 2001 Jazz Par International Jazz Award. He was selected as a NEA Jazz Master for 2010, the nation’s highest honor in jazz. Whether he is playing solo, trio or quintet, Kenny Barron is recognized the world over as a master of performance and composition.”
In light of this critical acclaim, Birmingham, the University of Alabama at Birmingham, and the Alys Stephens Center are honored to have Kenny Barron and the entire Monterey Jazz Festival On-Tour with us. Join us as we celebrate the past, present, and future of jazz in this once-in-a-lifetime event – Sunday, February 28, 2010, in the Alys Stephens Center. The show takes place Sunday, February 28, at 3 p.m. Call (205) 975-ARTS for ticket info.

Monday, February 15, 2010

The Music of Coltrane and Hartman Wins Elling a Grammy

If you have listened to jazz crooner Kurt Elling's Grammy-winning recording Dedicated to You: The Music of Coltrane and Hartman, you don't know what you're missing.


Check it out on his website at http://www.kurtelling.com/ and on itunes.

He'll perform live at the ASC next Sunday, Feb. 28 at 3 p.m. along with Kenny Barron on piano, Regina Carter on violin, and Russell Malone on guitar.

Wednesday, February 10, 2010

See What the UAB Family is Saying About Their ASC Experiences!

The last time I was at ASC was to see Queen Latifah. I was so impressed with the center itsself because it was done with style. The concert was great, the seating is awesome. I have always liked Queen Latifah, but the entire setting seemed personal and close.

Good choice of performer and good taste in decorating.

Pam Winchell
Student Housing,UAB


My most memorable experience at ASC was a joyous but sad occasion. It was a joyous occasion because it was our annual “girl’s night” out event.  We dressed up in our heels and semi-formal attire to hear Natalie Cole in concert.  Sadly, it was the last event that Ann would attend before she died of breast cancer.  Her departing words that evening were, “thanks for the fun night it was unforgettable!”

Demetria Scott
Supplier Diversity


Some of my most memorable performances were Diavolo, Rennie Harris Puremovement, and Regina Carter.  The dancing in both groups was phenomenal, and showcased agility, depth, and the power of the human body.  I remember the Diavolo dancers performed on uneven surfaces, climbed, and jumped.  And Rennie Harris Puremovement was very moving--particularly a scene that showcased brotherhood.

Regina Carter, what can I say? She is a violinist that I'd never heard of before seeing her.  Her music is awesome and her talent is something to be admired.

Shermika Dunner
butterflymontage.blogspot.com

My most memorable experiences at ASC would be attending the UAB Gospel
Choir events.  The concerts are always uplifting and inspiring.


Tonia Lewis

After being gone from the Birmingham area for 15 years, I returned last
month to embark on a new career at UABMC. While driving around campus I
went past the Alys Stephens Center and was stunned. Wow! What a venue
and incredible acts like Smokey Robinson. I am also very excited to see
performances that I can share with my nine year old son. Keep up the
good work.


Rosemary Glass
MSN, RN


The calendar of events ranges from traditional performances to innovative offerings that would otherwise be unavailable in Birmingham — the center truly provides something for everyone. It is part of UAB’s mission to promote the cultural enrichment of the community, and the Alys Stephens Center is an integral and very special part of that effort. I encourage our faculty and staff to learn more about the center’s current season —its 13th — and to get a live, up-close view by attending a performance.

Will Ferniany, Ph.D.
UAB Health System CEO


If they aren’t playing at the Alys Stephens Center, I probably won’t go see them. The performers and performances are diverse, exciting, and top quality. I mean, once you’ve heard the Marsalis Brothers, Willie Nelson, and the Alabama Symphony in that wonderful, acoustically perfect hall, you are absolutely spoiled. Every performer I have seen has commented on the quality of the facilities.  I have a hard time each year deciding which performers to see. But if I change my mind, the staff in the ticket office are extremely accommodating about ticket exchanges. As an employee, I can pay for my tickets and my donation for support by payroll deduction. The ASC and its varied programs are a treasure for Birmingham, and a shining star for the UAB community. It’s a wonderful benefit. We are lucky to have it!

Becky Langner
UAB RN


My husband and I went on a "date" last October at the ASC.   The performances by Jewel and Meiko were great and of course, the ASC is a wonderful center.  The thing about the ASC that stands out in my mind is the service from the employees and volunteers.  They were all exceptional.  I parked in the student lot by the HB.  I was lucky enough to get the ok to walk down the hall, past the security guards to the back entrance so we wouldn't have to travel so far on foot due to the torrential rain.

Now that, my friends, is service.  Thank you, ASC! You ROCK!


Jan Smith
UAB


I’ve seen many outstanding and diverse performances at the Alys. Some of my recent favorites include taking my grandmother to see the ASO perform Handel’s Messiah. It was simply amazing, and she talked about it for days afterward. My husband also took me to see one of his favorites, Joan Baez. I was blown away. We both were moved to tears during her version of Steve Earle’s “Christmas in Washington.” And my parents got me tickets to see the Indigo Girls with Brandi Carlile. We had fantastic seats…just a few away from our good friends. Carlile became one of our new favorites and we enjoyed a memorable show – one of our last major outings before our baby arrived. She rocked out with us in utero! We love the Alys Stephens Center!

Laura Tucker Gallitz
UAB


I enjoy the Alys Stephens Center and have tickets to the Eclectic Series this year with a group of women and we have enjoyed the series!

Donna Crabb
UAB


My daughter and I love to go to the Alys Stephens Center. It's such a beautiful and classy place.  I would love to take her to the Three Dog Night concert.  I remember their songs well and my daughter likes their music as well.

Betty G. Dykes
UAB School of Dentistry

Tuesday, February 2, 2010

You Could Win Free Tickets to Next Weekend’s Shows


Celebrating the Alys Stephens Center February 8-13


The UAB Family is talking about the Alys Stephens Center and we’re posting the chatter!   “If they aren’t playing at the Alys Stephens Center, I probably won’t go see them.” Those are the words of UAB RN Becky Langner, just one of thousands of people who see the ASC as the cultural hub of Birmingham.  Feb. 8-13 is “UAB Loves ASC” week, and UAB is celebrating the Alys Stephens Center with ticket giveaways, discounts, and more. UAB Faculty & Staff are encouraged to share their own ASC experiences for chances to win tickets. Simply comment on this blog or email jesssimpson@uab.edu with your story. You will be entered in a drawing to win a pair of tickets to the Three Dog Night performance Friday, Feb. 12 and the Soweto Gospel Choir performance on Saturday, Feb. 13. The drawing will close at 5 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 11.

“The performers and performances are diverse, exciting and top quality. I mean once you’ve heard the Marsalis Brothers, Willie Nelson, and the Alabama Symphony in that wonderful, acoustically perfect hall, you are absolutely spoiled. Every performer I have seen has commented on the quality of the facilities.  I couldn’t agree more,” Langner says. “I have a hard time each year deciding which performers to see. But if I change my mind, the staff in the ticket office are extremely accommodating about ticket exchanges. As an employee, I can pay for my tickets and my donation for support by payroll deduction. The ASC and its varied programs are a treasure for Birmingham, and a shining star for the UAB community. It’s a wonderful benefit. We are lucky to have it!







And Becky isn’t the only one talking up the ASC.  UAB Health System CEO Will Ferniany, Ph.D., became a big fan of the Alys Stephens Center when he returned to Birmingham in 2008 and saw firsthand the exceptional quality and variety of the featured artists and of the venues. “The calendar of events ranges from traditional performances to innovative offerings that would otherwise be unavailable in Birmingham — the center truly provides something for everyone,” he said. “The center truly provides something for everyone. It is part of UAB’s mission to promote the cultural enrichment of the community, and the Alys Stephens is an integral and very special part of that effort. I encourage our faculty and staff to learn more about the center’s current season —its 13th — and to get a live, up-close view by attending a performance.”


Check out all events during UAB Loves ASC Week. To purchase tickets to Three Dog Night and Soweto Gospel Choir, visit AlysStephens.org or call (205) 975-ARTS.