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.

Songs That Have You Singing Along

I can remember being a little girl, probably 5 or 6, and dancing around my grandmother's beauty shop singing "...If you feel like loving me, If you got the notion. I second that emotion. Said, if you feel like giving me a lifetime of devotion, I second that emotion..."  The shop never had a shortage of willing back up singers, grandmas in big rollers, Farrah wanna-bes getting frosted tips, and teens in the chair for their first perm (ah the 70s, but I digress.)

That's the thing about the music of Smokey Robinson, it's cross-generational and timeless.  Last week I was going back and listening to a lot of his music in preparation for our gala announcement.  It's crazy, I think I know the words to every single song.  Just think of all the hits:

Cruisin'
Being with You
Tears of a Clown
I Second that Emotion (already established as my fav)
The Tracks of My Tears
You've Really Got a Hold on Me
Ooo Baby Baby

The list could go on and on.  I bet you too have a favorite Smokey song.   If so, tell us about it and why it's your pick.  One lucky respondent will win a pair of tickets to see this musical icon LIVE at the ASC!

And, it should be quite a live show!  The Florida Theatre presented a performance by Smokey last fall and the director and staff there still haven't stop talking about what an incredible evening it was.  You know it's something special when your peers in the busy go ga-ga over a show.

The Alys Stephens Center is proud to present SMOKEY ROBINSON as our featured artist for the VIVA HEALTH STARLIGHT GALA on Saturday, April 24th.  Two package are available and tickets are currently onsale at AlysStephens.org and 205.975.2787.  All proceeds from the gala benefit the programming and educational outreach programs of the ASC.  So, you get to see an amazing performer and you are helping the community!

The Flecktones bring tour back to the U.S.

Article by BRITTANY FORRESTAL for Variety magazine

For the past 20 years, Béla Fleck and the Flecktones have become one of the most prolific bands in the history of American music. The group has released 13 albums - two of which have reached number one on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart - and has won four Grammy awards since 1997.

However, the band fronted by Fleck, widely considered one of the greatest living banjo players, has received praise in genres beyond jazz and is known for blending a variety of popular musical styles into something new all their own.

"We are so excited by so many different kinds of music -- it has been hard to restrict ourselves," Fleck said. "We don't think much about crossover appeal in terms of the 'biz," but we do want our music to reach out to people."

Fleck added that the band's tendency toward instrumental music stems from the same sentiment.

"It allows the listener to have a different experience, more personal I think because people have been making instrumental music for a long time, and for good reason," he said. "Removing vocals from the equation allows the listener to have his own interpretation of what the music means."

The Flecktones, whose members are Fleck, renowned bassist Victor Wooten, percussionist Roy "Future Man" Wooten and saxophonist Jeff Coffin, has seen several line-up shifts since its formation in 1989. Founding member Howard Levy, who played harmonica and keys, left the band in 1993, and Coffin splits his time playing with The Flecktones and Dave Matthews Band. Last month, however, all five band members reunited for a European tour.

"It was really interesting to play music from 1988 to 1992, our first musical offerings," he said. "And [Levy] is an inspiring guy. The crowds were great and it was a trip to go back in time."

The band is now bringing the tour back to the United States, and the set list will consist of songs from "Jingle All the Way," the group's first Christmas album that was released last year.

The album is one of the band's two chart-topping records. Fleck said working with such classic and beloved holiday songs was a change from the band's usual creative process.

"We didn't write the music [and] this allowed us to collaborate in a new way because when someone brings their song into the group, they tend to have a leadership role in the arranging," he said.

And, even though a 20-year tenure means an undoubtedly crazy history of touring, writing and recording, Fleck said the band sees no need to take a break from its fast-paced lifestyle.

"We are all at a peak time, and I don't see a reason to stop. Some things we will do separately [as solo projects] and some together," he said. "Right now we are together and it is very special."

Original Article Source

Tuvan throat singers Alash Ensemble join Bela Fleck at the Alys Stephens Center!

In a recent development, the internationally acclaimed Tuvan throat singers Alash Ensemble will be joining Bela Fleck and the Flecktones for their holiday show on December 9th at 7pm! This is a chance to see two amazing performances in the same night!

Don't miss this rare opporunity to see the tremendously talented Alash Ensemble, so call to get your tickets today! (205) 975-ARTS or toll free at 1-877-ART-TIKS

UAB’s Alys Stephens Center and WorkPlay Theatre co-present 2 upcoming performances

Enter our holiday contest! Want to win a pair of tickets to each show? Have you seen either performer live in concert? Let us hear from you. Comments must be submitted by noon Thursday, Dec. 3.

Ralph Stanley & His Clinch Mountain Boys
Friday December 4 at 8 PM
WorkPlay Theatre

Bela Fleck & the Flecktones: A Holiday Feast
Wednesday, December 9 at 7 PM
Alys Stephens Center

The Flecktones Bring Tuvan Flair to the Holidays

When Béla Fleck & The Flecktones perform at the ASC on December 9, they will be joined on stage by acclaimed Tuvan throat singers Alash Ensemble.

To learn more about this amazing ensemble, check out this blog.

Review of the Wailers jammin' out!

Review By: Andrew Pressley

I arrived at the Alys Robinson Stevens Center out of breath, having borne the strain of running to get to the door early. I got my ticket for a show I have been waiting months for, and the enthusiasm sparked inside of me. I was about to witness one of the greatest bands of all time.

Noted for their infamous collaboration with Bob Marley, The Wailers make a noise wherever they perform. The past few weeks, Birmingham has been abuzz about their arrival. Now that they are finally here, the mood has changed none.

The thorough and kindly nature of the Alys Stephens Center staff started the night off right. The crowd poured in, and the scene instantly gained immaculacy, just a subtle example of the ability The Wailers had to reach people. This reach was also illustrated in The Wailers’ efforts to assist the World Food Programme in feeding needy children. They sold wristbands for $2 at the entrance, and from what I saw, quite a number were sold.

The stage was decorated in a Jamaican green-and-yellow aura, and the band’s equipment stood as a monument that the crowd eyed with conviction.

Their anticipation was building.

The “Regals of Reggae” entered with a bang, with Aston “Family Man” Barrett on bass, Keith Sterling on keyboards, Chino Chin on trumpet, Nambo Robinson on trombone, Al Anderson on lead guitar, Anthony Watson on drums, Brady Walters and Cegee Victory on backup vocals, and Elan Attias on lead vocals. It became clear very quickly that the numbers on everyone’s ticket would not matter. Assisted by Elan’s encouragement, nobody in the Jemison Concert Hall would be sitting down. Elan’s remarkable vocals, as well as the band’s classic following, sent a wave through the crowd, and it became impossible to even consider taking a seat, especially with Elan’s constant chants of, “Birmingham, Alabama, say yeah!”

The Wailers played their “Exodus” album, with hits such as “Exodus,” “Jammin’,” “Three Little Birds,” and of course, “One Love.” The crowd became more and more mesmerized as Elan’s Bob Marley-esque voice radiated through the room. The Wailers then left the stage, and an uproar of “Encore! Encore!” followed immediately. I was dancing like a madman in front, screaming alongside the crowd, and it was obvious by now that we were loving the show.

Naturally, The Wailers returned to the stage and played even more hits. Elan announced, “Hold up your fire, Birmingham!” as The Wailers began playing one of their finest songs, “No Woman, No Cry,” to the crowd’s obvious delight. “Redemption Song,” “Is This Love?” and “Stir it Up” followed, and the band ended on a high note, with Elan addressing each member of the band by name and with solo accompaniment, then The Wailers rounded out the show with “Get Up, Stand Up.” The room was filled with exhaustion from the rigorous dancing, but also with an air of peace, harmony, happiness, and togetherness, trademarks of The Wailers’, as well as Bob Marley’s, message. The night was spectacular, and the atmosphere was electric. It was truly my most cherished concert experience. The songs were perfect, the mood was uplifting, and the all the darkness that entered the room instantly became illuminated. Bob would have been proud.

The Wailers Accolades Keep Pouring in!

Pauline Ford-Caesar (pictured above with The Wailers) has posted a great review of last week's show. Check it out here!

Audience Reviews; The Wailers Jam at the ASC

By SHERMIKA DUNNER

The Wailers are most famously known for their work with Bob Marley, which resulted in the sale of over 250 million albums worldwide.  The members include: Family Man Aston Barrett, bass; Keith “Coach E” Sterling, keyboards; Chico Chin, trumpet; Anthony Watson, drums; Chiz Roy, lead guitarist; Nambo Robinson, trombone; and Elan Atias, lead vocals.

However, they stand on their own with their incredulous talent and ability to effortlessly entertain audiences worldwide.  As a part of their Global Rhythm Series, the Alys Stephens Center welcomed the legendary Wailers in the Jemison Concert Hall, where the acoustics are nearly perfect.  The diverse crowd was hushed in anticipation as they awaited The Wailers’ entrance.

Hailing from Kingston, Jamaica, Chin asked Birmingham in his thick Jamaican accent if they were ready—and indeed they were.  The trombone opened with a deep Caribbean beat as the lead guitar lightly trailed in, while the drums and trumpet later followed.  The rhythms were carefree as the trumpet and trombone alternated solos, effortlessly moving from vibrancy to smooth reggae tunes as the keyboards and bass joined in.

A modest crowd later gathered to the front of the stage and grooved to the music.  A sea of hands flailed in the air as the audience sung along with sheer enthusiasm.  The music was very fun and uplifting.

The concert was a total jam fest, particularly when “Jamming,” “Exodus,” and “Get up Stand up” were performed.  Atias urged the crowd to get up, jump, and jam with him, which they excitedly did.  Atias delightfully bounced around the stage, hyping the audience as his voice filled the room.

Atias sung “Redemption Song” with such conviction while the audience swayed their heads and illuminated the concert hall with lighters and cell phones.  “Waiting in Vain” was concluded with a medley of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get It On” and Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to do With It,” which made for a nice mixture with classic reggae.

The Wailers exemplified how beautiful music can be as it has the ability to connect people from all walks of life.  Throughout their two hour set, a vast majority of the audience were on their feet dancing, singing, and clapping their hands.  Everyone from senior citizens, business professionals, to young adults, and even a mother and her toddler were dancing.  During those two hours, the audience became entranced in the hypnotic grooves of The Wailers.

When The Wailers exited the stage after “One Love,” the crowd chanted “more…more!”  Atias returned to speak about their participation in the World Food Program (iwenthungry.org).  Not only are The Wailers gifted, but they care about the plight of others.  Later, they performed nine more songs—quite the encore indeed.

Atias performed “Together as One” and “I Wanna Yell” from his debut album Together as One, which seamlessly intertwined with Bob Marley and The Wailers’ catalogue.  The show concluded with the band and backup singers showcasing their exceptional talent—much to the riveting enthusiasm of the audience.

The Wailers performed: “Stir it Up,” “Survival,” “Is this Love,” “No More Trouble,” “War,” “Turn Your Lights Down Low,” “The Heathen,” “So Much Things to Say,” “Three Little Birds,” “One Love,” “No Woman No Cry,” and “Guiltiness.”

And for another great review of The Wailers' magical ASC performance, check out this review at the Intercultural Post!

Lizz Wright dazzles the ASC!

The extremely gifted Lizz Wright graced the Alys Stephens Center’s intimate Sirote Theatre on October 23, 2009 with her gorgeously smoky voice. Wearing a coral dress, a black shawl, and sandals--both of which she later discarded, Wright opened the night with “Old Man.” Her powerful and multifaceted contralto rode the song well, as one could hear a yearning in her voice that effortlessly fused folk and jazz. At one point, Wright stepped away from the microphone and became lost in the music as she danced and lightly tapped her chest--something she would do often that night. Wright’s music is an eclectic mixture of jazz, blues, gospel, rhythm and blues, soul, and folk; the way she intertwines the genres are astounding. Her gospel roots could be heard in “I Idolize You,” where the organ backed her soulful voice, and the guitar appeared to “talk” back as her voice floated over the song.

At times, Wright’s voice was emotive, delicately touching the inner chambers of one’s soul and not just their ears. She took the audience on a journey through love, deliverance, and life. Her exquisite vocal arrangements were electrifying, particularly when she sung “Hit the Ground,” a song her “daddy likes” as she put it.

Wright’s voice is lucidly beautiful, raw, and has the power to evoke passion. Her performance was moving, with her voice echoing a sweet tenacity. Wright stole the show with a traditional gospel song, “Walk With Me Lord,” that she blended with smooth jazz. Her voice was pleading and hopeful as the fluidity of the organ pierced the theatre. Mid-performance, Wright pulled off her earrings as she sung “hold my hand Lord,” and reached her hand out for emphasis.

Wright’s voice is pure in its simplicity and depth, a brilliance that can only be cultivated. She sung in different registers, artfully going from low to high. Her vocal arrangements were awesome as she plaintively yearned for love and affection, which were enough to resonate in one’s heart. Wright performed “Another Angel,” “My Heart,” “Stop,” “When I Fall,” “Blue Rose,” “Trouble,” “Coming Home,” “Easy Rider,” “Hey Mann,” “Salt,” and “Thank You.”


A big thanks to Shermika Dunner for reviewing the Lizz Wright show!

La Divina del Piano

Gabriela Montero's nickname is "La Divina del Piano," and given Gabriela Montero’s classical keyboard skills, "divine" does not risk exaggeration. Not only is Montero one of the most sound interpreters of the classical piano repertoire, but what sets her apart is her ability to take a well-known piece and offer a fresh improvisational interpretation of it. It’s the kind of style that makes Montero open to taking mid-concert requests.
-The Star-Telegram

An Improv Classical Musician?

Not only is Gabriela Montero one of the most talented young pianists we've seen, she's also known for her amazing improvisational skills. We just received her program for the upcoming October 10 performance and were delighted to see that the entire second half of the program is dedicated to audience suggestions! Fun, huh?

We hope you will come out to support this exciting artist!

G A B R I E L A M O N T E R O, piano

Saturday, October 10 Performance Program

Six Piano Pieces, Op. 118 JOHANNES BRAHMS
Intermezzo in A minor: Allegro non assai, ma molto appassionato (1833 – 1897)
Intermezzo in A Major: Andante teneramente
Ballade in G minor: Allegro energico
Intermezzo in F minor: Allegretto un poco agitato
Romanze in F Major: Andante
Intermezzo in E fl at Major: Andante – Largo e mesto
Sonata No. 1, Op. 22 ALBERTO GINASTERA
Allegro marcato (1916—1983)
Presto misterioso
Adagio molto appassionato
Ruvido ed ostinato

I N T E R M I S S I O N

Improvisations on themes or pieces suggested by audience members

A Jewel of Many Colors

[caption id="attachment_505" align="alignleft" width="300" caption="Jewel to perform at the ASC Oct. 30"][/caption]

Jewel Kilcher — simply  “Jewel” to her fans — is as close to living the American dream as anyone can. When I look at this beautiful woman, it’s easy to forget that she was once homeless and performing on the streets for spare change.  Boy, what a difference success makes! Although best known for her music, Jewel has also done some acting, appearing in Ang Lee’s Ride With the Devil, and TV’s 7th Heaven, and has even published a book of poetry called A Night Without Armor. She’s a real renaissance woman for sure.

Even within her music she has explored many different and surprising styles, from her early albums of folk and country, to more mainstream experimentation with pop, dance, and urban.  As a dj, I have even “spun” a few of Jewel’s remixed hits for a dance floor. I think what I admire about her as an artist is that she’s not afraid to take chances, and even when she raised eyebrows with the racy video for her song “Intuition”  (from the 0304 album) she proved she has a sense of humor.

Jewel’s show at the ASC on October 30 will be an entirely  solo acoustic set (her first in 12 years!), so she will be returning to her roots and connecting with the audience as only she can.

A new style of classical pianist

What happens if you make your concerto debut at age eight and you are mentored by one of the greatest modern-day pianists? With luck you might become, like Gabriela Montero, a classical pianist who dares to improvise.

Quote:

SAN FRANCISCO — When Gabriela Montero comes to Davies Hall this week, she’ll do something classical pianists are taught never to do: improvise.

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="150" caption="Gabriela Montero"][/caption]

Buddy Guy: a living legend going strong

Sept. 26...I can hardly wait!

The SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival got off to a bluesy start on Friday thanks to an old friend. No, actually, an ageless friend -- Buddy Guy.

 

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Bruce Hornsby and Nanci Griffith have someone in common

Jazz News: Bruce Hornsby Busy with Music, Film, Broadway Musical

So Bruce Hornsby is very busy these days with a new recording, a Broadway show and a Robin Williams film cameo. The show is called “SCKBSTD” and on the producer’s blog I discovered that Hornsby and Nanci Griffith have someone in common. It’s producer and Hornsby manager John Scher, who won the 2009 Tony Award Best Special Theatrical Event for Liza's at the Palace.... and produced Nanci Griffith on Broadway, two of my favorites.

It doesn't get much better for jazz singer fans

Check out this short video from Kurt Elling's new Concord Jazz CD, "Dedicated to You."

The MercuryNews.com said, "Kurt Elling channels Johnny Hartman." Now we real jazz singer fans know this is a huge statement. Although Johnny Hartman waxed and waned in the mid 1960's and Kurt Elling (born in 1967) is well into the second decade of his jazz career, with nine recordings to his credit, it is quite a comparison, and well deserved. Enjoy.

The New Season is Announced!

So, how savvy were you?  Here are the answers to our season announcement quizz.

1. Loretta Lynn (Coal Miner's Daughter)

2. Bela Fleck (it's a holiday show!)

3. Bruce Hornsby

4. Los Lobos

5. Shawn Colvin

6. David Sedaris

7. Buddy Guy

8. Three Dog Night

9. The Wailers

How many did you answer correctly?

To see the rest of the super hot ASC roster, visit www.AlysStephens.org. Season packages are on sale now!

It's Free, It's Outside - What Could Be Better?

Some of my most memorable nights at the Alys Stephens Center have not been seated watching a big name performer.  Many have been spent outside in our courtyard listening to a local performer and socialing with friends, both old and new.  That's why I'm so excited about our new series called AFTER WORK & OUTDOORS.  This series gives us a chance to showcase Birmingham's great talent.

And, we encourage you to blog in your opinions and comments on these local musicians.  Let's get a dialogue going - this is your performing arts center after all.

After Work & Outdoors
at the Alys Stephens Center

The perfect way to end your day or start your night!

Every Thursday April 30 – May 21

5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Rain or Shine

FREE, No Ticket Required

Experience a different sound every week with live music by Birmingham’s best up-and-coming bands and musicians.

april 30 – chill to the poetry & spoken word of asc artist-in-residence Sharrif Simmons, while enjoying manhattan drink specials and food for sale from Salt: Fine Catering.

may 7 –  get the party started with latin beats and dance lessons from DJ Carlos & Latinsoul Productions. plus, killer margarita specials and food for sale from Saturday Gourmet!

may 14 – grab a cocktail from the martini bar, food from Little Savannah, and groove to local favorites
The Martini Shakers.

may 21 -  enjoy southern mint juleps, food from Jim N Nicks Bar-B-Que, and original newgrass from
The Jason Bailey Band.

▪  Beverages from Good People Brewing Company, Johnnygreenseeds Wines, and Morgan Creek Winery

▪  Great local food for sale from Salt:Fine Catering, Little Savannah, Saturday Gourmet, Whole Foods, and Jim N’ Nicks Bar-B-Que

▪  Ticket Giveaways

▪  Eco-friendly vendors and recycling and composting of event materials

▪  Carpooling is encouraged

Become an ASC Junior Patron and enjoy the JP Lounge complete with complimentary beer & wine and delicious food.

Special thanks to the Emerging Arts Leaders Association, Slow Food – Birmingham, Jones Valley Urban Farm, 100.5 FM, the Southern Environmental Center, ASC’s Junior Patron Board, Alabama State Council on the Arts, Whole Foods, Birmingham Weekly, Good People Brewing, and the new Live 100.5.

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