Name: MAS Presents: Camila Meza
Start: 2025-05-22T20:00:00
End: 2025-05-22T22:00:00
Location: The Savoy Denver

Get ready for a musical journey with the electrifying international duo of award-nominated artists: Brazilian pianist <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.jovisan.net/">Jovino Santos Neto</a> and Estonian bassoonist <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://liberalarts.du.edu/about/people/martin-kuuskmann">Martin Kuuskmann</a>! They’re set to launch their vibrant new album, Basoonova, recorded live in Tallinn in 2024 and released under David Chesky’s <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://theaudiophilesociety.com/">The Audiophile Society</a>.Together, Neto and Kuuskmann will showcase a captivating selection of lyrical masterpieces from Brazilian composers, delivering colorful and spirited interpretations of works by legends like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/hermetopascoal/?hl=en">Hermeto Pascoal</a>, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.songhall.org/profile/Antonio_Carlos_Jobim">Antônio Carlos Jobim</a>, and Jovino Santos Neto himself.Celebrated as one of today's foremost Brazilian musicians, Jovino Santos Neto is a three-time Latin Grammy nominee known for his innovative compositions and engaging performances.NPR raves, "A celebration of Brazilian music that is rich, intricate, and filled with life."As a former member of the legendary Hermeto Pascoal's band, Neto’s extensive discography reflects a deep understanding of jazz, Brazilian music, and improvisation, offering audiences an engaging experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. His unique sound fuses energetic grooves, rich harmonies, telepathic improvisation, and enchanting melodies, all steeped in Brazil's vibrant musical heritage.Alongside Neto, Martin Kuuskmann brings his own exceptional talent to the mix. An accomplished performer on the bassoon and a versatile musician, Kuuskmann has collaborated with notable artists across genres, infusing his playing with a unique blend of classical techniques and modern jazz sensibilities.In 2007, Kuuskmann earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Composition for a concerto by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.davidchesky.com/">David Chesky</a>, and again in 2017 for a piece by <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://theofanidismusic.com//">Theofanidis</a>.When not performing, Kuuskmann can be found teaching at the University of Denver’s Lamont School of Music, as Associate Professor, Bassoon.Together, Neto and Kuuskmann create a remarkable synergy; their innovative approach to music not only showcases their technical prowess but also their passion for storytelling through sound—a philosophy rooted in their diverse cultural backgrounds.Don’t miss this rare opportunity to witness two extraordinary artists join forces for a night of musical exploration. Get your tickets now for an immersive evening that will leave you inspired and uplifted!Downbeat Magazine hailed Kuuskmann, stating, "His performances are a breath of fresh air, characterized by an effortless command of the instrument and an engaging stage presence."

MAS Presents: Jovino Santos Neto & Martin Kuuskmann

Join jazz singer and pianist Alexis Cole for an unforgettable evening of sophisticated jazz performing selections from her 14 recordings as well as new songs. Alexis will captivate the audience at The Savoy Denver, just as she has at iconic NYC venues like the Carlyle and Algonquin. Accompanied by Denver's own Kenneth Walker on bass and other talented local musicians, this performance promises to be transformative.Renowned for her vocal prowess, Alexis draws comparisons to jazz legends such as Sarah Vaughan and Anita O'Day.A top contender in the Jazzmobile Vocal Competition, award-winner in the Montreux Jazz Vocal Competition, and finalist in the Sarah Vaughan Competition, Alexis boasts over a dozen albums on labels such as Motéma and Chesky. Her collaborations include celebrated artists like Fred Hersch and Bucky Pizzarelli, and she has appeared on the famed stages of the Boston Pops and Detroit Symphony Orchestra.From 2009 to 2015, Alexis served as the vocalist for the West Point Band's Jazz Knights. Her 2021 release, Sky Blossom: Songs From My Tour of Duty, features arrangements crafted for her by Jazz Knights music director, Scott Arcangel. Her latest album, Jazz Republic: Taiwan, The United States and the Freedom of Swing, showcases her work with big bands across borders, including original arrangements for orchestras.As an educator, Alexis led the vocal jazz program at SUNY Purchase, mentoring Grammy-winning talents like Samara Joy. Alexis founded JazzVoice.com, an online platform for jazz education, and co-founded the Virginia Beach Vocal Jazz Summit. Her newest venture, MusicAuditions.com, connects musicians with job opportunities. Don’t miss this chance to experience the magic of Alexis Cole live!

MAS Presents: Alexis Cole

Brooklyn-based Kaleta &amp; Super Yamba Band, led by Afrobeat veteran Leon Ligan-Majek (a.k.a. Kaleta), burst onto the scene with their debut album, Mèdaho, released by Ubiquity Records. Drawing from the psychedelic sounds of 1970s Benin, the album was featured on Bandcamp’s “Best Albums of Summer 2019” and showcased songs in the ABC/Hulu series High Fidelity starring Zoe Kravitz. The band has electrified audiences at the Apollo Theatre and even prompted Action Bronson to stop his own show on VICELAND TV just so he could hear more Yamba! Their dynamic performances have impressed major festivals and included collaborations with artists like David Byrne, Rubblebucket, and Yeasayer.For more information and tickets, visit&nbsp;<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="file:///C:/Users/eliza/AppData/Local/Temp/msohtmlclip1/01/clip_filelist.xml">www.maspresents.org</a>.

MAS Presents: Kaleta & Super Yamba Band

Join MAS Presents for the Denver debut of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.camilameza.com/home">Camila Meza</a>! On the heels of her performance at Carnegie Hall, Meza will deliver an intimate concert that is sure to leave you spellbound.Equally celebrated as a vocalist, guitarist, and composer, Meza has uplifted audiences worldwide with her assured and beautiful singing, highly advanced guitar skills, and vivid, melodic songwriting that reveals complex layers with every listen.Since moving to New York in 2009, she has made a significant mark on the jazz scene, bringing a sound full of warmth and clarity. Meza has distinguished herself as a member of Ryan Keberle’s, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://ryankeberle.com/catharsis/">Catharsis</a> and Fabian Almazan’s, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.fabianalmazan.com/discography/?ID=709123673">Rhizome</a>, and she now leads <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEsdtJtgqrY">The Nectar Orchestra</a>, an octet collaboration with bassist and arranger <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.noamwiesenberg.com/">Noam Wiesenberg</a>.Hailing from Chile and deeply influenced by jazz legends like <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.georgebenson.com/">George Benson</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.patmetheny.com/">Pat Metheny</a>, Camila blends her South American roots with innovative jazz sounds, creating a captivating musical experience. Camila’s acclaimed album <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/149TdVN8LYZTgFdeecThsj?si=mxYl6GwnS-O8-GUZSxA9uw">Traces</a> (2016) earned her two Independent Music Awards - Best Adult Contemporary Album and Best Latin Song for <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/track/4jZxPFYg0ekmTYVcDo45Jy?si=f24eff4ae4cb4dc0">Para Volar.</a>With an impressive vocal range and expressive guitar skills, Meza has appeared at festivals worldwide, as well as on NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts and WBGO’s The Checkout, garnering praise from The Village Voice, The Wall Street Journal, and many other outlets. In 2018, Pat Metheny enlisted Meza to perform and serve as musical director for his <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.arts.gov/honors/jazz">NEA Jazz Masters induction ceremony</a> at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., and in 2022, Meza was named "#1 Rising Star Female Vocalist" by Downbeat Magazine.Described by The New York Times as “a bright young singer and guitarist with an ear for music of both folkloric and pop intention,” Meza captivates audiences with her unique combination of lightness and depth.Don’t miss your chance to witness this triple threat live on stage as she takes you on a joyful journey through her rich and dynamic sound."Camila Meza possesses a rare gift; she excels in all departments. Her voice is exquisite, her guitar playing first-rate, and her songwriting imaginative . . . It’s difficult to offer up a comparison to Camila Meza. She really is a songbird taking flight, perhaps in a way that Joni Mitchell once did, breaking new ground without realising it, blending a gorgeous jazz-folk sound. The beauty of it is that it all just sounds so naturally effortless . . . clearly a star in the making." - Mike Gates, UK Vibe

MAS Presents: Camila Meza

<h1>Jayme Stone’s Folklife feat. Alexa Wildish</h1><h2>A Rare Colorado Performance</h2>Reimagined folk tunes, indie-pop originals, hypnotic trance music from Timbuktu, and more. Don’t miss Jayme Stone’s Folklife in a rare Colorado appearance, featuring Jayme Stone and his all-star band:<ul><li>Jayme Stone: voice, banjo, guitar</li><li>Alexa Wildish: voice</li><li>Emmanuel Alexander: bass, guitar</li><li>Greg Harris: synth, vibes, percussion</li><li>Tobias Bank: drums</li></ul>About Folklife Folklife is Jayme Stone’s groundbreaking project that transforms old field recordings into living, breathing works of art. Rather than treating these recordings as mere time capsules, Stone approaches them as heirloom seeds passed down from a bygone generation. Planted in modern soil, these seeds bloom into vibrant reinterpretations of Sea Island spirituals, Creole calypsos, and stomp-down Appalachian dance tunes, bringing timeless traditions to contemporary audiences.Jayme Stone: Musical Explorer Extraordinaire Jayme Stone is more than a musician—he’s an instigator, a searchlight, a sonic adventurer. With 7 albums and over 500 songs to his name, he brings a kaleidoscope of global sounds to life. From Gullah spirituals to indie-pop anthems, Trinidadian calypsos to Indian rāgas, Stone thrives on uncovering the world’s hidden musical treasures.His work tells rich stories of the people and places behind the melodies — whether it’s a 13th-century Bambara queen, the rugged roads of eastern Kentucky, or the shimmering Sea Island coastline. Each piece situates music within its cultural, spiritual, and ecological contexts, offering audiences more than just sound — it’s a journey.A Master Producer and Collaborator As a producer, Stone’s boundless curiosity and sharp aesthetic sense have fueled his award-winning career. His Africa to Appalachia album, a Juno-winning masterpiece created with Mansa Sissoko, connects two continents through vibrant, polyrhythmic storytelling. To bring it to life, Stone spent three transformative months in Mali, studying with master musicians, making field recordings, and tracing the African roots of the banjo. From jam sessions under baobab trees to all-night ceremonies in Dogon sandstone cliffs, his deep-dive approach creates music that resonates far beyond the notes.Acclaimed and Celebrated With two Juno Awards, three Canadian Folk Music Awards, and features on NPR, BBC, and CBC, Stone’s artistry has captivated audiences worldwide. He’s performed thousands of concerts at iconic venues like the Kennedy Center, Lincoln Center, and Library of Congress, alongside festivals like RockyGrass and Montréal Jazz. Stone has also produced 400 songs for the Facebook Sound Collection, solidifying his status as a creative force in global music.About Alexa Wildish<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.alexawildish.com/">Alexa Wildish</a> is a storyteller with a voice that resonates deep in the bones. Based in Lyons, Colorado, she weaves together the rich traditions of Americana and folk with a rare honesty that captivates and moves. From her breakout moment on The Voice (2023) to the soul-stirring performances that have earned her a reputation as one of the genre’s most compelling new voices, Wildish transforms every song into an intimate and cathartic experience.Don’t miss this unforgettable performance—Jayme Stone’s Folklife feat. Alexa Wildish will leave you inspired, enriched, and ready to explore the world through sound.Cocktails @ 7:00 pm, music begins @ 8:00 pm

MAS Presents: Jayme Stone's Folklife feat. Alexa Wildish

<h2>Join MAS Presents for an afternoon of virtuosity and passion on the accordion at a special house concert!</h2>Described as a groundbreaking artist, Hanzhi Wang redefines the possibilities of the accordion. With staggering virtuosity and a magnetic stage presence, Hanzhi is not just an extraordinary musician — she’s a passionate ambassador for her instrument, bringing its rich and nuanced sound to the forefront of classical music. This intimate house concert, hosted at the home of MAS Presents’ founder, offers a rare opportunity to experience her artistry up close, accompanied by wine, beer, light snacks, and the camaraderie of fellow music lovers.Hanzhi Wang’s accolades speak for themselves. She holds the distinction of being the first accordionist ever to join the prestigious roster of Young Concert Artists in its 63-year history. Her landmark achievements include making her Carnegie Hall debut, opening the Young Concert Artists Series at The Kennedy Center, and earning Musical America’s coveted “New Artist of the Month” title. Hanzhi’s pioneering solo album, On the Path to H.C. Andersen, marked the Naxos label’s first-ever accordion recording and was nominated for the Danish Radio P2 Prize in 2019. Her unparalleled artistry has also earned her top prizes at notable international competitions, including the Premio Internazionale Fisarmonica Castelfidardo in Italy.As both a soloist and chamber musician, Hanzhi captivates audiences worldwide. She has appeared on stage at UC Santa Barbara, Stanford Live, Bravo! Vail, and Tanglewood, and has collaborated with luminaries like mandolinist Avi Avital and saxophonist Steven Banks. With a repertoire that spans classical masterworks to contemporary compositions — many written and dedicated specifically to her — Hanzhi brings her instrument to life in ways that are both thrilling and deeply moving. Upcoming highlights include performances with the New York Philharmonic, St. Louis Symphony Orchestra, and at London’s Wigmore Hall, showcasing her dedication to expanding the boundaries of her craft.Don’t miss this rare chance to experience Hanzhi Wang’s breathtaking talent in an intimate setting. &nbsp;Only 40 tickets will be available. Whether you’re a seasoned music enthusiast or simply looking for an afternoon of inspired entertainment, Hanzhi’s performance promises to be a celebration of artistry, passion, and the boundless possibilities of music.

MAS Presents: Hanzhi Wang

<h1>Grande Orquesta Navarre</h1><h2>A Musical Supergroup with a Twist</h2>Grande Orquesta Navarre is a powerhouse ensemble of Colorado musicians, blending tango, classical, and original compositions into a sound that’s both delightfully nostalgic and refreshingly modern. Their eclectic programs span the evocative tangos of Astor Piazzolla and the timeless works of Tchaikovsky, while shining a spotlight on the imaginative compositions of Tom Hagerman, a member of the acclaimed rock band DeVotchKa.A Name with a Story Formed in 2016, the group’s name draws inspiration from the whimsical, imagined sounds of Wes Anderson’s Grand Budapest Hotel, the Orquesta Típica (a traditional tango band), and Denver’s historic Navarre building, once a Victorian-era brothel turned local landmark.Meet the Musicians Grande Orquesta Navarre features:<ul><li>Sara Parkinson: piano</li><li>Evan Orman: bandoneon</li><li>Susan Cahill: bass</li><li>Tom Hagerman: violin and accordion</li></ul>For this special performance, they’ll be joined by Nadya Hill on violin and voice.About Tom Hagerman Hagerman is celebrated for co-writing many of DeVotchKa’s beloved songs and composing scores for Denver’s Wonderbound ballet company. His works include 7 Deadly Sins, Idle Creatures, Reckoning at Red Herring Tavern, and Awakening Beauty (an adaptation of Tchaikovsky), which premiered in 2024 and featured Grande Orquesta Navarre alongside Nadya Hill and Shane Endsley.Critical Acclaim “In an era when everyone has seen and heard everything, this foursome feels fresh.” — Denver Westword, Best Chamber Orchestra 2017Experience Grande Orquesta Navarre—a genre-defying, boundary-blurring musical journey unlike anything you’ve heard before.The Savoy Denver2700 Arapahoe Street, Denver, COCocktails @ 7:00 pm, music @ 8:00 pm

MAS Presents: Grande Orquesta Navarre w. Nadya Hill

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.christhomasking.com/">Chris Thomas King</a> is an American blues musician, producer, composer, actor, and now author&nbsp;based in New Orleans, Louisiana.Son of renowned blues master, Rockin' ‘Tabby’ Thomas, Chris is a two-time Grammy Award-winning artist who has sold more than 10 million records. Chris took home Grammys for Album of the Year in 2002 for the soundtrack to <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/7gzX88qS3Vx2r87g5pbdfJ?si=t2ix-91jQcm6xrDAEPItxQ">O Brother, Where Art Thou?</a> and for Best Historical Album in 2003. He also boasts 5 additional Grammy nominations between 2006 and 2013 as well as winning the Country Music Award for Album of the Year in 2001.&nbsp;Initially known for his audacious fusion of blues and hip-hop, Chris has come to inspire a new generation of musicians through his folk blues sound, such as Hozier, Mumford &amp; Sons, and The Lumineers. Chris’ songs such as, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/track/3rlPaBlRjyNKHzJsvKV6dP?si=1aca067b670b4e4d">Hard Time Killing Floor Blues</a> and <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/track/1D3GU5vSHWsPX8Ira5gMMt?si=0fde3179b7d0426b">John Law Burned Down the Liquor Sto’</a>, have been covered by many a well known artist including blues legend, Buddy Guy.&nbsp;Chris’ latest album <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://open.spotify.com/album/19Unzw1ncj6JqxPGPBkXbP?si=yuCXSLKFQqCxRChfClR93g">Big Grey Sky</a> (2023) is an introspective and evocative journey through his own heart and soul. The album showcases Chris’ exceptional talent as a guitarist, songwriter, and storyteller and was moreover produced, performed, mixed, and mastered by Chris himself.Outside of his musical artistry, Chris is a seasoned entrepreneur. He founded the <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.facebook.com/p/The-Blues-Origin-Institute-100095247765564/">Blues Origin Institute</a> dedicated to establishing the true history of blues music, owns his own recording studio 21st Century Blues Studio, and founded&nbsp;Young Blues Rebel, a publishing company to which he signs his own artists.&nbsp;

MAS Presents: Chris Thomas King

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.arcirismusic.com/">Arc Iris</a> is a wildly adventurous, genre-blurring trio from Rhode Island founded by frontwoman, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist Jocie Adams, formerly of the Low Anthem. The band also includes pianist and multi-instrumentalist Zachary Tenorio-Miller who has collaborated with the likes of Kimbra, Clap Your Hands Say Yeah, and AC Newman (New Pornographers), and drummer Raymond Belli who also tours as the drummer for Willow Smith.&nbsp;Jocie, a trained classical composer (and former NASA technician!), formed Arc Iris as a deliberately adventurous ensemble that pulls inspiration from an incredible diversity of genres including sophisticated '70s pop, folk, country, cabaret, jazz, and more, not to mention Jocie’s time sharing the stage with Bruce Springsteen, Elvis Costello, Emmylou Harris, and Anais Mitchell.recent project, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://arciris.bandcamp.com/album/we-found-home">We Found Home</a>, their 5th full-length album, is a stunning, bold, and innovative creation; a raging river of brilliance and imagination.Also in the band’s repertoire is <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.arcirismusic.com/itmrw">iTMRW</a>, a 90-minute multimedia science fiction production that combines the music of Arc Iris’ upcoming futuristic concept album with videography and the contemporary dance theater of HDC Dance Ensemble. iTMRW is a story of love, hope, and the perseverance of the human spirit. Set against the backdrop of a world where advanced technology is both a source of and a “cure” for human alienation, cities float on islands of trash, female forms are purchased and discarded at will, and aristocrats live in a state of debauchery and despair.&nbsp;

MAS Presents: Arc Iris

<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.adamgswanson.com/">Adam Swanson</a> is one of the world’s foremost pianists and historians of vintage American popular music, including ragtime, early jazz, the Great American Songbook, and more.Adam has been a featured performer and lecturer at ragtime and jazz festivals across the US&nbsp; and abroad and is the only four-time winner of the World Championship Old-Time Piano Playing Contest. Adam made his New York debut in Carnegie Hall at the age of 19, was the only protégé of famed pianist Johnny Maddox, and at 21 years old performed a solo concert at the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage in Washington, D.C.“I can think of no better reason for doing what I do. Making people happy.” - Adam Swanson (Canvas Rebel)Wende Harston, vocalist for the Denver-based Queen City Jazz Band (QCJB), is the complete entertainer. Not only has she lent her powerful voice to QCJB since the early 90’s but she is also a songwriter, dancer, and actress. Known for her repertoire across Early Jazz, Ragtime, Swing, Old Style Blues, and Spirituals, Wende has appeared on stages at Jazz festivals across the country and at local mainstays. When not performing, Wende can be found authoring a mystery novel or spending time with her beloved parrot.In 2018 Wende was recognized by the Five-Points Jazz Festival for having made significant and lasting contributions to jazz and culture in the Five Points neighborhood and beyond. Says Wende of her music, “the good Lord willing and the crick don't rise, I'll be able to keep it up till it's time to leave this world".

MAS Presents: Adam Swanson feat. Wende Harston

The <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.teslaquartet.com/about">Tesla Quartet</a>, known for their “superb capacity to find the inner heart of everything they play, regardless of era, style, or technical demand” (The International Review of Music), is comprised of Ross Snyder (violin), Michelle Lie (violin), Edwin Kaplan (viola), and Austin Fisher (cello).From cutting edge contemporary works to established masterpieces, the Tesla Quartet’s emotive and thoughtful interpretations reveal the ensemble’s deep commitment to the craft and to their ever expanding repertoire. Not only is each member a phenomenal musician, but together the quartet leverages its powerful platform to promote social justice, amplify underrepresented voices, and champion equality and a sustainable future.Now in its 16th season, the quartet performs regularly across North America and Europe. Performance highlights include their debut at New York’s Lincoln Center, a return to London’s Wigmore Hall, and performances at Stanford University’s Bing Concert Hall as winners of the prestigious John Lad Prize honoring exceptional emerging chamber ensembles.Beyond the stage and in the wake of the global pandemic, the Tesla Quartet helped to pioneer <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://immersphere.io/">ImmerSphere</a>, an immersive, augmented reality, virtual concert experience that brings familiar community stages directly into the homes of audiences. With hope for a brighter future, the quartet premiered Jeff Nytch’s multidisciplinary work decrying deforestation, For the Trees, in 2022 and has more recently undertaken several commissioned works that speak to our climate crisis and recovery with the hope of inspiring climate action.

MAS Presents: Tesla Quartet

Praised for “combining omnivory and brilliance” (The New York Times), four-time Grammy Award-nominated violinist and composer Curtis Stewart translates stories of self determination to the concert stage.Tearing down the facade of “classical violinist,” Stewart is in constant pursuit of his musical authenticity, treating art as a battery for realizing citizenship. As a solo violinist, composer, Artistic Director of the American Composers Orchestra, professor at The Juilliard School, and member of award-winning ensembles PUBLIQuartet and The Mighty Third Rail, Stewart realizes a vision to find personal and powerful connections between styles, cultures and musics.As a soloist, Curtis Stewart has been presented by Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, The Kennedy Center, Cal Performances, Washington Performing Arts, Virginia Arts Festival, The Juilliard School, and the 2022 GRAMMY Awards, among many others. He has made special appearances with Los Angeles Opera and singer-songwriter Tamar Kali; as curator and guest soloist with Anthony Roth Costanzo and the New York Philharmonic “Bandwagon,” touring performance installations from NYC’s Whitney Museum, Guggenheim Museum, and Museum of Modern Art; to MTV specials with Wyclef Jean; and sold-out shows at Madison Square Garden with Stevie Wonder, Bruce Springsteen, and Seal. Stewart’s 2021 album of quarantined song cycles and art videos, Of Power (Bright Shiny Things), was nominated for a GRAMMY Award for Best Classical Instrumental Solo.In 2022, Stewart was named Artistic Director of the American Composers Orchestra, a national organization dedicated to the creation, celebration, performance, and promotion of orchestral music by diverse and innovative American composers.An avid teacher, Curtis Stewart teaches Chamber Music, Improvised Chamber Music, and “Cultural Equity and Performance Practice” at The Juilliard School; directs the Contemporary Chamber Music program at the Perlman Music Program; served on the board of Concert Artist Guild; conducted several orchestras and opera pit orchestras; and for 10 years led all levels of music theory and string orchestra at the Laguardia High School for Music &amp; Art and Performing Arts in New York City.&nbsp;

MAS Presents: Curtis Stewart

Robert Mirabal is a Pueblo musician and multitalented instrumentalist from Taos Pueblo, New Mexico. Among his many musical talents, Mirabal plays percussion, keys, ocarina, didgeridoo, and flute, and even crafts some of his own instruments. Robert’s flutes have been on auction around the world and have been displayed at the Smithsonian Institution's Museum of the American Indian.An award-winning musician and leading proponent of world music, Mirabal performs worldwide, sharing flute songs, tribal rock, dance, and storytelling. Mirabal was twice named the Native American Music Awards' Artist of the Year, and received the Songwriter of the Year award three times. In 2006 he was featured on the Grammy Award-winning album, Sacred Ground: A Tribute to Mother Earth and in 2008 he took home the Grammy for Best Native American Music Album.Of his music, Mirabal says, “I offer my work as a healing for the human spirit and a remembrance of why we are all here together”.In addition to the music and instruments he creates, Mirabal is also a celebrated painter, poet and playwright. He is the author of A Skeleton of a Bridge, a book of poetry prose and short stories. He has lent his words and insights to several educational and documentary films, including two narrated by Robert Redford, Silent Witness and Sacred Sites. And, he is a recipient of a National Endowment for the Arts award and the New York Dance and Performer’s “Bessie” Award for composition.

MAS Presents: Robert Mirabal

Featuring:<ul><li>David Amram, classical composer, conductor, multi-instrumentalist, jazz and folk musician</li><li>Hugh Ragin, band leader and jazz trumpet</li><li>Yumi Hwang Williams, Colorado Symphony Concertmaster, violin</li><li>Kolio Plachkov, Colorado Symphony Associate Principle Horn, French horn</li></ul>David Amram, now 93 years old, boasts a remarkable eight-decade career in music. In his early years, Amram made his mark as jazz French horn player, sharing the stage with legendary artists such as Charlie Parker, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie, and Miles Davis. He later left an indelible legacy in classical music, marked by collaborations with the likes of Leonard Bernstein. Amram’s impressive classical repertoire encompasses over 100 orchestral and chamber music compositions, in addition to numerous scores for theater and film. A selection of his notable film credits include 'The Manchurian Candidate' (1962), 'Splendor in the Grass' (1961), Arthur Miller's 'After The Fall,' and the iconic Beat Generation film featuring and written by Jack Kerouac 'Pull My Daisy' (1959).With a discography that spans over 20 records, recipient of over 8 honorary doctorates, and numerous other recognitions, Amram's contributions to the world of music are profound. In 1966, he made history as the first Composer-In-Residence for the New York Philharmonic, solidifying his status as one of the most influential, not to mention most performed, composers of our era.In addition to his impressive music career, Amram has authored 5 books and recently released an anthology of essays, “The Many Worlds Of David Amram” which includes articles by local musicians Barry Ollman, Laura Schulkind and Hugh Ragin. Dean Birkencamp, editor of and contributor to the anthology, will have copies of the book available for sale at the show.

MAS Presents: The Many Worlds of David Amram 

Drawing from his roots in the church choir, Indiana-born Quinn DeVeaux is the originator of blue beat soul, a rapturous blend of early blues, old-school country, and soul.&nbsp;DeVeaux’s songwriting is uplifting and healing with a focus on modern storytelling. Channeling artists such as Sam Cooke, Bill Withers, Otis Redding, Ray Charles, and Leon Bridges, Quinn weaves a rich tapestry of sound that evokes and pays homage to his forebears all while keeping his finger on the contemporary pulse.&nbsp; “Every so often something comes across my desk that not only causes me to pick my jaw off the floor, but reminds why I began this effort. [Quinn] is one of those rare artists that reminds us that the essence of human soul is alive and well and living, in its most visceral form, in new independent music” - Music Zeitgeist.Joining Quinn for his first performance in Denver for in 5-years are Denver musicians Mark Anderson on drums, Dave Guy on bass, and Paul Dehaven on guitar.

MAS Presents: Quinn DeVeaux

Performing in Denver for the first time is Brooklyn-based, Oklahoma-born, singer, songwriter, pianist, and cellist, Gabriel Royal.&nbsp;One of the few musicians combining cello and voice, Royal, down to his last dollar, began his career playing in the New York subway. Influenced by the likes of Stevie Wonder and Burt Bacharach, Royal weaves sonic tales through a unique blend of jazz, classical, pop, and neo-soul. To every performance Gabriel brings infectious energy, humor, and vulnerability, allowing him to engage audiences in a way that only one who nurtures genuine connection with commuters can.Royal’s 2016, self-titled debut earned him rave reviews for his soaring vocals, hum-along melodies, and lush arrangements. His sophomore release, Miss Once In A Blue Moon (2018), contemplating love and loss, triumph and failure, and the ups and downs of relationships, launched tours for him in Europe and the US. Since then, Royal has been featured on <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://livesessions.npr.org/videos/gabriel-royal-remember-us-mountain-stage">NPR Live Sessions</a> from the Mountain Stage in West Virginia, performed at Monterey and Newport Jazz Festivals, and taken the stage at top New York venues including (Le) Poisson Rouge and The Blue Note Jazz Club.Royal’s newest composition, Dust to Dirge is an original score created to accompany multi-media artwork, Earth Elegy by Ashanti Chaplin. Earth Elegy is an installation that was made in collaboration with Oklahoma community members and civic leaders as is comprised of video, aural, sculptural, and material impressions of the 13 historic Black towns in Oklahoma. “It’s a lyric-less song, like a Gregorian chant, meant to make you think and feel longing,” says Royal of his new music.

MAS Presents: Gabriel Royal

For the first time since 2014, Jolie Holland – singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, bandleader, and producer – returns to Denver.The enigmatic artist, with eight studio albums to her name, embodies a style best described as a fusion of American roots, rock, and experimental. Formerly a member of the well-known Canadian folk-group the Be Good Tanyas, Holland has been on the road since the early 2000s, more recently sharing the stage with names such as Big Thief, St. Vincent, Elbow, and Mavis Staples.Said Lou Reed once to Holland, “I could have listened to you all night”.Holland’s latest album, <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.allmusic.com/album/haunted-mountain-mw0004057347">Haunted Mountain</a> (2023), was received with great acclaim reasserting “her stature as one of the most electrifying performers on the contemporary scene” (Vinyl District). For this album, the songstress teamed up with <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/buck-meek-mn0003518712">Buck Meek</a> of <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.allmusic.com/artist/big-thief-mn0003449693">Big Thief</a> to create an “otherworldly” and “intimate” (NPR) masterpiece with lyrics rooted in discord and provocation.Holland’s debut solo album, Catalpa (2003) along with her sophomore release, Escondida (2004), established Holland as one of the nation's most important young songwriters. Her follow-up albums Springtime Can Kill You (2006), The Living and the Dead (2008), and Pint Of Blood (2011) are hailed as “transmissions from dustier times” with Holland’s voice “cutting through the din” (NPR). Wildflower Blues, her seventh studio album, is a captivating collaboration with former Be Good Tanyas bandmate, Samantha Parton, released in 2017.Holland’s authentically raw and emotive voice, as well as her ability to embody the weird and the wonderful (Wine Dark Sea (2014)), have earned her space in the studio with Booker T, Lucinda Williams, and TV On The Radio, collaborations with Hal Willner, Kronos Quartet, and Boots Riley, and Tom Waits as a fan.Grab a ticket, come early, stay late, and simmer in the haunting sounds of Jolie Holland.<a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://joliehollandmusic.com/">Website</a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.instagram.com/joliehollandmusic/?hl=en">Instagram</a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC569fPRhpkzYHvRek6XiSyA">YouTube</a> <a target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://patreon.com/jolieholland?utm_campaign=creatorshare_fan&amp;utm_content=join_link&amp;utm_medium=clipboard_copy&amp;utm_source=copyLink">Patreon</a><iframe-embed src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fGckxdZWKms?si=m3xsj0qvFxDAn6kN" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="true" height="315" width="560" style="" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed><iframe-embed src="https://open.spotify.com/embed/album/2CVC0KMuJ73P8AMLToOkuQ?utm_source=generator" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; fullscreen; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" loading="lazy" height="352" width="100%" style="border-radius:12px" metaposition="flex-start" metatype="youtube"></iframe-embed>

Music Appreciation Society

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