Carol Robbins joins opera star J’Nai Bridges and Grammy Award-winning drummer and jazz trailblazer Ulysses Owens, Jr. for Notes on Hope. This collaboration between prolific opera superstar J’Nai Bridges, and Grammy Award-winning drummer, music director, and educator, Ulysses Owens Jr. is a musical journey exploring the idea of hope rooted in the deep relationship between the voice and the drum. The program will highlight music tied to the African American experience, with works by Debussy, Ellington, Ravel, Geri Allen, spirituals, and original work from Bridges and Owens. With inspiration drawn from writers such as Lucille Clifton, Audrey Lorde, James Baldwin, and Toni Morrison, Notes on Hope is a thoughtful, melodic program featuring a full band (piano, guitar, bass and vibraphone) that provokes reflection and will leave audiences hopeful and excited about a future world that is reflective of unity, and jubilation.
“Bridges’ voice is a rich blanket of plush sound” (Opera News). “Clear, purposeful communication has anchored Ulysses Owens Jr.’s artistry since he was a kid playing drums in church” (Downbeat).
J’Nai Bridges, vocal
Ulysses Owens Jr., music director and drums
David Rosenthal, guitar
Carol Robbins, harp
Jalen Baker, vibraphone
Ted Rosenthal, piano
Reuben Rogers, bass
PROGRAM
Notes on Hope
DUPARC: L’invitation au voyage
SATIE: Je te veux
DUKE ELLINGTON: Creole Love Call, On a Turquoise Cloud, Heaven
GERI ALLEN: Skin
LOUIGUY: La vie en Rose
VALDEMAR HENRIQUE: Boi Bumba
FLORENCE PRICE: Adoration, Hold Fast to Dreams
ANDRÉ PREVIN: It’s Good to Have You Near Again
Traditional spirituals to be announced
Program subject to change.
LOCATION:
Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts GPS Address:
523 Mrak Hall Dr, Davis, CA 95616