Saturday, September 27, 2014
6:45-7:45PM and 9:30-10:30PM
International House
For yet another year, International House plays host to the Hyde Park Jazz Festival! This annual event features the finest artist in local, national, and international jazz. The full line-up of more than 40 programs can be found on the Hyde Park Jazz Festival Website. International House will be hosting Nicole Mitchell’s Ice Crystals and the Ernest Dawkins Quartet.
In late 2006, Hyde Park cultural leaders convened with the Hyde Park Jazz Society to create an annual event that would bring new audiences into the many arts and cultural venues in Hyde Park and celebrate jazz’s great legacy and bright future on Chicago’s South Side. The University of Chicago’s Office of Civic Engagement stepped up to assist this grassroots effort with both financial and staff support.
Nicole Mitchell’s Ice Crystal project explores water and glass chemistry of flute and vibes, by combining the creative flutist with young luminary Jason Adasiewicz on vibraphone. Expression of yet another color in Mitchell’s kaleidoscope of approaches, Aquarius is blues-inflected serenity, playfully swinging to the ethereal. Mitchell may have migrated to California, but her Chicago story continues, as she teams up with veteran improvisers Joshua Abrams (bass), Frank Rosaly (drums) and Jason Adasiewicz to take free swing to the ninth degree.
One of the life goals of Ernest Dawkins is for his music and compositions to reflect the evolving collective cultural memory of the American jazz aesthetic. Dawkins is one of the world’s premiere saxophonists and composers. He is an entrepreneur with years of experience working with new media technologies to produce and promote his work and that of the jazz community online and in digital venues. He is leader of several ensembles, including the New Horizons Ensemble, Aesop Quartet, Chicago Trio, Live the Spirit Big Band, and the Chicago 12. He is also a member of the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble. Dawkins has recorded numerous CDs. His publishing company, Dawk Music, has eight releases to date. Joining Dawkins on alto sax are Dennis Luxion, piano; Junius Paul, bass; and Isaiah Spencer, drums.
Free and open to the public.
Presented by the Global Voices Performing Arts Series and the Hyde Park Jazz Festival.