Category: Manhattan

  • American Symphony Orchestra Announces 2023-24 Season

    The American Symphony Orchestra has recently announced plans for its 62nd season which will feature four full-orchestra programs at Carnegie Hall and Manhattan’s Riverside Church among other concert events. The 2023-24 season will commence on September 7th with a free opening picnic concert from the symphony orchestra, titled American Expression, and will end on March 22nd of next year.

    In 1962, Leopold Stokowski founded the American Symphony Orchestra as a way to provide music within the means of everyone. That mission has been enhanced and expanded since the year of 1992 which brought forth Music Director Leon Botstein, who introduced thematic concerts to the orchestra in order to explore music from the perspective of visual arts, literature, religion, and history, as well as revive scarcely performed works that audiences would otherwise never have had the opportunity to experience through a live orchestra.

    Keeping to this theme, the 62nd season is to be littered with rich performances of select compositions from history’s choral catalogue. A few program highlights include a performance of George Frideric Handel’s Judas Maccabaeus which will be presented in Morningside Heights at the Riverside Church on December 14th. This will be followed by a rare performance of Dvořák’s Requiem in January at Carnegie Hall. On March 22nd, Schoenberg’s massive cantata, Gurre-Lieder, infrequently performed due to the unusually large number of musicians required, will bring the Orchestra’s season to an impressive close.

    Botstein, who will conduct each of the four program’s performances, mentions his excitement for the ongoing mission as he enters the new season saying, “As we prepare for our 62nd season, I am energized by our ongoing ability to renew live orchestral music as a vital force in contemporary American culture. Now that we have emerged from the major restrictions of the pandemic, the ASO continues that mission in 2023-24 by presenting large choral works that highlight the power of the human voice.”

    The American Symphony Orchestra will also be offering two free performances under America UNBOUND at Bryant Park as a part of its chamber concert series. These performances will be presenting percussionist and composer Javier Diaz’s new work Suns and Moons of a New World. In addition, the organization will also offer a digital premier of Ficciones, an immersive concert film experience featuring Roberto Sierra’s Concerto for Electric Violin and Orchestra performed by renowned soloist Tracy Silverman.

    AOS 2023-24 Program Schedule

    September 7, 7:00 PM – Opening Program: American Expressions – Bryant Park

    September 10, 3:00 PM – Kupferberg Center for the Arts, 6530 Kissena Blvd, Flushing, NY:  American Symphony Orchestra; Leon Botstein, conductor; George Antheil: A Jazz Symphony; Ruth Crawford Seeger: Music for Small Orchestra; Aaron Copland: Music for the Theatre; Florence Price: Andante moderato (for string orchestra); John Alden Carpenter: Krazy Kat

    In the years immediately following World War I, the American artistic scene experienced an extraordinary burst of creativity. Responding to the horror and brutality of the war, artists, writers, and composers rejected the ideals of the previous century, focusing instead on creating a means of expression that would reflect the realities this new age required. With jazz, many American composers found a source of distinctly American inspiration that was modern and exciting. Some of the works offered in this program reflect a fascination with the language of the Roaring Twenties and its rhythmic energy and catchy melodies. Other composers sought to push the boundaries of musical expression with ‘ultra-modern’ language such as jagged counterpoint or atonality. The experimental impulses of this generation are presented here with works by some of its key proponents.

    Tickets: Free performances. For Bryant Park on Sept. 7, no tickets or RSVP required, staff lends out free picnic blankets, provides bistro chairs, and offers a curated selection of food and drink to purchase from local vendors. For Sept. 10 at Kupferberg Center for the Arts, attendance is free with online RSVP at americansymphony.org (starting on August 10, 2023).

    September 18 and September 25, 5:30 PMUNBOUND: Free Chamber Concerts in Bryant ParkBryant Park Upper Terrace: Toyin Spellman-Diaz, oboe, English horn, voice; Shari Hoffman, clarinet; John Sheppard, trumpet; Javier Diaz, percussion; Shiqi Zhong, percussion; Pauline Kim Harris, violin; Pete Donovan, double bass; Javier Diaz: Suns and Moons of a New World; I. Preludio de la Gran Sabana (Prelude of the Great Plains); II. Mis Muertos Cantan (All My Dead Sing); III. Concierto Barroco (Baroque Concerto); IV. Domingos Álvares, A Priest of Sakpatá in Eighteenth-Century Brazil; V. Sinfonía de Cámara (Chamber Symphony)

    The ASO continues its series of free concerts in Bryant Park with America UNBOUND. The program underlines the importance of multicultural influences in the music of the Americas and presents the new chamber work Suns and Moons of a New World, by percussionist and composer Javier DiazOffering a compositional look at the American continent unbound through musical histories that emphasize the universality of sound, word, and song, the piece incorporates musical and cultural elements from across the Americas, including the use of a J.S. Bach chorale in Venezuelan merengue. It is performed by a chamber ensemble of ASO musicians and features GRAMMY-nominated Imani Winds’ oboist Toyin Spellman-Diaz. Commissioned by the ASO, the work received its world premiere at Bryant Park in May 2023.

    Tickets: Free, no tickets required. Guests will find a limited number of first-come, first-served chairs set up near Bryant Park’s Upper Terrace to enjoy an after-work respite with live music.

    December 14, 7:00 PM – Riverside Church Nave, 490 Riverside Drive, New York, NYJudas Maccabaeus: American Symphony Orchestra; Leon Botstein, conductor; Members of Bard Festival Chorale and Riverside Choir; George Frideric Handel: Judas Maccabaeus, HWV 63

    The ASO offers an alternative to Handel’s Messiah with another oratorio, Judas Maccabaeus. Set amidst the story of Hanukkah, the oratorio is a dramatization of the Jews’ resistance to their oppressors during the Maccabean Revolt. Handel’s depiction of a peoples’ triumph over tyranny is brought to life through exultant choruses, sung by members of Bard Festival Chorale and Riverside Choir and soloists. Soloists will be announced at a later date.

    Tickets: Priced at $25–$35, and $15 for students and seniors, are available on September 1 at americansymphony.org.

    January 25, 2024, 8:00 PM – Carnegie Hall, Isaac Stern AuditoriumDvořák: RequiemConductor’s Notes Q&A, 7:00 PM: American Symphony Orchestra; Leon Botstein, conductor; Antonín Dvořák: Requiem, Op. 89

    Antonin Dvořák’s Requiem (1890) is nowhere nearly as well-known or performed as the composer’s late symphonies, chamber pieces, or other choral works, such as his StabatMater. Dvořák’s Requiem is close to Fauré’s or Cherubini’s contributions to the genre in its often introspective mood, its gentle melodies and overall lyricism. The use of a four-note chromatic motif in almost all sections of the piece gives the work a feel of thematic unity. While rich in invention and expressivity, its melancholic examination of the mysteries of life and death make the Requiem more deserving of further exploration in the public sphere.

    Tickets: Priced at $25–$65, tickets are available on September 1 at carnegiehall.org, by calling CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800, or visiting the box office at 57th St. & 7th Ave.

    March 22, 2024, 8:00 PM – Carnegie Hall, Isaac Stern AuditoriumSchoenberg’s Gurre-LiederConductor’s Notes Q&A 7:00 PM: American Symphony Orchestra; Leon Botstein, conductor; Bard Festival Chorale; James Bagwell, choral director; Arnold Schoenberg: Gurre-Lieder

    To mark the centennial of its 1913 world premiere in Vienna, and more than 90 years since its 1932 American premiere by American Symphony Orchestra founder Leopold Stokowski with the Philadelphia Orchestra, the ASO presents Arnold Schoenberg’s massive and rarely performed Gurre-Lieder. Wagnerian in conception, this cantata represents the ideal of late Romanticism, with its lush, colorful orchestration of more than 150 musicians, endless melodies, and a highly chromatic harmonic language. The work is seldom performed due the sheer number of artists involved and the logistical challenges it poses. The cantata springs from a sonnet in an 1868 novella titled A Cactus Blooms by the young Danish poet Jens Peter Jacobsen, who based his prose on a 14th-century Gurre legend about King Valdemar, his passion for the maiden Tove Lille, and their love tryst at Gurre Castle. Soloists will be announced at a later date.

    Tickets: Priced at $25–$65, tickets are available on September 1 at carnegiehall.org, by calling CarnegieCharge at 212.247.7800, or visiting the box office at 57th St. & 7th Ave.

  • Hip Hop Forever Celebration Featuring Wu-Tang Clan, Mary J. Blige, and More Coming to MSG

    Hot 97 and WBLS-FM, for the first time, jointly announced Hip Hop Forever, a celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary featuring Wu-Tang Clan, Mary J. Blige, Mariah Carey, and more, coming to Madison Square Garden on Sept. 15.

    Hip Hop Forever

    Hip Hop Forever is part of New York City’s ongoing celebration of Hip Hop’s 50th anniversary, falling just one month after the Hip Hop 50 celebration at Yankee Stadium, which includes Run-DMC, Lil Kim, Snoop Dogg, and more. The Hip Hop Forever event at MSG features one of the greatest hip-hop groups of all time, Wu-Tang Clan. Since their triple-platinum debut record Enter the Wu-Tang (36 Chambers) came out in 1993, the group has gone on to release eight albums and created legendary live shows, the band’s prolific careers as individuals and especially as the most storied group in hip-hop history.

    Other can’t-miss acts to see include Grammy Award-winning singer, songwriter, actress, producer, and philanthropist, Mary J. Blige. With a track record of eight multi-platinum albums, nine Grammy Awards (plus a staggering 32 nominations), two Academy Award nominations, two Golden Globe nominations, a SAG nomination, and more, she has cemented herself as a powerhouse that can truly do it all. The best-selling female artist of all time with more than 200 million albums sold to date and 19 Billboard Hot 100 #1 singles, Mariah Carey, makes a special appearance. She is truly the template of modern pop performance, leaving a cultural and indelible imprint on the industry and the world at large.

    One of the most prolific dancehall and reggae performers, Sean Paul, will perform a set at Hip Hop Forever, as well as Tyrese, Maxwell, and EPMD. Tickets will go on sale via a presale on Thursday, June 15 at 10 a.m. ahead of the general on-sale on Friday, June 16 at 10 a.m. To purchase, visit here.

    https://youtu.be/HXsqCrHSKvU
  • Lincoln Center Announces Summer for the City

    Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts (LCPA) has announced the second annual Summer for the City, the ultimate New York festival. 

    Over three months, Lincoln Center turns its campus into a summer festival. It features hundreds of free events, thousands of artists and food from across the city, inviting New Yorkers of all kinds to come together and celebrate the city’s vibrant communities through the arts. 

    “We are blessed to be in the heart of the most diverse city in the world, and to have sixteen acres of outdoor space to celebrate the magic of this bustling global city,” Shanta Thake, Ehrenkranz Chief Artistic Officer of LCPA said. “This summer builds on a city reimagining itself—finding hope in community, and planting seeds for the future. Over three months, we welcome all New Yorkers to come dance, love, and celebrate together with long-standing traditions of social dance and classical music, and new traditions like our wedding for hundreds of couples, and a ‘second line’ processional to honor lives lost.” 

    Summer of the City Events

    Summer for the City honors New York’s multifaceted communities with dynamic new works and reimagined classics. This includes a week-long celebration of Korean cultural traditions during Korean Arts Week, the New York City premiere of Octavia E. Butler’s Parable of the Sower, the return of the BAAND Together Dance Festival, globalFEST, Mostly Mozart Festival Orchestra concerts. Furthermore, it will all culminate in a week-long celebration of the 50th anniversary of Hip-Hop with performances by J. PERIOD, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, a trap choir, and more. The summer also shines a light on accessibility and disability artistry, with Big Umbrella Day, the return of Deaf Broadway, and a series of events curated by disability artistry guest curator Kevin Gotkin.

    This season builds on the successes of last year’s inaugural Summer for the City. The event brought all of Lincoln Center’s summer festivals under one collective banner, welcoming New Yorkers back together after so much time apart. The inaugural Summer for the City season served an audience of over 300,000 on campus. More than three quarters of these people had never before reserved a ticket to a Lincoln Center presentation.

    Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts

    In recent years, Lincoln Center has expanded its role as an artistic and civic cornerstone. It hosted dozens of blood drives, food distributions, graduations, and serving as a polling place, core to its broader commitment to the city and a statement of confidence in its enduring vitality. 

    “Nothing captures the spirit of New York better than our arts, and this summer, thanks to Lincoln Center, thousands of New Yorkers will have access to hundreds of free cultural events,” said New York City Mayor Eric Adams. “Summer for the City will include performances by critically acclaimed music artists and curators and be a celebration of our city’s creativity, diversity, and, most importantly, our resilience. New York City isn’t coming back—New York City is back. And we can’t wait to see everyone enjoying the arts the city has to offer.”

    A team of curators programmed the 2023 edition of Summer for the City. Additionally, it centers artists and art forms historically underrepresented on campus and welcome wider audiences and communities. Events throughout the summer are inclusively designed. They integrate access needs with a range of accommodations for all performances. This includes ASL interpretation, audio description, live captioning, haptic suits, and more.. The Lincoln Center’s social channel will livestream select performances.

    The calendar for the events can be found here.

  • Mónica Giraldo Announces Show at Lincoln Center

    Colombian singer-songwriter Mónica Giraldo announced a four show tour with performances in Boston, Philadelphia, New York City, and Washington DC. The tour will stop at the Lincoln Center on June 15.

    mónica giraldo

    Giraldo has been nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best New Artist. She also received two Billboard Awards as a singer-songwriter. She has six recorded works, including albums such as Muy Cerca (Very Close), Todo da Vueltas (Everything Turns), and Que Venga la Vida (Let Life Come).

    With past concerts in the United States, Mexico, France, Japan, and other countries, Mónica Giraldo is an experienced world traveler. She also worked as an architect at CBT Architects in Boston as well as at other leading architecture firms in Spain and Colombia. Furthermore, Giraldo is an Ambassador of the Berklee College of Music in Colombia. Additionally, she has collaborated with Totó La Momposina and Mafalda Veiga, among other artists.

    Mónica Giraldo Shows

    June 12- City Winery in Boston

    June 14- City Winery in Philadelphia

    June 15- Lincoln Center Atrium in New York

    June 16- The Hamilton in Washington DC

  • A Look Ahead at Tribeca Festival 2023: What to Watch (and Play) at This Year’s Event

    The 2023 edition of Robert DeNiro, Jane Rosenthal, and Craig Hatkoff’s Tribeca Festival (formerly Tribeca Film Festival) began this past Wednesday, June 7th.

    This event that highlights films, games, television, and music kicked off with the premiere of Kiss The Future, directed by Nenad Cicin-Sain, with producers: Matt Damon, Ben Affleck, and Sarah Anthony.

    Tribeca Festival 2023 received a record-high of 12,000 submissions, ultimately narrowing it down to 109 feature films, 76 shorts, and over 20 interactive experiences and games.

    After viewing all that the festival has to offer, here are a few that you should check out during the remainder of the Festival:

    Features

    The Adults

    Dustin Guy Defa | June 13, 14, 16 at SVA Theatre & Village East

    The plan to make a trip back home as short as possible begins to unravel as Eric finds himself balancing the challenging relationship with his two sisters and his addiction to a local poker game.

    This film features eccentric performances from 3 actors that deliver moments of familial humor tied with touching earnestness.

    LaRoy

    Shane Atkinson | June 17 at Village East

    When Ray discovers that his wife is cheating on him, he decides he’s going to kill himself. His plans suddenly change when a stranger mistakes him for a low-rent hitman.

    This film features two exceptional performances from leads John Magaro and Steve Zahn, along with a solid directorial debut.

    Anthem

    Peter Nicks | June 11, 13, 14 at Spring Studios & Village East

    What would the national anthem sound like if it was based on American music and not the melody of an old British tune? The film follows composer and pianist Kris Bowers and producer Dahi across the country.

    This powerful and relevant documentary highlights the national anthem, whilst traveling to learn more about what America actually sounds like.

    Songs About Fucking

    James Gallagher | June 10, 11, 16 at Spring Studios & Village East

    The documentary introduces the artist, showman, and robe-clad raconteur Marc Rebillet as he embarks on one of the first live music tours after COVID-19 lockdown.

    This documentary highlights a musician’s ambitious tour right off the heels of the pandemic in an inspiring pursuit of musical greatness.

    After the Premiere: A musical Q&A with Marc Rebillet.


    Shorts

    Over the Wall

    Krystal Tingle | June 10, 13, 17 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    Brehanna Daniels, the first Black woman pit crew member and tire changer in NASCAR, works her way back from injury to participate in the Daytona 500, the biggest race in the sport.

    In this fascinating and frenetic look behind the scenes of a NASCAR pit crew member, highlighting a new generation in the athletic field.

    Voice Activated

    Steve Anthopoulos | June 10, 12, 17 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    A florist with a stutter is forced to cooperate with a voice activated car on the way to an important delivery.

    This film perfectly utilizes the short format (12 minutes) in it’s premise and comedic voice assistant interactions.


    Somewhere in Between

    Kyle Vorbach, John Horan | June 14, 17, 18 at AMC East 6 & Village East

    Two will-they-won’t-they friends are just enjoying a simple New Year’s Eve— until a man from the future bursts in, telling them the fate of the universe rests in their hands!

    This short features great special effects and is a lot of fun in a small package.

    Proof of Concept

    Max Cohn, Ellie Sachs | June 11 at Village East

    An aspiring auteur tries coaxing her dad and uncle into financing her first short film but winds up raising more questions than dollars.

    This is a very fun short film that is self-aware and true to the overwhelming filmmaking and budgeting experience.


    Television

    Full Circle

    Steven Soderbergh | June 11 – 8:00 PM at OKX Theater

    Full Circle is a limited series about an investigation into a botched kidnapping that uncovers long-held secrets connecting multiple characters and cultures in present day New York City.

    After the Screening: A conversation with director and executive producer Steven Soderbergh, executive producer Casey Silver, and cast.

    Swagger

    Reggie Rock Bythewood | June 17 at AMC East 6

    Inspired by NBA superstar Kevin Durant’s experiences, Swagger explores the world of youth basketball, and the players, their families and coaches who walk the fine line between dreams and ambition, and opportunism and corruption. Off the court, the show reveals what it’s like to grow up in America.

    After the Screening: A conversation with creator and executive producer Reggie Rock Bythewood and cast.

    The Long Long Night

    Barret O’Brien, Mark Duplass | June 12, 14 at Village East & AMC East 6

    It’s been 6 months since that disastrous night in the motel and these two guys (Mark Duplass and Barret O’Brien) are nowhere near over it.

    This is a very intriguing series that poses many questions within the first few minutes of episode on and continues on an interesting path throughout the full length.


    Games + Interactive

    Spring Studios | Through June 17th

    Despelote

    Julián Cordero, Sebastian Valbuena

    Run, pass, and dribble as eight year old Julián in this slice of life game all about football. Explore the streets and parks of Quito, set against the backdrop of Ecuador’s first qualifying run for the World Cup in 2001.

    This is an incredibly charming and quirky game that is a joy to play and roam around, soccer ball at your feet.

    Pixel Ripped 1978

    Isaias Junior, Marcus Penna, Ana Ribeiro, Rômulo Silva

    This VR game is the newest entry in the Pixel Ripped series that sees Dot once again fight against the evil Cyblin Lord, who has a nefarious plan to hack into the game creator’s past and to make himself the protagonist.

    If you’ve never experienced Virtual Reality, this is a great chance to check it out and jump into the game within the game.

    Reimagined Volume II: Mahal

    Michaela Ternasky-Holland, Julie Cavaliere

    This interactive VR experience focuses on the four immortal children of the recently passed creator god, Bathala and their all-powerful actions that create ripples throughout the universe.

    It was a great journey exploring the Philippine mythology that inspired it and the rich character narrative. The experience’s booth also featured models of the characters from the short.


    Tribeca Festival 2023
    LaRoy Red Carpet Premiere at Tribeca, June 8th 2023, Photograph by Parker Alexander
  • In Focus: Hayley Kiyoko brings “The Panorama Tour” to Irving Plaza, with Allison Ponthier

    On May 31st, Hayley Kiyoko took over Irving Plaza in the heart of NYC, igniting a firestorm of excitement and pure musical magic. This show was incredible and energetic as she played Irving Plaza for the second day in a row on “The Panorama Tour”; delivering one breathtaking performance after another.

    To make the night even more unforgettable, the incredibly talented Allison Ponthier opened her the night, adding an extra layer of brilliance to an already sensational evening. With Irving Plaza’s intimate setting, the energy in the room was palpable as fans eagerly awaited a night they knew would leave a lasting impact on their hearts and souls.

    Allison Ponthier, the mesmerizing singer-songwriter hailing from Texas, has been making waves in the music scene with her unique sound and captivating storytelling. In a serendipitous turn of events, Ponthier’s journey took a remarkable leap forward when she shared her heartfelt song “Harshest Critic” on social media platforms, catching the attention of listeners around the world. Her raw vulnerability and haunting melodies struck a chord with audiences, leading to a growing fanbase and critical acclaim.

    With her debut EP Faking My Own Death released in 2021, Ponthier showcased her introspective lyrics and ethereal vocals, solidifying her place as an artist to watch. Drawing inspiration from personal experiences and the human condition, Allison Ponthier’s evocative music resonates deeply, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts and souls of those who listen.

    Allison Ponthier Setlist: Autopilot, Hollywood Forever Cemetery, Hardcore, Crash Test Dummy, Cowboy, Faking My Own Death, I Lied, Character Development

    Hayley Kiyoko

    Hayley Kiyoko, the charismatic 28-year-old artist hailing from California, has been making waves in the music industry with her unwavering talent and unapologetic authenticity. In an unanticipated but welcomed turn of events, Kiyoko’s journey took a remarkable pivot from acting when she released her breakthrough single “Girls Like Girls” in 2015. The empowering anthem not only resonated deeply with audiences but also caught the attention of major influencers in the industry.

    Garnering a devoted following, Kiyoko continued to captivate hearts with her distinct sound and emphasis on sharing queer stories. With each subsequent release, including her debut album Expectations in 2018, Kiyoko solidified her position as a force to be reckoned with. Embracing her role as an LGBTQ+ icon and advocate, she fearlessly uses her platform to champion self-acceptance and love. Hayley Kiyoko’s undeniable talent, combined with her unwavering dedication to authentic expression, has firmly established her as a rising star, destined to leave an indelible mark on the music scene.

    Kiyoko’s electrifying performance left the audience in a state of pure euphoria. From the moment she took the stage and launched into the opening chords of “Found My Friends,” the crowd was swept up in a whirlwind of energy and emotion. Kiyoko’s magnetic presence and infectious enthusiasm had everyone dancing and singing along, creating an atmosphere of unity and celebration. 

    In a surprise moment, Kiyoko treated the crowd to a nostalgic rendition of “Determinate,” a throwback to her performance as a main character in the Disney Channel Original Movie, Lemonade Mouth, which had the entire audience belting out the chorus. As a dedicated fan named Jennifer was called out, Kiyoko dedicated a heartfelt rendition of “Pretty Girl” to her, further solidifying the connection she has with her dedicated fanbase.

    As the familiar notes of “Girls Like Girls” rang out, the energy reached its peak, with the crowd erupting in a chorus of voices, an amazing start to Pride month, and affirming Kiyoko’s impact as an LGBTQ+ icon. The introspective and empowering “Gravel to Tempo” followed, further solidifying Kiyoko’s message of self-acceptance and authenticity.

    The night drew to a close with the poignant “Well…” and the empowering anthem “For the Girls,” leaving the audience with a sense of empowerment and unity. However, the crowd’s fervent cheers and applause brought Kiyoko back for an unforgettable encore, culminating in the breathtaking “Panorama.” As the final notes echoed through the venue, there was a collective understanding that this was a performance that would be etched in their memories forever.

    Hayley Kiyoko’s show at Irving Plaza was a masterclass in connecting with an audience and creating an atmosphere of love, acceptance, and celebration.

    Hayley Kiyoko

    In terms of upcoming shows, “The Panorama Tour” has come to a close, but updates for any future Hayley Kiyoko shows can be found on socials, and her website. The same goes for Allison Ponthier, and you can find her socials and website linked here.

    Hayley Kiyoko

    Hayley Kiyoko Setlist: found my friends, luna, sugar at the bottom, What I Need, underground, deep in the woods, Greenlight, flicker start, Curious, Determinate [Lemonade Mouth song], Pretty Girl (Dedicated to Jennifer, fan from crowd), forever, Sleepover, demons, Girls Like Girls, Gravel to Tempo, Hungry Heart [Steve Aoki, Galantis feat. Hayley Kiyoko], well…, for the girls, panorama

  • BMI’s 34th Annual Summer Showcase to Feature Compositions by Upcoming Jazz Composers

    The BMI Jazz Composers Workshop will present its work during the 34th Annual Summer Showcase at 7:30 p.m. on June 20 at Symphony Space on Broadway in Manhattan. The 17-piece modern repertory ensemble BMI/New York Jazz Orchestra will perform eight compositions that were developed in the previous workshop. This event is free and open to the public.

    Broadcast Music, Inc.® (BMI) is a leader in music rights management, representing the public performance rights in over 20.6 million musical works. It helps negotiate music license agreements, distributing royalty fees to associated writers and publishers. While originally based in blues, jazz, country, and American roots music, BMI now serves all genres.

    BMI is thrilled to present the Jazz Composers Workshop Summer Showcase once again alongside our incredible directors Andy and Alan. Every year we look forward to coming together to hear the remarkable works that are composed throughout the year and to award the Charlie Parker Prize to another deserving composer.

    Patrick Cook, BMI’s Senior Director, Jazz & Musical Theatre

    Returning for his 7th year to lead the program is Musical Director Andy Farber, working alongside Associate Musical Director Alan Ferber, a three-time Grammy-nominee. Farber has written arrangements for artists such as Shirley Horn and Jon Hendricks, as well as symphony orchestras including the Boston Pops Orchestra. He currently teaches jazz composition and arranging at the Julliard School.

    During the event, the BMI Foundation will award the 24th Annual Charlie Parker Jazz Composition Prize, given to the writer of the best work from this year’s workshop as determined by three judges. In addition to the prize, the winning composer will also receive the Manny Albam Commission to create a new piece for the 2024 showcase.

    For more information, visit BMI’s website.

  • Summer Solstice in Times Square Celebration Returns

    The annual Summer Solstice in Times Square celebration will return this year on June 21 from 7:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m., featuring free yoga classes centered in the heart of New York City.

    Summer Solstice in Times Square
    Photo by Michael Hull for the Times Square Alliance.

    The tradition started 20 years ago when three people did yoga at sunrise in Times Square – two became the co-founders of Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness Yoga. This single event has grown to welcome thousands of yogis taking multiple classes throughout the day and filling one of the busiest intersections in the world with peace and calm. This year, Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness Yoga takes place on Wednesday, June 21 from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the intersection of Broadway and 7th Avenue between 44th and 48th Streets.

    It is time once again to celebrate the sun and the arrival of the summer season in Times Square with our annual Solstice in Times Square: Mind Over Madness yoga event as we continue to welcome more and more New Yorkers, visitors, and tourists to the Crossroads of the World. We call on yogis from all over the country and world to find peace in the busiest place on the planet, and encourage them to stay in our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and enjoy a Broadway show.

    Tom Harris, President of the Times Square Alliance.

    Participants of the Summer Solstice in Times Square will have the opportunity to join one of seven free yoga sessions throughout the day and visit the Yoga Village between 44th and 45th Streets, which will feature booths, giveaways, and activities. Registered participants who attend will receive a free yoga mat courtesy of event partner Peloton. For more information about the event, visit here.

    Yoga Sessions

    7:30 am – 8:30 am: instructed by Douglass Stewart (event co-founder)

    9:30 am – 10:30 am: instructed by Kirra Michel (presented by Peloton)

    11:30 am – 12:30 pm: instructed by Ruchika Lal (presented by Consulate General of India, New York)

    1:30 pm – 2:30 pm: instructed by Marco Rojas

    3:30 pm – 4:30 pm: instructed by Nyota Nayo

    5:30 pm – 6:30 pm: instructed by Joseph Encinia

    7:30 pm – 8:30 pm: instructed by Matt Boylin

  • Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin and Pitbull Announce Trilogy Tour, Stops at MSG and Barclays Center

    Enrique Iglesias, Ricky Martin and Pitbull have announced The Trilogy Tour with stops at Madison Square Garden and the Barclays Center. For the first time ever, the three artists will share the stage featuring three unique headlining sets, one from each artist.

    The tour kicks off in Washington DC on October 14. They will perform at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY, on Thursday, October 26 and Friday, October 27, as well as at Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday, October 28, 2023.

    All three artists are hugely popular. To start, Enrique Iglesias is a global superstar recognized for his musical versatility across pop and urban genres in Spanish and English. He sold more than 180 million albums worldwide, released 11 studio albums and 3 greatest hits compilations. He also headlined 10 sold-out world tours and performed in front of 10+ million fans.

    I am incredibly excited to be going on tour with my friends Pitbull and Ricky.  The Trilogy Tour will be an amazing experience for ALL of our fans. It’s going to be a once in a lifetime tour.

    Enrique Iglesias

    Often refered to as the “King of Latin Pop,” Ricky Martin is a global music icon. Throughout his nearly four-decade career, Martin has brought Latin music and culture to the mainstream, paving the way for crossover talent. His recent successes include the Latin Grammy-winning EP “Pausa” and the album “PLAY,” featuring collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Bad Bunny, Residente, and Sting.

    Beyond his artistic achievements, Martin is also a dedicated philanthropist. He established the Ricky Martin Foundation, which actively fights against human trafficking and modern-day slavery. As a Global Ambassador for UNICEF, he has provided significant support to communities affected by natural disasters. Martin has received numerous humanitarian awards, including the Hispanic Federation’s “Humanitarian Award” and the Human Rights Campaign’s “National Visibility Award.” In recognition of his contributions, the City of New York declared “Ricky Martin Day” to honor his artistic legacy and philanthropic work.

    Going back on the road with not only Enrique, but now with Pitbull it’s very exciting. This tour will be a wild party from beginning to end so get ready, it’s going to be epic!

    Ricky Martin

    Armando Christian Perez, more commonly known as Pitbull, is a Grammy-award winning independent international superstar, education advocate, entrepreneur and motivational speaker. With billions of audio streams and video views plus hundreds of gold and platinum certifications, Pitbull has one of the most impressive careers in music history. Not only did he successfully help establish Sports Leadership Arts and Management (SLAM!), tuition-free public charter schools across the country, he also is co-owner of the NASCAR racing team Trackhouse.

    Pitbull returned to the road in 2022 with the sold out North American Can’t Stop Us Now Tour along with his SiriusXM Globalization DJs packing amphitheaters and arenas coast-to-coast. He also performed for millions worldwide and even joined forces with the #1 life and business strategist, Tony Robbins, for numerous speaking engagements around the globe. This fall, Pitbull will release his next long-awaited Spanglish album titled Trackhouse.

    It’s a true honor to tour with Enrique and Ricky, 2 music icons, who broke global music barriers for our culture and open doors for someone like myself. We’re excited to take The Trilogy tour around the world and give our fans the time of their Trilogy lives, Dale!

    Pitbull

    Verified Fan presale starts on Wednesday, June 7. A limited number of tickets will be sold during a general on sale starting on Friday, June 9 at 10 am at ticketmaster.com while supplies last. 

    Tour Dates

    Sat Oct 14 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena

    Tue Oct 17 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

    Wed Oct 18 – Toronto, ON – Scotiabank Arena

    Fri Oct 20 – Montreal, QC – Bell Centre

    Sat Oct 21– Boston, MA – TD Garden

    Thu Oct 26 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

    Fri Oct 27 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden

    Sat Oct 28 – Brooklyn, NY – Barclays Center

    Wed Nov 01 – Chicago, IL – United Center

    Thu Nov 02 – Chicago, IL – United Center

    Fri Nov 03 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena

    Thu Nov 09 – Orlando, FL – Amway Center

    Fri Nov 10 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center

    Sat Nov 11 – Miami, FL – Kaseya Center

    Fri Nov 17 – Dallas, TX – American Airlines Center

    Sat Nov 18 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center

    Sun Nov 19 – San Antonio, TX – AT&T Center

    Fri Nov 24 – Las Vegas, NV – T-Mobile Arena

    Sat Nov 25 – Phoenix, AZ – Footprint Center

    Thu Nov 30 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

    Fri Dec 01 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena

    Wed Dec 06 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center

    Fri Dec 08 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena

    Sun Dec 10 – Vancouver, BC – Rogers Arena

  • John Oliver and Seth Meyers To Appear On New York City Stage In August

    John Oliver and Seth Meyers, two Emmy Award-winning comedians, will be combining their individual stand-up tours on August 17th at The Beacon Theatre in New York City.

    John Oliver and Seth Meyers

    As two prominent television personalities, Meyers and Oliver have been increasingly impacted by the Writers Guild of America Strike of 2023 which has put Last Week Tonight With John Oliver and Late Night With Seth Meyers on an indefinite stand still. The hosts are continuing to move forward in spite of the controversy and have both announced stand-up tours to last the summer.

    Oliver is a long-time participant and pro in the stand-up world and continues to perform sold-out venues across the country. He is best known for being the host and producer of his tonight show along with select appearances in television and film including Disney’s The Lion King, Community, Big Mouth, Bob’s Burgers, and many more. For his work as a writer and comedian, Oliver has gone on to receive twenty-three Primetime Emmys, five Writer’s Guild Awards, two Critics’ Choice Television Awards, four Television Critics Association Awards, and two Peabodys.

    In a similar light, Meyers is no stranger to the stage or the screen as he began his television career with “Saturday Night Live” in 2001. He has been given the title of everything from host to executive producer and has been nominated for an Emmy Award twenty-six times for his work on the screen.  In addition, Meyers was named one of the 2014 TIME 100, Time magazine’s 100 most influential people. 

    Tickets for their combined show in August have already become available as local presales began on June 6th and general sales will start on June 9th. Both can be accessed with Ticketmaster.