Cloud Tree Gallery presents the world premiere of Dreaming Hildegard, the latest collaborative work by Alex Coke and Christopher Hynes. Inspired by 11th-century mystic and visionary Hildegard of Bingen, Hynes’ paintings and Coke’s music create a world of sight and sound that is spiritual, meditative, and thought provoking. This show is not to be missed!
On opening night, Friday Oct. 11th at 8pm, MAE trio (Masumi Jones, drums, Alex Coke, flutes, tenor saxophone, and Elaine Barber, harp) perform the World Premiere of Coke’s Dreaming Hildegard for the opening of Hynes’ art show.
Opening Reception: Friday, October 11 doors at 7pm, music at 8pm Art on display in the gallery Oct. 11 – Nov. 2, 2024, Monday thru Saturday 12-5pm.
Rich Harney Jazz Festival Friday May 26/Saturday May 27 2023 TICKETS 7pm First Presbyterian Church 8001 Mesa Blvd Austin TX 78731 Join us for a Weekend Jazz Festival in memory and celebration of award winning pianist/composer extraordinaire Rich Harney. Featuring an all star lineup of some of Rich's musical friends and collaborators through the years playing his original music, these 2 evenings are a must for anyone and everyone who remembers Rich or is a fan of swingin' jazz.
Friday Night Features: The BETH ULLMAN QUINTET with Beth Ullman/vocals, Mitch Watkins/guitar, Terry Bowness/piano, John Fremgen/bass & Tom Brechtlein/ drums From New York, piano soloist SUZZAN CRAIG
ELIAS HASLANGER QUINTET with Elias Haslanger/saxophone, Mike Sailors/trumpet, Bruce Saunders/guitar, Ryan Hagler/ upright bass, and Daniel Dufour/drums
Saturday Night Features ANDY WEYL TRIO with Andy Weyl/piano, Michael Stevens/upright bass, and Daniel Dufour/drums From New York, piano soloist SUZZAN CRAIG
ALEX COKE 5tet with Alex Coke/sax and flutes, Collin Shook/piano, Bruce Saunders/guitar, James Suter/bass, and Masumi Jones, drums ...SEE YOU THERE...
Rich's books and recordings will be available along with those of many of the other artists in attendance.
“The album outlines the trio’s point of arrival, a mature work which I like to define as telepathic.The nine original compositions conceived in the form of a suite is the result of almost twenty years of writing, documented by three splendid recording sessions on disk, giving rise to the trilogy.Three distinct works that each expresses my soul, experimentation, experience and projection of thought,connected by a strong stylistic connection.” – Guido Santoni
SCHEDULE 1-13-2023 Middleburg 20:00 De Spot 1-14-2023 Nijmegan 20:30 Lux Cultuur and Media 1-15-2023 Den Haag 20:15 The Grey Space 1-20-2023 Roermond 20:00 ECI Cultuurfabriek 1-22-2023 Castricum 20:00 Theatre Koningsduyn 1-27-2023 Bodegraven 20:30 Evertshuis 1-29-2023 Amsterdam 15:00 Bimhuis
Composer / arranger Bob Zimmerman (you know him from De Nieuwe Wildernis, Süskind, his arrangements for the Metropole Orkest and the popular TV program Maestro) and percussionist / composer Rob Verdurmen (drummer of the internationally renowned Willem Breuker Kollektief for 38 years) join their musical forces and ideas to realize the R11 performance about the use of digital technology in film music.
Based on Bob’s arrangements of well-known and lesser-known film music for science fiction films from the period 1968 to the present, supplemented with soundtracks specially composed by Rob for the performance, R11 will musically translate technological developments in image and sound into a dazzling musical spectacle. Video artist Martijn Grootendorst supports the whole in his characteristic style with unexpected and unknown film material.
Bob Zimmerman – arrangements | Rob Verdurmen – compositions & percussion| Tatiana Koleva – marimba, vibraphone & percussion | Susanne Rosmolen – cello | David Kweksilber – reeds Rutger van Otterloo – reeds | Alex Coke – flute & piccolo | Quirijn van Regteren Altena – bass | Martijn Grootendorst – VJ | Wout Bremer – Aimée| Guido Nieuwdorp – sound | Saskia Bonarius – directing advice
On Chasing Horizons virtuoso Texas-based guitarist Russ Hewitt integrates a diverse palette of Latin and world music in a selection of ten original compositions that define his entire artistic career to date. The album’s beauty stems from an extraordinary synthesis of sensitivities and abilities that speaks directly to the listener’s heart and leaves an enduring impact.
Beyond the technical mastery and distinctive melodicism Russ displayed on his previous three albums, lies a genuine inventiveness he infuses to every track of the new album. The Latin-Flamenco vibe that permeates his music is skilfully infused into each song in a unique way, giving the album the appearance of a collection of hits.
In addition to a band composed of high-class musicians, the present album features a couple of famous guest guitarists, the end result being a cohesive concept where every component fits together perfectly.
The album takes off with Allende on a Spanish Rumba Flamenca note, setting the stage for the exciting program that follows. Hewitt playing is concise and sharp, building the melody with what can be called “refined clarity”.
The title track Chasing Horizons, features guest guitarist Nuno Bettencourt (Extreme) playing in full synergy with Hewitt on an energised composition with a nouveau flamenco tinge with outstanding bass work from Bob Parr.
On Vivir Libre, the guitarist shares the spotlight with Marty Friedman(ex-Megadeth), a real joy to hear both musicians interpolate their skills through dazzling solos.
Amor Perdido is a beautiful merging of guitar and strings thanks to the participation of the Bucharest All-Star Orchestra. Interesting how the symphonic dimension enhances the emotional touch of the guitar.
The contemplative Luminous features the guitarist weaving an unforgettable bright and shiny melody.
Gently swinging, Sunset Samba welcomes the guest musician Jorge Strunz (Strunz & Farah), the Brazilian breeze emerges with delicacy, we hear a fiesta of joyous spirits.
Luna is a composition of sheer beauty where sadness and joy mix together in a timeless cinematic narrative.
Cubalia Cafe with guest Ardeshir Farah (Strunz & Farah) spreads a Cuban perfume delicately fused in the texture of the song.
Serein-a nicely well-structured piece with a reflective, dreamy side with a superb arrangement.
Ending the album, Return to Simitai reveals an intricate melodic line flowing along the fusion between the guitar and the exotic sonority of the zither performed by the Vietnamese virtuoso Tri Nguyen.
All in all, Chasing Horizons is one of those refreshing albums to uplift the spirit, a real gem to delight the soul and beneficial for any music therapy!
Performing compelling music with origins in jazz, classical, folk, extended technique, and improvisation, The Alex Coke Carl Michel Sextet features musician/composers Alex Coke on woodwinds and guitarist Carl Michel. Together with Austin Symphony’s principal harpist Elaine Barber, Liminal Sound Series producer Bob Hoffnar on pedal steel, first call jazz bassist Dr. James Suter, and talented Austin percussionist Carolyn Trowbridge on vibes, the sextet will perform at the Draylen Mason Studio at KMFA on Thursday June 9, 2022 at 7:30pm.
This unique ensemble is an outgrowth of Coke and Barber’s popular weekly Driveway Concert Series that ran from April 2020 through June 2021 in response to music gigs and gatherings being curtailed as a result of the pandemic. The duo performed outdoors, socially distanced, with each member of the sextet individually in turn, appearing as special guests. Playing music as a gift to their local neighborhood at first, the project took shape as the possibilities for meetings indoors returned.
The Monday night concerts made way for rehearsals, new composition, and the formation of an unusual and very accomplished performing and recording ensemble. They released their first CD together, The Emissary, in October 2021 to good reviews and now a year after the final driveway concert, a second CD is in the works.
As a founding member of the Creative Opportunity Orchestra with many projects and recordings to his credit, Emmy Award winning composer Carl Michel had this to say : “The 6tet is a welcomed opportunity to work again with my friend Alex Coke. The “driveway concerts,” that were presented by Elaine Barber and Alex to their neighborhood, provided a way to collaborate with other musicians over the course of the pandemic shutdown. That process initiated the formation of the 6tet, a unique collaboration of instruments with some great musicians. This collaboration has opened up my palette in composition and arranging for these individuals.”
For the upcoming performance and live recording, works will include new arrangements of music by Thelonious Monk, John Coltrane, Valentyn Silvestrov, and Paul Motian with some new compositions by Coke and Michel in the mix .
One of the first jazz ensembles to perform at KMFA’s Draylen Mason Studio, the concert on June 9 is for an all ages audience. Presale Tickets are on sale now and will also be available at the door.
This performance is made possible in part thanks to The Liminal Sound Series, dedicated to the commissioning of new works and collaborations between visionary composers and Austin, TX. based musicians and performers.
“They can drift with meditative beauty or roar with passion… their collective sound lingers in the memory.” – Jerome Wilson on The Emissary at All About JazzFacebook
Alex Coke and Carl Michel-Jazz at the Draylen Mason Studio
Jazz composers Alex Coke and Carl Michel will present an evening of their own and others' works this October 20, 2021 at 7:30pm in the new State-of-the-Art Draylen Mason Studio. Home of classical radio station KMFA, Coke and Michel's sextet will be the first jazz group to be presented in the new space.
Leading an ensemble whose members individually excel in several musical genres and, collectively, create a unique and memorable soundprint, saxophonist-flutist Coke and guitarist Michel bring together a group that includes Austin Symphony principal harpist Elaine Barber, pedal steel player Bob Hoffnar (Liminal Sound Series), double bassist James Suter, and percussionist Carolyn Trowbridge on vibes.
Performing compelling music with origins in jazz, classical, folk, extended technique and improvisation, this unique ensemble is an outgrowth of Coke and Barber's popular weekly Driveway Concert Series that ran from April 2020 through June 2021. Each individual member of the sextet was featured as a special guest during the series.
The evening concert and accompanying CD feature music from a new recording, entitled The Emissary, inspired by artist Christopher Hynes, whose painting of the same name graces the CD cover.
With the reimagining of compositions penned by Coke, Michel, Paul Motian, Hildegard von Bingen, and Huddie Ledbetter (Leadbelly), and an exciting new CD to see and hear, the evening promises to be a stellar experience of art, music, and culture.
Welcoming any and all interested ears, the studio will have an open, general admission seating plan to allow for social distancing. Masks are required and all ages are welcome. Tickets are $20 or $35 with a CD. Presales are encouraged as seats are limited.
Arabesque-sounds from Alex Coke and Carl Michel Sextet From the Alex Coke & Carl Michel CD "The Emissary" Alex Coke-sax/flute Carl Michel-guitar Elaine Barber-harp Bob Hoffnar-pedal steel James Suter-bass Carolyn Trowbridge-vibes Composition by Paul Motian (Yazgol Music-BMI) Recorded July 16, 2021 in Austin TX
Saxophone/Flutist Alex Coke takes the stage in quartet at Monks Jazz joined by Bruce Saunders on guitar Michael Stevens on bass, and Masumi Jones on drums in an evening of memorable originals and uncommon standards for #ProjectSafetyNet.
The Austin Jazz Society will be awarding Alex and his Worthy Constituent, Rich Harney The Hall of Fame Award.
Alex Coke 4tet at Monks June 15, 2021 7:30p Monks Jazz 501 East Pedernales #2E Austin TX 78702
Alex Coke swings originals and standards on sax and flute with a great quartet that includes Bruce Saunders (guitar), James Suter (bass) and Masumi Jones (drums) for Austin Jazz Society’s Project Safety Net. LIVE from the new home of Monks Jazz in Austin, Texas. And…ONLINE, streaming in HD from https://youtu.be/YD_gVOtD3NU
Limited seating available for the live performance with a free archived livestream to enjoy anytime. Donations & emoji’s welcomed and encouraged!
December 5, 2019 – 21:00 Museumnacht, S.M.A.K. – Museum of Contemporary Art Jan Hoetplein 1 , Gent, Belgium FREE, ALL AGES
On the 5th of December the Ghent museums open their doors to the general public. Experience a wonderful night out amidst the finest collections, beautiful expositions and special activities of our museums. Reeds and Deeds appears at 21:00 paying tribute to the great American jazz composer/multi instrumentalist Rahsaan Roland Kirk
Reeds and Deeds Features: Frans Vermeerssen – Tenor & Soprano Saxophone Bo van de Graaf – Alto, Tenor & Soprano Saxophone Alex Coke – Tenor saxophone, Flute & Piccolo Michiel Braam – Piano Arjen Gorter – Double Bass Makki van Engelen – Drums
Liminal Sound Series and Rock Tumbler Records Present: Alex Coke Septet (Vinyl Record Release Concert)
April 3, 20198:30-10:30Museum of Human Achievement3600 LyonsAustin Tx 78702
Liminal Sound Series and Rock Tumbler Records Present: Alex Coke Septet (Vinyl Record Release Concert)
The Liminal Sound Series is presenting its first recording of original composition and improvisations featuring musician/composer Alex Coke.
Please join Liminal Sound, Rock Tumbler Records, and The Alex Coke Septet for a Record Release Party on April 3, 2019 at 8 pm at The Museum of Human Achievement.
with Alex Coke, woodwinds, samples Michael St Clair, trombone Bob Hoffnar, pedal steel Elaine Barber, harp Ingebrigt Håker Flaten, bass Aaron Allen, bass Stephen Bidwell, drums
General Admission Tickets -$10 $25 with a signed copy of the LP
Reeds & Deeds started as a one-off happening around the music of Rahsaan Roland Kirk, the striking and vital multi-instrumentalist active in the sixties and seventies. Besides being a passionate and inventive improviser (he played several saxophones at the same time), Kirk was also a gifted composer of catchy themes. Both Alex Coke and Frans Vermeerssen (who previously played together in the Willem Breuker Kollektief) once released an album with music by Kirk. Also saxophonist Bo van de Graaf is a great fan of his work and that is how Reeds & Deeds came into being, with the improvising rhythm section Michiel Braam, Arjen Gorter and Makki van Engelen. The band name is taken from Kirk’s 1964 Mercury album REEDS AND DEEDS. After the success of the first Reeds & Deeds concert in the fall of 2015, there were invitations from the Bimhuis in Amsterdam and festivals such as the ZomerJazzFietsTour and Stranger Than Paranoia. And not for nothing, because the concerts of this striking company are always driven and festive. Reeds & Deeds has combined every description that has once been attached to the concept of jazz in one design. Jazz is Reeds & Deeds and Reeds & Deeds is jazz… “(Rinus van der Heijden, JazzNow)
Jazz Ecumenica Symphonic Jazz Poem composed by Florin Raducanu
World Premiere at Minsk 2016
1. Mapamond Pictures
2. Jazz Passacaglia
3. Saints Tryptich (Tribute to Marry Magdalene, Song for St.Anthony, Awe Ave Virgin Marry
4. Sketches of M.de Falla
Florin Raducanu- piano & compositions & orchestrations
Belarusian Philarmonic Orchestra - conductor- Alexander Anisimov
special guest : Dalila Cernatescu- panflute
Andrei Kleșchev (saxofon ten.), Viaceslav Serghienko(contrabas) și Alexandr Mineț (drums
Romanian pianist and composer Florin Raducanu will perform in Israel, during the Jaffa Jazz Festival 2017.
The show that will honor the music of John Coltrane is called My Favorite Things- Tribute to John Coltrane, and will feature Florin Raducanu(piano) and Jari Perkiömäki-Alto Saxophone, Daniel Rotem Tenor-Saxophone, Tal Gamlieli-Bass, Yonatan Rosen-drums
It's
been a while since I've sent out an update. Lots in the works for my
band Tarana for the Fall. More immediately, I will be undertaking a solo
drums/electronics tour. While I've performed solo in Italy and Lebanon,
this will be the first time I'll do so in the US! I will be recording a
solo album later this summer as well.
Tour kicks off in Washington DC at Rhizome,
on the 18th, with the mighty Luke Stewart and amazing Thomas Stanley
performing later as well. 1st visit to Nashville on the 19th, thanks to FMRL Arts! The 20th will see two b2b events, a workshop in Chattanooga, TN (Soundcorps) (2:30p) and an evening concert at ATHICA (8p) in Athens,GA featuring a duet with the highly original Killick.
On the 21st, I'll be in Columbia, SC (Infinite Room), and on the 22nd, I'll be at the Mothlight in Asheville, NC- been wanting to play here for a while!! New experimental series on the 23rd brings me to Raleigh (Ruby Deluxe) and I close things out with the lovey Black Iris Gallery,
Richmond, VA on the 24th - where the carefully curated past performers
list includes Matmos, Julianna Barwick, Marc Ribot and Helado Negro for
starters..
May US Solo Tour (May 18 - 25)
HOT OFF THE PRESS for
this May tour, the Columbia FreeTimes says: "Watching Ravish Momin play
is a bewildering experience. Drums are supposed to be a non-melodic
instrument, yet as he sits alone onstage playing his kit, you can hear
eerie, spectral tunes emanating from somewhere. There are vocal samples
and looped beats flying through the air, too, but by now the average
music fan knows what a musician can do with effects and pedals to create
those elements. This is something different. It’s a percussionist
creating his own musical world, triggering electronic effects in a way
that works them into his relentlessly propulsiv
