World-Renowned Jazz & Classical Musicians Gather in Coral Gables for the 26th Annual Summer Concert Series

This summer, June 9 through August 18, in a quiet Miami neighborhood and within the Coral Gables Congregational Church (CGCC) intimate, historic Spanish-revival style setting, concert goers will have the unique opportunity to be awed and entertained by the music industry’s most-talented and revered classical and jazz figures. These artists will perform and delight audiences on the CGCC Community Arts Program 26th Summer Concerts Series season! 


The Summer Concert Series has entertained more than 62,000 people since it began in 1985. The Series has grown into a valued tradition and, more recently, part of a Community Arts Program that also provides music education to children within its Conservatory for the Arts. 


“The Summer Concert Series is a rare opportunity to hear world-renowned artists in the intimate and beautiful Coral Gables Congregational Church,” says Shelton G. Berg, University of Miami Dean of the Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music. “The Conservatory for the Arts provides high-quality music education to children, many of whom would otherwise be denied access to the wonder of music and the beauty of the artistic spirit.”  

2011 Summer Concert Series Line Up:

June 9 - The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra

The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra

The Count Basie Orchestra is hailed as an American invention of the 20th century, and its sound is the "modern art" of music.  Today, the majority of its sound still swings from musicians hand-picked by Count Basie.  Join us for a very special evening with the Count Basie Orchestra, directed by Dennis Mackrel, and special guest vocalist Carmen Bradford. The Count Basis Orchestra appears under exclusive license of the William J. Basie Trust.


June 23 - James Ehnes, Violinist
James Ehns is hailed as "the Jascha Heifetz of our day,” and widely considered to be one of the most dynamic and exciting performers in classical music.  


July 7 - David Leisner, Guitarist
David Leisner is co-chair of the guitar department at the Manhattan School of Music and regarded as one of the world's leading classical guitarists, an extraordinarily versatile musician, electrifying performing artist, distinguished composer, recording artist and master teacher.  

Glen David Andrews

July 21 - Glen David Andrews 
Glen David Andrews is touted as one of the giant talents of New Orleans.  In his early-thirties, Glen David has a lanky, six-foot-four-inch body and a mercurial personality that touts his greatest loves: the brass-band music and traditional jazz on which he was raised.  


August 4 - The Shannon Powell Quartet Featuring Jason Marsalis and Steve Masakowski 
Shannon Powell is one of the most sought after drummers and percussionists in the world. His powerful technique is steeped in the drum beats that emanate from the streets of New Orleans and from his early influences that include neighbor James Black, Ellis Marsalis and the men at Preservation Hall.   


August 18 - Marlena Shaw, vocalist

Marlena Shaw

After becoming the first female vocalist ever signed by the Blue Note label, Marlena Shaw toured extensively with Sammy Davis Jr. and as a featured singer with the Count Basie Orchestra.  Ms. Shaw remains a true original, one of the most charismatic and versatile vocalists in the business, blurring the lines that separate jazz, soul, rock, pop and R&B.  


“We are very excited to again present a diverse and world-class line up of artists,” says Mark Hart, Executive & Artistic Director of the CGCC Community Arts Program. “It’s an honor to welcome concert goers from across the state and as far away as Europe, and rewarding to see the growth of our music education program for kids!  In all, we’ve come to provide exceptional cultural and educationally-enriching experiences for more than 3,000 children and adults each year!”


Order now; concerts sell out quickly! All concerts are Thursdays at 8:00 p.m. Free and convenient parking is available.  


INDIVIDUAL GENERAL ADMISSION TICKETS: $30 each in advance, $35 each at the door (based on availability).  


INDIVIDUAL PATRON TICKETS: $45 each in advance; $50 each at the door (based on availability). (Individual Patron tickets include reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows and catered pre-concert receptions.) Series Tickets First priority is given to Series ticket holders.


PATRON SERIES: $240 (Save $30 and receive prime seating to all concerts!  Patron Series includes opening night gala reception, reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows, and catered pre-concert gatherings.)


MINI-PATRON SERIES: $170 (Save $10 and receive prime seating to four concerts! Choose four concerts. Mini-Patron Series includes opening night gala reception, reserved general seating within the first 5-8 rows, and catered pre-concert gatherings.)


Order tickets by calling 305-448-7421, Ext. 153. Visa and MasterCard are accepted. For instant processing and confirmation order tickets quickly, safely and conveniently on line anytime at www.communityartsprogram.org.   


The oral Gables Congregational Church is located at 3010 De Soto Boulevard (directly across from the Biltmore Hotel and five miles from Miami International Airport) in Coral Gables.


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Village of Merrick Park Hosts "Family Day"

Village of Merrick Park invites you and your family for an afternoon of shopping and fun on Saturday, April 9, from 2-5pm, at The Garden in Village of Merrick Park, 358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables.

Enjoy family-friendly activities including:

* Scavenger hunt, create your own shopping bag, face painting, balloon artistry, stilt-walker and an interactive kids DJ.

* Raffle to benefit the Children's First Society for the University of Miami Pediatrics -- A foundation dedicated to supporting the treatment and prevention of illnesses in children throughout South Florida and beyond.

* Visit participating merchants during event hours for special offers and activities:

Anthropologie: Plant potting celebration of Earth Day

Borders: Storybook reading at 3:30pm

Gymboree Play & Music: Create your own children's ID cards

Pottery Barn Kids: Easter baskets* and Easter bunny drawing contest (*While supplies last)

Please also visit Babycottons, Edward Beiner, Benetton 012 and Bognar & Piccolini for in-store promotions!

For more information please contact 305-529-0200 or visit the event website.

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University Of Miami Wynwood Project Space Presents Brian Gefen's 'Development of Power vs. Untitled Creatures'

The Department of Art and Art History, in the College of Arts and Sciences at the University of Miami presents the Master of Fine Arts exhibition by contemporary artist, Brian Gefen, beginning March 12, 2011.

The exhibition titled, “Development of Power vs. Untitled Creatures” is a progressive series of narrative artwork that grasps ideas out of various 20th century artists to create an endless graphic narrative. The exhibition will be available for viewing from March 12-25 at the University of Miami Wynwood Project Space, 2200-A N.W. 2 Ave., Miami.

Brian Gefen

Potato site 3, 2010

Acrylic Paint and Mixed Medium

40 x 30

The theme of the exhibition, "Development of Power vs. Untitled Creatures," demonstrates a conflicting mythical world in which characters battle one another for food and the basic amenities of life. The mythical world exposes a system of nobility, featuring King Steamer and Queen Tatiana Dee Dee.  Untitled Creatures is tribal, with leaders such as Doyleox, Helmet Jack and Hixon.

"Development of Power" controls the food and weapons which are heavily guarded by the security farmers who are constantly on alert because the opposing, Untitled creatures, lurk around the land in an attempt to steal food.  The two groups cannot agree on anything and as a result tension grows. This discord is displayed through Brian Gefen’s series of paintings in "Development of Power vs. Untitled Creatures."

Aesthetically, Brian Gefen’s painting surfaces are visually flat but complimented by many strongly contrasting color combinations and lively characters illustrating events in the ongoing, unfolding artistic drama of "Development of Power vs. Untitled Creatures." Gefen uses an array of mixed media which include acrylic paint, spray paint, markers, photos, computer printouts and vinyl stickers. 

For more information regarding the artist, email bgefen@aol.com. A full schedule of exhibitions can be viewed at www.as.miami.edu/art. In celebration of the exhibition opening, there will be a reception for the artist on Saturday, March 12, from 6-10 pm. Other viewing times can be arranged by appointment. 

For more information about the exhibition or Wynwood Project Space, call (305) 284-3161 or email m.cardoso1@miami.edu.

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Friends Of Art Of The Um Lowe Art Museum Present “Spring Into Art – America!”

Spring Into Art, the annual silent art auction presented by Friends of Art UM Lowe Art Museum (1301 Stanford Drive, Coral Gables) will be held March 11 at 7 pm. It will be an evening rich in the talent that comprises the contemporary American and Miami Art Scene. More than 50 original works of art in all types of media put the finishing touch to the donations to this year’s cocktail party and auction. The event is $125 per person. All proceeds from the evening benefit the Lowe Art Museum.

Ruben Torres-Llorca "Untitled"

Eighteen of Miami’s nationally- and internationally-acclaimed artists are contributing pieces to celebrate their interpretations of this year’s theme, “America!” The artists are: Ruben Torres-Llorca, Carlos Alves, Susan Banks, Jose Bedia, Carlos Betancourt, Martin Casuso, Joyce Chadroff, Xavier Cortada, Mark Diamond, Edouard Duval-Carrié, Sheila Elias, Lidia Godoi, Karl Hollinger, Ruben Torres Llorca, Aramis O’Reilly, Ralph Provisero, George Rodez, Donna Underwood, and Tom Weinkle.

And for the first time, Wynwood galleries are supporting the Lowe with donations of the works of eight of their artists, including Jorge Luis Santos, (Pan American Art Projects); Erni Vales, (EVL WORLD); Patricia S. Gutierrez , (Bakehouse Art Complex); Maxine Spector, Sara Rytteke, Alette Simmons-Jimenez, Natasha Duwin, (Artformz). Dina Mitrani Gallery will donate the photography of one of its artists, as well. Emerging and established artists from throughout the Miami and International Art Scene will also contribute, among them are: Venezuelan artist Cristina de Guillot, Betty and Richard Pober, as well as artists and students from the New World School of the Arts.

This year's Spring Into Art theme is "America!"

At the close of the silent auction, SeaDream Yachts will auction off a seven-night Mediterranean yacht voyage. This Live Auction will take place while desserts and coffee are served. This five-star yacht cruise company is generously donating and conducting the yacht cruise auction for the benefit of the Lowe for the first time. A performance by the New World School of the Arts Barbershop Quartet will round out the celebration of “America!”


Selected works in the silent auction can be previewed before the event at the Friends of Art website: www.friendsoflowemuseum.cfsites.org

For more information and tickets call 305-284-6756 or e-mail FriendsofArt@miami.edu.


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Beaux Arts Festival of Art Celebrates 60th Anniversary Jan. 8-9, 2011

Miami's Oldest Juried Fine Arts Show Offers Art for A Variety of Budgets, Children's Art Experiences, Food and Entertainment for the Entire Family

The 60th annual Beaux Arts Festival of Art will bring 240 fine artists to the grounds of the Lowe Art Museum on the University of Miami campus Jan. 8-9, 2011.

A signature event on the South Florida cultural circuit, the Beaux Arts Festival of Art offers visitors the opportunity to meet exhibiting artists, sample fine cuisine and enjoy live entertainment. Kids too can enjoy the family zone, with special entertainment and a "Children's Art Activity Area" where kids 4-12 can make arts and crafts for free. In honor of the 60th anniversary, the festival will launch a children's coloring book featuring important works from the Lowe's world collections. For example, gracing the cover of "Color the Lowe Art Museum" is a work by renowned glass artist William Carlson. Children who attend the festival will receive a copy of the book to color, as will the 500 kids who visit the Lowe each year thanks to festival organizer and volunteer group Beaux Arts. "Like the festival, the coloring book is one more way to draw attention to the Lowe’s cultural importance to this community," said Morgan Smith, Beaux Arts president.

Recognized as one of the top-rated outdoor exhibits of museum-quality fine art, the festival attracts thousands of people annually, offers works in 10 mediums for a variety of budgets. This year, artists hail from 30 states plus Canada and Israel. Admission and parking are free. Proceeds benefit the Lowe Art Museum, which will be open to the public all weekend.

The festival was originally called the "Clothesline Sale," as Beaux Arts volunteers used clotheslines to display the works of local artists in front of the Lowe. Nearly six decades later, the festival has evolved and is considered one of the top outdoor fine art shows in the country.

The festival also presents the annual Student Artist Showcase, featuring more than 100 pieces from Miami-Dade middle and high school students on display inside the Lowe. A portrait by Best in Show Winner Fernando Ramos, an 11th grader from the Academy of Arts and Minds Charter School graces the festival's poster. A celebration honoring the student art will take place at 6pm, Thursday, January 6, at the Lowe.

About Beaux Arts
Founded in 1952, Beaux Arts is a volunteer group comprised of 100 women dedicated to promoting and funding the Lowe Art Museum at the University of Miami. All funds raised help the Lowe expand its collection and provide programming - including bringing 500 Miami-Dade students to the museum on field trips each year. For more, visit the website or follow on Facebook.

Beaux Arts Festival of Art
Grounds of the Lowe Art Museum
1301 Stanford Dr.
Coral Gables, FL 33146
Ph: 305.898.3595
www.beauxartsmiami.org

Festival Miami 2010 Celebrates Its 27th Season with Spectacular Shows

One Month, 20 Musically-Diverse Concerts 

From jazz greats and Motown legends to emerging new singers and songwriters, Festival Miami is the place to be for Miami music lovers in October. Once again, the community is invited to partake in all that Festival Miami has to offer - from world premieres and symphonic concerts, to chamber music presentations and jazz performances. Expect the extraordinary and prepare to be amazed at Festival Miami 2010!


The 2010 season is scheduled to run though October 30. The 27th season of Festival Miami features 20 concerts over a four-week period. Each concert will fall under one of four unique themes: "Great Performances," "Jazz and Beyond," "Creative American Music," and "Music of the Americas."

Matt Wilson Quartet

The Festival Miami Advance Ticket Sales Office phone number is 305-284-4940. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9am-9pm, Sat.-Sun., 10am-6pm.  For a complete listing of concerts and to order tickets online visit www.festivalmiami.com or email festivalmiami.music@miami.edu for additional information. All performances are held at the Maurice Gusman Concert Hall, located at the Phillip and Patricia Frost School of Music, 1314 Miller Drive, on the University of Miami's Coral Gables Campus (unless otherwise noted). For more information on the Frost School of Music, visit www.music.miami.edu.


Festival Miami Schedule
Tuesday, October 12, 8 PM
FORM AND FRACTURES
New Compositions by the Faculty of the Frost School of Music 
If you've never been to a concert featuring works by the award-winning Frost composition faculty, this is the year to expand your horizons.  Organizations around the country commission their work every year, and the reason is simple: they are excellent.  Dennis Kam, Lansing McLoskey, Scott Stinson, and new Frost faculty Charles Mason will showcase their accessible contemporary works that have form, substance, and a definite sense of fractured humor. FREE; Seating: General Admission



Wednesday, October 13, 8 PM
ESSENCE OF EXPRESSION
The Inventive Sunny Wilkinson Sings New and Timeless Favorites with the Award-Winning Frost Jazz Vocal 1 Ensemble 
Described as ‘mischievous' and ‘flexible,' jazz vocalist Sunny Wilkinson brightens every concert stage that she graces with her beautiful voice and jazz interpretations of the great American songbook.  This concert features Sunny Wilkinson with our very own 2010 Downbeat College Winners, the Frost Jazz Vocal 1 Ensemble, directed by the legendary Larry Lapin.  Sunny Wilkinson performs nationwide as a solo jazz artist as well as a guest artist appearance with big bands and jazz vocal ensembles. 
Section A - $30 Section B - $25 Section C - $20


Thursday, October 14, 8 PM
¡CELEBRACIÓN!
Experience the Excitement of the Gabriel Alegría Afro-Peruvian Jazz Sextet
Trumpeter and composer Gabriel Alegría presents a unique form of World Jazz that combines his distinctive approach to the jazz trumpet with the rich heritage of Afro-Peruvian music. The Gabriel Alegría Afro-Peruvian Sextet features saxophonist Laura Andrea Leguía; acoustic guitarist Yuri Juárez; bassist Ramón De Bruyn, drummer Shirazette Tinnin and master percussionist Freddy "Huevito" Lobatón, who plays the traditional Afro-Peruvian instruments cajón (box drum) and quijada (jaw bone) and adds spectacular passages of zapateo dancing to each performance. Good grooves abound!  Afro-Peruvian style is the newest musical voice to come from Latin America and Festival Miami is bringing it to YOU! Section A - $30 Section B - $25 Section C - $20


Friday, October 15, 8 PM
TIMELESS TITANS
Pianist Santiago Rodriguez Plays the Music of Sergei Rachmaninoff and Other Musical Titans 
Faculty artist Santiago Rodriguez has been described as "a phenomenal pianist" (The New York Times) and "among the finest pianists in the world" (The Baltimore Sun). He recently recorded the complete piano works of Rachmaninoff and will perform selected great works of this amazing musical titan, plus others. Santiago Rodriguez joined the faculty of the Frost School of Music one year ago, inspired by the exciting undergraduate curricular changes that are happening in the School and by the special camaraderie between its faculty and students.  A ‘Pedro Pan' child who ended up in an orphanage in New Orleans, his determination and talent led him to the Van Cliburn competition, where he won the Silver Medal at the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition in 1981. Presented with the Miami Civic Music Association. Section A - $40 Section B - $30 Section C - $20


Saturday, October 16, 8 PM
SIZZLING HOT SWING
Sensational Mark O'Connor and His Hot Swing Put "Le Jazz Hot" on Steroids 

When violinist Mark O'Connor released his Hot Swing! CD in 2001, which was a tribute to his great friend and mentor, the legendary French jazz master, Stephane Grappelli, the Chicago Tribune called it "one of the finest discs of his career and one of the greatest jazz violin albums ever." The ensuing Hot Swing CD, Live in New York, received similar praise. Festival Miami is proud to present Mark O'Connor's Hot Swing with guitarists Frank Vignola and Julian Lage, and bassist Gary Mazzaroppi. Mark O'Connor is the 2010-2011 artist-in-residence at the Frost School of Music. Section A - $50 Section B - $40 Section C - $20



Sunday, October 17, 6 PM
STRING QUAR TÊTE-A-TÊTE
Renowned Bergonzi String Quartet Meets the Stamps String Quartet in their Debut Performance 
Bergonzi String Quartet members Glenn Basham, Scott Flavin, Pamela McConnell and Ross Harbaugh perform some of their favorite string quartet repertoire; then will have the pleasure of introducing the Stamps String Quartet, outstanding freshman string artists who are receiving scholarship support from the Stamps Family Charitable Foundation. $20 Adults/$10 Students; Seating: General Admission


Tuesday, October 19, 8 PM
WIND ENSEMBLE HEATWAVE
The Frost Wind Ensemble with soprano Amy Burton performs spine-tingling music by John Corigliano—and premieres an exciting new composition by Mason Bates 
The Frost Wind Ensemble, with soprano Amy Burton (described as ‘lustrous' by the New York Times) performs a multi-leveled and adventurous wind ensemble orchestration of John Corigliano's Grammy award-winning Mr. Tambourine Man: Seven Poems of Bob Dylan, a deconstructive orchestral song cycle that pays homage to the iconic ‘60s singer-songwriter. In this work, Corigliano composed new music to Dylan's emotionally charged and poetic lyrics, much like Brahms did with Goethe in his day. Conducted by Gary Green, the music ranges from gorgeously melancholy, to gut-jolting and wild.
Section A - $30 Section B - $25 Section C - $20


Wednesday, October 20, 8 PM
NEW TRANSITIONS
Emerging Young Composers Showcase their Latest Works 
The Frost School of Music's Department of Theory and Composition hosts their annual Young Composers Showcase, featuring new works by talented up-and-comers that incorporate both acoustic and electronic instruments, inspired by thought-provoking and timeless observations on transitions in life. Location: Clarke Recital Hall in the Weeks Recording and Performance Center. FREE; Seating: General Seating


Thursday, October 21, 8 PM
INSPIRED IMPROVISATION
Matt Wilson Quartet Pairs Up with the Stamps Jazz Quintet in an All-Out Jazz Fest 
The New-York-based Matt Wilson Quartet is a mainstay at such popular jazz festivals as the Newport Jazz Festival and the Monterey Jazz Festival.  At Festival Miami, Andrew D'Angelo (alto and baritone saxes) Jeff Lederer (tenor and soprano saxes), Chris Lightcap (acoustic and electric bass) and Matt Wilson (drums) will share the stage with the Stamps Jazz Quintet, outstanding sophomores at the Frost School of Music. Wrapping up a series of private master classes together, both groups will share their music in a no-holds-barred concert that is sure to please. Section A -$50; Section B-$40; Section C-$25


Friday, October 22, 8 PM 
DANCE, GLORIOUS DANCE
The Momentum Dance Company Showcases Modern and Historic Dance Repertory 
Directed by Delma Iles

One of the most established contemporary dance companies in the Southeastern USA, the Momentum Dance Company is celebrating its 28th year with over 40 performances, including this very special appearance at Festival Miami.  Join us for an amazing night of modern dance featuring eight stunning dancers, beautifully choreographed works by celebrated modern dance pioneers, plus such new works directed by Delma Iles - Cobia, Negotiation, Obanamomics, and Requiem - capped off by a mesmerizing dance choreographed to the composition Window by Frost School of Music faculty Dennis Kam, inspired by paintings of Miro. Section A - $40 Section B - $30 Section C - $20


Saturday, October 23, 8 PM
MAMBO!
Tiempo Libre Pays Tribute to Beloved Cuban Big Bands and the Music of their Heritage 
Three-time Grammy-nominated Tiempo Libre is one the hottest young Latin bands today. Tiempo Libre's members were all classically trained at La ENA, Cuba's premiere conservatory during the "Special Period" in Cuba. Today, the group is a hit in the U.S. and abroad, celebrated for its incendiary, joyful performances of timba, an irresistible, dance-inducing mix of high-voltage Latin jazz and the seductive rhythms of son. This concert is dedicated to the era of Cuban big band, with works by Xavier Cugat, Beny More, Perez Prado, and Chano Pozo/Dizzy Gillespie; it will also feature traditional Cuban music (cha-cha-chas, sones and congas) arranged especially for Tiempo Libre and orchestra. They will perform with the Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra and Big Band. 
Sec. A-$50; Sec. B-$40; Sec. C-$20


Sunday, October 24, 3 PM
TROUT FISHING IN AMERICA
Grammy Nominated Kids-Duo Performs Selections from ‘My Name is Chicken Joe' and Other Favorites 
Four-time Grammy nominees, Trout Fishing in America is the long-standing musical partnership of Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet. The name, taken from a Richard Brautigan novel, seems almost as incongruent as a picture of this musical duo - Ezra Idlet (guitar) stands six feet nine inches and Keith Grimwood (bass), five feet five and one half inches. What is more intriguing is the musical career these two have carved out in three decades of writing, recording and performing together.  The Los Angeles Times describes the duo as "…some of the most lyrically creative, musically sophisticated, vocally muscular music-makers in the family music business." Sponsored in part by Sunday Afternoons of Music. $12 Adults/$10 Children 2-12 years old


Sunday, October 24, 8 PM
TRUMPET VIRTUOSO ARTURO SANDOVAL
World Premiere of Rivera's Concierto de Miami with the Miami Symphony Orchestra at the Knight Concert Hall at the Adrienne Arsht Center 

Festival Miami pairs up with the Miami Symphony Orchestra to present great trumpet legend Arturo Sandoval. The program will include Beethoven's Symphony No. 7 in A major; the world premiere of the Rivera's Concierto de Miami for Trumpet and Orchestra featuring Arturo Sandoval, and Ravel's Bolero. Arturo Sandoval can burn through an Afro-Cuban groove, tear up a bebop tune, soar over a Mozart concerto and sooth you with a luscious ballad; with equal power and grace.  He was a protégé of the legendary jazz master Dizzy Gillespie. He began studying classical trumpet at the age of 12, and has evolved into one of the world's most acknowledged guardians of jazz trumpet and flugel horn, as well as a renowned classical artist, pianist and composer. 
Golden Ticket - $150; Section A - $75 Section B - $65 Section C - $50 Section D - $20' To purchase tickets for this event, please visit www.themiso.org or call 305-275-5666


Tuesday, October 26, 8 PM
TOUR DE FORCE
The Frost Chamber Players Present Virtuosic Works by Celebrated Composers 
The Frost Chamber Players are faculty virtuosi who delight in playing chamber music together.  Join Pamela McConnell, artistic director, and Richard Todd, new French horn faculty, for an evening that will refresh and renew your senses. You'll hear Saint-Saëns Septet for strings, piano, and trumpet; Poulenc Trio for oboe, bassoon and piano; Caliendo Sonata for Horn and Piano; and the striking Dohnanyi Sextet for strings, clarinet, horn, and piano. Featured faculty artists to include the Bergonzi String Quartet, Craig Morris (trumpet), Richard Todd (French horn), Robert Weiner (oboe), Margaret Donaghue (clarinet), Luciano Magnanini (bassoon), and Shelton Berg (piano). $20 Adults/$10 Students; Seating: General Admission


Wednesday, October 27, 8 PM
NEW SONGWRITING SENSATIONS
The Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music Program Showcases New Songs and Fresh Faces 
One of the most popular Festival Miami tickets every year is our annual Songwriters Showcase presented by the Bruce Hornsby Creative American Music Program, with a panel of judges personally selected by the celebrated Frost alum, Bruce Hornsby.  Come out and support our stellar songwriting students, and treat yourself to an evening of fresh and youthful new music. The winning songwriter gets to open the concert the following night. Get your tickets for both events now! FREE; Seating: General Admission


Thursday, October 28, 8 PM
STOP! IN THE NAME OF LOVE
A Rock-n-Roll Celebration of the Greatest Songs of Lamont Dozier, the #1 Songwriter in America 
If you love music by The Supremes, The Four Tops, Marvin Gaye, and Smokey Robinson and The Miracles, then you simply must attend this hit-filled concert featuring the Motown era songs of Lamont Dozier …and meet the songwriter himself who penned 54 number one hits! You'll be singing along to such favorites as Baby Love, Sugar Pie, Honey Bunch; Baby I Need Your Loving; Stop! In the Name of Love; Back in My Arms Again; Come See About Me, Where Did Our Love Go and Give Me Just a Little More Time. Lamont Dozier's music is in your heart; now you'll see and hear him share the stage of UM Gusman Concert Hall with students from the Frost American Music Ensemble.
Section A - $60 Section B - $50 Section C - $25


Friday, October 29, 8 PM
FLUTE JOURNEY
Amazing Nestor Torres Explores a Rainbow of Musical Colors Ranging from Baroque to Big Band, Latin to Fantasy 
Nestor Torres, flute, performs an ambitious program with Frost students from the Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra ranging from the timeless Pergolesi Flute Concerto in G (a Baroque concerto for flute, strings and harpsichord), the ever-popular Ibert Flute Concerto, to exciting works accompanied by Latin rhythm section such as El Condor Pasa, Vuelvo Al Sur and Soñando Con Puerto Rico.  His program closes with Tiger Tales and (Somewhere) Over the Rainbow with the Mancini Institute Orchestra and Big Band.  Don't miss this incredible concert, featuring the spell-binding flautist Nestor Torres, conducted by HMI resident conductor, Scott Flavin. Section A - $60 Section B - $50 Section C - $25


Saturday, October 30, 8 PM
GIANTS OF JAZZ SALUTE
Wycliffe Gordon and Frost Concert Jazz Band, Salute the Giants of Jazz in Festival Miami's Grand Finale Concert 

Wycliffe Gordon, jazz trombone and vocals, combines unbelievable virtuosity with incredible stage presence and a deep knowledge of the history of jazz.  The combination always makes for an exciting and entertaining night of music. Join the Frost Concert Jazz Band (Downbeat College Winners 2010), directed by Dante Luciani, and guest artist Wycliffe Gordon (Trombonist of the Year, Jazz Journalists Association, 2001-2002, 2006-2008) for a rousing closing concert that salutes the giants of jazz, and introduces the next generation of jazz greats! This one will sell out quickly; order tickets right away. 
Section A - $85* Section A - $65** Section B - $50 Section C - $25
*Concert, VIP Seating and Reception
**Concert Only

Festival Miami has set a precedent over the last 26 years by providing a month-long series that contains a blend of artistically and culturally diverse music and educational opportunities.  The festival offers 20-30 concerts each season, providing for people of all ages and income levels the chance to be enriched by live musical performances. It is unrivaled in its scope of musical presentations and is known throughout South Florida, the U.S., and the international community for its cultural contributions.  In its last two seasons, more than 24,000 music patrons attended Festival Miami performances.  Since its inception two decades ago, Festival Miami has presented performers from six continents, including concerts by artists from Argentina, Poland, Brazil, Russia, Mexico, Germany, Puerto Rico, China, France, and from throughout the U.S. 

Photos courtesy of Festival Miami. Photo of the Matt Wilson Quartet is courtesy of Tom Foley, via Festival Miami. 

Final Days of The Jaguar's Spots at the Lowe Art Museum

Features important Mesoamerican pieces from the permanent collection


The Lowe Art Museum has been collecting pre-Columbian art since 1956, and this comprehensive exhibition includes a selection of 175 objects from the permanent collection, many of which have never been displayed before. The exhibition covers ancient cultures from Mexico through Panama and Costa Rica, with pieces from the Olmec, Maya, and Aztec areas spanning a period of over 2000 years. A very fine and rare codex style Maya vase with text and mythological imagery was acquired especially for this exhibition and will be a featured piece in the show and accompanying catalog.

Maya (Guatemala) Bowl, 600-900

The jaguar, panthera onca, is the third largest cat in the world and the most powerful predator of the New World tropics. During the time when the art in this exhibition was produced, jaguars roamed from the southwestern United States through Mexico and Central America and deep into South America. Today jaguars remain an endangered, poorly understood and understudied large cat, but the ancient peoples who lived in Mexico and Central America prior to European contact had great respect for jaguars and were very familiar with its habits. Indigenous people from southern Mexico all the way to Panama chose to portray the jaguar in their artistic creations and Olmec and Maya art are both known for their striking images of this fierce and beautiful creature. One of the themes explored in this exhibition is the interconnection between the ancient peoples of Central America and the natural world in which they lived - a largely tropical world of rainforests and mountains, rich in animal life and embraced by the sea. Objects for the exhibition span a period of more than 2000 years, from the earliest signs of social complexity in the Olmec area to the height of cosmopolitan urbanism in the Aztec capital. Throughout this massive span of time, the powerful creatures of the natural world remained a primary metaphor for artistic expression and the communication of social values.

Maya (Guatemala)

Cylinder Vessel, 650-900

The admiration for jaguars shown in the art of the ancient indigenous peoples of Central America was most likely not inspired by fear based on actual attacks, but rather on a mutual respect that scientists think characterizes the normal interactions of humans and jaguars throughout the region. Respect, and even awe, for the jaguar was also communicated through the various myths and stories of ancient Mesoamerica in which deities assume jaguar characteristics. One lesson  of the diverse and beautiful art displayed in The Jaguar's Spots is that humans have long looked to powerful animals for lessons and inspiration - a quest that requires mutual respect and accommodation in order to yield answers.


UPCOMING Events
Thursday, October 7, 7-9pm, LoweDown Happy Hour
Celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month! The Lowe is featuring its spectacular Mesoamerican collection with a tour of the exhibition The Jaguar's Spots by Curator Dr. Traci Ardren. Guests can enjoy light Mexican fare, Mariachi, and register for a raffle of The Jaguar's Spots catalog. Cocktails generously provided by Bacardi and other beverages courtesy of Vitamin Water Zero and Honest Tea. $10 Admission; Free for Lowe Members


Wednesday, October 13, 7:30 pm
Tribal Arts Society Lecture: The Symbolic Representation of Warfare in Middle Formative Olmec-Style Art, Presented by F. Kent Reilly III, Ph.D, Professor, Director of the Center for the Arts and Symbolism of Ancient America, TSU 


Thursday, October 28, 2010
Closing Reception for The Jaguar's Spots
Lecture: 7 PM at at the Lowe Art Museum
Exploring the Universe of the Classic Maya: Lords of the Earth and the Underworld, Presented by Dr. Gabrielle Vail, Sponsored by Sergio Garcia-Granados.


Reception: 8 - 9 PM at the Lowe Art Museum
Cocktails by Ron Zacapa Rum and hors d'oeuvres will be served 
Lowe members and UM Students free; non-members $10


Saturday, October 30, 2010, 9 AM 
Adult Workshop: Maya Hieroglyphic Class
For non-educators: workshop from 9 AM-noon; For Public School Teachers who wish to obtain TEC credits: workshop is from 9 AM-4PM (after lunch we will work on classroom connections and hands-on activities) 


Deciphering the Deities: An Introduction to Maya Hieroglyphic Texts and Imagery, Presented by Dr. Gabrielle Vail; Lowe members $30; non-members $50 (Breakfast will be provided, but lunch is on your own.) Advance registration is required. Please contact Jodi Sypher: 305-284-3621 or jsypher@miami.edu


The Exhibition Curator, Dr. Traci Ardren (Ph.D, Yale University), is a University of Miami Associate Professor of Anthropology. Dr. Ardren is an anthropological archaeologist interested in New World prehistoric cultures and the myriad ways the ancient past is interpreted. Her research focuses on gender, iconography, architecture, and other forms of symbolic representation in the archaeological record. Along with her curatorial work, Dr. Ardren has directed numerous excavations throughout North and Central America. Her recent publications include Ancient Maya Women (AltaMira Press 2002), and The Social Experience of Childhood in Ancient Mesoamerica (University Press of Colorado 2006). 


The catalog for Jaguar's Spots will have eight scholarly essays, color photographs of all 175 pieces, and will be approximately 180 pages. The essays address important pieces in the show including Maya hieroglyphic texts.   


Photos courtesy of The Lowe Art Museum. 

Miami's Famous Firsts!

Miami is the first and only major city in the US conceived by a woman, Julia Tuttle, who is regarded as the "mother of Miami."

The first photo-finish capability for deciding the winner of a horse race was installed at Hialeah Racetrack in 1936. The Racetrack is seen here as it was in 1925. It re-opened in November, 2009, for quarter horse racing. The season has ended, but racing will begin again in the fall of 2010. Hialeah Racetrack is also home to some very famous flamingos, seen in the opening credits of Miami Vice in the 1980s. 

The University of Miami was the first academic institution in Florida selected to host a Presidential debate (2004); those were the first ever Presidential debates in South Florida.

UM's Hurricanes are the first ever NCAA team to win more than 50 home games in a row. Their 58 game winning streak is a record that still stands in the NCAA.

Miami-based Pan American Airlines was the first international airline in the US. Pan Am was also the first airline to provide economy class service at a reduced rate to make mass air travel a reality. The globe from Pan Am headquarters can still be seen in the lobby of the Miami Science Museum, where is was moved when the airline closed.

The Miami Dolphins are the first, and so far the only, NFL team to have a perfect season. In 1972, the Dolphins went 17-0 and won the Super Bowl.

Joe's Stone Crab of Miami Beach was the first ever restaurant to start cooking and serving stone crab claws. No one else had figured out what to with plentiful stone crabs until Joe figured out to serve them cold with his signature mustard sauce! Joe's is still a must-see on every foodie's list when visiting South Florida. 

Miami's Virginia Miller Art Gallery made international history in 1991 when it became the first art gallery to photograph visitors using a Canon digital camera developed for use in the Persian Gulf War. Those pictures were manipulated and then printed using a Canon color bubble jet printer, making it the first gallery ever to use digital art.

In 1920, Miami resident Arthur Wynne, formerly from New Jersey, invented the crossword puzzle to entertain his children.

In 1933, Dr. William Homer Walker came to Miami from Pennsylvania and opened Miami’s first Savings & Loan Association. Dr. Walker was granted the first ever Federal Savings & Loan charter ever issued by the US government.

Gwendolyn Boyd-Savage was the first African-American woman to be sworn in as a police chief in North Miami, in 2002. She was the first Florida police chief, male or female, to hold a doctorate.

The first ever night racing in dog racing history was in Miami, in 1925. It was started by O.P. Smith of the Miami Kennel Club, who also invented the mechanical rabbit, and who is regarded as the "father of modern greyhound racing."

Chalk Airlines, which operated in Miami well into this century, was the first airline ever to have scheduled passenger flights. It started flights to the Bahamas in 1917.