“Melodies drift from block to block, through alleys and courtyards.
Day by day, a year has passed.
By summer’s end, unknown we’ve grown with songs our own.”
~ from “My Home Sings” by Freddie Bryant

Join us on a musical journey through the iconic New York neighborhood made famous in Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story. Part personal history and part reflection on development and gentrification, Bryant’s latest work for chamber-jazz ensemble traces the composer’s decades long relationship with the area, its residents, and their impact on who he is today.

“A love story is about beginnings, about excitement and nurturing growth – love through joy and adversity over many years. This piece is a love story dedicated to the neighborhood that raised me from birth to where I am now.” -Freddie Bryant

+++++

Upper West Side Love Story will feature Carla Cook on vocals, Regina Carter on violin, Gwen Laster on viola, Akua Dixon on cello, Steve Wilson on saxophone and flute, Donny McCaslin on saxophone, John Benitez on bass, Alvester Garnett on drums, and Freddie Bryant on guitar.

Carla Cook - voice
Regina Carter - violin
Gwen Laster - viola
Akua Dixon - cello
Steve Wilson - alto/soprano sax and flute/alto-flute
Donny McCaslin - tenor/soprano sax
John Benitez - bass
Alvester Garnett – drums
Freddie Bryant – arch-top, Telecaster, nylon and 12-string guitars

+++++

This event is supported by Chamber Music America and presented in partnership with Valley Jazz Shares and Music at Amherst.