GERMANTOWN – Sometimes it’s refreshing to approach a chamber music concert from a different perspective. That’s what led the co-founder of Jazz and Classics for Change, Gili Melamed-Lev, to invite Shakespearean actor John McManus to join the wind ensemble she’d booked for a concert.
“We’ve known each other for more than 25 years,” McManus said. “I’ve presented stories and poems in collaboration with Gili (a pianist) in the past. This will be our third time working together.”
From Melamed-Lev’s perspective, the addition of the spoken word adds another dimension to the evening. “It’s a fresh way to present sound,” she explains. “It adds inspiration.”
On June 8th, Jazz and Classics for Change will present Winds of Change, an ensemble of wind instruments including Eli Eban – Clarinet, Gili Sharett – bassoon, Roni Gal-Ed – oboe, Liri Ronen – French horn and Gili Melamed-Lev piano. The concert takes place at Tydeman Farm 564 County Route 10 in Germantown, NY. For tickets, go to https://jcfc.company.site/.
The program includes a solo for French horn, Mozart and Beethoven Wind Quintets and a composition by local resident Sheila Silver entitled Subway Sunset. The contemporary piece will be a clarinet and piano duet.
McManus and Melamed-Lev are eager to use the spoken word to emphasize the positive aspects of humanity. “We’re definitely looking for pieces that are inspiring,” McManus says. “I choose several possibilities, then we weave them in concert with the music. It all has to work together – to flow and harmonize.”
Most of the selections will be contemporary but, with McManus’ background as a classical actor, Shakespeare will probably be included. “We want to offer pieces that relate to what is happening in the world today,” the actor explains. “They need to relate to our times and the challenges we all face. But, certainly, the music and the spoken word should be seamless.” Adding to the creative atmosphere will be a display of art work by Brian Shea, an architect and composer.
For tickets and to learn more about Jazz and Classics for Change, go to: https://jcfc.company.site/.