February 21, 2014
Weekend In NoMad: Joanne Weaver & Songs of Okinawa
This weekend, the NoMad District hosts an eclectic blend of cultures with a line-up of concerts drawing influences from around the world.
Head over to the Flatiron Room tonight where Joanne Weaver continues her Friday night residency. Weaver is known for her modern (even futuristic) take on the jazz trio. Half electro-pop, half sultry jazz, Weaver performs originals and standards (Nature Boy, Moon River, How High The Moon) with a contemporary mindset. The live trio consists of Weaver’s vocals supported by a percussionist and guitarist. Her album “Interstellar Songbook,” offers her work with a more complete instrumentation including a full band, synth flourishes, and atmospheric samples.
The trio will play from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. and the show is free to attend.
Expand your horizons Saturday and Sunday with the Music from Japan Festival: Songs from Okinawa held at the Baruch Performing Arts Center. The festival features The Ryukyuans, a quartet consisting of Yukito Ara on vocals, Isamu Shimoda on guitar, Shinobu Matsuda on sanshin, and Satoshi Nakasone on shima-daiko.
The festival starts Saturday evening with a pre-concert lecture and demonstration of the group’s instruments and regional musical style at 7 p.m., followed by a concert at 8 p.m. The Saturday evening concert features both traditional and contemporary compositions, whereas the Sunday concert (at 2 p.m.) is a presentation of new works. The festival wraps up with a Q & A at 4 p.m. Tickets cost $25 per concert (or $40 for a weekend pass) and can be purchased here or by calling (646) 312-5073.
Have a great weekend!