Tonight's Program
The following message from Armen appeared tonight’s program.
Message from the Musical Director
I am very proud of our Jazz program. My two goals in creating this program were to establish a dialogue between the visual arts world and my musical world and to institute a home for Jazz in the Central Valley. Within this past year, however, we accomplished so much more! Over 80 original compositions were premiered this past year, not including our celebration concerts for Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, and Mother's Day. In the process we also were able to raise money for two very special organizations, The American Cancer Association, and almost $3000 for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. In March, we welcomed the great saxophonist/composer from the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Ted Nash. Not bad for year one.
All of our accomplishments have exemplified what I consider to be the goal of Jazz: to reflect the disposition and ideals of its community. Throughout its history, the best of Jazz has always done this. Whether it was, Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Duke Ellington or Charlie Parker, all of the greats were a true reflection of their community. My primary goal for our second season is to capture a greater sense of community and we welcome all of you to join us in our celebration of life!
Starting with our first concert, featuring music influenced by the work of Junko Chodos, the ambition of the concerts has increased. Larger, more seasoned ensembles will take the stage and include some of the finest and most unique musical voices in the country. As always we will also welcome and encourage a dialogue between the audience and performers, as we intend to learn from everyone as we share our art with you. Special world-renowned guests will once again take the stage later this year. A Jazz education program for the valley's youth is also currently in the works.
All of our accomplishments could not have happened without the support of so many. We give an unlimited thanks to the Fresno Art Museum, for having the courage and commitment to support such a unique program. We also could not have asked for a better media sponsor than KFSR. Their commitment to Jazz is unrivaled in the valley. My primary gratitude is directed to those of you who have filled the seats of the auditorium and offered such kind words and given your time and energy to supporting Jazz in the valley. Thank You.
I welcome you all to come swing with us,
Armen Nalbandian
Fresno Art Museum Musical Director/Resident Artist
Message from the Musical Director
I am very proud of our Jazz program. My two goals in creating this program were to establish a dialogue between the visual arts world and my musical world and to institute a home for Jazz in the Central Valley. Within this past year, however, we accomplished so much more! Over 80 original compositions were premiered this past year, not including our celebration concerts for Christmas, New Year, Valentine's Day, and Mother's Day. In the process we also were able to raise money for two very special organizations, The American Cancer Association, and almost $3000 for the victims of Hurricane Katrina. In March, we welcomed the great saxophonist/composer from the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Ted Nash. Not bad for year one.
All of our accomplishments have exemplified what I consider to be the goal of Jazz: to reflect the disposition and ideals of its community. Throughout its history, the best of Jazz has always done this. Whether it was, Louis Armstrong, John Coltrane, Duke Ellington or Charlie Parker, all of the greats were a true reflection of their community. My primary goal for our second season is to capture a greater sense of community and we welcome all of you to join us in our celebration of life!
Starting with our first concert, featuring music influenced by the work of Junko Chodos, the ambition of the concerts has increased. Larger, more seasoned ensembles will take the stage and include some of the finest and most unique musical voices in the country. As always we will also welcome and encourage a dialogue between the audience and performers, as we intend to learn from everyone as we share our art with you. Special world-renowned guests will once again take the stage later this year. A Jazz education program for the valley's youth is also currently in the works.
All of our accomplishments could not have happened without the support of so many. We give an unlimited thanks to the Fresno Art Museum, for having the courage and commitment to support such a unique program. We also could not have asked for a better media sponsor than KFSR. Their commitment to Jazz is unrivaled in the valley. My primary gratitude is directed to those of you who have filled the seats of the auditorium and offered such kind words and given your time and energy to supporting Jazz in the valley. Thank You.
I welcome you all to come swing with us,
Armen Nalbandian
Fresno Art Museum Musical Director/Resident Artist