Jazz: From New Orleans to the Swing Era

Описание: On Wednesday, March 6, 2019, we welcome Gil Harel back for a new four-week series on jazz.

Jazz: From New Orleans to the Swing Era
Historians often trace the origin of jazz to early 20th century New Orleans where European, African, and other musical elements created a fertile environment for innovation. Within a few decades, this new musical idiom had become an international phenomenon. Perhaps most famous among the early figures was Louis Armstrong, a cornetist and trumpeter whose approach to improvisation continues to be studied today. By the 1930s, jazz orchestras under the direction of Duke Ellington, Count Basie and others performed a style that became interwoven with dance and popular culture. This "Big Band Era" culminated in a landmark moment when Benny Goodman conducted his jazz orchestra on the hallowed stage of Carnegie Hall.

About the Presenter
Gil Harel (PhD, Brandeis University) is a musicologist and music theorist whose interests include styles ranging from classical repertoire to jazz and popular music, as well as opera, medieval, and renaissance music. Previously, he has served on the faculty at CUNY Baruch College, where he was awarded the prestigious "Presidential Excellence Award for Distinguished Teaching", as well as the Southwestern University of Finance and Economics in Chengdu, China. Currently, he teaches at Naugatuck Valley Community College, where he was recently presented with the coveted "Merit Award for Exemplary Service to the College." At NVCC, Dr. Harel conducts the college chorale, teaches music history and theory, and serves as musical director of theater productions. Outside of teaching, he enjoys staying active as a pianist and vocalist.