Jacaranda Music Presents
AMERICAN BERSERK
with Lyris Quartet & dancers
Christopher Taylor & Gloria Cheng, pianos
Jacaranda Chamber Orchestra
Mark Alan Hilt, conductor
Curated by Patrick Scott
VPAC original

AMERICAN BERSERK traces an alternative set of musical roots for the ultimate American composer. Witty Creole fantasies, Ragtime and Jazz classics lead to the piano tour-de-force that gives the concert its name. Lyris Quartet with six actor/dancers share some of John’s Book of Alleged Dances. Adams’ big band Grand Pianola Music is a tremendous finale.

Louis Moreau Gottschalk: The Banjo; Ojos Criollos; Pasquinade
Scott Joplin: Paragon Rag; Bethena; Maple Leaf Rag
Art Tatum/Duke Ellington: In a Sentimental Mood
Art Tatum/Original Dixieland Jazz Band: Tiger Rag
Thelonious Monk: Ruby My Dear
Conlon Nancarrow: Prelude Op. 5
John Adams: American Berserk; John's Book of Alleged Dances; Grand Pianola Music

Artists: Christopher Taylor & Gloria Cheng, pianos; Lyris Quartet with four dancers; Jacaranda Chamber Orchestra, Mark Alan Hilt, conductor; Holly Sedillos, soprano; Zanaida Robles, soprano; Kristen Toedtman, alto

Creole banks of banjos - syncopated pianos lifted from dive bars
A crazy vortex of jazz voices, exhilarating, grand, triumphant!