[Cgfc] FYI

[mikeu at shout.net]

Jason Finkelman will be in-residence at Unit One/Allen Hall March 2-6. Jason
Finkelman is a percussionist dedicated to the art of improvisation. His
performance ensembles are characterized by the combination of unusual
instrumentation and cross-cultural explorations. His extended instrumentation
includes African and Brazilian percussion, congas, riti (African fiddle), found
metal, bird calls, and ocarina. His ambient, avant world trio Straylight has
performed alone and in collaboration with improvising artists across the genre.
All events are free and open to the public and take place in the South Rec Room
of Allen Hall, 1005 W. Gregory, Urbana (unless noted). Call 333-8351 for more
information.

Sunday, March 2, 8pm in the Main Lounge
Opening concert  - Jason Finkelman's Nu Orbit Ensemble
The ambient, avant world ensemble Nu Orbit explores the art of improvised music
with Tom Paynter (keyboard, flute), Jay Eychaner (synthesizer), Chad Dunn
(drumset, percussion), Yang Ying (erhu), and Jason Finkelman (berimbau,
percussion).  A short discussion will follow the performance.

Monday, March 3, 7pm
Introduction to Improvisation
This workshop will introduce beginning concepts of improvisation which includes
listening strategies, rhythm structures, and discovering the sound within.

Tuesday, March 4, 7pm
Sonic Adventures: An introduction to the art of the improviser
Jason will introduce a brief history of improvisers across the genre and will
feature musical excerpts of artists in the field.

Wednesday, March 5, 7pm
Percussion and Rhythm
This workshop will include a presentation of the African and Brazilian
instruments Jason utilizes in his music and a hands-on experience of creating
rhythms and playing in time.

Thursday, March 6, 7pm
Strategies for a Career in the Arts
An independent artist not only works on developing and maintaining their craft,
An independent artist not only works on developing and maintaining their craft,
but is also challenged to find creative ways to make a living in the arts.  In
this discussion, Jason will share his experiences in the field and strategies
to pursue a life as an artist.

Thursday, March 6, 9pm
Improvising Unit One
In this final workshop, Jason will guide musicians in explorations of
improvised music.  Musicians of all levels and non-musicians are invited to
participate.

Laura Haber
Assistant Program Director of Unit One
University of Illinois
68 Allen Hall (MC 050)
1005 W. Gregory
Urbana, IL 61801
(217) 244-2317
l-haber at uiuc.edu