Join vibraphonist Stefon Harris, "one of the most important young artists in jazz" (Los Angeles Times) as he traces his influences, old and new, through the lens of their shared ability as master storytellers. Much more than just the words one chooses to use, storytelling relies on expert timing and delivery, concepts which musicians frequently refer to as phrasing. Harris, in conversation with SFJAZZ Executive Director Randall Kline, will take Members through a guided listening of artists who have inspired him, while exploring concepts of phrasing and how musicians tell stories in a medium that sometimes doesn’t even use words. Harris’ prowess as both a musician and music educator promises that Members will come away from this evening not only with entertaining stories about the music, but also an expanded insight that will enhance their listening experience in the concert hall.
SFJAZZ Members will engage Harris in a Q&A session, as well as meet the artist and mingle with fellow Members over fine wines and dessert in a reception following the talk. Get an insider’s perspective from one of the most eloquent musicians performing today. Anybody who has seen Harris at Members events with the SFJAZZ Collective knows this event is not to be missed!
SFJAZZ Members’ Listening Party with Stefon Harris, Tuesday October 7th, War Memorial Green Room
- 6:30: Complimentary coffee and tea service
- 7:00: Stefon Harris in conversation with SFJAZZ Executive and Artistic Director Randall Kline, including Q&A with the artist
- 8:30: Complimentary wine and dessert reception with the artist
Artist Bio: A graduate of the Manhattan School of Music (with a B.A. in Classical Music and an M.A. in jazz performance), Harris has received numerous accolades including the Jazz Journalists Association’s “Best Mallet Player” for four years running (2000-2003) and “#1 Rising Star Vibraphonist” in the 2006 DownBeat Critics Poll. His string of Grammy-nominated albums for Blue Note includes Kindred, Black Action Figure, and The Grand Unification Theory. His latest album is 2006’s African Tarantella: Dances With Duke. An active educator Mr. Harris conducts over 100 clinics and lectures annually at schools and universities throughout the country, including as a former Artist-in-Residence with San Francisco Performances and currently as a member of the SFJAZZ Collective. He has recorded and toured with many of music's greatest artists, including Joe Henderson, Wynton Marsalis, Cassandra Wilson, Buster Williams, Kenny Barron, Kurt Elling, Cyrus Chestnut, and Steve Coleman.
