{"id":216238,"date":"2025-06-30T13:13:44","date_gmt":"2025-06-30T17:13:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/john-j-cali-school-of-music\/?page_id=216238"},"modified":"2026-03-31T10:12:30","modified_gmt":"2026-03-31T14:12:30","slug":"cali-immersive-residency","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.montclair.edu\/john-j-cali-school-of-music\/cali-immersive-residency\/","title":{"rendered":"Immersive Residency 2025-26"},"content":{"rendered":"

Join us for the fifth annual<\/strong> reimagined professional residency program at the John J. Cali School of Music, where week-long residencies with top artists and ensembles offer students immersive opportunities to collaborate, learn, and explore the evolving, often nontraditional landscape of music today. (Subscribe to the full residency<\/strong> Google Calendar!<\/a>)<\/p>\n

PLEASE JOIN US FOR THE PUBLIC EVENTS AT THE CALI SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND THE CO-HOSTED BRIDGES SERIES CONCERTS AT MERKIN CONCERT HALL<\/a> IN NEW YORK CITY.<\/p>\n

Co-presented with Kaufman Music Center<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Kaufman <\/a>\"\"<\/a><\/a><\/p>\n

The 2025\u201326 Season<\/h2>\n
\n
\"Leyla<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

LEYLA MCCALLA<\/a><\/h2>\n

AMERICAN FOLK MUSICIAN SINGER, SONGWRITER, CELLIST
\n<\/strong>+ CALI SCHOOL OF MUSIC 2025-26 ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE<\/p>\n

Fall 2025<\/strong>
\nSeptember 10\u201312, 2025
\nOctober 6\u20138, 2025
\nNovember 17\u201319, 2025<\/p>\n

Spring 2026<\/strong>
\nFeb 4-6, 2026
\nMarch 24\u201327, 2026
\nApril 13\u201317, 2026<\/p>\n

Leyla McCalla<\/strong> is a singer, songwriter, banjoist, and cellist. She was born in New York City to Haitian emigrants and activists and finds inspiration from her past and present\u2013 her music vibrates with three centuries of history and influences from around the globe. McCalla possesses a stunning mastery of the cello, tenor banjo and guitar and, as a multilingual singer and songwriter, has risen to produce a distinctive sound that reflects the union of her roots and experience. In addition to her solo work, McCalla is a founding member of Our Native Daughters (with Rhiannon Giddens, Amythyst Kiah and Allison Russell) and alumna of Grammy award-winning Black string band The Carolina Chocolate Drops.<\/p>\n

\u201cSongwriting is a modality to tell the stories that need to be told. Sometimes these are painful stories to tell.\u201d \u2014Leyla McCalla<\/p>\n

Photo by Chris Scheurich<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Leyla McCalla Bio<\/div>
\n

Born in New York City to Haitian emigrants and activists, Leyla McCalla<\/strong> finds inspiration from her past and present\u2013 her music vibrates with three centuries of history and influences from around the globe. McCalla possesses a stunning mastery of the cello, tenor banjo and guitar and, as a multilingual singer and songwriter, has risen to produce a distinctive sound that reflects the union of her roots and experience. In addition to her solo work, McCalla is a founding member of Our Native Daughters (with Rhiannon Giddens, Amythyst Kiah and Allison Russell) and alumna of Grammy award-winning Black string band The Carolina Chocolate Drops.<\/p>\n

McCalla\u2019s new album and fifth studio recording, Sun Without the Heat <\/em>(ANTI, April 12), is playful and full of joy while holding the pain and tension of transformation. Throughout Sun Without the Heat<\/em>\u2019s ten tracks, McCalla achieves a balance of heaviness and light with melodies and rhythms derived from various forms of Afro-diasporic music including Afrobeat, Ethiopian modalities, Brazilian Tropicalismo, and American folk and blues.<\/p>\n

Her 2022 album, Breaking the Thermometer <\/em>(ANTI-), is the album companion to a multidisciplinary music, dance and theatre work commissioned by Duke Performances. Through the story of the brave journalists at Radio Haiti who risked their lives to report news in Haitian Kreyol, Breaking the Thermometer<\/em> identifies the critical importance of a free and independent press to promote self and societal liberation. Breaking the Thermometer <\/em>was named one of the Best Albums of the year by The Guardian, Variety, Mojo and NPR Music, and her song \u201cDodinin\u201d made Barack Obama\u2019s short list of favorites. McCalla was awarded the 2022 People\u2019s Voice Award by Folk Alliance International, an award given to artists who unabashedly embrace social change in their creative work.<\/p>\n

While conceiving her next project, McCalla expanded her musical palate and revisited her longstanding creative influences. \u201cI like when music feels urgent,\u201d McCalla says, \u201cbut I also wanted the new album to be playful and fun. I wanted that levity to come through.\u201d<\/p>\n

On Sun Without the Heat,<\/em> McCalla draws lyrical inspiration from the writings of Black feminist Afrofuturist thinkers including Octavia Butler, Alexis Pauline Gumbs, and adrienne maree brown. Like these authors, McCalla looks to songwriting as a way to increase faith and hope, encourage community thinking, and catalyze personal transformation. \u201cSongwriting is a modality to tell the stories that need to be told,\u201d she explains. \u201cSometimes these are painful stories to tell.\u201d<\/p>\n

This is especially vivid in the album’s title track, which pulls from Frederick Douglass\u2019s 1857 speech to a largely white crowd of abolitionists six years before the Emancipation Proclamation. His words echo in the song: \u201cYou want the crops without the plow \/ You want the rain without the thunder \/ You want the ocean without the roar of its waters.\u201d Douglass\u2019s point \u2014 which McCalla weaves into the song’s central message \u2014is that liberation and equity are not possible without committing to transformative action.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe all want the warmth of the sun but not everybody wants to feel the heat,\u201d McCalla explains. \u201cYou have to have both.\u201d<\/p>\n

Moved by this speech, and by Susan Raffo\u2019s 2022 book Liberated to the Bone<\/em>, McCalla asserts this idea fully by adding the lyric: \u201cCan\u2019t have the sun without the heat.\u201d This song serves as a reminder of the continued work for social change and the struggle that we still bear. \u201cThese wounds,\u201d McCalla reminds us, \u201care so old.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sun Without the Heat <\/em>was recorded in an intense nine-day session at Dockside Studies in New Orleans. Produced by Maryam Qudus, McCalla was joined by longtime bandmates and collaborators Shawn Myers on percussion and drums, Pete Olynciw on electric bass and piano, and Nahum Zdybel on guitars. Qudus is featured on synthesizers, organs and backing vocals.<\/p>\n

\u201cUsually, I go into the studio and have the songs and the framework already in mind,\u201d says McCalla. \u201cBut with this album, we built the frame in real time. It was an intimidating process, but it also helped me realize how held I am by the musicians I work with.\u201d<\/p>\n

The result is a transcendent collection of songs that hold the personal and universal, carrying grief and joy at once. Through this album, McCalla explores the elements of transformation and the heat necessary to move from darkness toward light.<\/p>\n

Sun Without the Heat<\/em> will be released via ANTI- Records. McCalla is also currently the Artist in Residence at the University of Richmond.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Leyla McCalla Schedule<\/div>
\n

Fall 2025<\/strong>
\nSeptember 10\u201312, 2025
\nOctober 8\u201310, 2025
\nNovember 17\u201321, 2025<\/p>\n

Spring 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

February 4-6, 2026
\nMarch 24-27
\nApril 13-15, 2026<\/p>\n

\n

VISIT ONE<\/strong><\/h2>\n

Sept. 10\u201312, 2025<\/p>\n

Wednesday | September 10<\/strong>
\nNoon <\/strong>Cali Collective Class \u2013 Entrepreneurship, Room G33<\/p>\n

2-3pm<\/strong> (FREE tickets not required)<\/em>
\nLeshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nCali Midweek Series
\n<\/strong>CONCERT + CALI CONVERSATION WITH
\n<\/span>2025-26 Cali Artist-in-Residence
\n<\/span>LEYLA McCALLA
\n<\/strong>AND CALI SCHOOL OF MUSIC DIRECTOR
\n<\/span>SHEA SCRUGGS
\n<\/span><\/strong>Join Cali Artist-in-Residence <\/span>Leyla McCalla<\/strong> and Director Shea Scruggs<\/strong><\/span> for a conversation on heritage, creativity, and the power of music to spark change. A GRAMMY-winning musician known for blending Haitian roots, Afro-Caribbean rhythms, and socially conscious songwriting, McCalla shares insights into her artistic journey and the role of music in shaping culture and community.<\/span><\/p>\n

3:30-4:30pm<\/strong> Improv class for strings Room, Room G55
\n4:45pm<\/strong> Visit University Symphony Orchestra\/Artist Vision Project<\/p>\n

Thursday | September 11<\/strong>
\n1:20-1:30pm<\/strong> Visit Chorale\/Artist Vision Project, Room G55
\n2:45-2:55pm<\/strong> Visit University Symphonic Band\/Artist Vision Project 201
\n5:00-5:10pm<\/strong> Visit University Wind Symphony\/Artist Vision Project 201<\/p>\n

Friday | September 12<\/strong>
\n10am-1pm<\/strong> Observe Strings and Visit Classes and Chamber Coachings, Leshowitz Recital Hall
\nNoon-12:10pm<\/strong> Visit University Jazz Ensemble\/Artist Vision Project, with Oscar Perez<\/p>\n

Artist Vision Project Info<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n

The cross-curricular project \u201cArtist Vision Project\u201d (AVP)<\/strong> is for rising juniors, seniors and graduate students seeking to present a less traditional performance for their recital requirement. It affords the opportunity for students to tap into their multifaceted interests and create a unique program.<\/p>\n

\n

VISIT TWO<\/strong><\/h2>\n

October 8\u201310, 2025<\/p>\n

Wednesday | October 8<\/strong>
\n8:00-10:25AM, MUHS 407, Section 2 Music: 1890 to Present,<\/strong> University Hall 3009, Prof. Cara Turnbull
\n<\/span>NOON, Cali Collective,<\/strong> Room G33
\n<\/span>1PM, Guitar Practicum<\/strong>, Room 430
\n3-4PM, Improv Class for Strings<\/strong>, Room G55, Prof. Kathryn Lockwood
\n5:30PM Artist Vision Program Meeting with Cali Pathways<\/strong>, Anais-Skye Clarke-Avignant<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Thursday | October 9
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n

8-9.25AM MUHS 407 2 Music History: 1890 to Present,<\/strong> UNIV 3007
\n10-12PM Artist Vision Project Meetings,<\/strong> Room 141
\n12:45-1:45PM Improv class for Strings,<\/strong> RoomG33
\n2-4:45pm MUHS 106 2 Diverse Worlds of Music, SBUS 015<\/strong>
\n5:30pm AVP Meeting with Cali Pathways Students<\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

Friday | October 10
\n11AM-1:45PM Visit Physical Theatre Dance Class,<\/strong> Life Hall 1250 (new location)<\/em>, Prof. Stefanie Batten Bland<\/span>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n

VISIT THREE<\/strong><\/h2>\n

November 17\u201321, 2025<\/p>\n

Monday Nov. 17th<\/strong>
\n11am-1:45pm, Intro to the Music Industry,<\/strong> School of Communications and Media Room 0001
\n3:30pm – 4:30pm Strings<\/strong> Improv Class<\/strong>. Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall<\/p>\n

Tuesday Nov 18th<\/strong>
\n9:15am-10:45am\u00a0 Intro to Poetry Blues, Langston Hughes,<\/strong> Dickson Room 430
\n4-5:50pm – Popular Music Techniques<\/strong> MUED 309<\/strong> Freeman Hall Room 003
\n6-8:45pm\u00a0 History of Latin American & Caribbean and Latino Music in the United States MUHS605<\/strong> Room G1<\/p>\n

Wednesday Nov 19th<\/strong>
\n11am or Noon Cali Collective<\/strong> Room G33
\n1pm Guitar Practicum<\/strong> Room 430
\n2pm Cali Midweek Series\u00a0 – Chamber Music\u00a0<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n3-4pm Composition Practicum<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n5-6:30pm Improv class for Pathways Project Strings<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall<\/p>\n

\n
VISIT FOUR<\/strong><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
February 4-6, 2026<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
Wednesday February 4 2026<\/strong>
\nNoon-1 PM, Cali Collective<\/strong>, Room G33 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n3 PM Jazz Combo,<\/strong> Room G1 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n4 PM Jazz Combo<\/strong>, Room G1 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n5-7 PM Vocamotion Class<\/strong> – Vocal Jazz Choir, Room G1, G2 (STUDENTS ONLY)<\/div>\n
\n

Thursday, February 5, 2026<\/strong>
\n12-1:25pm Introduction to Music,<\/strong> University Hall 1040 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n2:30-5:30 Artist Vision Project Meetings<\/strong>, Room 141 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n6:30 PM, Maplewood Library Performance and Conversation,<\/strong> Maplewood, NJ (PUBLIC)
\nLeyla McCalla,<\/strong> the Montclair State University John J. Cali School of Music\u2019s 2025\u201326 Artist-in-Residence and a graduate of SOMSD<\/strong>, appears in a solo performance followed by a conversation with Anthony Mazzocchi,<\/strong> President & CEO of Kaufman Music Center in NYC.<\/span><\/p>\n

Friday, February 6, 2026<\/strong>
\n10:30 AM-Noon Artist Vision Project Meetings,<\/strong> Room141 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n1:30 – 3 PM Columbia High School: Q and A,<\/strong> Columbia High School, Maplewood, NJ (STUDENTS ONLY)
\nLeyla McCalla<\/span><\/span>,<\/strong> the Montclair State University John J. Cali School of Music<\/span><\/span>\u2019s 2025\u201326 Artist-in-Residence and a proud SOMSD alum<\/strong>, presents a Q+A about songwriting at Columbia High School<\/span><\/span>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

\n
\n<\/div>\n
<\/strong>VISIT FIVE<\/strong><\/div>\n
Friday, March 27, 2026
\n7:30 pm<\/strong>
\nKaufman Music Center & the John J. Cali School of Music
\nCo-Present
\nAn Evening with Leyla McCalla<\/strong>
\nLeyla McCalla is a multi-instrumentalist, multilingual singer and songwriter who combines original compositions and traditional Haitian tunes. Producing a distinctive sound that reflects the union of her roots and experience, McCalla\u2019s performances are captivating, fueled by rich, sophisticated melodic work and intoxicating Afro-Caribbean rhythms. McCalla was born to a pair of Haitian emigrants and activists, first rising to success with the GRAMMY-winning\u00a0Carolina Chocolate Drops<\/strong>\u00a0before launching her solo career in 2014.\u00a0The New York Times<\/em>\u00a0described her voice as \u201cdisarmingly natural, and her settings elegantly succinct,\u201d while\u00a0Rolling Stone<\/em>\u00a0hailed her \u201cpolitically pointed lyrics.\u201d Besides her own projects, McCalla currently performs in\u00a0Our Native Daughters<\/strong>, alongside\u00a0Rhiannon Giddens<\/strong>.<\/div>\n
TIckets $30<\/a>
\nMERKIN HALL
\nKaufman Music Center
\n129 West 67th Street
\nNew York, NY 10023<\/div>\n
\n
\n<\/div>\n
VISIT SIX<\/strong><\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
April 13-15, 2026<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Monday, April 13, 2026<\/strong><\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
1-4PM\u00a0Artist Vision Project<\/u><\/a>\u00a0 Meetings,<\/strong> Rochberg Room 141, (STUDENTS ONLY)<\/div>\n
\n
<\/div>\n
\n

Tuesday, April 14, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

11 AM-1:45 PM, Audio Production (FMTV272) for Recording Arts students<\/strong>, School of Communication and Media – Room 2007 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n4 -5:30 PM, Popular Music Techniques (songwriting, recording, etc),<\/strong> Freeman Hall – Room 003 PUBLIC
\n<\/em>3-5PM Artist Vision Project<\/u><\/a>\u00a0 Meetings,<\/strong> Rochberg Room 141, (STUDENTS ONLY)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n
<\/div>\n
\n

Wednesday, April 15, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

10-11:30AM\u00a0Artist Vision Project<\/u><\/a>\u00a0 Meetings,<\/strong> Rochberg Room 141, (STUDENTS ONLY)
\nNoon, Jazz Combo<\/strong>, Chapin Hall – Room 206 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n1PM, Guitar Practicum<\/strong>, Chapin Hall – Room 430 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n3PM, Jazz Combo<\/strong>, Chapin Hall – Room G1 (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n4PM, Jazz Combo<\/strong>, Chapin Hall – Room G1 (STUDENTS ONLY)<\/p>\n<\/div>\n

<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
\n

FALL 2025 RESIDENCY GUESTS<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\"Samora<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

SAMORA PINDERHUGHES<\/a><\/h2>\n

VOCALIST, PIANIST, AND COMPOSER<\/strong>
\nOCTOBER 13\u201318, 2025<\/p>\n

Samora Pinderhughes<\/strong> is a composer, pianist, vocalist, filmmaker, and multidisciplinary artist known for striking intimacy and carefully crafted, radically honest lyrics alongside high-level musicianship. The New York Times describes Pinderhughes as \u201cone of the most affecting singer-songwriters today, in any genre\u201d that \u201cturn(s) the experience of living in community inside-out, revealing all its personal detail and tension, and giving voice to registers of pain that are commonly shared but not often articulated.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cComposer and artist Samora Abayomi Pinderhughes wants to make music that makes listeners live differently.\u201d \u2014PBS News Hour<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Samora Pinderhughes Bio<\/div>
\n

Samora Pinderhughes<\/strong> is a composer, pianist, vocalist, filmmaker and multidisciplinary artist known for examining sociopolitical issues and fighting for change through his art. Lauded as \u201cone of the most affecting singer songwriters today, in any genre\u201d by The New York Times<\/em> and \u201ca magical being\u201d by Forbes<\/em>, Pinderhughes is shaping new worlds through his art, his honesty, and his vulnerability.<\/p>\n

Born and raised in the Bay Area, Pinderhughes began playing music at two years old and went on to study music at Juilliard where he met his primary artistic mentor, MacArthur-winning playwright Anna Deavere Smith. Pinderhughes has collaborated and performed with a number of artists including Common, Robert Glasper, Karriem Riggins, Kyle Abraham, Sara Bareilles, Daveed Diggs and Herbie Hancock, and his works have been commissioned by institutions including Carnegie Hall, the Sundance Film Festival, The Kitchen, Yerba Buena Center for The Arts, and the Kennedy Center.<\/p>\n

Pinderhughes was the first-ever Art for Justice + Soros Justice Fellow and a recipient of Chamber Music America\u2019s 2020 Visionary Award. He is also a United States Artist Fellow, Creative Capital awardee, and Sundance Composers Lab fellow. He graduated from Juilliard and is getting his Ph.D. at Harvard University, where he is currently teaching the class ‘ Music in Social Practice: Sounding the Chorus of Community\u2019. In 2025, Pinderhughes was named the Adobe Creative Resident at MOMA as well as a Pioneer Works Visual Art & Music Resident.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Samora Pinderhughes Schedule<\/div>
\n

OCTOBER 13\u201318, 2025
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Monday | October 13<\/strong>
\n9:45-11:10AM MUTC 101 Music & Computer Tech I<\/strong> (Room 122), Prof. Laura Montanari
\n<\/span>11:30AM – 12:55PM MUTC 101 Music & Computer Tech I<\/strong> (Room 122), Prof. Laura Montanari<\/span>
\n<\/span>1PM Musical Composition<\/strong> (Leshowitz Recital Hall), Prof. Aaron Helgeson
\n<\/span>2PM Jazz Combo <\/span><\/strong>(Room G1), Prof. Michael Lee
\n<\/span>3PM-4:30PM Rehearsal with String Quartet and or Woodwind Quintet for Bridges<\/strong> (Room G55)\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Tuesday | October 14<\/strong>
\n9-9:55AM Keyboard Musicianship I<\/strong> (Room G22), Prof. Kim Mansoon
\n10-11AM Composition for the Young Jazz Musician Clinic<\/strong> (Room 206) Prof. Oscar Perez
\n<\/span>12-1:15PM Death Penalty Class Discussion<\/strong> – HONP 202<\/strong> 15 undergradudate and honors students (Leshowitz Recital Hall), Prof. Jessica Henry
\n<\/span>2-3:30PM\u00a0Rehearse with String Quartet and\/or Wind Quintet<\/strong> (Leshowitz Recital Hall) Prof. Bryan Powell students only<\/em>
\n<\/span>4-5:50PM MUED 309<\/strong> – Popular Music Techniques<\/strong> –\u00a0 Lecture on Songwriting and Recording (Freeman Hall Room 003) Prof. Bryan Powell students only<\/em>
\n<\/span>6-8PM MUED 518<\/strong>– Technology for Music Teachers <\/strong>-Lecture on Songwriting and Recording (Room 112) Prof. Bryan Powell students only<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Wednesday | October 15<\/strong>
\n12-1PM Cali Collective Class<\/strong> (Room G33) students only
\n<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

2PM Cali Midweek Series: “Meet Samora”<\/strong>
\n<\/span><\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nFREE – Reservations Sugguested\u00a0 <\/a>PUBLIC
\nDuring this 50 minute Midweek Concert and Presentation, you will have the opportunity to meet Samora Pinderhughes<\/strong> and find out how this multidisciplinary artist can create music that makes listeners \u201clive differently\u201d.\u00a0 <\/span>Pinderhughes is <\/span>lauded as \u201cone of the most affecting singer-songwriters today, in any genre\u201d (The New York Times) and \u201ca magical being\u201d (Forbes). Through honesty and vulnerability, he creates works that confront sociopolitical issues and imagine new worlds.<\/p>\n

3PM Composition Practicum (Workshop\/Masterclass) <\/strong>(Room G55) Prof. Aaron Helgeson Free and Open to the Public
\n<\/em><\/span>4PM-5PM Electronic Music Ensemble Class in the Cali Computer Lab<\/strong> – Lecture on Electronic Music Production (Room G55) Prof. Bryan Powell students only
\n<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thursday | October 16<\/strong>
\n12:10PM-3PM Special Music School<\/strong> Kauffman Center, NYC\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Friday | October 17<\/strong>
\n11:30AM-1:30PM \u00a0Studio Time <\/strong>“Talk on Alternative Methods to imagining life as a musician.”<\/strong> (Department of Animation, Film and Television, School of Communications and Media) Prof. Stuart MacLelland<\/span><\/p>\n

<\/div>\n
Saturday | October 18<\/strong>
\n7:30 pm
\nKaufman Music Center & the John J. Cali School of Music
\nCo-Present
\nSamora Pinderhughes in Concert\u00a0<\/strong>
\nThe composer\/pianist\/vocalist and multidisciplinary artist known for striking intimacy and carefully crafted, radically honest lyrics shares a unique and powerful evening of song together with students from Kaufman Music Center and the John J. Cali School of Music.<\/div>\n
TIckets $30<\/a>
\nMERKIN HALL
\nKaufman Music Center
\n129 West 67th Street
\nNew York, NY 10023<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
\n
\n
\"Stefan<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

STEFAN JACKIW<\/a><\/h2>\n

VIOLINIST<\/strong>
\nOCTOBER 27\u2013NOVEMBER 1, 2025<\/p>\n

Stefan Jackiw<\/strong> is one of America\u2019s foremost violinists, captivating audiences with playing that combines poetry and purity with an impeccable technique, hailed for his \u201cuncommon musical substance\u201d that is \u201cstriking for its intelligence and sensitivity\u201d (Boston Globe). He has performed as a soloist with major orchestras such as Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, and New York and is a dedicated chamber musician. Stefan joins the University Symphony Orchestra for a powerful performance of Dvo\u0159\u00e1k\u2019s Violin Concerto on Saturday, November 1 at 3 PM. This special concert is part of Cali School of Music’s inaugural StringFest, an exciting new event bringing together over 200 local high school string players for a day of inspiration and world-class music-making.\u00a0 In addition to this headline performance, Jackiw will also appear as a featured soloist during StringFest and collaborate with MSU\u2019s top graduate musicians in an intimate Midweek Series concert \u2014 offering audiences multiple opportunities to witness one of today\u2019s most compelling violinists up close.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne of the most insightful violinists of his generation.\u201d \u2014Boston Globe<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by Sangwook Lee<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Stefan Jackiw Bio<\/div>
\n

Stefan Jackiw<\/strong> is one of America\u2019s foremost violinists, captivating audiences with playing that combines poetry and purity with impeccable technique. Hailed for playing of \u201cuncommon musical substance\u201d that is \u201cstriking for its intelligence and sensitivity\u201d (Boston Globe<\/em>), Jackiw has appeared as a soloist with the Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco symphony orchestras, among others.<\/p>\n

In the 2024-25 season, Stefan Jackiw’s schedule is studded with performances in the United States, Europe, and Asia. In November, he returns to the Cleveland Orchestra to perform Tchaikovsky’s violin concerto under the baton of Santtu-Matias Rouvali. That same month, Jackiw releases his recording of the complete violin sonatas of Charles Ives with his longtime collaborator, pianist Jeremy Denk on Nonesuch. Of the disc, Alex Ross wrote in The New Yorker, <\/em>\u201cJackiw sets a new standard.\u201d In the Winter of 2024, Jackiw will join the National Symphony Orchestra of Ireland under Hans Graf’s baton and debut with the Suwon Philharmonic in South Korea. The Junction Trio will return to the 92NY stage to showcase a program featuring the world premiere of a New Work by John Zorn, followed by Jackiw’s residence at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, where he will lead performances and masterclasses. Jackiw will then join the Pasadena Symphony for Mozart’s Violin Concerto, along with a Junction Trio performance at Rockefeller University and a performance of Korngold’s Violin Concerto with The Florida Orchestra in the Spring. Please note that the 2024-25 season is subject to additions, and performance updates will be added to Stefan Jackiw’s website as they are announced.<\/p>\n

Jackiw opened his 2023-24 season returning to the New York Philharmonic to perform the Barber Concerto with Jaap van Zweden. His season also included a quadruple World Premiere of new works at Roulette, performances with the Taiwan Philharmonic, China National Symphony, and the Junction Trio’s highly praised debut at Carnegie Hall.<\/p>\n

Jackiw recently performed a new violin concerto, written for him by Conrad Tao and premiered by the Atlanta Symphony and Baltimore Symphony. He has also premiered David Fulmer\u2019s concerto Jauchzende B\u00f6gen<\/em> with Matthias Pintscher and the Deutsche Kammerphilharmonie Bremen at the Heidelberger Fr\u00fchling.<\/p>\n

A devoted chamber musician, Jackiw is the Artistic Director of the Hawaii Chamber Music Festival. In addition, Jackiw tours frequently with his musical partners, pianist Conrad Tao and cellist Jay Campbell, as part of the Junction Trio. Last season, Jackiw also collaborated in a special piano trio project at 92NY with Daniil Trifonov and Alisa Weilerstein. In 2019, he recorded Beethoven\u2019s Triple Concerto with Inon Barnatan, Alisa Weilerstein, Alan Gilbert and Academy St. Martin in the Fields.<\/p>\n

Jackiw has performed in numerous major festivals and concert halls around the world, including the Aspen Music Festival, Ravinia Festival, Caramoor International Music Festival, Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival, New York\u2019s Mostly Mozart Festival, the Philharmonie de Paris, Amsterdam\u2019s Concertgebouw, the Celebrity Series of Boston, and the Washington Performing Arts Society.<\/p>\n

Born to physicist parents of Korean and Ukrainian descent, Stefan Jackiw began playing the violin at the age of four. His teachers have included Zinaida Gilels, Mich\u00e8le Auclair, and Donald Weilerstein. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Harvard University, as well as an Artist Diploma from the New England Conservatory, and is the recipient of a prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant. Jackiw plays a violin made by Domenico Montagnana \u201cex. Rossi\u201d c. 1730, generously loaned by a private foundation. He lives in New York City.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Stefan Jackiw Schedule<\/div>
\n

OCTOBER 27\u2013NOVEMBER 1, 2025
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Monday | October 27<\/strong><\/p>\n

2-4PM Mendelssohn Octet Rehearsal<\/strong> (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n4:45-5:45PM Orchestra Rehearsal – Dvorak Violin Concerto<\/strong> (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n6-7PM Cali Pathways Class<\/strong> (STUDENTS ONLY)<\/p>\n

Wednesday October 29<\/strong>
\n<\/strong>10-11:00AM Concert for High School Orchestras (SOLD OUT)<\/span><\/strong>\u00a0Alexander Kasser Theater
\nCali’s inaugural StringFest<\/em>, an exciting new event bringing together over 200 local high school string players for a day of inspiration and world-class music-making.\u00a0
\n<\/strong>2:00 PM Cali Midweek Series: Stefan Jackiw
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nStefan Jackiw <\/strong>performs solo violin works and the dynamic opening movement of Mendelssohn\u2019s String Octet with Cali Graduate String Students.\u00a0
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nFREE – Reservations Suggested<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n

3:15-3:45 Composition Readings,<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall
\n4:45-5:45PM Orchestra Rehearsal – Dvorak Violin Concerto<\/strong> (STUDENTS ONLY)
\n<\/strong>6-8PM Montclair Violin Prize – Violin Masterclass <\/strong>(PUBLIC)<\/p>\n

Friday October 31
\n<\/strong>10AM-12pm Violin Masterclass with Cali Students<\/strong> (PUBLIC)
\nLeshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music<\/p>\n

Saturday, November 1 at 3PM <\/strong>(PUBLIC)
\nUniversity Symphony Orchestra Concert<\/strong>
\nWith Cali Immersive Residency Guest
\nStefan Jackiw,<\/strong>violin<\/em>
\n<\/em><\/strong>Performing the Dvorak Violin Concerto
\n<\/em>Kyle Ritenauer, <\/strong>conductor<\/em>
\n<\/em><\/strong>Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University
\nTickets $25<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

\n
\n
\"Isabel<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

ISABEL LEONARD<\/a><\/h2>\n

MEZZO-SOPRANO, METROPOLITAN OPERA STAR<\/strong>
\nNOVEMBER 3 + NOVEMBER 9, 2025<\/p>\n

Three-time Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard<\/strong> continues to captivate audiences worldwide with major operatic roles in the 2025\u20132026 season, including Carmen and Frida at The Metropolitan Opera, Angelina at Bayerische Staatsoper, and L\u2019enfant et les sortil\u00e8ges with the San Diego Symphony. She serves as a Perspectives Artist at Carnegie Hall, performing with The Met Orchestra, pianist John Arida, and in a Spanish Song and Dance recital. Residencies include the Asheville Symphony, Washington University in St. Louis, and Montclair State University. Highlights from her 2024\u20132025 season include acclaimed returns to Op\u00e9ra National de Paris, Houston Grand Opera, and The Met, as well as performances with the New York Philharmonic and international recital appearances.<\/p>\n

Photo by Sergio Kurhajec<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Isabel Leonard Bio<\/div>
\n

Three-time Grammy Award-winning artist Isabel Leonard<\/strong> has established herself as one of the most in-demand performers, a star on the world\u2019s leading stages and screens. The 2025\u20132026 season sees Ms. Leonard\u2019s return to The Metropolitan Opera for two prominent productions: the title role in Bizet’s Carmen<\/em>, under the baton of Fabien Gabel, with a production by Carrie Cracknell; and the leading role of Frida in Gabriela Lena Frank’s El \u00daltimo Sue\u00f1o de Frida y Diego<\/em>, in a new production by Deborah Colker making its company premiere, with performances conducted by Yannick N\u00e9zet-S\u00e9guin. She will also return to Bayerische Staatsoper to sing her signature Angelina in the Jean-Pierre Ponnelle production of Cenerentola<\/em>, as well as singing the title role in Ravel’s L’enfant et les sortil\u00e8ges<\/em> with the San Diego Symphony under Music Director Rafael Payare.<\/p>\n

This season also features Ms. Leonard as a Perspectives Artist at Carnegie Hall, where she will present a series of concerts and performances throughout the season highlighting her perspective as a performing artist. Performances include a recital in Stern Auditorium with pianist John Arida, sing Knoxville: Summer of 1915<\/em> with The Met Orchestra, led by Yannick N\u00e9zet-S\u00e9guin, and participate in the prestigious 50th Anniversary of the Concert of the Century Gala, also conducted by Yannick N\u00e9zet-S\u00e9guin. Her Perspectives series closes with a Spanish Song and Dance Recital with vocalist Ismael Fern\u00e1ndez and dancer Sonia Olla.<\/p>\n

Additional engagements include a residency with the Asheville Symphony Orchestra, comprising of a recital with John Arida, an orchestral performance featuring Barber\u2019s Knoxville: Summer of 1915<\/em> with the Symphony, and a concert of Gershwin and American Music with the Youth Orchestra. She also appears in residency at Washington University in St. Louis, including a masterclass and recital with John Arida; and with Montclair State University, where she performs Knoxville: Summer of 1915<\/em> in conjunction with a masterclass.<\/p>\n

The 2024\u20132025 season saw Ms. Leonard\u2019s much anticipated return to Op\u00e9ra National de Paris as Rosina in Damiano Michieletto\u2019s production of Il barbiere di Siviglia<\/em>, conducted by Diego Matheuz, and her house debut with Gran Teatre del Liceu as Anita in a concert performance of Bernstein\u2019s West Side Story<\/em>, conducted by Gustavo Dudamel. Ms. Leonard also returned to Houston Grand Opera to sing Angelina in Joan Font\u2019s production of Cenerentola<\/em> and for her directorial debut leading the HGO Family Day production of Cinderella<\/em>, as well as her return to The Metropolitan Opera as Rosina in Bartlett Sher\u2019s celebrated production of Il barbiere di Siviglia<\/em>. Orchestral appearances include performances of Les Nuits d\u2019\u00e9t\u00e9<\/em> with Kevin John Edusei conducting the New York Philharmonic, and Mahler\u2019s Resurrection<\/em> Symphony conducted by Music Director Courtney Lewis. Residencies this season include with the Juilliard School, Rice University, and the Aspen Music Festival. Ms. Leonard also continues her collaboration with guitarist Pablo S\u00e1inz Villegas, performing their all-Spanish program at the Gallo Center for the Performing Arts, and appears in recital with Matinee Musicale in Cincinnati, OH, Teatro de la Ciudad in Monterrey, Mexico, Sala Sao Paulo, and Teatro Municipal de R\u00edo de Janeiro.<\/p>\n

Highlights of Ms. Leonard\u2019s career include the title roles in Carmen<\/em>, La P\u00e9richole,<\/em> Cendrillon<\/em>, Marnie<\/em>, and Der Rosenkavalier<\/em>, as well as Rosina in Il barbiere di Siviglia<\/em>, Angelina in La Cenerentola<\/em>, Cherubino in Le nozze di Figaro<\/em>, Dorabella in Cos\u00ec fan tutte<\/em>, Zerlina and Donna Elvira in Don Giovanni<\/em>, Sesto in La clemenza di Tito<\/em>, Charlotte in Werther<\/em>, Blanche de la Force in Dialogues des Carm\u00e9lites<\/em>, Costanza in Griselda<\/em>, Musetta in La boh\u00e8me<\/em>, Der Komponist in Ariadne auf Naxos<\/em>, Sesto in Giulio Cesare<\/em>, Maria in West Side Story, <\/em>and Marguerite in a concert performance of Berlioz\u2019s La damnation de Faust<\/em><\/p>\n

Ms. Leonard regularly appears on the stages of the world\u2019s leading opera stages including The Metropolitan Opera, Op\u00e9ra National de Paris, Wiener Staatsoper, Los Angeles Opera, Bayerische Staatsoper, Glyndebourne Festival Opera, San Francisco Opera, Teatro alla Scala, Aix-en-Provence Festival, Salzburg Festspiele, and Teatro Comunale di Bologna. She regularly enjoys collaboration with esteemed conductors including Valery Gergiev, Seiji Ozawa, Antonio Pappano, Charles Dutoit, Gustavo Dudamel, Esa-Pekka Salonen, Yannick N\u00e9z\u00e9t-Seguin, Franz Welser-M\u00f6st, Pl\u00e1cido Domingo, Edward Gardner, James Levine, Edo de Waart, James Conlon, Marin Alsop, Sir Andrew Davis, Michele Mariotti, Harry Bicket, Andris Nelsons, and Michael Tilson Thomas. Orchestral highlights include appearances with Cleveland Orchestra, Chicago Symphony Orchestra, New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, Teatro Col\u00f3n in Buenos Aires, Orquestra Acad\u00eamica Mozarteum Brasileiro, in S\u00e3o Paulo, and at Teatro Positivo in Curitiba, Brazil, Boston Symphony Orchestra, and Vienna Philharmonic, and San Francisco Symphony, among others. She also enjoys a regular collaboration with celebrated international star Andrea Bocelli, performing with him at arenas around the world.<\/p>\n

In the recital hall, Ms. Leonard has partnered with Spanish guitarist Pablo S\u00e1inz Villegas for performances of an all Spanish program with Lincoln Center Presents the Metropolitan Opera at Alice Tully Hall, LA Opera at the Colburn School, San Diego Opera at the La Jolla Music Society, the Harris Theatre in Chicago, and the Conservator\u00eco de M\u00fasica de Puerto Rico.<\/p>\n

Television and film credits include an appearance in the Rebecca Miller film She Came to Me<\/em>, starring Anne Hathaway and Marisa Tomei, an appearance in the Leonard Bernstein biopic Maestro,<\/em> directed by Bradley Cooper, being featured on the season 43 finale of Sesame Street in Murray Monster\u2019s \u201cPeople in Your Neighborhood\u2019 segment, scenes from Terrence McNally\u2019s Masterclass<\/em> directed by Nicole Alexander, and as a regular host of The Metropolitan Opera\u2019s Live in HD broadcasts.<\/p>\n

Ms. Leonard was named recipient of the prestigious Richard Tucker Award and currently has three Grammy Awards for Michael Tilson Thomas\u2019 From the Diary of Anne Frank<\/em> on SFS Media, Ravel\u2019s L\u2019enfant et les sortil\u00e8ges <\/em>on Decca, and The Tempest<\/em> from The Metropolitan Opera on Deutsche Grammophon. She currently resides in New York and sits on the Board of Trustees at Carnegie Hall and on the Artistic Advisory Board of ArtSmart.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Isabel Leonard Schedule<\/div>
\n

NOVEMBER 3 + NOVEMBER 9, 2025
\n<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n

Monday\u00a0 | November 3\u00a0<\/strong><\/span><\/p>\n

[1st Event on Monday RESCHEDULED]<\/strong>\u00a0to\u00a0<\/span><\/span>Wednesday.\u00a0December 3<\/u> @ 1pm. Room G01\u00a0
\nGraduate Chamber Ensemble Lecture<\/strong>,\u00a0Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall<\/em>
\n<\/i><\/span>Isabel Leonard,<\/strong>\u00a0joined by her manager\u00a0Adam Cavagnaro<\/strong>, will share insights into the dynamic relationship between artist and manager.<\/span><\/span><\/p>\n

The rest of Monday’s schedule remains unchanged:<\/em>
\n1-2PM Undergraduate Masterclass<\/strong> – Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n<\/span>3:30-4:45PM Opera Workshop,<\/strong> Room G55
\n<\/span>5:15-6:15PM Symphony<\/strong> Orchestra Rehearsal,<\/strong> Room 201 students only<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

Sunday | November 9
\n<\/strong>3PM Performance of Knoxville: Summer of 1915<\/em> with University Symphony Orchestra, <\/strong>Kyle Ritenauer, conductor<\/em>
\nLeshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nFREE – Reservations Suggested <\/a>Open to the Public<\/em>
\nExperience the brilliance of Grammy Award-winning mezzo-soprano Isabel Leonard<\/strong> in this special Cali Immersive Residency event. The afternoon features a stunning performance of Knoxville: Summer of 1915<\/em> with the University Symphony Orchestra, followed by a vocal Masterclass with Cali voice students.<\/p>\n

3:30PM Masterclass with Cali Voice Students, <\/strong>Open to the Public<\/em>
\n
\n<\/em>
\n<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

\n
\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

KRONOS QUARTET<\/a><\/h2>\n

STRING QUARTET<\/strong>
\nNOVEMBER 11\u201314, 2025<\/p>\n

For 50 years, the groundbreaking Kronos Quartet<\/strong> (with David Harrington<\/strong> on first violin), has challenged and reimagined what a string quartet can be. Founded at a time when the form was largely centered on long-established, Western European traditions, Kronos has been at the forefront of revolutionizing the string quartet into a living art form that responds to the people and issues of our time.<\/p>\n

“The Kronos Quartet has broken the boundaries of what string quartets do.” \u2014The New York Times<\/em><\/p>\n

Photo by Danica Taylor<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Kronos Quartet Bio<\/div>
\n

For 50 years, San Francisco\u2019s Kronos Quartet<\/strong>\u2014David Harrington<\/strong> (violin), Gabriela D\u00edaz<\/strong> (violin), Ayane Kozasa<\/strong> (viola), and Paul Wiancko<\/strong> (cello)\u2014has expanded the definition of what a string quartet can be. Founded in 1973, when the form was largely tied to Western European traditions, Kronos reshaped it into a living art form that engages directly with the world\u2019s people and issues.<\/p>\n

The quartet has performed thousands of concerts worldwide, released more than 70 recordings, and collaborated with an extraordinary range of artists. Through its nonprofit Kronos Performing Arts Association (KPAA), it has commissioned more than 1,100 works and created the groundbreaking Fifty for the Future library, a free educational resource of 50 new string quartets. Honors include three Grammy Awards and the Polar Music, Avery Fisher, and Edison Klassiek Oeuvre Prizes. In 2024, the Library of Congress acquired the complete Kronos\/KPAA Archive, preserving 50 years of scores, recordings, instruments, and more.<\/p>\n

Kronos\u2019 collaborations are extensive: Terry Riley, Philip Glass, Aleksandra Vrebalov, Steve Reich, Franghiz Ali-Zadeh, and many others have created seminal works for the ensemble. The group has performed with global icons from Wu Man and Zakir Hussain to Patti Smith, Asha Bhosle, Paul McCartney, and David Bowie. Its music has inspired dance by Merce Cunningham and Twyla Tharp, and appeared in films including Requiem for a Dream<\/em> and the \u201clive documentary\u201d A Thousand Thoughts<\/em>.<\/p>\n

The quartet\u2019s recordings have become milestones, from Pieces of Africa<\/em>\u2014inducted into the 2024 National Recording Registry\u2014to Grammy-winning albums such as Sun Rings<\/em> with Terry Riley and Landfall<\/em> with Laurie Anderson.<\/p>\n

Kronos continues to mentor young musicians and composers through residencies, workshops, and its annual Kronos Festival in San Francisco. With a mission rooted in curiosity, collaboration, and cultural exchange, Kronos remains one of the most influential ensembles of our time\u2014redefining the possibilities of the string quartet for generations to come.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Kronos Quartet Schedule<\/div>
\n

NOVEMBER 11\u201314, 2025<\/p>\n

Tuesday | November 11
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n<\/em><\/span>10AM Coaching
\n<\/strong>NOON Coaching
\n<\/strong>2PM Rehearsal
\n<\/strong>3PM Quartet Reading
\n<\/strong>4PM Coaching<\/strong><\/p>\n

Wednesday | November 12
\n<\/strong>10AM Quartet Coaching
\n<\/strong>320, G33, Leshowitz Hall, 243<\/em>
\n<\/strong>11AM Quartet Coaching
\n<\/strong>320, G33, Leshowitz Hall<\/em>
\n<\/strong>12PM Cali Collective Entrepreneurship Class <\/strong>(Students Only)
\n<\/em>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

2-4PM Cali Midweek Series: <\/strong>Kronos Quartet Performance and Cali Conversation with Cali School of Music Director, Shea Scruggs<\/strong>
\nKronos to perform a selection of works, followed immediately by the five Cali Student Quartets performing 50 For the Future works.
\nLeshowitz <\/em>Recital <\/em>Hall, <\/em>Chapin <\/em>Hall
\n<\/em><\/strong>FREE – Reservations Suggested<\/a><\/p>\n

4PM Composition Practicum, Writing for String Quartet,<\/strong>
\nLeshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall
\n<\/em>5:15PM Performer Composers Class with Paul Wiancko, cello<\/em>
\n<\/strong>Discussion of his Journey, Cali Pathways Student Coaching
\nLeshowitz Hall and Room 330, Chapin Hall<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Friday | November 14, 7:30PM<\/strong>
\n<\/span>KAUFMAN MUSIC CENTER & JOHN J. CALI SCHOOL OF MUSIC
\nCO-PRESENT BRIDGES SERIES:
\nKronos Quartet in Concert
\n<\/strong>Featuring the John J. Cali School of Music String Quartet
\nTIckets $30<\/a>
\nMERKIN HALL<\/em>
\nKaufman Music Center<\/em>
\n129 West 67th Street<\/em>
\nNew York, NY 10023<\/em><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

\n
\n
\"Jazzmeia<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

JAZZMEIA HORN<\/a><\/h2>\n

JAZZ VOCALIST<\/strong>
\nDECEMBER 10\u201314, 2025<\/p>\n

Grammy-nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn<\/strong> reflects on love, family, and purpose through poetic lyrics and spiritual clarity. Her music explores sacrifice, motherhood, and self-expression, offering encouragement to follow one\u2019s inner voice. With raw honesty and emotional depth, Horn delivers messages of healing, resilience, and the power of choosing your own path.<\/p>\n

\u201cHorn is among the most exciting young vocalists in jazz, with a proud traditionalism that keeps her tightly linked to the sound of classic figures like Nancy Wilson and Betty Carter, but a vivacity of spirit and conviction that places her firmly in the present.\u201d \u2014The New York Times<\/em><\/p>\n

Full Jazzmeia Horn Bio<\/div>
\n

Grammy-nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn<\/strong> describes her latest project, Messages<\/em>, as both encouragement and reminder: tough choices and sacrifices can ultimately be worthwhile.<\/p>\n

Touring has given Horn the opportunity to reflect on family, love, and relationships\u2014how they change and inform her art\u2014even as she misses time with her children. \u201cIf you want to sing your own song\u2026whatever that love, that grit, that light is inside of you\u2014you have to do that,\u201d she explains.<\/p>\n

Unlike her earlier big-band album, this new collection pares back the ensemble while retaining its adventurous spirit. Across ten original compositions, Horn explores themes of resilience, self-expression, and connection. In \u201cSing Your Own Song,\u201d written for her mother who left music behind, Horn asserts her choice to pursue her own path. \u201cMother\u2019s Love\u201d tenderly portrays the push-pull of missing her children while continuing her career.<\/p>\n

Horn also weaves history and tradition into the album, interpreting classics while penning new works that echo earlier eras of jazz. At the same time, she incorporates contemporary touches\u2014layering in recordings, voicemails, and playful snippets of daily life that blur the line between personal experience and performance.<\/p>\n

Relationships are a recurring theme. \u201cFlip D Switch\u201d humorously confronts a former partner, while \u201cMysteries of Us\u201d offers a lush, extended meditation on enduring love, enhanced by contributions from trumpeter Marquis Hill and Horn\u2019s ensemble.<\/p>\n

Ultimately, Messages<\/em> is both deeply personal and broadly universal. It reassures listeners to trust themselves and pursue their ambitions, while also offering Horn strength against life\u2019s challenges. \u201cMy messages are for healing, for reconciliation, for freedom,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n

By combining reverence for the jazz tradition with forward-looking ideas and contemporary themes, Horn continues to affirm her place at the vanguard of the music\u2014delivering songs that uplift, inspire, and encourage self-belief.<\/p>\n

<\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Jazzmeia Horn Schedule<\/div>
\n

DECEMBER 10\u201314, 2025
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Wednesday | December 10<\/strong>
\n2PM Cali Midweek Series: Cali Conversation with <\/strong>Jazzmeia Horn
\nand with Cali School of Music Director, Shea Scruggs
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\nFREE – Reservations Suggested<\/a><\/p>\n

3-<\/span>5PM Vocal<\/strong> Combo Workshop,<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall
\n<\/span>5:30PM Pathways Students Workshop,<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Thursday | December 11
\n<\/strong>2:30-4PM Composition Workshop,<\/strong> Leshowitz Recital Hall
\n4:30-5:30PM Jazz Vocal Masterclass,<\/strong> Room G55, Chapin Hall
\n6-7:30PM \u00a0Television Production Class Interview for the Advanced TV Production Class (FMTV 451)<\/strong> School of Communication and Media<\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Friday | December 12
\n<\/strong>10-11:30AM “The State of Jazz\u201d Discussion,<\/strong> Alexander Kasser Theater
\n2-4PM Combo Workshop, <\/strong>Alexander Kasser Theater<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Sunday | December 14
\n<\/strong>3PM Crawford Memorial Concert
\nUniversity Jazz Ensemble with Jazzmeia Horn
\n<\/strong>Dr. Oscar Perez, director<\/em>
\nAlexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University
\nFREE TICKETS – Reservations Required<\/a><\/p>\n

For our fifth Crawford Concert offering, the University Jazz Ensemble<\/strong> will be joined by Grammy nominated vocalist Jazzmeia Horn<\/strong>. She is among the vanguard in jazz, using her knowledge of the canon to inform decisions firmly rooted in traditional parts of the genre, while still adding in contemporary ideas, themes and music.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

SPRING 2026 RESIDENCY GUESTS<\/strong><\/p>\n

\n
\"Paquito<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

PAQUITO D’RIVERA<\/a><\/h2>\n

CUBAN-AMERICAN SAXOPHONIST AND CLARINETIST<\/strong>
\nFEBRUARY 9\u201313, 2026<\/p>\n

Paquito D\u2019Rivera<\/strong> is a celebrated Cuban-born clarinetist, saxophonist, and composer whose genre-defying career spans Latin jazz, classical music, and beyond. Winner of 16 Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards, he was a founding member of Irakere and Dizzy Gillespie\u2019s United Nation Orchestra, and has recorded over 40 solo albums. A child prodigy and son of classical saxophonist Tito Rivera, he has performed with major orchestras worldwide and composed for top ensembles including Yo-Yo Ma and Imani Winds. Also a writer and producer, D\u2019Rivera is known for his eclectic style and for championing Latin musical traditions on the global stage.<\/p>\n

Full Paquito D’ Rivera Bio<\/div>
\n

Paquito D\u2019Rivera,<\/strong> winner of 16 Grammys and Latin Grammys, is a clarinetist, saxophonist, composer, and writer whose career bridges jazz, classical, and Latin traditions. Born in Marianao, Havana in 1948, he studied under his father, Tito Rivera, and by age ten was performing with the National Theater Orchestra of Cuba. At 17, he co-founded the Cuban Modern Music Orchestra and later became a seminal figure in Irakere<\/em>, the groundbreaking ensemble that fused jazz, rock, classical, and Afro-Cuban music, earning international acclaim and a Grammy in 1979.<\/p>\n

Since then, D\u2019Rivera has recorded over 40 solo albums and performed worldwide with groups such as his Chamber Jazz Ensemble, Big Band, and Quintet. A founding member of Dizzy Gillespie\u2019s United Nation Orchestra, he helped shape a unique blend of jazz and Caribbean influences, winning a Grammy in 1991.<\/p>\n

Equally at home in classical music, he has appeared as soloist with major orchestras including the London Philharmonic, Warsaw Philharmonic, National Symphony, and Sim\u00f3n Bol\u00edvar Symphony. His compositions, published by Boosey & Hawkes, have been performed globally, including collaborations with Yo-Yo Ma and commissions for ensembles like Imani Winds and the Turtle Island String Quartet. His chamber work Merengue<\/em> won a Grammy for Best Instrumental Composition in 2004.<\/p>\n

In addition to his musical output, D\u2019Rivera is the author of memoirs and novels, including My Sax Life<\/em> and Oh, Havana!<\/em>. He has received the NEA Jazz Masters Award, the National Medal of the Arts, and numerous honorary doctorates, cementing his reputation as an ambassador of intercultural music.<\/p>\n

In recent years, he reunited with longtime collaborator Chucho Vald\u00e9s to release their Latin Grammy-winning album I Missed You Too!<\/em> (2023), underscoring a lifelong commitment to innovation and collaboration across genres.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n

Paquito D’Rivera Schedule<\/div>
\n

FEBRUARY 9\u201313, 2026<\/strong>
\n<\/em><\/p>\n

Monday, February 9<\/strong>
\n<\/span>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\n<\/em>PUBLIC EVENTS
\n<\/em>Noon-2 PM Woodwind Masterclass<\/strong>
\n2-3 PM Interpreting Latin Music Clinic<\/strong>
\n<\/strong><\/span>3-5 PM\u00a0 Jazz combos Masterclass<\/strong>
\n<\/strong><\/span>5:30 PM <\/span>Cali Pathways<\/a> Workshop<\/strong><\/p>\n

Tuesday, February 10
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\n<\/em>PUBLIC EVENTS
\n<\/strong>10:30-Noon Woodwind Quintet Coaching <\/strong><\/span>Aires Tropicales\u00a0<\/a><\/strong>
\n<\/em>1-3 PM <\/span>Composition\/Arranging Discussion\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Wednesday, February 11
\n<\/strong>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music
\n<\/em>PUBLIC EVENTS<\/span><\/span><\/strong>
\n10-11 AM A Life in Music: Letters to Yeyito <\/a><\/em><\/strong>PUBLIC
\n<\/strong>An inspirational talk by PAQUITO D’RIVERA about why a life in music is important.<\/span>
\n2-3 PM Cali Midweek Series Presents PAQUITO D’RIVERA <\/strong>\u00a0<\/span><\/strong>
\nFREE – Reservations Suggested<\/a>
\n<\/strong><\/p>\n

Thursday, February 12
\nSchool of Communication Studio B, FMTV 451<\/span><\/em><\/span><\/strong>
\n6:30<\/span>-8:30 PM \u00a0Interview for the Advanced TV Production Class <\/strong>(Students Only)<\/em>
\n<\/span><\/p>\n

Friday, February 13
\n<\/strong>MERKIN HALL, Kaufman Music Center<\/em>
\n129 West 67th Street, New York, NY 10023<\/em>
\n7:30 PM Kaufman Music Center & the John J. Cali School of Music <\/strong>Co-Present PAQUITO D’RIVERA<\/strong>\u00a0in Concert\u00a0<\/strong>
\nThe winner of 16 Grammy Awards, clarinetist, saxophonist and composer Paquito D\u2019 Rivera blends jazz and classical music, Brazilian music, rumba, tangos and more into a seamless whole.<\/div>\n
TIckets $30<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n
\n
\"Anton<\/a><\/figure>\n<\/div>
\n

ANTON ARMSTRONG<\/a><\/h2>\n

CONDUCTOR<\/strong>
\nMARCH 19\u201321, 2026<\/p>\n

Anton Armstrong<\/strong>, a celebrated conductor and educator, marks his 36th season with the St. Olaf Choir in 2025\u201326. He is the choir\u2019s longest-tenured conductor, a choral series editor, award recipient, and frequent guest conductor, known for his leadership, artistry, and decades-long contributions to choral music nationally and internationally.<\/p>\n

Full Anton Armstrong Bio<\/div>

\nAnton A<\/strong>rmstrong<\/strong> is a renowned conductor and educator, celebrating his 36th season as the Conductor of the St. Olaf Choir in the 2025-26 season, making him the longest-tenured conductor in the choir’s storied 114-year history. He became the choir\u2019s conductor in 1990, following a decade of teaching and leading choral groups in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Armstrong holds advanced degrees from the University of Illinois and Michigan State University and is a graduate of St. Olaf College.\n

He has an extensive career, including serving as the founding conductor of the Oregon Bach Festival Stangeland Family Youth Choral Academy and holding leadership roles with organizations such as Chorus America and the Choristers Guild. Armstrong is also the editor of several notable choral series (Earthsongs, Augsburg Fortress, and Gentry Publications) and has guest-conducted a range of prestigious ensembles worldwide, including the Tabernacle Choir, Houston Chamber Choir, and The Phoenix Chorale. His work has involved collaborations with artists like Bobby McFerrin and Garrison Keillor.<\/p>\n

Armstrong is also known for his role as Artistic Director of the St. Olaf Christmas Festival which features over 500 student musicians, and has been recognized with multiple awards, such as the Robert Foster Cherry Award for Great Teaching (Baylor University), Distinguished Alumni Award (American Boychoir School and Michigan State University), and the Saltzman Award from the Oregon Bach Festival. In 2014 both The St. Olaf Choir and Dr. Armstrong received a Regional Emmy for the PBS television program Christmas in Norway with The St. Olaf Choir.<\/em> In 2021 he was named an Honorary Life Member of the National Collegiate Choral Organization, in 2022 he received the Distinguished Legacy Award f<\/em>rom the College of Fine and Applied Arts at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and in 2025 he was honored with the Melvin George Award by St. Olaf College. The Anton Armstrong Service Award in Choral Music was established in his honor in 2023 to recognize his remarkable service to the Oregon Bach Festival.<\/p>\n

Armstrong is a frequent guest conductor at regional, national and international gatherings including the American Choral Directors Association, International Federation of Choral Music, National Association for Music Education, and Choristers Guild. He will continue his work as a guest conductor in various choral festivals and conferences across the U.S. in the 2025-26 season including Carnegie Hall (NYC), the Schermerhorn Symphony Center (Nashville, TN), the Meyerson Symphony Center (Dallas, TX), the Montana International Choral Festival, and the Arizona and Alabama All-State SATB choirs. <\/p><\/div><\/div>\n

Anton Armstrong Schedule<\/div>
\n

MARCH 19\u201321, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\n

Thursday | March 19, 2026<\/strong>
\n7PM Cali Conversation with DR. ANTON ARMSTRONG<\/strong>
\nand Cali Choral Director DR. <\/span>HEATHER J. BUCHANAN
\n<\/span><\/strong>Exploring social justice + how college shapes vocation and leadership. P<\/span>erformances by Cali Collective and Vocal Accord
\n<\/span>Leshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music<\/em>
\nFREE – Reservations Suggested<\/a><\/p>\n

Friday | March 20, 2026<\/strong>
\n9:30 AM \u2013 3 PM
\nLeshowitz Recital Hall, Chapin Hall, Cali School of Music<\/em>
\nInteractive Workshops<\/strong>
\nA day of exploration and inspiration for choral directors, emerging and pre-service choral music educators, and community\/church choristers via interactive workshops:<\/p>\n

9:30-11 am <\/span>Understanding & Performing African American Spirituals PART 1\u00a0<\/strong>
\n11:15 am – 12:15 pm <\/span>Understanding & Performing African American Spirituals PART 2\u00a0<\/strong>
\n12:30PM Boxed Lunch<\/strong>
\n1:30-3PM Body \u2013 Mind \u2013 Spirit \u2013 Voice: Our Calling as Arts Educators in the 21st Century<\/strong><\/p>\n

Music (yours to keep) and boxed lunch provided
\n<\/em>Contact Dr. Heather J. Buchanan<\/strong> for information: buchananh@montclair.edu<\/a><\/p>\n

Saturday | March 21, 2026<\/strong>
\n8pm Choral Showcase #Inspired! & Immersive Residency Concert
\n<\/strong>Alexander Kasser Theater, Montclair State University<\/em>
\nDr. Anton Armstrong<\/strong> & Dr. Heather J. Buchanan<\/strong>, conductors;<\/em> Greg Stout, accompanist<\/em>
\nCelebrating the transformative and unifying force of choral music. Featuring Cali Immersive Residency guest conductor Dr. Anton Armstrong<\/strong> and 5 choirs: Vocal Accord, University Singers,<\/strong> two HS choir showcase artists – Hillsborough HS Chamber Singers<\/strong> (Ashley Mathews, conductor<\/em>) and Herricks HS Chamber Choir,<\/strong> NY (Louise O\u2019Hanlon,\u00a0conductor<\/em>). Culminating in a Massed Choir including 220 singers from Montclair State University, Hillsborough HS, Herrick HS, Fort Lee HS, and Passaic Arts & Science HS, performing music by Susan LaBarr, Andr\u00e9 Thomas, and Rollo Dilworth.
\n$20 TICKETS<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n

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