Clarice Assad, piano and vocals
Newman & Oltman Guitar Duo
Arthur Kampela, composer
Clinton Presbyterian Church
91 Center Street
Clinton, NJ 08809.
Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Grammy Award-nominated Clarice Assad is making her mark in the music world as a versatile artist of musical depth and sophistication. A pianist, arranger, vocalist and composer, her works have been published and performed in Europe, South America, the United States and Japan. Her music— sought out by musicians both in the classical and the jazz realms—has been performed and recorded by many of today’s top artists, including the Philadelphia Orchestra and cellist Yo-Yo Ma. As a performer, Clarice Assad has received high acclaim for performances of her original compositions and standards in jazz and Brazilian music. Assad has been described as a “charismatic singer” (New York Times) and as “a fine classical and jazz pianist, composer and jazz-infused pop stylist” (JAZZ Times). She performs extensively throughout the USA, Brazil and Europe.
“Assad’s impassioned vocal work offers an inimitable style—already matured—that’s unlike anyone else’s. Assad rejoiced through singing, her multi-faceted talent uncontainable as she energetically bends music to her will and reshapes it with fascinating results.”
-Jazz Improv Magazine
www.clariceassad.com
Hailed as a “revelation to hear” (The Washington Post), the Newman & Oltman Guitar Duo’s phenomenal musicianship places them solidly at the top of their field. Their innovative programming, matchless technique, and ensemble precision, combined with their commitment to expanding the repertoire for guitar duo make them a standout chamber ensemble in every way. Highlights of the Duo’s season include the world premiere of “Concierto Buenos Aires” composed for the Duo by Nuevo Tango master Daniel Binelli with l’Orchestre de l’Opéra de Reims in France and with the Virginia Symphony.
“Newman & Oltman are completely in synch and play flawlessly. A winner all around”
-Fanfare
www.guitarduo.com
Arthur Kampela serves as Raritan River Music’s Composer-in-Residence for 2011. His new work, Motets for Two Guitars, was commission by Raritan River Music with a generous grant from the Augustine Foundation. Kampela participates in RRM’s educational programs and will introduce his riveting new composition at the concert. Following this world premier performance, Kampela’s new guitar duet will be performed this spring in Boston, New York City, and France.
“Extraordinary pieces…Kampela’s effects were fascinatingly inventive.”
-The New York Times
www.kampela.com
