British saxophonist Jess Gillam is one of music’s young firecrackers. At 15, she gave a TEDx talk on her instrument, receiving over 100,000 views on YouTube. Her pioneering approach to concerts includes a desire to see more dancing, cheering and clapping between movements, saying, “an instinctive reaction from the audience only prove[s] the joy of music”.

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Recital: Jess Gillam saxophone

Aspen Meadows Resort

British saxophonist Jess Gillam is one of music’s young firewrackers. At 15, she gave a TEDx talk on her instrument, receiving over 100,000 views on YouTube. Her pioneering approach to concerts includes a desire to see more dancing, cheering and clapping between movements, saying, “an instinctive reaction from the audience only prove[s] the joy of music”.

A Recital by Jess Gillam saxophone

Join the Phoenix Symphony for a unique and enlightening experience with "Coffee, Conversations & Classics - Brahms’ Symphony No. 1." This event offers a rare glimpse into the inner workings of a professional symphony orchestra during their rehearsal process. Hosted and moderated by Alex Amsel, Phoenix Symphony Associate Conductor, attendees will have the opportunity to witness the orchestra's preparation for an upcoming concert, featuring the iconic Brahms’ Symphony No. 1.

Under the baton of conductor William Eddins, and featuring the talented violinist Bella Hristova, the rehearsal will explore not only Brahms’ masterpiece, which after its debut in 1876 was hailed as Beethoven’s Tenth by the famed conductor Hans von Bülow, but also additional works influenced by jazz and blues. The program includes "Blush" by Ayanna Witter-Johnson and the Grammy-winning "Violin Concerto" by Wynton Marsalis, promising a rich and diverse musical experience.

The event will take place at Symphony Hall on Thursday, January 9, 2025, starting at 10:00 AM. This casual and intimate setting is perfect for classical music enthusiasts and newcomers alike, offering general admission seating. Following the rehearsal, there will be a Q&A session with the guest conductor and musicians, providing insights into the music and the rehearsal process.

Don't miss this opportunity to deepen your appreciation for classical music and experience the Phoenix Symphony in an entirely new way.

Coffee, Conversations & Classics - Brahms’ Symphony No. 1

Phoenix Convention Center

Join The Phoenix Symphony for a monumental performance of Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, under the baton of William Eddins, featuring the talented Bella Hristova on violin. This concert series promises an unforgettable journey from tragic struggle to triumphant victory, echoing the sentiments once stirred by Brahms’ masterpiece in 1876. The program is enriched with two remarkable works influenced by jazz and blues: "Blush" by Ayanna Witter-Johnson and the Grammy-winning Violin Concerto by Wynton Marsalis.

**Concert Repertoire:**
- Ayanna Witter-Johnson: Blush
- Wynton Marsalis: Violin Concerto
- Brahms: Symphony No. 1
- Plus a Mystery Piece

**Performance Dates & Times:**
- Friday, January 10, 2025, at 7:30 PM
- Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 7:30 PM
- Sunday, January 12, 2025, at 2:00 PM

**Location:** Symphony Hall, part of the Classics Series.

**Special Offer:** Interested in attending 4 or more performances? Become a subscriber and save 20%. Create your package today and immerse yourself in the world of classical music.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the power and beauty of Brahms’ Symphony No. 1, alongside innovative compositions that bridge classical music with contemporary sounds. Secure your tickets now and be part of a musical event that promises to be both inspiring and transformative.

Brahms’ Symphony No. 1

This landmark year celebrates not only musical excellence and diversity but also its role in illuminating works of previously overlooked composers, reinforcing its commitment to an inclusive classical music world.

Southbank Centre: Chineke! Orchestra Celebrates a Decade

Southbank Centre

The orchestra begins a year of celebrations marking its tenth anniversary with a performance in the Queen Elizabeth Hall, which also hosted its 2015 debut.

Ayanna Witter-Johnson

Events

Upcoming events

Jan 9, 2025

Coffee, Conversations & Classics - Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 · Phoenix Symphony

10 - 12 Jan, 2025

Brahms’ Symphony No. 1 · Phoenix Symphony

Jan 24, 2025

Southbank Centre: Chineke! Orchestra Celebrates a Decade · Chineke! Orchestra

Jan 24, 2025

Chineke! Orchestra Celebrates a Decade · Southbank Centre

Past events

Aug 12, 2023

Recital: Jess Gillam saxophone · Aspen Music Festival

Aug 12, 2023

A Recital by Jess Gillam saxophone · Aspen Chamber Resort Association

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