Percussionist

Drummer

This collaboration between prolific opera superstar J’Nai Bridges, and Grammy Award-winning drummer, music director, and educator, Ulysses Owens Jr. is a musical journey exploring the idea of hope rooted in the deep relationship between the voice and the drum. The program will highlight music tied to the African American experience, with works by Debussy, Ellington, Ravel, Geri Allen, spirituals, and original work from Bridges and Owens. With inspiration drawn from writers such as Lucille Clifton, Audrey Lorde, James Baldwin, and Toni Morrison, Notes on Hope is a thoughtful, melodic program featuring a full band (piano, guitar, bass and vibraphone) that provokes reflection and will leave audiences hopeful and excited about a future world that is reflective of unity, and jubilation.

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J’Nai Bridges, mezzo-soprano and Ulysses Owens Jr., percussion

Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts

A performance reunion of sorts bringing together opera star J’Nai Bridges and Grammy®-winning jazz trailblazer Ulysses Owens Jr., SF Performances’ new artist-in-residence. Bridges and Owens were students together before their paths diverged, each becoming luminaries in their respective genres. “Her voice is a rich blanket of plush sound” (Opera News). “Clear, purposeful communication has anchored Ulysses Owens Jr.’s artistry since he was a kid playing drums in church” (Downbeat).

J’Nai Bridges | Mezzo-soprano & Ulysses Owens Jr. | Percussion

War Memorial and Performing Arts Center

Opera star J’Nai Bridges and Grammy Award-winning drummer and jazz trailblazer Ulysses Owens Jr. collaborate on Notes on Hope, which includes French art songs, jazz and spirituals from Debussy, Ravel, Ellington, Mary Lou Williams, and more. “Bridges’ voice is a rich blanket of plush sound” (Opera News). “Clear, purposeful communication has anchored Ulysses Owens Jr.’s artistry since he was a kid playing drums in church” (Downbeat).

Ulysses Owens Jr.

Percussionist, Drummer

Events

Past events

Apr 30, 2023

J’Nai Bridges, mezzo-soprano and Ulysses Owens Jr., percussion · Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts

Apr 28, 2023

J’Nai Bridges | Mezzo-soprano & Ulysses Owens Jr. | Percussion · San Francisco Performances

About

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