Cuban musicologist and novelist Alejo Carpentier understood Cuban son from the 1920s and 1930s to represent Cuba’s most significant musical innovation, due to the way it codified the African-inspired, asymmetric 3 – 2 or 2 – 3 rhythmic timeline known as the clave. Clave subsequently became a predominant theoretical framework for Caribbean or “Latin” musicking, shaping popular genres such as merengue and salsa and influencing musical practices as far away as Uruguay and Brazil. Around the same time of son’s peak in popularity, Afro-Cuban poet Nicolás Guillén scandalized literary circles by imitating tropes from son music and speech patterns associated with Afro-descendant, underprivileged communities in what he called “son poems.” Although Guillén’s son poems are commonly acknowledged for their incorporation of Afro-Cuban rhythm, little attention has been devoted to the way Guillén, despite having no musical training, developed a poetics of clave. This paper uses Guillén as a starting point to begin to theorize a broader literary practice in the Caribbean that I call “writing in clave.” Not only does writing in clave allow us to rethink the way writers disrupted distinctions between elite and popular culture and intervened in debates concerning race and nation. It also establishes a (sometimes reciprocal, sometimes nonreciprocal) dialogue with soneros, or son lyricists, and demonstrates the way literature and popular music in the Caribbean became spaces of mutual theorization.

EPSG:4326

Charlie Hankin: “Caribbean Clave Poetics”

University of California, Davis

Moriarty is dead, to begin with. And Sherlock Holmes is a haunted man. But, when a grown-up Tiny Tim asks Holmes to investigate the death of Ebenezer Scrooge, the Great Detective must use his gifts to solve a Dickens of a Christmas mystery! Six actors take on the beloved characters of Arthur Conan Doyle and Charles Dickens in this heartwarming and highly theatrical holiday treat for all ages!

A Sherlock Carol

San Jose Stage

La Bohème returns to Opera San José in an exuberant production set in Christmas-time Paris following the Great War. In this tantalizing tale of young artists living on the edge, poet Rodolfo is implored by Mimi, his alluring and delicate neighbor, to help light her last candle. Immediately infatuated, they embark on a dizzying and ultimately tragic relationship. From bustling cafés and raucous parties to spirited debates, the pair, along with their band of idealist friends, chase happiness against impossible odds. OSJ’s Stage Director in Residence Michelle Ainna Cuizon makes her mainstage debut helming this masterpiece; OSJ Music Director Joseph Marcheso will conduct.

La Bohème

California Theatre

The program opens with Yu-Hui Chang’s Pixelandia, a 2015 multi-movement work inspired by the joy of first-wave 2D video games, “with graphics so primitive that every scan line and pixel was visible.” Music and video-game enthusiasts will be delighted to learn that the third movement is where one meets the “Boss” and that the tempo marking before the last movement is “Insert coin to continue.”

UC Davis Symphony Orchestra

Campus Square Dance

Featuring a guest orchestra, the choruses of UC Davis — the Concert Choir and the Chamber Singers — join together to perform choral music with texts that often center on homeland and migration. Where is home? Is it where you have been or where you are going? From India to China to Britain, Mexico, Africa, Syria and Iraq, the concert selections paint pictures of movement, faith and beauty across many cultures and time periods. The program ends with J.S. Bach’s uplifting Magnificat.

Choruses of UC Davis: “Season of Migrations”

Celebrate “The Most Wonderful Time of the Year” at the majestic California Theatre with Symphony San Jose, Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabile Youth Singers, New Ballet, and special guests!

Rejoice in holiday classics including carols, audience sing-alongs, and the ever-popular 12 Days of Silicon Valley. Include friends and family and make this experience an unforgettable part of your holiday season.

Holiday Spectacular

### Holiday Spectacular Symphony San Jose

**Event Dates and Times:**
- **Saturday, December 7, 2024 at 7:30 p.m.**
- **Sunday, December 8, 2024 at 2:30 p.m.**

**Location:**
- **California Theatre, San Jose, CA**

**Concert Length:**
- **Approx. 1 hr 55 min. with intermission**

**Artists:**
- **Elena Sharkova, conductor**
- **Nathan Stark, bass-baritone**
- **Symphony San Jose**
- **Symphony San Jose Chorale**
- **Cantabile Youth Singers**
- **New Ballet**

**Program:**
- **J.S. Bach:** Jauchzet, frohlocket from Christmas Oratorio
- **M.Torme/R. Wells:** The Christmas Song
- **G.F. Handel:** See, the Conqu’ring Hero Comes
- **Alan Silvestri:** Polar Express Suite
- **G.F. Handel:** That Trumpet Shall Sound from The Messiah
- **Albert Hague:** You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch
- **Traditional:** 12 Days of Silicon Valley

**About This Performance:**
Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year at the majestic California Theatre with Symphony San Jose, Symphony San Jose Chorale, Cantabile Youth Singers, New Ballet, and special guests. Rejoice in holiday classics including carols, audience sing-alongs, and the ever-popular "12 Days of Silicon Valley." Include friends and family and make this experience an unforgettable part of your holiday season.

**Pre-Concert Festivities:**
- **Santa's Here:** Join us one hour before the concert for a jolly good time with Santa Claus. Capture the holiday spirit and create lasting memories as you take pictures and share your Christmas wishes with Santa.
- **Beware of the Grinch:** Keep a lookout for the mischievous Grinch who may be lurking around, trying to steal some Christmas cheer. Stay alert for any signs of the Grinch’s sneaky antics.
- **Gingerbread Cookie Decorating:** Unleash your inner pastry artist and decorate your very own gingerbread man with royal icing. This pre-concert festivity will start one hour before the concert and is open to everyone. Note: These cookies are not gluten-free and contain dairy, eggs, and molasses.

**Special Holiday Add-On:**
- Add this event to your "Create Your Own Subscription" for additional savings.

**Tickets:**
- **Purchase Tickets**: [Link to purchase tickets]
- **Subscribe and Save**: [Link to subscription options]

Join us for a magical wonderland at our Holiday Spectacular Concert and make sweet and delicious memories with us!

### Event Description: The San Jose Nutcracker

**Event:** The San Jose Nutcracker  
**Dates and Times:**  
- Saturday, December 14, 2024: 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
- Sunday, December 15, 2024: 2 p.m.
- Friday, December 20, 2024: 7 p.m.
- Saturday, December 21, 2024: 2 p.m. & 7 p.m.
- Sunday, December 22, 2024: 2 p.m.
- Monday, December 23, 2024: 2 p.m.

**Location:** California Theatre, San Jose, CA  
**Concert Length:** Approximately 2 hours with intermission

**Artists:**  
- **New Ballet:** Dalia Rawson, choreographer  
- **Symphony San Jose:** Thomas Shoebotham, conductor  

**Program:**  
- **Composer:** Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky  
- **Piece:** The Nutcracker  

**About This Performance:**  
Complete your family’s holiday traditions with The San Jose Nutcracker. This unique take on the classic tale of Clara and the Nutcracker is set against the backdrop of 1905 San Jose, featuring its famous electric tower. The production includes a company of swirling snowflakes and waltzing flowers, celebrating the heritage that has made Santa Clara Valley the center of innovation it is today. Symphony San Jose is proud to join New Ballet for the first time to bring Tchaikovsky’s immortal score to life.

**Special Features:**  
- **Landmarks and Scenic Elements:** The production features landmarks of the era, including a growing replica of the historic San Jose Light Tower and a skyline inspired by the city in 1905.
- **Costumes:** The first act’s costumes are inspired by period dolls from the History San Jose archives, while the second act reflects the valley in the last century, known as The Valley of Heart’s Delight.
- **Characters:** Swirling snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and The Sugarplum Fairy will enchant audiences, making this holiday ballet a new favorite for the entire family.

**Pre-Concert Festivities:**  
Pre-concert festivities begin one hour prior to each performance. Enjoy festive holiday decorations in the elegant lobby, holiday music played on the theatre’s historical organ, and opportunities to interact with costumed characters. Attendees can be photographed in magical fairytale settings and enjoy treats and toys available for purchase. Concessions offer a variety of options, from sweet treats to celebratory beverages.

**Special Holiday Add-On:**  
Please note that this event is not included in subscription packages. Tickets can be purchased individually.

**Ticket Information:**  
- **Purchase Tickets:** [Link to buy tickets]
- **Subscribe and Save:** [Link to subscription options]

**Contact Information:**  
- **Phone Number:** 408-286-2600  
- **Ticket Office Hours:** Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Join us for a magical holiday experience with The San Jose Nutcracker, a performance that promises to be a cherished tradition for years to come.

The San Jose Nutcracker

### Event Description: My Very First Nutcracker

**Event:** My Very First Nutcracker  
**Dates:** Sunday, December 15, 2024, at 11 a.m. and Sunday, December 22, 2024, at 11 a.m.  
**Location:** California Theatre, San Jose, CA  
**Concert Length:** Approximately 55 minutes  

**About This Performance:**
"My Very First Nutcracker" is a special one-act presentation of The San Jose Nutcracker, designed specifically for families with toddlers, preschoolers, and young children. This joyful holiday production features a festive holiday party where Uncle Nikola reveals his fascinating gifts. Children will be enchanted by the historic San Jose Electric Light Tower rising magically above the streets of San Jose and will cheer on the adorable mice and toy soldiers competing to win a magic crown.

**Artists:**
- **New Ballet:** Dalia Rawson, choreographer
- **Symphony San Jose:** Thomas Shoebotham, conductor

**Program:**
- **Composer:** Piotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky
- **Piece:** The Nutcracker

**Special Notes:**
- "My Very First Nutcracker" does not include the second act of The San Jose Nutcracker, where Clara meets the Sugarplum Fairy and journeys to the Valley of Heart’s Delight. For the complete two-act classical ballet with a live orchestra, please visit the main Nutcracker page.

**Tickets:**
- This event is not included in subscription packages.
- Purchase tickets to enjoy this magical holiday experience with your family.

Introduce your family to the magic of classical ballet with this delightful and accessible performance, perfect for young audiences.

My Very First Nutcracker

We will be featuring our concerto competition winners as well as Christmas selections as part of the Season of Hope series at Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

2024 Winter Concert

Cathedral Basilica of St. Joseph

CELEBRATION- Joys and Delights

St Francis Episcopal Church

Ring in the new year with joyful music and cherished traditions at this vibrant holiday singalong event.

Cantar con los Reyes

School of Arts and Culture

### The Firebird Symphony San Jose

**Event:** The Firebird Symphony  
**Dates and Times:**  
- Saturday, January 25, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.  
- Sunday, January 26, 2025, at 2:30 p.m.  

**Location:** California Theatre, San Jose, CA  
**Concert Length:** Approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, including intermission  
**Pre-Concert Music Notes:** One hour prior to the concert in the auditorium  

**Artists:**  
- **Conductor:** Carlos Vieu  
- **Orchestra:** Symphony San Jose  

**Program:**  
- **Jean Sibelius:** Finlandia  
- **Johannes Brahms:** Variations on a Theme by Haydn  
- **Sonia Possetti:** Bullanguera  
- **Igor Stravinsky:** The Firebird Suite  

**About This Performance:**  
With music as enchanting and lavishly colorful as the title character, The Firebird is the perfect way to celebrate the new year. This suite comes from the 1910 ballet that launched Stravinsky’s international career. Opening the program is Sibelius’ most-famous composition, Finlandia, evoking the struggles of his native homeland with equal parts ominousness, pride, and festivity. Brahms’ Variations on a Theme by Haydn is one of the famed Romantic composer’s most popular works. Argentinian conductor Carlos Vieu brings Sonia Possetti’s spirited Bullanguera from his homeland to complete this program.

**Tickets:**  
- Purchase individual tickets or subscribe and save.  

For more information and to buy tickets, visit the Symphony San Jose website or contact the ticket office at 408-286-2600.

The Firebird

Pianist Alexander Malofeev (born October 2001) is hailed as one of the most prominent artists of his generation. He began studying at the Gnessin Moscow Special School of Music and made his breakthrough at age 13, winning First Prize at the 2014 International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians. “Contrary to what could be expected of a youngster …, he demonstrated not only high technical accuracy but also an incredible maturity. Crystal clear sounds and perfect balance revealed his exceptional ability” (Amadeus).

Alexander Malofeev

Montgomery Theater

Rising Stars of Opera features several singers from the highly regarded San Francisco Opera Center performing a wide range of great arias with full orchestral accompaniment from our own UC Davis Symphony Orchestra.

Barbara K. Jackson Rising Stars of Opera

Dr. Thomas Stockmann discovers that the water in his town’s therapeutic spa is contaminated. The polluted spa has created prosperity for the town but is also making people sick. The play examines how a scientific expert becomes “an enemy of the people” when he threatens to expose an ecological human disaster. Will he be silenced by those who seek to protect their personal financial gains? Thomas Ostermeier’s scorching adaptation successfully pulls Ibsen’s play out of a small Norwegian town in 1882 and into a modern day global theatrical debate about corruption, climate emergency, and inequality.

An Enemy of the People

This all-new production of Bartók’s haunting Bluebeard’s Castle will have audiences on the edge of their seats. Directed by OSJ General Director/CEO Shawna Lucey and conducted by OSJ Music Director Joseph Marcheso, this powerful one-act opera presented in English follows Judith as she abandons a peaceful existence to marry the mysterious Duke Bluebeard. Unlocking rooms in her eerie new home, she discovers her new husband’s dark past, delving into the frightening corners of his troubled imagination.

Events in San Jose, CA

Charlie Hankin: “Caribbea...

UC Davis Arts

A Sherlock Carol

San Jose Stage Company

La Bohème

Opera San José

La Bohème

Cantabile

UC Davis Symphony Orchest...

UC Davis Arts

Campus Square Dance

UC Davis Arts

Choruses of UC Davis: “Se...

UC Davis Arts

Holiday Spectacular

Cantabile

Holiday Spectacular

Symphony San Jose

The San Jose Nutcracker

Symphony San Jose

My Very First Nutcracker

Symphony San Jose

2024 Winter Concert

California Philharmonic Youth Orchestra

CELEBRATION- Joys and Del...

San José Chamber Orchestra

Cantar con los Reyes

Opera Cultura

The Firebird

Symphony San Jose

Alexander Malofeev

Steinway Society The Bay Area

Barbara K. Jackson Rising...

UC Davis Arts

An Enemy of the People

San Jose Stage Company

Bluebeard’s Castle

Opera San José

Fabulous Firsts!

The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra