2013-2014 touring artist roster
DESCRIPTION
The Maryland Touring Artists Roster increases paid performance opportunities for professional Maryland performing artists.TRANSCRIPT
MARYLAND TOURING ARTISTS ROSTER
MARYLAND STATE ARTS COUNCIL
Larry Wills
The National Players
Word Dance Theater
Whit Williams
OCEAN Quartet
FOR MARYLAND TOURING GRANTS - FY13 AND FY14 APPLICATIONS
Maryland Touring Artists Roster Welcome to the Maryland Touring Artists Roster! The roster showcases a diverse range of Maryland’s touring artists and ensembles in dance, multidisciplinary, music and theater. The performances and educational programs by the artists and ensembles featured on the roster reflect a high quality of artistry that will captivate the imagination and entertain audiences of all ages. The touring artists and ensembles have been selected through a rigorous evaluation process by fellow touring artists, arts presenters and arts educators in Maryland. The Maryland State Arts Council has approved these touring artists and ensembles to represent our state based on their artistic excellence, tour management ability and community engagement programs. Each profile on the roster contains a brief description of the artist and tour-ready programs, contact information, fee ranges for touring and educational programs, availability and technical specifications to assist you with your decision-making. If you have questions beyond what the roster provides, please contact the artist directly to discuss your programming needs. Fee Subsidy Support for Maryland Presenters Maryland nonprofit organizations can apply for financial support to present a touring artist or ensemble on the roster through the Maryland Touring Grant.
The goals of the Maryland Touring Artists Roster are:
to expand the pool of performing artists presented in Maryland
to further the artistic development of performing artists
to enhance the artists' marketability and touring capacity beyond their home state
Placement on the Maryland Touring Artists Roster offers many benefits, including:
opportunities for artists to receive bookings/artist fees through the Maryland Touring Pro-gram
access to free MSAC professional development workshops designed to meet the needs of performing artists
a free subscription to the MD Presenters Network forum where performers can interact with one another through networking, collaboration, and sharing of resources, and
MSAC promotion at local, regional, and national conferences
For more information about Maryland roster artists and the Maryland Touring Program appli-cation for Maryland presenters: Amy Grossmann Phone: 410-767-6536 Email: [email protected] Website: www.msac.org
Maryland Touring Artists Roster
Dance BALLET THEATRE OF MARYLAND, INC. ........................................................................... 1
CLANCYWORKS DANCE COMPANY ...............................................................................2
DANCE EXCHANGE ..................................................................................................3
FOOTWORKS PERCUSSIVE DANCE ESSEMBLE ...................................................................4
KALANIDHI DANCE ..................................................................................................5
LAURA SCHANDELMEIER & STEPHEN CLAPP/DANCE BOX THEATER, INC ...................................6
NAOKO MAESHIBA ..................................................................................................7
SILK ROAD DANCE COMPANY .....................................................................................8
SUTRADHAR INSTITUTE OF DANCE AND RELATED ARTS .......................................................9
UPDRAFT AERIAL DANCE THEATER ............................................................................10
VTDANCE ...........................................................................................................11
Multidisciplinary NANA PROJECTS ..................................................................................................12
WORD DANCE THEATER .........................................................................................13
Music 5TH L, THE ..........................................................................................................14
AGLAIA KORAS ....................................................................................................15
AMADOU KOUYATE...............................................................................................16
BARBARA MARTIN & MAC WALTER ............................................................................17
BARRY LOUIS POLISAR ............................................................................................18
BOISTER, INC ......................................................................................................19
BOMANI ARMAH ..................................................................................................20
CARL GRUBBS .....................................................................................................21
CAROLYN BLACK-SOTIR ..........................................................................................22
CATHY FINK & MARCY MARXER .................................................................................23
CHARLES “RAHMAT” WOODS ...................................................................................24
CHEICK HAMALA DIABATE .......................................................................................25
CHRISTINA HARRISON ............................................................................................26
Table of Contents
Maryland Touring Artists Roster
Table of Contents
Music, Con’t. DUENDE QUARTET ............................................................................................... 27
ERIC BYRD TRIO/BROTHER RAY BAND ......................................................................... 28
HEDGE BAND, THE ............................................................................................... 29
HOT SOUP ......................................................................................................... 30
IONA ............................................................................................................... 31
IRAIDA POBEREZHNAYA ......................................................................................... 32
KUZNIK DUO ...................................................................................................... 33
LAFAYETTE GILCHRIST ........................................................................................... 34
LARRY WILLIS ..................................................................................................... 35
MARK EDWARDS ................................................................................................. 36
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY CHOIR ........................................................................... 37
OCEAN QUARTET ................................................................................................. 38
PEABODY RAGTIME ENSEMBLE ................................................................................ 39
PROJECT NATALE ................................................................................................. 40
ROB LEVIT ......................................................................................................... 41
ROSITA MATHEWS ............................................................................................... 42
SHODEKEH ........................................................................................................ 43
SLIM HARRISON .................................................................................................. 44
TAMARA WELLONS AND BAND ................................................................................. 45
TODD MARCUS ................................................................................................... 46
WALT MICHAEL & COMPANY ................................................................................... 47
WASHINGTON MUSICA VIVA ................................................................................... 48
WHIT WILLIAMS ................................................................................................. 49
WIGGINS & FRIENDS ............................................................................................. 50
Theater ARIANA ROSS ..................................................................................................... 51
BILL GRIMMETTE ................................................................................................. 52
DEBRA MIMS...................................................................................................... 53
DIANE MACKLIN .................................................................................................. 54
IN-FLIGHT THEATER .............................................................................................. 55
Maryland Touring Artists Roster
Table of Contents
Theater Con’t.
JON SPELMAN .................................................................................................... 56
MARYLAND SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL .......................................................................... 57
NATIONAL PLAYERS, THE ........................................................................................ 58
QUEST VISUAL THEATRE......................................................................................... 59
BALLET THEATRE OF MARYLAND, INC.
ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Ballet BOOKING CONTACT Adrienne Westlake 801 Chase Street Annapolis, MD 81401 Telephone: 410-263-8289 or 410-224-5644 Email: [email protected] Website: www.balletmaryland.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 12 professional company plus up to 15 additional apprentices TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $6,500 Maximum: $40,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 Maximum: $1,200 AVAILABILITY January, March, April (last 2 weeks of the month), November AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 35’ x 30’ Stage Set: Full functioning front curtain – two additional legs on each side of stage and a white CYC across back of stage Stage Floor: Wood or marley Audio Support Equipment: Sound system with speakers and with back stage monitors ; CD system; a portable microphone Lighting: A basic blue wash, a warm or red wash, amber wash, basic morning, daylight, and evening lights and 1 to 5 specials plus at least one technician Other: Outreach stage dimensions can be as small as 24’ x 20’
ARTIST INFORMATION
Full-length ballets:
Alice in Wonderland – BTM captures the excitement and whimsy
of Lewis Carroll‘s classic tale and all its unforgettable characters in
this colorful ballet.
Aladdin – Aladdin, helped by the Genie of the Lamp and the
Sorceress of the Ring battles the evil wizard Jamal to save the
beautiful Princess Samira and the Sultan‘s kingdom.
Romeo & Juliet - Shakespeare‘s tragic tale of opposing
households and star-crossed lovers captures the entire spectrum of
great tragedy – humor, pathos, love, death, idealism and fate.
Beauty & the Beast – Suffused with magic, humor, romance,
metaphor and symbol, BTM‘s dancers bring these beloved fairytale
characters to life.
Celtic Christmas Suites – A journey through time from Hallow‘s
Eve through the 12 Days of Christmas fusing Irish step dancing,
ballet and modern dance to recreate holiday legends past and
present.
Excalibur—Award-winning ballet to the music of Maggie Sansone,
where Morgan Le Fey pursues the path of darkness to destroy King
Arthur‘s vision of the future.
Repertory:
Celtic Book of Days: where mainstream ―River Dance‖ meets
classical dance in a celebration of Harvest Faire on the Wheel of
Life.
Gottschalk’s Grande Tarantella: a fusion of the
energetic, passionate Italian tarantella with ballet.
Songs of Life: A contemporary ballet to new-age jazz composer
Rob Levit‘s music.
Specters, Phantoms and Poe: an anthology of Poe through
dance and the spoken word including his chilling, Masque of the
Red Death, Poe‘s personal favorite of his stories, Ligeia, and the
ever popular poems, The Raven and Annabel Lee.
Educational/Residence Programs:
BTM offers master classes, interactive outreaches, workshops and
residencies with all of its touring programs. Most can be adapted
to fit ages K-adult. BTM is certified by the Teaching Artist Institute
(TAI). Additional ongoing educational programs available are:
Dancing through Time and Culture, Medieval (Excalibur in a
Nutshell), Alice in Wonderland, Aladdin and Romeo & Juliet.
Dance
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Dance
CLANCYWORKS DANCE COMPANY ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Contemporary/Modern BOOKING CONTACT Adrienne Clancy PO Box 3111 Silver Spring, MD 20918 Telephone: 301-717-9271 Email: [email protected] Website: www.clancyworks.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 – 6 dancers, often with 1– 4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: Not available Maximum: $20,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Not available Maximum: $15,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage dimensions: Presentations can be tailored to the size and technical components of the thea-ter—optimal stage size is 36’ x 40.’ Audio Support Equipment: Contact artist Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Contact artist Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
ClancyWorks shifts perceptions through performance!
ClancyWorks presents original modern dance works created
through an exploration of architecturally informed partnering
techniques. The Washington Post has described Adrienne
Clancy, Founder, as ―a wizard of invention‖ and her
choreography as ―a tour de force of unpredictable partnering.‖
Over the past 20 years of choreographing, Clancy has earned
numerous awards and honors for her work and has had her
dances presented internationally in Japan, Poland, Paraguay,
Mexico, Israel, and England. Recently ClancyWorks has
presented performances on a national level in New York, New
Mexico, California, Texas, Indiana, Illinois, North Carolina,
Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, West Virginia, Virginia,
Washington, D.C., and Maryland.
―The mercurial ease with which ClancyWorks not only
performed, but opened and illuminated the artistic process, and
actually incorporated audience reactions and suggestions into a
dance piece, was arresting and informative. This was an
elegant version of improvisation from audience
suggestions. Brava! Bravo! The company was cordial,
congenial, and a pleasure to work with offstage as well, which
matters a lot to us as a presenter.‖ ---Dr. Donn Murphy,
National Theater Presenter, DC, commenting on a
ClancyWorks concert that was presented at the National on
March 24, 2008.
Current tour-ready programs include evening length
performances of the company repertoire: Back to Wall, Taking
Steps to Climbing Mountains, Light Armor, Mermaids and Other
Tails of Truth, Temperance, and our School Assembly Program
tailored for a K-12 audience. Details and descriptions of current
tour ready programs for the Company are listed on
www.clancyworks.org.
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Dance
DANCE EXCHANGE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Contemporary BOOKING CONTACT Ouida Maedel 7117 Maple Avenue Takoma Park, MD 20912 Telephone: 301-270-6700 ext 19 Email: [email protected] Website: www.danceexchange.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 to 15—varies from chamber to full TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: up to $2,000 Maximum: up to $40,000 (depending on length of time in community) EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,000 Maximum: $40,000
AVAILABILITY Year round
AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Negotiable depending on contract, minimum 30’ x 30’ for full ensemble Stage Set: Negotiable Stage floor: Marley preferred Audio Support Equipment: iPod in (1/8) and hand held microphones Visual Support Equipment: Negotiable Rehearsal Space: 20’ x 30’ warm up space for dancers Other: Rehearsal/warm up and performance space should be heated
ARTIST INFORMATION
Dance Exchange breaks boundaries between stage and
audience, theater and community, movement and language, tradition
and the unexplored. Founded in 1976 by Liz Lerman and now under
the artistic direction of Cassie Meador, Dance Exchange stretches the
range of contemporary dance through explosive dancing, personal
stories, humor, and a company of performers whose ages span six
decades. The work consists of concerts, interactive performances,
community residencies, and professional training in community-based
dance.
Dance Exchange employs a collaborative approach to dance making
and administration. Recent and current projects include
explorations of coal mining, genetic research, human rights, particle
physics, ecology, land use, and rest in a hyper-driven society.
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Dance
FOOTWORKS PERCUSSIVE DANCE ENSEMBLE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional Music and Percussive Dance BOOKING CONTACT Eileen Carson or Harriet Yake PO Box 1761 Millersville, MD 21108 Telephone: 410-897-9299 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.footworks.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 –6 dancers, 1 –4 musicians, and 1 technical personnel TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $3,000 Maximum: $10,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $900 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage dimensions: 24’ X 16’ (full com-pany); 6’ X 8’ (small scale productions) Audio Support Equipment: Small scale productions—one to two mi-crophones; full company produc-tions: sound set up of six-eight in-strument and vocal microphones, three floor microphones, three-four monitors for the band, two side fill monitors for the dancers Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Can range from simple to in-depth, with a lighting plot provided Rehearsal Space: Access to stage on day of the performance for run-thru/tech
ARTIST INFORMATION
Footworks Percussive Dance Ensemble, founded in 1979, has
toured nationally and internationally, including guest artists in the
London production of Riverdance and a tour of Japan with the
Smithsonian Institution. Footworks presents a dazzling array of
multi-cultural traditional percussive dances as well as original
choreography.
Incredible Feets (full-scale productions to Arts-in-Education
Performances): celebrates the world of percussive dance. This
show introduces the audience to traditional percussive dances from
Ireland, England, South Africa, Canada and the American South as
well as hamboning, hoofin', and early jazz tap. The influences of
these joyful traditions come together in original, innovative pieces
choreographed by Footworks. With up to six dancers and three
musicians, this production is scaled for large halls and festivals.
Smaller versions of INCREDIBLE FEETS also take the audience on
a whirlwind tour of percussive dance allowing you to tailor the
production to fit your facility and budget.
STEPS AND STRIPES (full-scale production)
Footworks newest production was created to celebrate the 200th
anniversary of the writing of the Star Spangled Banner in 2014.
With many special guest artists the show celebrates the
multi-cultural history of our state and includes Irish and African
music and dance to represent the many traditions that have come
to these shores, leading to new traditions. Moving through history,
the production includes American clogging, tap dance, modern
dance, and Hip Hop, all performed to live music, including newly
written music and songs referencing Baltimore‘s rich history and
location.
Workshops, Master Classes, and Residencies:
Footworks‘ mission includes making dance accessible and enjoyable
to anyone, whether you are a beginner or a highly trained dancer
who has yet to experience tradition-based percussive dance forms.
The company offer master classes to: dance studios; recreational
or semi-professional groups; college dance departments; and
professional companies. In addition to years of experience and first
rate teaching skills, Footworks imparts the concept of dance as
cultural expression, within a historical context.
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Dance
KALANIDHI DANCE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Classical Indian Dance (Kuchipudi ) BOOKING CONTACT Anuradha Nehru 6816 Bradley Blvd. Bethesda, MD 20817 Phone: 301-469-8529 Email: [email protected] Website: www.kalanidhi.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 - 9 ensemble members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,000 Maximum: $18,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 30’ x 25’ Stage Set: Empty stage-use of cyclorama if available Audio support equipment: high quality CD playback, one stand microphone and two feedback monitors Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Full lighting and other requirements in tech rider, depending on performance Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Kalanidhi Dance navigates the ancient depths of the South Indian
style of Kuchipudi, discovering its contemporary facets, while
retaining its classical essence. The company‘s performances and
educational programming connect with diverse audiences and raise
the profile of Indian classical dance in the United States. Born out of
the vision of founder and artistic director, Anuradha Nehru, Kalanidhi
Dance continues to make strides in the realm of Kuchipudi
performance and education. From full-length dance theater
productions, to in-school residencies, the company extends the
reach of classical Indian dance to audiences of all ages and
experiences. Kalanidhi Dance has presented its work at several
prestigious venues including Wolf Trap, National Geographic Society,
and the Ananya Festival in New Delhi. Kalanidhi‘s work is recognized
and funded by the Maryland State Arts Council and the Arts and
Humanities Council of Montgomery County.
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Dance
LAURA SCHANDELMEIER & STEPHEN CLAPP/ DANCE BOX THEATER, INC ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Dance/Theater BOOKING CONTACT Stephen Clapp & Laura Schandelmeier 3311 Rhode Island Avenue, #305 Mount Rainier, MD 20712 Phone: 415-779-6383 Email: [email protected] Website: www.danceboxtheater.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2 - 5 artists, 1 lighting designer TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,000 Maximum: $15,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $250 Maximum: $15,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Minimum 25’ x 25’ and suitable for dance Audio Support Equipment: CD player Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Stage lighting Rehearsal space: Comparable to stage setting *Contact artist for full technical re-quirements
ARTIST INFORMATION
“It is a rare and phenomenal treat to see two dancers who are so
beautifully in tune with each other, with their partnering carefully
honed and developed through years of kinesthetic
communication." (Ellen Chenoweth, Widening the I)
Schandelmeier & Clapp have toured internationally and are re-
nowned for their daring virtuosity, visual elegance and strong
sense of social responsibility. Highly energized choreography in-
cludes ruminations on action and re-action, conflict, empathy, and
transformation - creating motion narrative with a sensual luster
and dynamic variety. A
commitment to the intersection of art and social justice fused with
an edgy exploration of dance and theater, Dance Box Theater
forges a unique blend of artistry, cultural synthesis, community
engagement and contemporary commentary.
We Are Here marks the seventh collaboration between Dance
Box Theater's Co-Artistic Directors, Stephen Clapp and Laura
Schandelmeier. The work features an original score by Clapp, a
dynamic ensemble of guest artists and potent images of the here
and now. We Are Here will premier at Dance Place in Washington,
DC on March 31 and April 1, 2012. (50-75 min.)
Commissioned by the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing
Arts as part of the 2010 Local Dance Commissioning Project, Af-
fectations is a multi-media movement/theater performance cre-
ated and
performed by Dance Box Theater Co-Artistic Directors Laura
Schandelmeier & Stephen Clapp with dance artist Ilana Faye
Silverstein. Through dynamic choreography and intricate partner-
ing developed over the course of a year and half, Affectations of-
fers the human body as metaphor for contemporary culture. Per-
formed by Clapp, Schandelmeier, and Silverstein, this full-evening
work is the bravest, most innovative and original production that
Dance Box
Theater has created to date. (50 min.)
The Loving Project: E-Race, a full-evening work for 4 dancers,
examines interracial and non-traditional couples. Premiering at
Dance Place in Washington, DC in 2009 the dance identifies and
challenges aspects of racism and other forms of oppression that
have systemically rejected the union of individuals from different
backgrounds. This work is sign interpreted.
6
NAOKO MAESHIBA ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Dance Theatre, Interdisciplinary BOOKING CONTACT Naoko Maeshiba 824 E. Lake Ave. Baltimore, MD 21212 Telephone: 202-320-5786 Email: [email protected] Website: www.naokibi.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 9 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $3,000 Maximum: $15,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $5,000
AVAILABILITY Year round
AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Minimum 36’ x 30’ Stage Floor Type: Wooden floor painted black or with marley laid on top Audio Support Equipment: 2 CD playback and sound system or computer-programmed sound system Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Minimum 3 side booms on each side (6 total), 3 instruments on each boom plus general lighting plot Rehearsal Space: comparable to performance space Other: Grid or some other system at least 19 feet high to rig 3 ropes, 1 rope ladder, and 1 web tape on 5 different planes (Paraffin)
Dance
ARTIST INFORMATION
Maeshiba‘s work has focused on revealing the body's true
expression in the form of non-verbal dance/theatre. In this
process, she attempts to reach the unveiled state of the
body through its contact with the immediate environment.
In 2002, She founded a performance unit/lab, Naoko
Maeshiba/kibism in order to pursue her inquiry about the
depth of the body, examine various forms of perception in
search for the absolute essence in expression, and further
the potential interaction between different disciplines and
cultures.
Known for their primal and refined physicality drawn
from both Western and Eastern disciplines, Kibism works
delve into the hidden and the obscured aspects of
society, unearth the ephemeral moments in life, and
seek out the strange beauty (KIBI) of our existence in
the universe. Synthesizing kinetic, auditory, and
sculptural elements, Kibism works push the boundary
between body and environment, maximizing the
imagination of the audience.
Naoko Maeshiba/Kibism works have been experienced in
both traditional and non-traditional venues in the North
America, Europe, and Japan. Her most recent award-winning
piece, ―Paraffin‖ was described as ‗intense and emotionally
engaging (Baltimore City Paper)‖, ―strikingly
beautiful‖ (Washington Post), evoking ―the raw passions of
fear and desire as the body is stretched to its physical and
expressive limits…‖(Baltimore Theatre Journal).
Maeshiba is a recipient of Maryland State Arts Council
Individual Artist Award in Solo Dance Performance and
Choreography.
7
SILK ROAD DANCE COMPANY ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional women’s dance of Central Asia, Middle East, North Africa, South Asia, China, Silk Road Cultures and portions of the Islamic World BOOKING CONTACT Laurel Victoria Gray 8314 Greenwood Avenue Apt. A Takoma Park, MD 20912 Telephone: 301-585-1105 Email: [email protected] Website: www.silkroaddance.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 6 -12 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $3,000 Maximum: $5,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,000 Maximum: $2,500
AVAILABILITY Year round
AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 24’ x 20’ Stage Set: Backdrops supplied by company, but cyc or a black curtain is fine if back drops cannot be hung Stage Floor Type: Wood is preferred, but marley is acceptable Audio Support Equipment: CD player and adequate sound system for venue Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Adequate for venue Rehearsal Space: Dance studio with sprung floor or clean stage surface
Dance
ARTIST INFORMATION
The award-winning Silk Road Dance Company (SRDC) presents
women's dances from Central Asia, South Asia, the Middle East,
China and the Caucasus. Founded by Artistic Director Dr. Laurel
Victoria Gray in 1995, the ensemble's pioneering performances
offer a unique glimpse of the life and culture of little known
regions.
SRDC has performed internationally in Uzbekistan, Qatar and
Canada. They have been the subject of broadcasts on Uzbek,
Tajik and Arabic television, BBC, and VOA. SRDC has performed
nationally throughout the US and has appeared at some of the
most prestigious festivals and venues in DC, including the
Kennedy Center and the Library of Congress. The ensemble has
been featured at events for the Embassies of Egypt, Tajikistan,
Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey and Russia; they are often
engaged by cultural organizations in the Turkish, Iranian,
Afghan, Arab and Central Asian communities.
Artistic Director Gray has received many awards for her
creative work with SRDC including the 2011 Arash Award for
achievement in Iranian Arts; the 2006 Metro DC Dance Award
for ―Excellence in Costume Design" and the 2003 Kennedy
Center Local Dance Commissioning Project. She was selected to
deliver the 2009 Fulbright International Dance Scholar Lecture
which SRDC enhanced with performances of Uzbek dances. In
2003, SRDC won the International Academy of Middle Eastern
Dance Award for Best Dance Company.
SRDC has enchanted audiences with beautiful, authentic, and
imaginative productions. Ethnically diverse, the ensemble's
dancers have mastered a wide range of styles including rare
dances from the company's 'Legacy Repertoire' – precious gifts
from leading World Dance artists.
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Dance
SUTRADHAR INSTITUTE OF DANCE AND RELATED ARTS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Contemporary Classical Indian Dance (Kuchipudi) and Storytelling BOOKING CONTACT Nilimma Devi 1525 Forest Glen Road Silver Spring, MD 20910 Telephone: 301-593-2664 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dancesidra.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1—8 dancers TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,000 Maximum: $15,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 20’ by 20’ Stage Floor Type: Wood is preferred Audio Support Equipment: good sound system for storytelling and a cordless microphone Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: contact artist Rehearsal Space: contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Nilimma Devi is an acclaimed artist, educator and
choreographer whose career has crossed barriers and spanned
the globe. She is founder and director of Sutradhar Institute of
Dance and Related Arts (SIDRA). Under her direction (1989-
present) she has made the Silver Spring-based institute into a
community touchstone of classical art and culture. Devi's work is
classically rigorous yet it challenges cultural barriers. Ms. Devi is
also the director of the Devi Dance Theater, which has
performed at the Kennedy Center, Dance Place, Smithsonian, the
Library of Congress, and for Voice of America. In 2002, the
Choreographers Commissioning Project of the Kennedy Center
awarded Devi a grant to create Walk the Sky. Devi's work is
inspired by the 12th Century radical poetess, Mahadevi Akka,
and has won international accolades. As a faculty member of the
George Washington University, Ms. Devi teaches Gender and
Classical Indian Dance.
In 2006, Devi recorded a highly reviewed television lecture
series—Ancient Dance and Contemporary Voices—for Osmania
University in Hyderabad, India. Her thought-provoking course—
In Pursuit of the Goddess—views at the thought of feminine
divinity as expressed in Hindu philosophy, religion, art and
aesthetics. In 2006, Ms. Devi was asked to join and become a
member of the CID, International Dance UNESCO. She also
teaches the course ― Contemporary Voices in Classical Indian
Dance and Indian Classical Dance ―at George Mason University.
Devi's own battle to master the secrets of gender and caste
exclusivity in Kuchipudi dance inspires her idea of freedom, and
transcending barriers. Devi is a recipient of the Maryland State
Arts Council Individual Artist Award and Master Apprenticeship
Award.
9
Dance
UPDRAFT AERIAL DANCE THEATER ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Contemporary aerial dance BOOKING CONTACT Lizard Walker-Keegan 1233 Hoffmaster Road Knoxville, MD 21758 Telephone: 301-834-9291 Email: [email protected] Website: www.updraft.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3-6 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $2,500 Maximum: $10,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 26’ x 26’, if using a portable rig Stage Set: If not using a portable rig, one or more attachment points 18’ or higher capable of bearing 1,500 pounds of dynamic, falling weight Stage Floor Type: Splinter-free resilient surface Audio Support Equipment: CD and digital playback system Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: Varies with each production Rehearsal Space: May also be performance space
ARTIST INFORMATION
Updraft Aerial Dance Theater takes contemporary dance into the
air—incorporating low-flying trapeze, suspended fabric, rope and
harness, and invented aerial apparatus to create an energetic
movement exposition that intrigues and delights its audiences.
Updraft blurs the lines between performing arts genres, often
collaborating with poets, musicians, and visual artists to dive
deeply into humanity‗s songs and stories.
The small, flexible company is able to provide presentations
ranging from simple lecture/demonstrations and riveting
entertainment to single concept full-length dance theater
productions. Updraft offers companion workshops and master
classes in aerial technique and community-based art making as a
part of its residency activities.
Updraft‗s creative work reflects vital issues in the lives of
individuals and communities, giving voice to multiple
perspectives. Its dynamic productions explore themes from the
ridiculous to the sublime, including mountaintop removal, the
trials of sibling rivalry, classism and stereotyping, and the humor
and pathos of everyday life.
Updraft‗s dramatic aerial dimension engages a wide range of
audiences and offers an immediate metaphor for people‘s need
and ability to find power, extend limits, and achieve balance.
Descriptions of works and demonstration video are available at
www.updraft.org.
10
Dance
VTDANCE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Modern/Contemporary BOOKING CONTACT Vincent E. Thomas 610 Lennox Street, #3 Baltimore, MD 21217 Telephone: 443-983-5915 Email: [email protected] Website: www.vtdance.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 — 5 artists TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $5,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $3,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Presentations can be tailored to the venue, but ideally minimum 36’ x 24’ Stage Set: Marley dance floor Audio Support Equipment: CD playback and sound system Visual Support Equipment: projector and projection surface (scrim or back wall) Lighting: Six side booms (3 on each side) with 2-3 lighting instruments; general lighting plot Rehearsal Space: should be comparable to performance space if different Other: Microphones (floor or hanging) if presented in a large theatre
ARTIST INFORMATION
Vincent E. Thomas founded VTDance as an outlet for
performance projects including solo, group, and collaborative
choreographic endeavors. VTDance is multi-dimensional. The
work builds on the use of contemporary dance, improvisation,
text/movement, a variety of sound sources, and collaborations
with other artists, including dancers, musicians, poets, visual
artists, and others [to be discovered]. These ideas coupled
with witty, poignant, athletic and gestural movement are the
rich palette for VTDance.
For his newest solo work, "iWitness," the award-winning
choreographer contemplates acts of humanity in this deeply
moving, multi-layered work, exploring simple truths in human
behaviors and implied truths in human documents from the
Pledge of Allegiance to the Universal Declaration of Human
Rights. "iWitness" studies the ideals we seek and the
philosophers and humanitarians we attempt to follow. Pledge
springs from the Pledge of Allegiance; Render and Proceed
investigates the convolution of media and its effect on the
human condition and society; Come Change considers the
past and present for a hopeful tomorrow.
Vincent E. Thomas is a 2008 Kennedy Center Local Dance
Commission Award recipient.
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Multidisciplinary
NANA PROJECTS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Overhead Projector Shadow Puppetry BOOKING CONTACT Molly Ross 4504 Wilmslow Road Baltimore, MD 21210 Telephone: 443-919-6980 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nanaprojects.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 5 artists TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $725 Maximum: $3700 *performed with recorded music, plus travel expenses Minimum: $3,700 Maximum: $8,000 *performed with live music, plus travel expenses EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $3,700 * plus travel expenses AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 15-50’ x 12-32’ Stage Set: projection tables provided by company Audio Support Equipment: Sound System for CD (for live band please contact company) Lighting: House lights/basic wash Other: Scrim, Projection Screen or grid to hang Nana Screen (*additional fees if we provide screen)
ARTIST INFORMATION
Baltimore based Visual Alchemists, Nana Projects pioneer a
groundbreaking blend of shadow puppetry and original music!
Gorgeous hand manipulated cutouts bring to life stories on screens
that mesmerize audiences. Performed by two to three puppeteers,
2-dimensional images made of plastic and acrylic gels are projected
onto a screen with three overhead projectors. Inventive tricks
including scrolls of plastic, masking illusions, and faders allow the
puppeteers to manipulate the pieces of plastic with a fluidity that is
often mistaken for animation. This is a unique form of puppetry
that in spirit and technique blends the manipulation of objects with
the tricks of Victorian Magic Lantern slide shows and brings a
modern twist to pre-cinema.
Alonzo’s Lullaby: Tells the tale of madness, passion and intrigue.
Inspired by the Hagenback-Wallace circus train wreck of 1918,
With an original score composed and performed by Ellen Cherry
and Nicholas Sjostrom. More show descriptions available upon
request.
Audiences Say:
―Just when I thought I had seen all their techniques, they would
pull out a trick that had me scratching my head.‖
―The cheering went on, until the audience was completely spent.‖
Site-Specific, Community-Specific Events, Workshops and
Residencies: Nana Projects brings people from varied
backgrounds together to make collaborative artwork drawing
―audiences‖ into the creation of events, and crafting stories and
images that give voice to their history and the history of shared
public spaces. From Shadow Puppetry workshops to hand made
lantern parades to Stilt walking workshops Nana Projects shares a
variety of skills with communities throughout Baltimore and
beyond. Partnerships with national, regional and local
organizations are a keystone of all our projects. Our site specific
and community centric work relies on the collaborative
involvement of organizational partners.
Nana Projects has received funding from the Jim Henson
Foundation, The Puppeteers of America as well as the National
Endowment for the Arts, Maryland State Arts Council and the
Baltimore Office of Promotion and the Arts.
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Multidisciplinary
WORD DANCE THEATER ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Live Music, Original Theater, Choreography of Isadora Duncan BOOKING CONTACT Stacy Yu 12900 Stallion Court Potomac, MD 20854 Telephone: 301-461-6770 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nanaprojects.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 artists TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $9,000 Maximum: $10,000 Minimum: $5,000 Maximum: $10,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $3,700 * plus travel ex-penses AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 30’ x 28’ Stage Set: Piano, desk and chair Stage Floor: Marley, linoleum/vinyl or wood Audio Support Equipment: Basic sound system, side monitors and one wireless body microphone Lighting: Basic light plot with side lights Rehearsal Space: Yes Other: Concert grand, baby grand or good upright
ARTIST INFORMATION
With inspired and innovative original dance/theater productions,
Word Dance Theater‘s sophisticated integration of dance,
theater, and music has repeatedly created new and exciting
viewing experiences for the public, all while paying tribute to the
choreography and philosophy of Isadora Duncan. National Public
Radio says that Word Dance Theater is ―equally as innovative as
modern dance's firebrand, Isadora Duncan.‖ Word Dance
Theater is the premiere modern dance company in Maryland
offering authentic reconstructions of Duncan‘s masterpieces
within a theatrical context and with concert-quality live music.
Preludes: Duncan, Sand & Chopin
Word Dance Theater‘s bold artistic exploration features the
masterworks of musical genius Frederic Chopin, his lover,
literary great, George Sand and revolutionary choreographer,
Isadora Duncan—a unique and sophisticated integration of
dance, theater, and live music.
―Carlos Cesar Rodriguez plays the preludes with great skill and
sensitivity as three dancers (Cynthia Word, Ingrid Zimmer, and
Jeanne Bresciani) perform Duncan‘s solo dance in a dreamlike
way that gives another dimension to the story and illuminates
the characters with joy, pain, loss, and soul stirring artistry,
Kudos to the creators of this original and heart-wrenching
theatrical experience.‖ Eliza Engle, Charleston Today, June 2011
Revolutionary! Isadora Duncan
Join Word Dance Theater in their multi-media production of the
life and times of Isadora Duncan, the great American artist and
revolutionary. Using Duncan‘s own words as a script, actress
Sarah Pleydell embodies Isadora. WDT dancers provide brilliant
reconstructions of Isadora Duncan‘s choreography, using the
beautiful music that was the thru-line of Duncan‘s life and work.
Don‘t miss this rare opportunity to experience one of America‘s
greatest geniuses!
13
Music
THE 5TH L ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Performance Poetry BOOKING CONTACT David Ross Telephone: 443-506-7479 Email: [email protected] Website: www.5thl.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 6 ensemble members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,850 Maximum: Negotiable EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $950 Maximum: Negotiable AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Secondary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 20’ x 30’ Stage Set: contact artist Audio Support Equipment: 3 mon-itors, 3 microphones, and key-board amplifier Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
The 5th L is a band comprised of lead vocalists and
musicians – David ―Native Son‖ Ross and Femi ―The Dri
Fish‖ Lawal, Danny Shields on bass guitar, ―Mo-Rece‖ on
keyboards and Chuck Maddox on beat box. The 5th L fuses
hip hop, performance poetry and soulful melodies together
to create an unmatched entertaining, thought-provoking
experience.
The 5th L has released three full-length CDs – ―Circle Circle
Dot Dot,‖ ―The Water Margin,‖ and ―Reset.‖ Each project
marks a distinct period in the group‘s evolution, and all
three were very well received by fans of spoken word, hip
hop and soul music alike. The 5th L has performed at
numerous conferences, festivals, clubs, concerts, and
collegiate universities throughout the United States. The
5th L appeared on BET‘s ―Lyric Café,‖ and they have shared
stages with Musiq Soulchild, Raheem DeVaughn, The Last
Poets, Bill Cosby, Crisette Michelle and KRS-One to name a
few.
Despite the rigors of being full-time performers, The 5th L
continues to strengthen ties to their community as
activists, particularly in the Maryland/D.C./Virginia area
they call home. In response to The 5th L‘s continuous work
in the Baltimore community, The Reginald F. Lewis
Museum has featured their works as a permanent exhibit
in the museum. Ross and Lawal also facilitate a violence
prevention program at The University of Maryland Shock
Trauma Medical Center.
The 5th L is currently part of Stinkiface Music, a Baltimore-
based independent multi-genre music label. Learn more
about The 5th L and hear their music at
www.myspace.com/the5thl.
14
Music
AGLAIA KORAS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Classical Piano BOOKING CONTACT Jake Price Price, Rubin and Associates PO Box 174 Cabin John, MD 20818 Telephone: 301-254-7149 Email: [email protected] Website: www.aglaiakoras.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: Negotiable Maximum: Negotiable EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Negotiable Maximum: Negotiable AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Not available TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: contact artist Stage Set: 7’ or 9’ grand piano; 9’ grand piano preferred Audio Support Equipment: contact artist Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: stage lighting
ARTIST INFORMATION
Ms. Koras is currently performing an ongoing series in Carnegie Hall
entitled "Beethoven and Chopin Plus," giving testimony to her
background of mentors Rudolf Serkin, Mieczyslaw Horszowski, and
Gina Bachauer, whose musical lineage can be traced to Beethoven,
Chopin, Rachmaninoff, and Cortot. The Carnegie series repertoire
includes, in addition to the Beethoven and Chopin cycle, world
premieres, works by lesser known composers, both American
composers, and composers from other countries as well as an
expansive range of styles by a wide variety of well-known
composers from Bach through contemporary. Ms. Koras has an
exceptionally broad range of repertoire and performing capability.
She also has performed all-Mozart programs exceptionally. She
learns instantly and assimilates unusually well and rapidly.
An award-winning graduate of the Curtis Institute of Music and
international competition winner, including the Chopin Competition
among many others, she is a veteran performer at Carnegie Hall
and has performed in Lincoln Center, at the Kennedy Center, and in
seven countries as well as throughout the United States.
15
Music
AMADOU KOUYATE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional West African, Rock, Hip-Hop BOOKING CONTACT Amadou Kouyate 2226 Braddish Avenue Baltimore, MD 21216 Telephone: 443-813-3695 Email: [email protected] Website: www.amadoukouyate.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $1,200 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $350 Maximum: $850 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: contact artist Stage Set: drum throne or armless chair Audio Support Equipment: 1 vocal microphone, 1 instrument microphone, and 1 direct box Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Amadou Kouyate is the 150th generation of the Kouyate lineage
and has studied and performed Manding music since the age of
three years old. Amadou is a dynamic djembe and koutiro
drummer. He also plays the 21-string kora, which he learned first
with his father, Djimo Kouyate and other master griots of West
Africa. Amadou has dedicated his life to become an ambassador of
African culture to the world. The catalyst for such a
responsibility is the passion he has for reconnecting those of the
African Diasporas to one another.
He has performed with Mamaya African Jazz and the African
American Dance Ensemble. Currently, Amadou performs as a solo
artist and as a member of Proper SKANKS, Farafina Kan, the
Manding Griot Ensemble, the Kouyate Family, Urban AfriKan,
Memory of African Culture Performing Company and Dono
Percussion Ensemble. His credits include performances at The
Kennedy Center, The Smithsonian Institution, Lowell, East-Lansing
and Dayton National Folk Festivals, DanceAfrica DC and Chicago
as well as with The National Symphony Orchestra, Images of
Cultural Artistry Performing Company, the production "Soul
Possessed" directed by Debbie Allen and in Sweet Honey in The
Rock's premiere performance of "INDABA" with the WPAS Men and
Women of the Gospel. Mr. Kouyate has also worked in
collaboration to create an original symphony called "The Hera
Suite" which brought together a fusion of the western symphonic
orchestra and the Djembe orchestra. This original work utilized
over fifty musicians and artists from University of Maryland and
Montgomery College of Rockville.
His musical talents have earned him many accolades that include
artists-in-residence awards from the Arts and Humanities Council
of Montgomery County, a DC Commission on the Arts and
Humanities grant award, a Special Talents Scholarship at Howard
University, and a Musical Theatre scholarship at the Levine School
of the Arts. Amadou has studied in Mali, Guinea and Senegal,
West Africa with master musicians of the Diali tradition including
Toumani Diabate.
16
Music
BARBARA MARTIN & MAC WALTER ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional Blues and Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Barbara Martin 908 Baylor Street Staunton, VA 24401 Telephone: 540-886-2966 Email: Barbara@barbaramartinmusic .com Website: barbaramartinmusic.com Mac Walter 6620 Kilmarnoch Dr. Catonsville, MD 21228 Telephone: 410-719-0607 Email: [email protected] Website: macwalter.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $800, Maximum: $2,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $2,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 15’ x 15’ Stage Set: minimal Stage floor type: wood preferably, but not necessary Audio Support Equipment: will bring own equipment Lighting: general stage lighting Rehearsal Space: green room
ARTIST INFORMATION
Barbara Martin and Mac Walter‘s music is a rich stew of earthy blues
peppered with sassy, swinging jazz. Their performances are rooted
in a healthy respect for the traditions of American music from Josh
White to Bessie Smith to Billie Holiday. Martin‘s sultry, soulful voice
combined with the bending, sliding strings of guitar wizard Mac
Walter captivate audiences. They have performed at numerous
festivals and concerts in the United States and Europe, including
The Kennedy Center and Fleet Blues Festival, Albany, NY. ―Virtuoso
guitar playing and stellar vocals are only the beginning of the prize
with this duo.‖ Steve McWilliams, Talent Coordinator, Columbia
Pikes Blues Festival "A simply amazing duo.‖ Jim Taggart, Blue
Rose Acoustic Society
Repertory:
An Evening with Barbara Martin and Mac Walter
This relaxed and intimate concert combines blues and jazz of the
20‘s and 30‘s with heartfelt and humorous original songs. The songs
of Ella Fitzgerald, Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday and Bessie Smith,
among others, bring the traditional roots of blues and jazz alive.
Earthy to Elegant: Great Ladies of Blues and Jazz
The lives, times and musical influences of American women blues
and jazz artists from the 1920's through the '50's.
From Ragtime to Rock and Roll Family Concert or K-5 School
Assembly
This toe-tapping, sing-a-long program explores the American
musical journey from the infectious rhythms brought over by the
enslaved Africans that were incorporated into spirituals, gospel,
blues and jazz to the European folk music brought by Irish, English
and Scottish immigrants that was incorporated into bluegrass and
old time music and the combination of both of these cultures into
popular American rock and country music.
17
BARRY LOUIS POLISAR ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Acoustic music for families and children BOOKING CONTACT Barry Louis Polisar 3605 Dustin Road Burtonsville, MD 20866 Telephone: 301-384-9207 Email: [email protected] Website: www.barrylou.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $2,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 for single school session Maximum: $1,500 for three sessions AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Families and children TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 10’ x 12’ Stage Set: Performer can work with any space Audio Support Equipment: Need-ed if available; performer also has his own system for smaller ven-ues Visual Support Equipment: contact artist Lighting: Basic lighting; performer can work with any technical limits
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Author, songwriter and poet, Barry Louis Polisar is a
pioneer in the world of books and music for children. He began
writing and recording in 1975; thirty years later, his unique
songs and stories are now heard all around the world. You've
probably heard many of Barry's songs and stories already. A
four-time Parents' Choice Award winner, Barry has written
songs for Sesame Street and The Weekly Reader. He has been
a regular musical performer on The Learning Channel and the
star of an Emmy Award-winning television show for children.
Barry‘s song, All I Want is You, is also heard in the opening
credits of the film Juno and on the Grammy Award-winning
Juno Soundtrack.
Barry writes books and poems, visits schools, libraries and
performing arts centers throughout the United States and
Europe, and has performed at The White House, The
Smithsonian and The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
He was given a Special Library Recognition Award for his
"ability to communicate with and excite children to read." "Barry Louis Polisar is a one-man symphony of comic anarchy.
At a time when vast numbers of our kids see school as endless
drudgery, Polisar says otherwise. He says, isn't the English
language fun?" The Baltimore Sun
"Polisar gives kids the giggles. Tons of giggles. And the
children might be joined by chuckling parents that Polisar
entertained 30 years ago." The Washington Post
18
Music
BOISTER, INC ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Music performance and composition; music for silent film; and interpretation of French cabaret music BOOKING CONTACT Anne Watts 116 Vue de Leau St. Cambridge, MD 21613 Telephone: 410-228-2818 Email: [email protected] Website: www.boister.net SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 6 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $3,500 Maximum: $6,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: contact artist Maximum: contact artist AVAILABILITY Call for availability AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Technical requirements vary, depending on whether Boister is accompanying a film or not. A basic sound system to accommodate drums, vocals, guitar, accordion, trombone, bass, and bass clarinet will generally suffice. Contact artist for more information.
ARTIST INFORMATION
Anne Watts and Boister‗s performances of original scores for classic
Buster Keaton films have won widespread praise from critics including
Roger Ebert. They have been performed to sold-out houses at The
Maryland and Virginia Film Festivals, Radford University, Evergreen
House at Johns Hopkins University, the Charles Theatre, The
Smithsonian, and the Creative Alliance at the Patterson Theatre in
Baltimore.
In 2011, Boister was commissioned by the Maryland Institute College
of Art to compose a score for D.W. Griffith‘s masterpiece,
―Intolerance.‖
Of the sold-out premiere, David Warfield, writing for Baltimore‘s What
Weekly, noted: ―The film alone is enough to inspire wonder, but Anne
Watts and Boister provided a hip and hypnotic live musical experience
that made magic in MICA‘S Falvey Hall.‖ Tom Gunning of the
University of Chicago says: ―Boister‘s Intolerance is thrilling… The
band so profoundly understands that the film is about how rhythm
propels us through time and space, and makes that rhythm tangible
for everyone.‖ Boister‘s score for ―Intolerance‖ quotes Bach, Led
Zeppelin, traditional French madrigal, the Clash, Steppenwolf, and the
Pogues.
19
Music
BOMANI ARMAH ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Poetry, Hip-Hop BOOKING CONTACT Bomani Armah 11020 Lake Arbor Way Mitchellville MD 20721 Telephone: (202) 702-6478 Email: [email protected] Website: www.notarapper.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 – 7 members depending on the venue
TOURING FEERANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $3,000
EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEERANGE Ages 11 - 25 Minimum: $600 Maximum: $2,000
AVAILABILITY Year round
AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Contact artist Audio Support Equipment: Varies depending on type of performance. A capella performances: microphone, boom stand, and monitor. DJ: 3 microphones, 3 boom stands and a table for the turntables; a sound system for CDJ’s. Band: 4 microphones, 4 boom stands, a bass amp, guitar amp, keyboard amp, drum set, microphones for drum set and percussionist, 3 monitors. Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Bomani Darel Armah is a poet, songwriter, producer,
performer, and educator. Born and raised in Washington,
DC, Bomani‘s work focuses on using poetry, hip-hop,
music, and video to ―edu-tain‖ audiences of all ages and
backgrounds. He prides himself on his ability to perform
at a high school, church, and nightclub in the same
day – using the exact same material – and moving all
three crowds with an inspirational and energetic
performance. Whether performing with his six piece band
―Project Mahem‖, a DJ and a hypeman, or A capella,
Bomani can truly rock a crowd.
20
Music
CARL GRUBBS ARTSTIC DISCIPLINE Classical Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Barbara Harrell Grubbs 7221 Croydon Road Baltimore, MD 21207 Telephone: 410-944-2909 or 410-913-5782 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.carlgrubbs.com www.contemporaryartsinc.org. SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-9 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $3,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $200 Maximum: $500 (per day rates, excluding travel/lodging) AVAILABILITY Call for availability AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 30’ x 25’ Stage Set: Rug for drums, Music stands Audio Support Equipment: Standard sound system, Micro-phones for saxophones, piano, bass, guitar, vocals, strings, Moni-tors for all instruments Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Blue, orange, and red lighting *Contact artist for complete list of technical requirements
ARTIST INFORMATION
Carl Gordon Grubbs, alto, soprano and tenor saxophonist and
clarinetist, composer, is a native of Philadelphia. He received early
extensive training from John Coltrane. Through his family he was
close to many of the history-making jazz musicians of the 1950‘s
and 1960‘s.
With his brother Earl Grubbs, he formed The Visitors, a quintet that
recorded four albums for the Muse record label company in the
early 1970‘s.
Carl Grubbs is a former member of the Julius Hemphill Saxophone
Sextet. This group toured the United States and Europe performing
two productions: Hemphill‘s Long Tongues: A Saxophone Opera and
Bill T. Jones/Arne Zane Production: Last Supper at Uncle Tom’s
Cabin: The Promised Land.
Mr. Grubbs was a guest soloist at the Philadelphia performance of
Reggie Workman‘s current project, African Brass, a tribute to John
Coltrane. The Carl Grubbs Quintet performs in major cities in the
United States. They have performed in Bogota‘ and Medellin,
Columbia, South America, and most recently completed a
successful eight-city tour of Brazil.
Carl Grubbs is the co-founder and Artistic Director of Contemporary
Arts Inc. a nonprofit arts organization. The organization‘s programs
Summer Activity Extraordinaire (SAX): Music and Dance Camp, Jazz
Arts Academy and Workshops in Jazz Performance and Jazz
improvisation at Randallstown High School provide music and dance
education to youth ages 4 – 17 in the Baltimore metropolitan area.
Carl Grubbs is a member of the MSAC Arts in Education – Artist ros-
ter. He has twice been the recipient of the MSAC Traditions award
as a jazz master, working with apprentices to pass on the traditions
of improvised jazz music.
Currently Carl Grubbs is arranging for saxophone and strings, the
music previously recorded on the cd Live at the BMA: Inner Harbor
Suite.
21
Music
CAROLYN BLACK-SOTIR ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Light classical, musical theatre, and opera BOOKING CONTACT Carolyn Black-Sotir 709 Cliveden Road Baltimore, MD 21208 Telephone: 443-629-5037 Email: [email protected] Website: carolynblack.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-5 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $7,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $950 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Secondary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Contact artist Stage Set: Tuned grand piano, two backless stools 36”, one black Manhasset-type music stand Audio Support Equipment: Professional quality sound system with three (3) microphones and monitor Visual Support Equipment: If available, but not essential: LCD projector and screen or cyc no smaller than 10’ X 12’ on which to project images Lighting: Standard stage lighting; specials and washes if available *Contact artist for a complete list of technical requirements
ARTIST INFORMATION
From the concert halls of Europe, “With a standing ovation
from the inspired audience, the concert was a smashing
success” --Nordwest Zeitung, to the musical stages here at
home, “brilliant, shining, expressive, and confident”--
Philadelphia Inquirer, Carolyn Black-Sotir & Company, an
eclectic ensemble of classical, jazz, and theatre musicians,
dazzle audiences with their unique programs celebrating the
American theatre song. Forgoing the stuffy conventions of the
recital format, these performances combine meticulous
research, theatrical production elements, and exceptional
musical interpretation to create a multi-dimensional concert
experience for today‘s audience.
“Black-Sotir is a wonderful singer, with beautiful tone, and
excellent diction, and her portrayal is spontaneous and su-
perbly characterized.” -- Baltimore Sun.
Carolyn & Company‘s repertoire of programs include: By
George! By Ira! By Gershwin!; On the Weill Side—Life with
Kurt; A Woman Is A Sondheim Thing; The Sweetest Sounds—
a Richard Rodgers Tribute; Bravo Bernstein!; What Is This
Thing Called Love?—a Musical Valentine; On Broadway—a
Retrospective; Lights, Camera, Opera!—the Met goes to
Hollywood; Just A Song At Twilight—from Victorian Music
Parlor to Vaudeville Stage, and La Canción Española—songs
for Voice and Guitar. These concerts are flexible in design and
adapt to various size venues—from cabaret room to symphony
hall.
In conjunction with their live concerts, Carolyn & Company
offer master classes, demonstration lectures, workshops,
student concerts, and collaborative performance opportunities
to enrich the concert experience. ―We could not have asked
for more time, dedication, and residency success than Carolyn
provided and achieved.”—Lee Streby, Former President,
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Music
CATHY FINK & MARCY MARXER ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Folk, Traditional, Roots & More Children’s/Family BOOKING CONTACT: Alisa Kaeser dc artists Management, LLC 8639-B 16th Street, #174 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Telephone: 202-667-1076 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cathymary.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-3 piece band TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,800 Maximum: $7,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $2,500 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Flexible Stage Set: 2 chairs, microphones, monitors—for more information, please inquire
Audio Support Equipment: 12-channel mixing board with sepa-rate house and monitor gains and separate equalization; Minimum 3-band equalization on each channel with a separate graphic equalizer and adequate amplifiers; Two high quality speakers adequate for size of hall; Two high quality monitors, Six Microphones (AKG 535 pre-ferred, Shure SM 58 acceptable for vocals and SM57 acceptable for instruments); Total includes three vocal, three instrument micro-phones (all on booms please) Lighting: For family/kids shows, house lights at 50% general wash
ARTIST INFORMATION
Grammy®-Award Winning Artists Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer
present three fantastic offerings:
Cathy & Marcy Kids/Family Performances
An entertaining and engaging interactive show, Cathy & Marcy
perform on a variety of instruments including electric and acoustic
guitars, banjos, mandolin, ukulele, percussion and homemade
instruments. They sing, yodel, chicken cluck in harmony and in-
spire effortless participation from every audience. Drawing on
their repertoire of over 250 songs and 25+ years of performing,
their shows bring families together and allow kids to have fun and
learn at the same time.
Folk, Roots & More Musical Traditions
Rockin’ The Uke
Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer ROCK THE UKE as they travel through
blues, swing, old time country, folk and original songs - all in
virtuoso style. From Django inspired solos to lush harmony
singing, the duo‘s consummate musicianship is matched by their
enthusiasm for group singing and inspiring people of all ages to
get in on the fun!
Also available for a higher fee, Ukulele Festival (2 additional
players, also engage local ukulele clubs and players from
beginners on up for a pre-show strum-along, workshops and
more. )
An evening with Cathy & Marcy
Enjoy an eclectic mix of the duo‘s favorite original and traditional
folk, old time country and swing tunes featuring superb vocal
harmonies and dazzling instrumentals. Cathy & Marcy intersperse
stories of the places they‘ve visited and the incredible people
they‘ve met along the way such as Ola Belle Reed, Patsy Montana
(first woman in country music to sell one million records), Lily
Mae Ledford, Roy Smeck and many more musical mentors.
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CHARLES “RAHMAT” WOODS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz, World Music BOOKING CONTACT Charles Rahmat Woods 2521 Sutcliff Terrace Brookeville, MD 20833 Telephone: 301-924-5210 or 240-498-0679 Email: [email protected] Website: www.rahmatshabazz.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1-4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: $5,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 18’ x 12’ Audio support Equipment: Varies with event—please contact artist Visual Support Equipment: Varies with event—please contact artist Rehearsal Space: Varies with event—please contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Flute/saxophonist and recording artist Charles Rahmat Woods
has provided exciting and interesting performances in the Jazz
idiom throughout the Maryland, Virginia, and DC areas for over
thirty years. He has performed with an array of Jazz artist
including Roy Haynes, Helen Humes, Don Cherry, and Tarika
Blue. He has also performed with world music purveyors
Conjunto Peligro , Bantu, Ron Warren (native American flute),
and Dawn Avery and Larry Mitchell. In addition he has
performed avant garde solo performances for the DC Jazz
Festival and his own ―Badi and Soul‖ series.
The current touring program not only offers insightful
presentations of original compositions but also moving
arrangements of works by Jazz masters, with a special emphasis
on works contributed by musicians who have a Native American
Indian heritage, such as bassist Oscar Pettiford, trumpeter Don
Cherry, pianist Larry Redhouse, saxophonist Jim Pepper, and
guitarist Jimi Hendrix.
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CHEICK HAMALA DIABATÉ ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Folk/Traditional Arts BOOKING CONTACT Pamela Slaughter 503 Blanford Street, #5 Rockville, MD 20850 Telephone: 240-593-1025 Email: [email protected] Website: www.cheickhamala.com www.facebook.com/cheickhamala http://www.myspace.com/cheickhamaladiabate SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 or more artists depending on program/venue TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $6,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $6,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: approximately 20’ x 12’ (minimum) Stage Set: Varies according to show (please see technical rider) Audio Support Equipment: varies according to show (please see technical rider) Visual Support Equipment: varies according to show (please see technical rider) Lighting: varies according to show (please see technical rider) Rehearsal Space: actual performance space or a quiet, secluded room
ARTIST INFORMATION
Cheick Hamala Diabaté, a modern-day griot as counselor,
mediator, and advisor connects to people through music—playing
and singing about culture and life in the 800-year-old tradition of
the griot.
His repertoire of music can be presented solo and
ensemble. There are several programs available that fuse
traditional and modern musical art forms to create an exciting and
freshly unique experience for the audience/participant. Programs
offered include: full performances/concerts, workshops/concerts,
lectures/demonstrations, Banjo/Ngoni/guitar lessons, drum
lessons, Bambara/French lessons, cultural residency in Mali, and
much more!
These programs will educate, entertain, and inform people with an
eye-opening perspective. As people are engaged through listening
to or playing with Cheick Hamala Diabaté, they evolve and learn
more about themselves. An amazing experience!
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CHRISTINA HARRISON ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Celtic Folk Songs—traditional, con-temporary and original—self-accompanied by guitar BOOKING CONTACT Christina Harrison 143 Clemencia Road Earleville, MD, 21919 Telephone: 410-275-2133 Email: [email protected] Website: www.christinaharrison.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 – primarily solo - (Can provide 1 to 3 additional accompanying musicians if required and budget allows) TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 – solo fee Maximum: $2,000 – solo fee EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE: Minimum: $650 Maximum: $900 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All audiences TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Contact artist Stage Set: small stage stool and table and chair for CD display and sales Audio Support Equipment: Two speakers, one monitor, one amplifier/mixer, one vocal microphone/microphone stand, guitar and microphone lines, direct box for guitar line (can be provided by musician) Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Can be used if available at site Rehearsal Space: one room if available
ARTIST INFORMATION
Christina‘s program is inclusive of an eclectic blend of Celtic
traditional and contemporary ballads and sing-alongs as
well as her own folk-style originals. She mixes well known
love songs with new materials so that her listeners can
participate and also savor the music in a curious but
relaxed fashion. She uses many of the songs from her
recordings.
An example from each category would be: “The Broom of
the Cowdenknowes” (traditional), “Lassie Wi’ the
Lint-white Locks” (Robert Burns), “Caledonia” (Dougie
McClean), “Housewife’s Life’s Sae Boring” (Christina
Harrison), “Kippers and Herring” (Christina Harrison),
“Carrickfergus” (traditional), “Lowlands of
Holland” (traditional), and as a luxury will on occasion sing
some Sandy Denny songs (traditional folk rock singer form
Fairport Convention). Her repertoire for children is also
vast, including Celtic and American standards and originals
that evoke audience participation, such as:
“My Pal Nessie,” “Tune of the Garden Fairies,” “The
Unicorn Song,” “My Hamburger Mooed at Me,”
“Coulter’s Candy,” “Mairzy Dotes,” “This Land is Your
Land,” and “Skyscraper Wean.”
Christina also offers a Christmas program with Celtic and
Traditional standards.
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DUENDE QUARTET ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Latin Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Mark Merella 8019 Glenside Dr. Takoma Park, MD 20912 Telephone: 301-792-8007 Email: [email protected] Website: www.myspace.com/duendequartet SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 Maximum: $2,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 (1 day) Maximum: $4,000 (5 days) AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Elementary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 20’ x 10’ Stage Set: Standard, piano preferred-can bring keyboard Stage Floor: Wood floor preferred Audio Support Equipment: Basic sound system with 4 percussion microphones and microphone for piano Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: General stage lighting Rehearsal Space: At venue location
ARTIST INFORMATION
The Duende Quartet is devoted to playing Latin jazz with a
respect for the tradition while looking toward the future. In
a unique small group setting (piano, bass and two hand
percussionists) Duende Quartet captures the vibe of a jazz
combo while using the rhythms of a Cuban conjunto.
Duende has a vast repertoire ranging from traditional
Cuban songs to modern jazz compositions. Duende Quartet
has shared their music through concerts and workshops
both at home and abroad.
The quartet participated in two tours as part of Jazz at Lin-
coln Center's "Rhythm Road" project and performed in a
variety of countries including India, Turkey, Bangladesh,
Taiwan and the Philippines.
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THE ERIC BYRD TRIO/BROTHER RAY BAND ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz, Blues and Soul BOOKING CONTACT Eric B. Byrd 264 Montpelier Court Westminster, MD 20912 Telephone: 410-848-0509 Email: [email protected] Website: www.ericbyrd.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 8 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: Negotiable Maximum: Negotiable EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Negotiable Maximum: Negotiable AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Elementary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 30’ x 25’ Stage Set: Piano- stage right, gui-tar, bass, drums-center, horns-stage left Stage Floor: Carpet or mat under the drum kit Audio Support Equipment: 2 overhead microphones over the drums, direct out on bass amp, 1-2 microphones on acoustic piano, vocal microphone on boom stand near piano, and microphone for each horn Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: General stage lighting Rehearsal Space: At venue location Other: sound check necessary
ARTIST INFORMATION
The Eric Byrd Trio is comprised of musicians whose vision is to
glorify the age of traditional jazz while providing an energetic
and modern approach to standards and original compositions at
the same time. As true ambassadors of jazz, the Eric Byrd Trio
have performed internationally for crowds of all ages and
backgrounds. With three studio albums released, the trio has
enjoyed immense popularity and recognition from fans and
government officials alike. In 2001, they were announced as
Kennedy Center/United States State Department Jazz
Ambassadors, providing them the opportunity to tour countries
like Colombia, Bolivia, Chile, Peru, Honduras and Trinidad,
among others.
In 2008, Eric Byrd and his trio created a 4-piece horn section
plus blues guitar to record ―Brother Ray‖, a tribute to the late
Ray Charles. With songs that may be unknown to the average
person, Eric arranged them in his own way to remain a unique
artist. The ERIC BYRD TRIO: BROTHER RAY BAND is currently
touring in support of this album. In addition to ―Brother Ray‖,
the trio has also released ―Triunity‖ and their self-titled debut
―The Eric Byrd Trio‖.
The trio performs regularly at jazz venues in and around
Washington, DC. Live performances have included appearances
at Blues Alley, the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, Twins
and Bohemian Caverns. The Eric Byrd Trio has played at
numerous festivals throughout the United States headlining the
East Coast Jazz Festival, the ARTScape Festival in Baltimore and
The Westminster Flower and Jazz Festival. They also appeared
weekly at the Café Milano in Georgetown, playing to guests that
included Quincy Jones and Lionel Richie.
Their international touring includes concerts at the Montreux
Switzerland Jazz Festival, multiple tours of La Paz, Bolivia and
Lima, Peru, an appearance at a world music festival in Dubai in
the United Arab Emirates, the country of Estonia and a 2 week
Fall 2009 tour of Italy has just been completed. In November
2009 the EBT released their very first holiday CD, ―A Charlie
Brown Christmas‖, playing music from the PEANUTS Christmas
TV show formerly played by the Vince Guarldi Trio.
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HEDGE BAND, THE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Irish Traditional Music and Songs BOOKING CONTACT Laura Byrne Egan 2905 Louise Avenue Baltimore, MD 21214 Telephone: 443-629-8699 Email: [email protected] Website: www.myspace.com/thehedgeband SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,200 Maximum: $2,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $400 Maximum: $8,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCES All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: min. 8’ x 10’ Stage Set: Four chairs Audio Support Equipment: four instrumental microphones, three DI’s three vocal microphones and three monitors Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Contact artist Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Formed in 2005 by four of Maryland‘s pre-eminent Irish
traditional musicians, The Hedge Band consists of Billy
McComiskey, Laura Byrne Egan, Donna Long, and Pat Egan. All
perform, teach, and are recognized and respected in Maryland,
nationally and worldwide.
Donna Long has traveled the world playing the piano and fiddle
and entertaining audiences with Cherish the Ladies. She
continues to foster an impressive music studio in Baltimore,
where she teaches both fiddle and piano.
Regarded as one of the world‘s greatest button
accordion players, Billy McComiskey is one of only two
American born musicians to win the senior All Ireland
Championship. Billy is credited along with Brendan Mulvihill and
Andy O‘Brien for bringing Irish traditional music to the
Maryland/ Virginia area by way of their trio The Irish Tradition.
He also recorded and toured with fiddler Liz Carroll and
guitarist Daithi Sproule in their group Trian. Pat Egan is from
County Tipperary, Ireland. He spent years performing in
Westport, County. Mayo before moving to the U.S. to join the
band Chulrua. Also known for his work on the great recording
— Music at Matt Molloys, Pat still tours internationally with
Chulrua. Laura Byrne Egan is one of only a handful of
musicians to successfully cross over to Irish traditional music
from another discipline.
She graduated from the Peabody Conservatory of Music in
1995 and is highly regarded on both sides of the Atlantic for
her proficiency in the Irish traditional style. She founded and
directs the Baltimore Irish Arts Center.
Laura, Billy, and Pat are recipients of Maryland State Arts
Council Individual Artist Awards.
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HOT SOUP ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Original and Contemporary Folk Concerts and Family Programs BOOKING CONTACT Sue Trainor PO Box 412 Columbia, MD 21045 Telephone: 410-381-2834 Email: [email protected] or [email protected] Website: www.HotSoupTrio.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 plus travel Maximum: $1800 plus travel EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Not available Maximum: $600 plus concert booking AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Secondary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 12’ x 10’ Audio Support Equipment: 8 channels minimum, 5 boom microphone stands, 2 instrument microphones, 2 monitors Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: General stage lighting Rehearsal Space: Private room for dressing and vocal/instrument warm-up Other: 60 minutes for sound check
ARTIST INFORMATION
A Feast of Harmony
Sometimes called ―the Andrews Sisters of the 21st Century,‖ Hot
Soup concocts rich, intricate vocal arrangements that bring out
the best in every melody and lyric. Audiences love the variety in
Hot Soup‘s repertoire, too - from ballads to blues and swing,
from retro to funny songs – no two are alike. Add three zingy
personalities plus delicious licks on guitars, harp, conga, udu
and other hand percussion, and you‘ve got a blue-ribbon recipe
for a spirited and SOUPerbly engaging concert performance!
Mmm Mmm… Sing!
It‘s Hot Soup served Family Style! The harmonious Hot Soup
trio concocts rich, intricate musical arrangements that bring out
the best in original songs, collected songs and old family
favorites. (Shh! Don‘t tell the kids, but the Hot Soup musicians
have many years‘ experience working in education with young
people. This Soup is not only yummy, it‘s nutritious!). There‘s
plenty for everyone, so grab your spoons and gather ‗round for
some heart-warming, rib-tickling sing-along fun.
An Exploration Of Harmony Singing
This is a chance to do some dynamic group singing led by
members of Hot Soup – Sue Trainor, Christina Muir, and Jennie
Avila. Learn how the trio uses harmony to underline meaning
and convey emotion in a song. Workshop activities will include:
tuning our vocal instruments, ear training, finding and learning
harmony parts, and playful experimentation with a variety of
arrangement choices. Prerequisite: Participants must be able to
carry a tune independently.
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IONA ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional Celtic music and dance BOOKING CONTACT Barbara T. Ryan P.O. Box 11160, Burke, VA 22009-1160 Telephone: 703-426-1450/2516 Email: [email protected] Website: www.IonaMusic.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4-5 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,200 Maximum: $2,200 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,200 Maximum: $1,400 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: minimum 8’ x 16’ Audio Support Equipment: Full sound support system w/minimum 12 channels, 5 microphones Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: As necessary for venue Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
IONA presents polished, educational, high energy concerts of
pan Celtic music and dance from the 8 European Celtic nations
as well as our own, New World traditions: Appalachian, Cajun,
Canadian, et al. In existence since 1986, the band has toured
internationally and studied throughout the Celtic lands. With
well researched explanations and opportunities for audience
participation, an IONA concert is an entertaining, whirlwind
tour of the music, instruments and dance that have informed
so many of our own American traditions. The singularity of
IONA‘s focus translates to events that are fun and unique,
particularly in demand during the Holidays and ―Celtic
month‖ (March), at art centers, outdoor concerts and festivals.
IONA‘s workshops and educational programs provide
instruction in an overview of the history of Celtic culture from
Hallstatt to Appalachia and beyond, and/or explanations of
and instruction in the disciplines of individual band members:
singing styles of the diverse Celtic languages and vocal
technique; flute and/or tin whistle; bodhrán (Irish drum);
fiddle; dance and foot percussion. Students are encouraged
to participate, with or without instruments, and emerge with
an understanding of the Celtic cultures that contributes to
their sense of history and the origins of their own heritages.
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IRAIDA POBEREZHNAYA ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Classical, some Jazz on Harp BOOKING CONTACT Iraida Poberezhnaya 110 W. 39th St. #503 Baltimore, MD 21210 Telephone: 410-818-6784 Email: [email protected] Website: http://a1harpist.net SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,100 Maximum: no limits EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: no limits AVAILABILITY Year-round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 4’ x 4’ Stage Set: preferably no stairs Stage Floor Type: Contact artist Lighting: No specific preferences Audio Support Equipment: Contact artist Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Rehearsal Space: 4’ wide x 4’deep
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ARTIST INFORMATION
Iraida Poberezhnaya is a professional harpist with
over two decades of stage experience. As an
International Harp and Music Competitions
participant and winner she continues to impress
audiences with her brilliant technique, uniquely deep
sound and expressivity of every single presentation.
Her repertoire ranges from classical pieces to jazz,
specially selected and arranged, many of which can
only be heard during her live performances, not
available elsewhere.
A graduate of the Moscow Conservatory and the
Peabody Conservatory, Iraida embraces a worldwide
repertoire of music.
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KUZNIK DUO ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Classical BOOKING CONTACT Swiatoslaw Kuznik 18 Beyda Ct Nottingham, MD 21236 Telephone: 443-854-1107 Email: [email protected]
SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-4 musicians
TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: $2,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Contact artist Maximum: Contact artist AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Contact artist for technical requirements.
ARTIST INFORMATION
The Kuźnik duo performs solo concerts and chamber music
recitals. They collaborate with other musicians to perform in a
piano trio and a string quartet. Their repertoire includes such
composers as: Bach, Haydn, Mozart, Beethoven, Brahms,
Dvorak, Debussy, Ravel, Honegger, Kodaly, Gershwin, Joplin,
Bacewicz and Kuźnik.
Aneta Otręba-Kuźnik received her doctorate degree in cello
performance from the University of Maryland, College Park,
where she studied with Professors Evelyn Elsing and Peter
Wiley. Dr. Otreba won first place in the Baltimore Music Club
Competition and the Liberman Music Competition in Baltimore,
and has performed as a soloist with the Towson University
Orchestra. Her additional performances include the New
World Symphony (Florida), the Concert Artists of Baltimore
and the Washington Summer Opera. She was also accepted
by the Hyogo Performing Orchestra in Japan. Since 2002,
Aneta is a member of the Maryland Symphony Orchestra.
Światosław Kuźnik is currently pursuing his doctorate degree
at University of Maryland, College Park, where he studies with
Professor Elisabeth Adkins. He earned his Master of Music in
violin performance at the Fryderyk Chopin Academy of Music
in Warsaw and the Graduate Performer Diploma at the Indiana
School of Music in Bloomington. In 2007, he received first
prize in the Baltimore Music Club Competition. Kuźnik has
performed with the New World Symphony Orchestra (Florida),
the Philharmonic of the Nations (Germany), and the Concert
Artists of Baltimore.
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LAFAYETTE GILCHRIST ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz BOOKING CONTACT: Bernard Lyons Creative Differences 2600 Ailsa Ave #1 Baltimore, MD 21214 Telephone: 443-762-3904 Email: bernard@ creative differences.us Website: www.creativedifferences.us SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1-10 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: Varies depending on project Maximum: Varies depending on project EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Upon request Maximum: Upon request AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Varies depending on project
ARTIST INFORMATION
There‘s good reason why jazz fans and critics alike are so
excited about Lafayette Gilchrist. The Baltimore-based
pianist hit the scene hard with his debut, The Music According
To Lafayette Gilchrist, and went straight to earning raves for
his sophomore release, Towards The Shining Path. Emerging
from jazz legend David Murray‘s Black Saint Quartet, a group
in which he still plays to this day, Gilchrist has an approach
and presence that‘s drawn comparisons to royalty such as
Andrew Hill and Sun Ra.
With his own band The New Volcanoes, Gilchrist leads an
octet that‘s equally inspired by D.C. go-go, old school soul,
hard funk and progressive hip-hop. Introduced to Hyena
Records by the iconic guitarist Vernon Reid, Gilchrist released
his fourth album, Soul Progressin‘, in 2009The pianist has this
to say about his latest recording: ―Soul Progressin‘‖ is a
rediscovery in the sense of what was and is still the most
essential part of my offering. Soul Power. Its roots are
endless and wondrous. Its future is undeniable. So we just
want to celebrate about it a bit.‖ Soul Progressin‘ is
ultimately a record that will further heighten Gilchrist‘s
reputation as new modern visionary in jazz and, for that
matter, progressive American music in the broader scope.
Of late Gilchrist has returned to his exploration of small group
concepts, notably with his acclaimed trio INSIDE OUT
(featuring Michael Formanek and Eric Kennedy), plus
performances with South African drum legend Louis Moholo -
Moholo, Gerald Cleaver, Sabir Mateen and William Parker.
Recordings with a number of these artists are currently in the
works. His next recording, "It came from Baltimore" a live
double CD with New Volcanoes, will be released on the
Creative Differences label in May 2012.
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LARRY WILLIS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz BOOKING CONTACT: Michael Binsky 8006 Shelley Drive Baltimore, MD 21244 Telephone: 410-922-0752 Email: [email protected] SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 -10 artists TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $7,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: Negotiable AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 15’ x 15’ Lighting: Basic Stage Lighting System Audio Support Equipment: Professional sound system—must include micro-phones, monitors, and mixing board Rehearsal Space: Optional Other: Piano and music stands
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ARTIST INFORMATION
Larry has played on more than 300 records. He‘s played or
recorded with almost every great jazz musician of the
modern era, stars like Dizzy Gillespie, Lee Morgan, Woody
Shaw, Hugh Masakela, Cannonball and Nat Adderley, Stan
Getz, Art Blakey, Art Taylor, Clifford Jordan, Carmen McRae,
and Shirley Horn. His most recent CDs include two recordings
with New York-based HighNote Records. ―The Big Push‖ (HCD
7144) was cited as ―expertly played‖ by All About Jazz New
York, and noted that throughout the sessions, Larry was
―displaying a warm, lyrical touch, never playing too much or
too fast, while exploring each tune to its depths.‖ AAJNY said
of Larry‘s second HighNote release, ―Blue Fable‖ (HCD 7163):
―[it is] rich with a blues feeling and a sense of tradition, but
also stays in the present with smart harmonies and deft
rhythmic interplay.‖ Larry‘s third release ―The Offering‖ (HCD
7178) has Eric Alexander as guest along with Eddie Gomez
and Billy Drummond.
Larry‘s extraordinary versatility as a pianist ranges from rock
and pop—he spent 7 years as keyboardist for Blood, Sweat
and Tears—to African, Brazilian and Afro-Cuban music. He‘s
one of the only non-Hispanic players who ever impressed
Mario Bauza as a Latin pianist—I was there the night it
happened.
Another facet of Larry‘s genius that has been flowering is his
composing and arranging for orchestras and big bands. He‘s
always had a very special gift for arranging strings, strings
that form a gorgeous, open framework for jazz
improvisation. His first major string works were symphonic
arrangements for a Brooklyn Symphony concert with the Fort
Apache Band in 1994. Since then he‘s done gem-like string
quartet and quintet arrangements. He has also written
large-scale arrangements for albums by Roy Hargrove,
Vanessa Rubin and Joe Ford, among others. Most recently,
Larry composed an orchestral suite in four movements for
the Florida Southern College Symphony Orchestra and then
performed it in concert. He was also featured soloist with an
Italian chamber orchestra, performing his own compositions.
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MARK EDWARDS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Classical guitar and chamber music BOOKING CONTACT: Heather Morand Clark Artist Management 49 Matson Drive Caledon, Ontario, Canada L7E 0B1 Telephone: 647-654-2201 Email: [email protected] Mark Edwards 2519 Linden Ave, Apt 7 Baltimore, Maryland 21217 Telephone: 334-538-0254 Email: Mark.Edwards.guitarist@hotmail .com Website: www.MarkEdwardsguitar.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1-2 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $1,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $400 Maximum: $1,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Contact artist Stage Set: artist bench or chair with-out arms Audio Support Equipment: Amplification if seats hall larger than 1,000 Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Spotlight if possible, not required Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
Mark Edwards began his life dedication to the classical guitar after
seeing guitarist Benjamin Verdery play a concert in Boaz, Alabama.
For further inspiration, he looked to the great masters of the
guitar, such as Andres Segovia, Julian Bream, and David Russell.
Mark has been performing concerts since the young age of 14 and
competing since 13. He has performed throughout the United
States, Canada, Italy, Germany, and Russia. Recent engagements
include Trinity Church in New York City, ArtScape in Baltimore, and
the Toronto Guitar Symposium. From 1998 to present, Mark has
earned 32 top prizes in Thailand, Canada, and the United States.
These prizes include the 2010 Asia International Guitar
Competition, the 2009 Montreal International Guitar Competition,
the 2008 National Guitar Workshop/National D‘Addario Solo
Competition, and Le Concours International de Guitare de Lachine
in Montreal, Canada.
Program: The Segovia Tradition
Keeping the tradition of the virtuoso guitarist alive, Mark Edwards
performs a collection of works representing highlights of the guitar
music. Ranging from powerful flamenco rhythms of Joaquin Turina
to the poetic bel canto melodies of Italian virtuoso Guilio Regondi,
the drama and range of emotion of guitar repertoire can not be
overstated. This solo guitar program explores the guitar‗s ability to
cross international borders, with each of these composers
struggling to bring the traditional music of their people to the same
level of prestige as the classical symphony. Celebrated Spanish
composers included on this program are Joaquin Turina, Federico
Moreno Torroba, and Vicente Asencio.
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MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY CHOIR ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Choral ensemble BOOKING CONTACT Dr. Eric Conway Carl Murphy Fine Arts Center, Room 329C 1700 East Cold Spring Lane Baltimore, MD 21251 Telephone: 443-885-3598 Email: [email protected] Website: www.msuchoir.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 120 members, but travel with 40-50 TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $4,000 Maximum: $8,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: Contact artist Maximum: Contact artist AVAILABILITY September– May AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: Contact artist Stage Set: Choral riser for 50 Singers Audio Support Equipment: Appropriate microphones for choir and 3 soloists Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Contact artist
ARTIST INFORMATION
The Morgan State University (MSU) Choir is one of the nation‘s
most prestigious university choral ensembles. While classical,
gospel and contemporary popular music comprise the choir‘s
repertoire; the choir is noted for its emphasis on preserving the
heritage of the spiritual, especially in the historic practices of
performance.
The MSU Choir has performed for audiences throughout the
United States and all over the world–including the Virgin
Islands, Canary Islands, Canada, Africa, Asia and Europe. They
have appeared at the Kennedy Center, the Lincoln Center and
Carnegie Hall on numerous occasions and have performed with
the New York Philharmonic, The Philadelphia Orchestra, the
Buffalo, Baltimore, Knoxville and National Symphony
Orchestras, among others.
The Choir has experienced many historic moments. The Choir
performed with Jessye Norman under the baton of Robert
Shaw, conducting the Orchestra of St. Lukes in Carnegie Hall‘s
100th Birthday Tribute to Marian Anderson. At the personal
invitation of Secretary of State Condeleeza Rice, the choir
performed for the State Department for their annual African
American History Month Celebration. In October 2005, the
Morgan State University Choir sang for the service honoring
Rosa Parks, who became the first woman to lie in honor at our
nation‘s Capitol Rotunda. In August 2007, the Choir completed
a tour of Ghana and performed at the invitation of the US
Ambassador to Ghana to celebrate its 50th year of
Independence.
In May 2004, Reader’s Digest named the MSU Choir ―the Best
College Choir in the U.S.‖ in its list of ―America‘s 100 Best.‖ .
37
OCEAN Quartet ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Traditional and Contemporary Celtic BOOKING CONTACT Jennifer Cutting 34 Hickory Avenue Takoma Park, MD 20912 Telephone: 240-582-6182 Email: [email protected] Website: www.oceanorchestra.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: $ negotiable EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: negotiable AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 12’ x 18’ Audio Support Equipment: Mini-mum 8-channel mixing board, 4 microphones with boom stands, 2 Dls, P.A. speakers, 2 stage monitors
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
The OCEAN Quartet (Jennifer Cutting on button accordion,
Lisa Moscatiello on vocals, whistles and guitars, Jim Eagan on
fiddle and Steve Winick on vocals) play music packed with
pure pan-Celtic pizzazz, putting their unique spin on
traditional songs and Cutting‘s original compositions, from
soaring ballads and stirring sea chanteys to blazing fiddle and
accordion tunes. Folk instruments such as accordion,
bouzouki, and fiddle join forces with electronic keyboards for a
sizzling synergy that will appeal to fans of folk, classical, and
pop music alike. As much at home in the concert has as on
the festival stage, OCEAN can tailor its performances to each
kind of audience and venue. Audiences can lose themselves in
dreamy reverie, or cut loose and dance to the propulsive beat
of electrifying jigs and reels. It‘s a marriage of otherworldly
Celtic beauty and World-Beat energy. There‘s nothing else like
it...OCEAN is Celtic Music for Ancient Moderns!
38
PEABODY RAGTIME ENSEMBLE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Ruth Goldstein 3226 Midfield Rd. Baltimore, MD 21208-4420 Telephone: 410-484-5200 Email: [email protected] Website: www.peabodyonline.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 8 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $4,000 Maximum: $7,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: N/A Maximum: N/A AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 20’ x 16’ Stage Set: Contact artist Audio Support Equipment: For smaller halls: One microphone for vocals and announcements. For larger venues: microphones for each instrument and monitors if available. Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Full stage lighting when possible Rehearsal Space: Contact artist
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Sharon Ann Holt, Sandy Spring Museum’s executive director,
was excited to bring the Peabody Ragtime Ensemble to the
Masters of Music Concert series . . .
“They are real performers. They are witty. They engage the au-
dience,” she says. “It’s much more interactive.”
“There is a real popularity for what they do.” (Gazette.net)
―Most of the band could read an ink blot test if it was put in front of
them,‖ says bandleader and tubist Ed Goldstein. Conversely, flute,
tenor sax player and vocalist Maureen McCusker refers to the band‘s
ability to improvise and ―create something that sounds like magic to
the audience.‖
It‘s that blend of impeccable conservatory technique, combined with
their swinging jazz chops, that gives Peabody Ragtime Ensemble their
unique sound. Entering their 38th season, this 8-piece acoustic band
preserves the roots of American Jazz as a living art form.
Maureen says she appreciates that the ensemble ―plays pieces of a
historical significance while continuing to entertain.‖ In a typical
concert you might ―Take the A Train‖ with the Duke up to Harlem‗s
Cotton Club, stroll through the French Quarter of New Orleans to a
Dixieland beat, listen to a scat scale à la Ella Fitzgerald, and take in a
white hanky tribute to Louis ―Satchmo‖ Armstrong.
The band has performed with and opened for stars such as Roberta
Flack, Louie Bellson, the Smothers Brothers, Eubie Blake, Aaron
Copland, the Artie Shaw Orchestra, and the Preservation Hall Jazz
Band.
The Peabody Ragtime Ensemble “presented a polished and live-
ly program—and blew up a hurricane.” (Washington Post)
39
PROJECT NATALE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Real Jazz, with Bass, Drums, Piano and Tenor Sax BOOKING CONTACT Lou Natale 3716 Angelton Court Burtonsville, MD 20866 Telephone: 301-890-3373 Email: [email protected] Website: www.projectnatale.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,200 Maximum: N/A EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: N/A Maximum: N/A AVAILABILITY Year-round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 12’ x 16’ Stage Set: Self-contained Stage Floor Type: Hard surface Audio Support Equipment: PA System (Optional) Visual Support Equipment: Contact artist Lighting: Room lighting Rehearsal Space: Contact artist Other: 110 Volt Electrical Outlets
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Project Natale is a band of brothers playing brotherly music
that has gained world respect as jazz players infusing the old
and new, creating a sonification of their own.
Joe and Lou Natale formed the group upon arriving to the D.C.
area in 1998. Over the subsequent decade a unison was
struck when legends Carl Cornwell, tenor saxophone and Bob
Butta, piano found a home as regular performers with The
Project.
Carl is one of the few remaining soloists who is constantly
defining melody as he solos. Butta adds his harmonic voicing
and rhythms as he colors and rocks. Joe is a constant with his
bass patterns and choice of notes. Lou jeeps the time on his
drums as he energizes and excites the music.
The group has currently released their new CD, ―Links‖ that
displays hard-hitting passionate players that can create,
converse and swing in, out and around the quintessential
compositions and arrangements written by Joe Natale. The CD
is receiving airplay over WPFW, Washington D.C. , WEAA ,
Baltimore, and internet radio stations, Jazz Break NC,
KEW-Jazz 89.5 WA, universidadefm Brazil, Chill‘N Groove
Vancouver, Magazine Radio, Programming London, and Bluzz
Radio Paris. Their performances captivate and please listeners
as they continue to astonish the crowds wherever they
perform.
Past performance venues include: Twins Jazz Lounge, Blue
Alley, art galleries in Washington D.C. and Baltimore, Wine
Festivals, Jazz Concerts, Private Affairs, along with many other
lounges and restaurant venues.
―Straight ahead jazz group with a modern sound incorporating
all the flavors of jazz.‖
-Creative Moco
―This group incorporates all the styles of jazz with a fresh and
exciting concept.‖
-Brian Boppets, Montgomery County Maryland Government
40
ROB LEVIT ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz, World and Improvised Music BOOKING CONTACT Robert Levit 139 Jefferson St. Annapolis, MD 21403 Telephone: 410-279-3809 Email: [email protected] Website: www.roblevit.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3 members TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $3500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $2500 AVAILABILITY Year-round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: approx. 17’ x 14’ Stage Set: Electric and acoustic guitar with amp, acoustic bass with amp, small drum set with carpet, talk microphone Stage Floor Type: No requirement—wood, tile, standard for jazz trio, small carpet desirable Audio Support Equipment: Small PA for concerts, non required for smaller venues 100 or less Visual Support Equipment: JPEG projector for residencies and lectures, but not necessary for concerts Lighting: Basic, none really required Rehearsal Space: None required unless in residency, which needs a basic mul-ti-purpose room.
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Rob Levit is a multi-directional artist and has been hailed by
the Ottawa International Jazz Festival as ―one of the finest
young guitarists on today‘s jazz scene.‖ While principally
known as leader of the Rob Levit Trio renowned for its jazz
renditions and improvisations, he also paints, writes poetry
and is active in infusing creativity and leadership into schools
and communities.
In 2006 Levit served as a fellow at UCLA‘s Center for
Intercultural Performance where he collaborated with
creative artists from the Philippines, Indonesia, Malaysia, India
and Germany. He was a featured performer with
Indonesian vocalist Emiko Susilo on the opening concert of the
2008 World Festival of Sacred Music at UCLA‘s Royce Hall. In
September 2006, Levit received the Annie Award for
performing arts given to artists ―who have made a lasting,
significant and inspiring contribution to an art form, an arts
organization, and to the wider community of Anne Arundel
County.‖ He founded Creating Communities to foster the arts
for at-risk youth, drug addicts and adults with mental illness.
A multiple recipient of the Maryland State Arts Council
Individual Artist Award, Levit released Songs of Healing, an
album of original guitar pieces designed for friend,
families, and patients of Hospice of the Chesapeake. The
Washington Post writes: ―Last night in a small Annapolis
restaurant, I came face to face with musical greatness. Levit
seemed unconstrained, both technically and imaginatively,
launching into passages that recalled Pat Metheny, Bill Frisell,
Wes Montgomery, Danny Gatton, and most especially John
McLaughlin."
41
ROSITA MATHEWS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Gospel, Historical African American BOOKING CONTACT Rosita Mathews 175 Gambrills Rd. Box 435 Gambrils, MD 21054-0435 Telephone: 888-542-3121 Email: [email protected] Website: www.letssinggospel.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $3000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year-round TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Size of Performing Area: 10’ x 10’ Stage Set: Piano Stage Floor Type: A black box type stage is best Audio Support Equipment: Sound system with monitors, microphones Visual Support Equipment: Ability to play DVD clips and project
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Let‘s Sing Gospel 101! is an interactive musical
performance in which the audience becomes the cast and
choir as they learn to sing gospel music. Everyone sings,
claps and moves to the music of Rosita‘s gospel piano
while she weaves traditional and new gospel music with
stories, humor and infectious enthusiasm.
National Public Radio described Rosita as ―a classically
trained pianist with a mean gospel beat.‖ She teaches
people of all ages, races, religious backgrounds and sing-
ing abilities to move to that beat as they learn to sing this
great American music.
Whether in a residency or a performance, Rosita
transforms the audience into a gospel choir as they lift
their spirits in song. Let‘s Sing Gospel 101! is the
opportunity for your audience to sing and soar!
42
SHODEKEH ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Beatboxing, vocal percussion BOOKING CONTACT Shodekeh Baltimore, MD Email: [email protected] Website: myspace.com/shodekeh SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo musician TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $4,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $2,500 AVAILABILITY Year-round AUDIENCE All ages
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Size of Performing Area: N/A Stage Set: One microphone, empty stage Stage Floor Type: N/A Lighting: Dimmed lighting, house lights down Audio Support Equipment: Standard vocal or instrumental microphone, compression unit Visual Support Equipment: N/A
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Self taught with no formal musical education, Shodekeh has been
capable of executing the fine art of beatboxing since the age of
nine and has been presenting the vocal form as a serious
practitioner since the age of 19. By channeling the various
concepts of instruments and sounds through the human voice, he
can vocally embody many musical tools or emulation including
drum kits, didgeridoos, ocean waves, turntables, woodblocks,
synthesizers, helicopters, congas, wind, sleigh bells, crickets,
horns, bass guitars, to well, you get the idea. With his rhythms,
he is always seeking to interface with many varying genres from
Avante Garde, to Blues, and Classical, with or without an appa-
ratus and has also enjoyed completing musical interpretations of
visual works/gallery exhibits at Towson University, Oberlin
College, and The American Visionary Arts Museum.
Working as a musical accompanist in residence within dance
programs for such places as Patapsco High School and Center for
the Arts and The American Dance Festival at Duke University has
also brought a vast amount of inspiration into his career, as well
conducting his non-formal vocal learning experiences in and out of
classrooms known as "Voice Circles".
Artistic commissions and travels from CBGB's in New York City,
Virginia Tech, The Conference On World Affairs at The University
of Colorado, and Vilinius, Lithuania for The U.S. Embassy of
Lithuania have kept moments increasingly challenging and
stimulating for this young artist, and as long as there's an
eardrum, microphone, or speaker system to be altered by yours
truly, Shodekeh will be there to rock in the soundscape of the
flesh.
42
Music
SLIM HARRISON ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Music and Dance: Americana BOOKING CONTACT Slim Harrison 16530 Eyler Valley Road Emmitsburg, MD 21727 Telephone: 301-271-7928 Email: [email protected] Website: www.sunnylandmusic.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 – 4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 duo Maximum: $2,400 band, caller & cloggers EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 (solo) and $800 duo and $1,600 with cloggers Maximum: $1,000 -$4,200 three days to two weeks (solo) or $3,400 to $12,800 with band and cloggers AVAILABLITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: min 12’ x 8’ Stage Set: table with 1-4 chairs Audio Support Equipment: 2 mi-crophones per performer (We pro-vide sound system if needed) Lighting: Full lighting on stage, 1/2 audience lighting Rehearsal Space: a small room if available Other: Outdoor venues must pro-vide shaded stage area
ARTIST INFORMATION
Slim Harrison, The Barnstormers and The Rock Candy
Cloggers are seasoned professionals, touring regionally,
nationally and internationally. They perform traditional
American Folk Music on fiddles, hammered dulcimer,
mountain dulcimer, banjo, upright bass, mandolin, guitar,
concertina, jaw harp,
fiddlesticks and spoons.
Slim Harrison‘s solo performances include: ―Exploring the
Multicultural Roots of American Folk Music‖ and ―Exploring
the Roots of American Folk Dances‖ as well as residency
programs combining folk music and dances. He works with
both MSAC and Wolf Trap Institute for Early Learning
through the Arts (Master Artist). He is also an
accomplished barn dance caller, storyteller and instrument
builder.
The Barnstormers (Slim Harrison and Tom Jolin) perform
concerts and residencies through the MD State Arts Council
and PA Council on the Arts. They performed recently at the
Viljandi World Folk Fest in Estonia through grants from
Mid-Atlantic/Baltic Education and Commerce Organization,
PA Council on the Arts and the U.S. Embassy in Estonia.
During residencies, Tom leads the students in making
hammered dulcimer, mountain dulcimer, banjo and/or
psaltery for the school while Slim teaches the music and
dances for a final hoedown/fiesta celebration.
The Rock Candy Cloggers, (Rock Howland & Candy Ranlet),
often join the Barnstormers for festivals & school
residencies, providing exciting clogging routines and
teaching traditional clogging workshops. They are both
experienced clogging instructors and sought after
performers. When not dancing, they join the band, adding a
fullness that is perfect for concerts and dances. They
recently joined the Barnstormers on a tour of schools,
concerts and festivals in Germany.
43
Music
TAMARA WELLONS AND BAND ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE R&B/Jazz/Global Soul BOOKING CONTACT Tamara Wellons Telephone: 301-240-0307 Email: [email protected] Website: www.tamarawellonsmusic.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3-piece acoustic ensemble to 8-piece full band/ensemble TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $7,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $3,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Technical requirements vary depending on venue. For non-traditional live music venue: 4 vocal microphones, 2 wedges/monitors -lead and background vocals, and a staging area which allows for a 5-piece and 3 vocalists band. Contact artist for more technical specifications.
ARTIST INFORMATION
Folks knew Tamara's homegrown gift of voice would take her
places—D.C. New York, London, South Africa. As the 2006
Maryland State Arts Council Individual Artist Award Recipient
and an artist on the new Ocha Records Label (a joint venture
between House Music Producer Osunlade and DJ/Producer
Carlos Mena), Tamara knows she will go places beyond what
she could have ever imagined, both vocally and spiritually.
As Tamara hits the studio to whittle away on her upcoming
debut soul, jazz and dance music project, one can't help but
attribute the story of that "little country girl with the big voice"
to her. Residents of her hometown, Ivor, VA, praise her
accomplishments.
Tamara is an artist who loves experimenting with other genres
of music. This compelled her to take on the Nirvana anthem of
teen angst, "Smells Like Teen Spirit." The result is a jazz-
inspired orchestration of the definitive rock classic. The song
combines Tamara's fluid vocals, Elise Perry's (Kindred) soulful
arrangement and hypnotic instrumentation by Raleigh Neal
(Spearhead). The song also features musical instrumentation by
bassist Walt Cosby and drummer Jay Nichols (Citizen Cope,
Alice Smith).
In addition to the production talents of Osunlade and Carlos
Mena, Tamara's anticipated full-length album, ―Life is…‖ will also
feature music by Kokayi (Wayna, Opus Akoben), the Unknown,
and Rhome Anderson aka DJ Stylus .
45
Music
TODD MARCUS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Todd Marcus 1210 N. Stricker Street Baltimore, MD Telephone: 443-415-7386 Email: [email protected] Website: www.toddmarcusjazz.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 2-9 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $6,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $750 Maximum: $6,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE Secondary and up TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 15’ x 15’. Audio Support Equipment: professional sound system (microphones, monitors, mixing board). Lighting: basic stage lighting system with assortment of colored gels. Rehearsal Space: optional Other: piano, drum set, music stands.
ARTIST INFORMATION
Bass clarinetist and composer Todd Marcus is one of the few jazz artists worldwide to focus exclusively on use of the bass clarinet as a primary soloing instrument. Jazz Times writes, “With his melodic imagination and technical aptitude on an unorthodox horn, Marcus has something truly new and personal to offer.” Marcus offers several ensembles that range in size and budget. The groups perform jazz standards as well as Marcus’ original compositions that increasingly feature Middle-Eastern influences of his Egyptian heritage. Ensembles include:
Todd Marcus Jazz Orchestra – a nine piece ensemble (bass clarinet/clarinet, alto sax, tenor sax, alto sax/flute, trumpet, trombone, piano, bass, & drums)
Todd Marcus Quartet (bass clarinet/clarinet, piano, bass, & drums)
Todd Marcus Trio (bass clarinet/clarinet, bass, & drums)
Todd Marcus Duo (bass clarinet/clarinet & piano) Each ensemble is also able to provide interactive educational clinics and workshops for students and adults in addition to feature performances. Based in Baltimore, Marcus's work includes regular east coast performances as well as international shows, clinics, and radio play. He has worked with other jazz artists such as Larry Willis, Don Byron, Odean Pope, Tim Warfield, Sean Jones, George Colligan, Orrin Evans, Joel Frahm, Xavier Davis, and Gary Thomas.
“The bass clarinetist’s original tunes and the top-notch, lively musicians in the orchestra
deliver one of the most satisfying big-band sounds in the region.” --- Baltimore City Paper, January 5, 2011
“Marcus has deftly helmed [a] nine-piece orchestra, which features some of the region’s more notable players.”
--- Baltimore Sun, October 20, 2011
“…masterfully performed solos…If you need to get your blood pumping, this [music] will fit the bill.”
--- Examiner.com, November 26, 2010
“One of the area’s finest jazz musicians.” --- The Baltimore Times, September 2008
"[T]he Baltimore-based Marcus has fashioned a career on the bass clarinet of blending traditional bebop and swing with some world music touches
that make him deserving of wider recognition.
--- Jazzreview.com, October 2005
46
Music
WALT MICHAEL & COMPANY ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Roots-Based Traditional Music BOOKING CONTACT Walt Michael c/o Common Ground on the Hill 2 College Hill, McDaniel College Westminster, MD 21157 Telephone: 410-857-2771 410-967-9111 (cell) Email: [email protected] Website: www.waltmichael.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1-4 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $5,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $600 Maximum: $5,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 10’ x 18’ Audio Support Equipment: PA w/monitors, minimum 8 microphones on boom stands Lighting: General wash
ARTIST INFORMATION
Walt Michael & Company present concerts of roots-based
acoustic string band music of the highest caliber. Considered to
be a virtuoso of tremendous influence in the revival of the
hammered dulcimer, Walt‘s wide repertoire ranges from
old-time Southern Appalachian, to Celtic, to folk, to
breath-taking original compositions.
His various musical incarnations, including Bottle Hill, Michael,
McCreesh & Campbell and Walt Michael & Co., have spanned
over 35 years and taken him from the coal camps of Appalachia
to the Closing Ceremonies of the 13th Olympic Winter Games in
1980, when 900 million world viewers heard his signature com-
position, Snowblind.
As a vocalist and multi-instrumentalist he has recorded sixteen
albums and instructional videos, appeared at the White House,
the Lincoln Center, and the Kennedy Center and toured exten-
sively throughout the US, Canada, Europe and the UK.
His music has been heard on ABC-TV, NBC's Tonight Show,
Broadway, BBC, TNN, CBC, OLN and PBS.
Walt is joined by highly acclaimed musicians including Ralph
Gordon (cello), Alexander Mitchell (fiddle, mandolin, guitar) Rob
Caswell (banjo, guitar) and Tom Wetmore (bass).
Walt Michael & Company are available to complement their
concerts with instrumental workshops as well as school
assembly programs and residencies at all educational levels.
47
Music
WASHINGTON MUSICA VIVA ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Chamber Music: Classical, Contemporary, and Jazz BOOKING CONTACT Carl Banner 7502 Flower Avenue Takoma Park, MD 20912 Telephone: 301-891-6844 240-479-0077 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dcmusicaviva.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3-7 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $3,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 20’ x 15’ Stage Set: piano, music stands, and chairs Audio Support Equipment: PA sys-tem
ARTIST INFORMATION
Washington Musica Viva (WMV) performs a broad range of
classical, jazz-based, and contemporary chamber music.
Formed in 1998 as the vision of pianist/director Carl
Banner, WMV blends a variety of musical voices and
genres in its chamber music performances. Though
grounded in classical traditions, their performances owe
much to contemporary sensibility and the influences of
jazz, blues, and rock n roll. In addition to classical
chamber music masterpieces, WMV has a special focus on
Washington area composers, women composers, African-
American composers, and composers suffering under
political oppression.
Repertoire:
―Dvorak Jazz Dances" Jazz version of Dvorak Slavonic
Dances by Charley Gerard, commissioned by the Embassy
of the Czech Republic and Washington Musica Viva. Char-
ley Gerard, alto saxophone, Syberen van Munster, guitar,
Carl Banner, piano, James King, bass, Lenny Robinson,
drums. 60 minutes, no intermission.
1. Slap on it!
2. Divorce Shack
3. Slavonic Shuffle
4. Minuet for Antonin
5. Petka
6. Calypslovonic
7. Hobbling Toward Seven
8. Afrolantonin
9. Blue Shack
10. A New World
11. Like Sonny, Like Coltrane, Like Dvorak
Bukowski Liked Mozart
Claude Bolling Suite for violin plus jazz trio, and "Bukowski
Liked Mozart" by Charley Gerard (after the Mozart Sonata
#9 in F, K. 377), for violin plus jazz trio. Kathy Judd, vio-
lin, Carl Banner, piano, Jon Nazdin, bass, Lenny Robinson,
drums. 60 minutes, no intermission.
Romantic Piano Trios
Piano trios of Brahms, Dvorak, and Beach. Violin, cello,
and piano. 75 minutes, including intermission. Kathy Judd,
violin, Adam Gonzalez, cello, Carl Banner, piano.
48
Whit Williams ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Jazz, Blues, Popular BOOKING CONTACT David Lowe Lobolowemusic, LLC 5450 Fall River Row Court Columbia, MD 21044 Telephone: 410-964-4373 Email: [email protected] SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4—22musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $7,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $7,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCES All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Stage Dimensions: 30’ x 30’ Audio Support Equipment: Profes-sional audio equipment—must include microphones, monitors and mixing board Visual Support Equipment: Con-tact artist Lighting: Basic lighting system with colored gels Rehearsal Space: Optional Other: Piano and music stands
Music
ARTIST INFORMATION
Thomas ―Whit‖ Williams has been an influential figure for musicians
from the Baltimore-Washington area since the early 1950‘s. During
the time he has been teaching here he has been of more sought
after side men for many major artists playing in the Baltimore-
Washington metropolitan area. He has touring all over the United
States and Europe but has always chosen to remain close to home
and family rather than staying on the road.
Over the years he has performed with many Jazz greats such as:
Lionel Hampton, Sarah Vaughn, Nancy Wilson, Joe Williams, Tony
Bennett, Mel Torme, Clark Terry, Stanley Cowell, Albert Dailey,
Jimmy Heath, Slide Hampton, Hank Crawford and many more.
He has also performed with many famous poplar artists such as:
Barry With, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Gladys Knight and the
Pips, Flip Wilson, Sammy Davis Jr., Natalie Cole, Patti LaBelle, The
Del-phonics, The Supremes, The Temptations, The Rick Henderson
band, Lena Horn, Dionne Warwick and many more.
In 1981Whit Williams started and is the sole proprietor of the
―Now‘s The Time Music‖ Big Band. The artistic mission of ―Now‘s
The Time Music‖ is to promote an appreciation for Jazz and other
Afro-American styles of music through education programs and
concert performances.
49
Music
WIGGINS & FRIENDS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Blues (Piedmont) BOOKING CONTACT Tina Terry, Agent Piedmont Talent PO Box 680006 Charlotte, NC 28216 Telephone: 704-399-2210 (Main)336-273-0446 (Direct) Email: [email protected] Website: www.piedmonttalent.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 3-5 musicians TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $4,000 Educational/Residency Fee Range Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $2,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Two folding chairs and a PA system
ARTIST INFORMATION
The American masterpiece of Cephas & Wiggins may tour no
more, but the heartfelt calling of their story and music
continues under the helm of Phil Wiggins himself.
Wiggins & Friends is a showcase of all that is Piedmont Blues
and unfolds the history of the music as it has been defined
by Cephas & Wiggins‘ 25+ year career. The torch of this
history and style of music is carried forward with Phil and
the friends that have studied under or played with Cephas &
Wiggins throughout their prosperous career . It‘s a
masterpiece performance that honors our American musical
history.
50
Theater
ARIANNA ROSS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Storytelling BOOKING CONTACT Lorienne Beals 13641 Winterspoon Lane Germantown, MD 20874 Telephone: 301-916-6328 Email: [email protected] Website: www.storytapestries.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo artist TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $8,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,000 Maximum: $3,000 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 18’ x 12’ playing area, adequate lighting for performance space, 1-2 CD playback, small table and wireless Lavaliere microphone
ARTIST INFORMATION
Story Tapestries: Arianna Ross creates entertaining, international,
dynamic programs that weave the power of dance, theatre, music
and storytelling together. Arianna entertains and educates children
and adults through performances, hands-on workshops, professional
development sessions and long-term residencies.
For over 12 years, Arianna has performed in the US, India, Vietnam,
Brazil and Canada on stage, television, and radio, in preschools
through high schools, colleges, concert halls, libraries, museums,
and hospitals. She has taught for critically acclaimed organizations
such as the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the
Smithsonian, and Towson University. Arianna Ross was one of the
featured performers at 2008 Minnesota Fringe Festival, The Faberge
Egg Festival in Washington DC, The Just Stories Festival in Chicago
and at the Vancouver, BC International Storytelling Festival.
She creates her tapestry from the threads of her experiences as an
Ethnographer, Storyteller, Writer, Teaching Artist, Dancer, Musician,
and Photographer. Ms. Ross has received several prestigious grants
such as the Solo Theatre Fellowship Award from the Montgomery
County Arts and Humanities Council and the Individual Artist Award
from the Maryland State Arts Council.
"Thank you for inspiring me to remember how I used to teach."
–Jen Flores, 1st Grade Teacher
While a wide range of programs are available to select from,
Arianna's signature is to customize every experience to your needs.
As a storyteller, dancer, visual artist, teacher and director, Arianna
strives to tell multi-lingual stories that can both bridge the gap
between communities and remind us -
"It is through the laughter and tears of our tales that the lessons of
life are imparted."
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Theater
BILL GRIMMETTE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Theatre and Storytelling BOOKING CONTACT Bill Grimmette 1115 Red Harvest Road Gambrilles, MD 21054 Telephone: 410-695-1630 Email: [email protected] Website: www.masterstoryteller.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo artist TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $375 Maximum: $750 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,200 Maximum: $3,500 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS 6 foot long table—artist will bring sound system
ARTIST INFORMATION
Bill Grimmette is a Master Motivational Storyteller and Learning
Dramatist who performs stories of history and culture for all
audiences in the field of education.
As the Griot Malife Nkruhmah, he ―brings a message from the
ancestors‖ while inspiring pre K-6 audiences to relish reading and
to read for relish! For middle and high school audiences, Bill calls
on his 40 years of theater experience to recreate interactive, living
history dialogue in the characters of Martin Luther King, Jr.,
Frederick Douglass, Benjamin Banneker, and W. E. B. Du Bois.
After a rousing 20-30 minutes of exciting stories, the students
get to question him in character to broaden their living history
experience.
For parents, Bill has stories that encourage family storytelling in
learning sessions and workshops for teachers on how to add
drama to the learning experience to facilitate recall and
excitement. Bill has performed these original, high energy,
learning-focused programs in schools all over the country and
overseas.
While doing a performance of Martin Luther King at the Air Force
Academy in Colorado, Grimmette was approached by a cadet at
the end of the show who asked if he had done some stories at
Trinity Elementary School about 15 years earlier. Grimmette
replied yes and the young cadet remembered him with public glee
and recalled some of the stories he had heard. Enduring memories
are the hallmark of learning and pleasant memories of the
learning environment is the hallmark of these performances by Bill
Grimmette, the Learning Dramatist.
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Theater
DEBRA MIMS ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Theatre and Storytelling BOOKING CONTACT Debra Mims 3904 Greencastle Ridge Drive #303 Burtonsville, MD 20866 Telephone: 301-890-3665 or 301-300-4410 Email: [email protected] Website: www.myspace.com/mimstheword SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo artist TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $350 Maximum: $1,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $1,000 AVAILABILITY Call for availability AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Performance area 10’x 10’ If microphones are available, they need to be wireless clip For Grandma’s Cautionary Tales— four chairs
ARTIST INFORMATION
Debra Mims, actress and writer, is from Detroit, Michigan
and has lived in the Washington DC area since 1995. She
was trained as an actress, dancer and arts lover and
earned a B.F.A. in Theatre Performance from Marygrove
College in Detroit, Michigan.
In the DC area, she began performing with the
Georgetown Theatre, The Metropolitan Ebony Theatre and
with Young Audiences of DC.
Debra developed a solo performance program, My
Grandmother Told Me, a tribute to African American
Women. In June, 2000, the program premiered at the
historic Sewall-Belmont house in Washington, DC. My
Grandmother Told Me has been performed in over 200
schools, libraries and community organizations in DC,
Maryland and Virginia. The program was selected for the
Race to Read Summer Programs for the DC Public
Libraries. Debra also performs and tours two other
programs, Grandma’s Cautionary Tales, a collection of
ghost story folk tales from the African Diaspora and
Grandma’s Kwanzaa, a celebration of the African
American holiday for those who trace their roots back to
Africa.
She is presently affiliated with Young Audiences of
Maryland and the DC Arts and Humanities Collaborative.
Other writing credits include The Tricky Tales of Anansi
and Friends for the Maryland Park and Planning Summer
Theatre Program, 2007. In July, 2007 Debra premiered a
solo theatrical performance work, Madness, Menopause
and More, which received an overwhelming response and
was performed in April, 2008 at the Clarice Smith
Performing Arts Center at The University of Maryland.
Debra has received multiple Individual Artist Awards for
Outstanding Theatrical Solo Performance by the Maryland
State Arts Council.
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Theater
DIANE MACKLIN ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Theatre and Storytelling BOOKING CONTACT Diane Macklin 8639-B 16th St., Suite #112 Silver Spring, MD 20910 Telephone: 703-966-7957 Email: [email protected] Website: www.dianemacklin.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE Solo artist TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $7,500 (Multiple performances) EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $400 Maximum: $6,500 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 10’X10’ Stage Set: Small table for instruments and/or props. Audio Support Equipment: Lapel microphone Lighting: Basic Lighting for Stage (minimum requirement) Rehearsal Space: Cleared space of at least 10’X10’, preferably with mirror (if available) Other: Hot water available; quiet and private room/space for stretching and warming up
ARTIST INFORMATION
Master storyteller, Diane Macklin, delights audiences with a
―dynamic‖ approach to engaging audiences (Washington Post).
She skillfully integrates her theatrical presence, dancing hands,
and lyrical voice, creating a unique ―griot‖ like story experience.
Performances of her solo, theatrical pieces as well as traditional
storytelling programs are seasoned with audience participation and
character education. Diane is the resident storyteller for the ―Let‘s
Read About Africa‖ program at the Smithsonian‘s National Museum
of African Art and has performed for the Colonial Williamsburg
Storytelling Festival, Discovery Theatre, Cincinnati Playhouse in
the Park, FUNDA/Rhode Island Storytelling Festival, Wolf Trap‘s
Theatre-in-the-Woods, and many other venues from
Massachusetts to California. She has even been featured on Voices
of America, which is broadcast internationally.
Storytelling is more than entertainment to Diane. She has a talent
for embracing many other cultures beyond the African and African
American traditions through portraying characters with a ―vibrant,
moldable face‖ (The Phoenix) and a passion to unite people
through stories – historical, traditional, and personal.
Her training as a cultural mediator and formal classroom teacher
lends uniqueness to her commitment to quality programming,
education, and arts integration in residencies, professional
development trainings, and workshops.
She possesses a B.A. in English from Vassar College and a M.A.T.
from Simmons College.
As a performer, teaching artist, and orator, Diane believes in
―Making a Difference, One Story at a Time.‖
54
Theater
IN-FLIGHT THEATER ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Aerial Theatre (apparatus based theatre) BOOKING CONTACT Mara Neimanis 2006 West Rogers Ave Baltimore, MD 21209 Telephone: 410-800-8685 Email: [email protected] Website: www.in-flighttheater.com SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1 performer, 1 technician (Air Heart) 3 performers, 2 technicians (Storm Cycles) TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $5,000 Maximum: contact artist EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: contact artist Maximum: contact artist AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Contact artist for site specific information
ARTIST INFORMATION
Mara Neimanis/In-Flight Theater creates theatre in the air
using trapeze and invented aerial objects that include floating
steel sculptures and incongruous large objects. Our work
integrates circus arts with physical acting to create stories,
texts, and characters set in multi-dimensional landscapes.
In-Flight Theater is interested in using acting and aerialism in
nontraditional ways in order to cross personal boundaries and
limitations. In-Flight Theater offers classes and residencies with
every production. All of our plays are meant for touring and can
be created according to the specifications and needs of any the-
ater or institution.
Air Heart is a sixty minute solo aerial performance about the life, mystery and final flight of Amelia Earhart that takes place on a 12- foot tall spinning metal plane sculpture. The portable plane sculpture serves as a set, prop, aerial apparatus and character, thus creating playing space that incorporates both ground and air. In this rich kinesthetic territory, Air Heart
combines the poetic journey of flight with factual events of
Earhart‘s life, myth and mystery. Air Heart illustrates the
athletic and poetic female body in partnership with the plane
sculpture as a forum to share the events, courage, conflicts, and
pioneering accomplishments of Earhart as a woman, aviator, and
feminist icon. Storm Cycle is a 60- minute visual, physical, and aerial
performance piece about Storms. The play is loosely inspired by
the book, "The Nature of Violent Storms" and various weather
service reports about people and places ravaged by nature and
the parallels between weather and human temperament. In a
unique collaboration Mara Neimanis of In-Flight Theater and
Sabrina Mandell of Happenstance Theater brew up an evening of
poetic and visual storytelling combining aerial elements with
clown, melodrama, and visual montage, to embody transforming
stories about storms, human temperaments, and the lives of
women. Karen Hansen provides original music and A large
mounted spinning weather vane apparatus designed and
constructed by Tim Scofield serves as the main set piece to
conjure images of weather and industry as it historically relates
to women's ―work‖, sewing, washing, and care giving. Some of
the ideas explored are the incredible stories of violent storms
which can at once lay waste to an entire town while gently
transporting a baby or a dressing table mirror hundreds of feet
and setting them down with care.
55
Theater
JON SPELMAN ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Spoken Word BOOKING CONTACT Jon Spelman 213 S. Durham Street Baltimore, MD 21231 Telephone: 410-732-0153 cell: 240-355-6360 Email: [email protected] Website: www.jonspelman.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 1-2 artists, depending on the show TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 Maximum: $1,500 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 Maximum: $3,800 AVAILABILITY Year round AUDIENCE All ages TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 10’ deep x 15’ wide Audio Support Equipment: Public address, wireless microphone Lighting: General Stage Lighting Rehearsal Space: Varies depending on show and venue
ARTIST INFORMATION
FOR ADULTS:
DIGGING INTO SHAKESPEARE: (with musician Tina
Chancey). Bits and Pieces of the Bard, interwoven with often
hilarious stories of Spelman‘s experiences in Shakespeare
production. (Commissioned by the Clarice Smith Performing
Arts Center at the University of Maryland, College Park)
FOR ADULTS AND HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS:
TALES OF THE LINCOLN: The life and death of Abraham
Lincoln, told through the voices of his family and friends.
(Commissioned by Ford‘s Theatre in Washington, DC.)
FRANKENSTEIN: Told from the Creature‘s point of view.
Presented solo, or with musician Tina Chancey.
(Commissioned by the Round House Theatre, Silver Spring,
MD)
FOR FAMILIES AND ADULTS:
TALES OF THE LINCOLN: As above, edited and adapted for
family presentation.
MYTHS AND LEGENDS: Stories, ancient and more
contemporary, from the oral tradition.
SOME GOOD OLD TALES: Tales from many cultures and
ethnicities. THREE STORIES TALL: Tales from North American oral
traditions, including stories collected from children and young
people.
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Theater
MARYLAND SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Shakespeare Plays & Residencies BOOKING CONTACT Candace Sorensen 15 West Patrick Street Frederick, MD 21701 Telephone: 301-668-4090 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mdshakes.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 4-14 actors
TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $1,500 Maximum: $15,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $800 Maximum: $1,500 AVAILABILITY Taming of the Shrew: June 15-August 15, 2009 A Midsummer Night’s Dream/Romeo & Juliet: June 15-August 15, 2010 AUDIENCE Middle school-adult TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions:24’ x 24’ Stage Floor: Level stage floor, preferably a sprung floor—no concrete For outdoor venues, portable aluminum staging is required Lighting: 1 300 amp whisper quiet generator Audio Support Equipment: Audio will run off of the generator Other: A. one 300amp whisper quiet generator B. Dressing room space for 14 actors C. 20 Folding chairs D. One staff liaison for project and site support
ARTIST INFORMATION
Since 2000, Maryland Shakespeare Festival has brought fully
produced, large-scale, Shakespearean performances to over
100,000 people across the state. Combining the work of the most
respected union artists and most exciting up-and-coming artists in
the area, MSF creates magic in your community.
This is not your grandma‘s Shakespeare! Maryland
Shakespeare Festival believes in playing like they did in
Shakespeare‘s day (and is recognized nationally as one of seven
Original Practice Laboratories in the world). With extensive
research and training, MSF brings Shakespeare back to life as the
playwright intended – great plays, bravely played, by highly skilled
players.
And it‘s all about PLAY! Like the circus coming to town, MSF
immediately creates a festival environment with strolling
performers and musicians before and during the play. We play
with (and light) the audience, including them in the story. We
include interludes (instead of intermissions) filled with live
contemporary music. We create a relaxed family friendly
atmosphere with an optional KID ZONE pre-show and/or a
selection of educational workshops.
We believe Shakespeare was never meant to be a dose of cultural
medicine, but a vibrant, fun, and communal event that makes a
difference in our lives. Your audiences will understand every word,
be delighted by the silliness, and moved by a vibrant storytelling
that brings Shakespeare‘s timeless stories to life with the
relevance of today! MSF brings Shakespeare out of the dark and
stuffy theater and into the light (or park!) where everyone, no
matter their cultural or economic background, can enjoy.
57
Theater
NATIONAL PLAYERS, THE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Shakespeare Plays and Classic Adapted Novels BOOKING CONTACT Madeleine Russell 2001 Olney Sandy Spring Road Olney, MD 20832 Telephone: 301-924-4485 ext. 116 Email: [email protected] Website: www.nationalplayers.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 8-12 actors
TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $5000 Maximum: $7,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $0.00 Maximum: $20,000 AVAILABILITY September—May AUDIENCE Middle school-adult TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 25’ x 25’ Stage Set: Provided by company Stage Floor: Adaptable Lighting: The National Players sends a light plot to be hung by the venue and focused by the company
ARTIST INFORMATION
Now celebrating its 63rd anniversary season, National Players
has earned a distinctive place in American theatre by bringing
innovative and accessible productions to audiences across the
country. Performed with high voltage energy, clarity, and wit,
National Players introduces audiences to great works of
dramatic literature that are rich in exciting stories and
characters, and profound in language and themes.
National Players was founded in 1949 by Father Gilbert V.
Hartke, O.P., a prominent arts educator and then head of the
drama department at Catholic University of America. His
mission was to stimulate young people‘s higher thinking skills
and imaginations by presenting classical plays in surprisingly
accessible ways.
National Players offers an exemplary lesson in collaboration
and teamwork-in0action: the actors not only play multiple
roles onstage, but also serve as managers, teaching artists,
and technicians. A self-contained company, National Players
carries its own sets, lights, costumes, and sound. Also, all
National Players bookings are handled in house, which allows
for ease and adaptability to any space or organization.
Along with exciting theatre performances, National Players
offer workshops in playwriting, stage combat, Shakespeare
and acting improvisation. Also, each booking comes with
complimentary study guides and Q and A‘s with the cast after
their performances. Perfect for educational institutions as well
as large scale presenters.
Olney Theatre Center is proud to be the artistic home of
National Players and continue Father Hartke‘s vision and
commitment to provide young theatre artists with their first
professional opportunities.
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QUEST VISUAL THEATRE ARTISTIC DISCIPLINE Visual Theatre BOOKING CONTACT Tim McCarty 7414 Newburg Drive Lanham, MD 20706 Telephone: 301-552-1703 Email: [email protected] Website: www.questvisualtheatre.org SIZE OF ENSEMBLE 6-8 members
TOURING FEE RANGE Minimum: $500 Maximum: $20,000 EDUCATIONAL/RESIDENCY FEE RANGE Minimum: $250 Maximum: $2,000 AVAILABILITY Year-round TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS Minimum Stage Dimensions: 20 x 16 Stage Set: Quest productions use minimal, easily transportable set pieces Stage Floor: Quest prefers an even, clean floor service Lighting: requirements vary depending upon the production. Some productions work with minimal lighting, others require extensive lighting Audio Support Equipment: cd/Digital playback. Quest can provide audio equipment for some productions. Visual Support Equipment: Two Quest productions require LED projectors (“I Carry the Flag,” “Nano”)
Theater
ARTIST INFORMATION
Quest is internationally recognized for its innovative work
in visual theatre and its leadership in welcoming people
from diverse backgrounds. Performances have been called
breathtaking, maddening, thought-provoking, and
visually-rich.
Creating and producing new works for the stage that rep-
resent a strong visual and cultural base, Quest maintains
an active performance and training calendar both in the
United States and world-wide.
Quest‘s work includes performances, community
engagements, residencies, and workshops. Quest‘s
in-school work focuses on the use of visual theatre to
enhance literacy. Quest also provides professional
development to teachers in this approach.
Quest has received the Arts Presenters/MetLife Foundation
Award for Excellence and Innovation in Arts Access. The
Catalogue for Philanthropy has recognized Quest as one of
the region‘s exceptional nonprofits.
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An agency of the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development Division of Tourism, Film and the Arts Martin O’Malley | Governor Anthony G. Brown | Lt. Governor
Individuals who do not use conventional print may contact the Maryland State Arts Council to obtain this publication in an alternate format. 410-767-6555 or [email protected]
This publication is available as a PDF file on the MSAC Web site: www.msac.org.
Ballet Theatre of Maryland