Written by The Samba Meets Jazz Workshops, directed by Brazilian-born, multi-Grammy Nominee Nilson Matta (bassist for, Trio da Paz and Luis Bonfa) will be heading across the Atlantic to Palermo, Italy from April 23rd to the 28th.
The workshop offers a 5-day vocal and instrumental workshop for adults of all levels and musical backgrounds and will be held at Conservatorio de Bellini. Joining Matta as part of the faculty will be renown jazz guitarist and pedagog Dave Stryker. Dave was recently voted into the 2017 Downbeat Critics and Readers Poll for the 10th time. Also joining the team is New England Conservatory vocal faculty member, Dominique Eade. The week will culminate with a student performance at Tatum Art Jazz Club, on Sunday evening, April 28.
Samba Meet Jazz Workshops, based in the U.S, is one of the very few programs worldwide that specializes in integrating Brazilian music studies with jazz. Matta, a force in the evolution of Brazilian jazz in the United States, has played, performed and recorded with Brazilian icons including João Gilberto, Hermeto Pascoal and Luis Bonfa, not to mention his longstanding engagements with jazz luminaries Joe Henderson, Don Pullen, Kenny Barron, and YoYoMa (Obrigado Brazil).
Nilson Matta – SMJ Artistic/Music Director
Working directly with Matta, instrumental and vocal participants will learn authentic rhythms, harmonies and phrasing of the various styles of Brazilian music – from the well-known bossa nova and samba to baião and more. SMJ Executive Director, Alice Schiller stated: “Whether your a vocalist or instrumentalist, whether your new to Brazilian music or seeking to enhance repertoire and skills, this is a unique opportunity to learn from the source.”
Dave Stryker
In addition to the above, instrumentalists can hone their jazz skills with Dave Stryker. Stryker, an accomplished bandleader in his own right with over 28 CD’s as a leader to date is also teaching at University of Indiana’s renowned jazz program and will be focusing on ensemble playing, improvisation and arranging. I asked Alice what students can they expect? “Stryker has that keen ability to identify what students need to get to the next level and to help them get there! Yes, participants can expect a real “work-out,” but to also laugh a LOT along the way.” explained Schiller.
Dominique Eade
About Dominique Eade, SMJ Executive Director, Alice Schiller states: “Dominique is a uniquely masterful vocal teacher. Each year our students make a point of coming to me to share ‘break-throughs” they’ve had in technique and more. She’s able to integrate all students when working in a master-class format. That’s a skill in itself. For these reasons, Dominique has been with us for four consecutive years now, when most camps “rotate” teachers in and out.”
Samba Meets Jazz Workshops, in its 9th year, is committed to making its programs accessible to all who have a passion for the music. Special rates have been set for European participants, ranging from 450 – 795 euros. In addition, college students, educators and working musicians are eligible for discounts.
For more information and to register: visit the Samba Meets Jazz Workshop website here.
Editors Note: Keep an eye out in the coming weeks for a feature interview with Nilson Matta on this platform.
Last modified: April 4, 2019
