A Big Week of Music Performances
Chamber Players & Concert Ensemble and Jazz Band & Jazz Singers
On Thursday, April 25 at 7:30 p.m., join us in LeFevre Theatre for an evening filled with beautiful music at our Spring Gala Instrumental Concert! We'll be featuring new arrangements of Bizet's Carmen, as well as Ravel's Mother Goose Suite, along with original compositions by Grammy-nominated composer and Saint Mary's faculty member Sam Reider. Moreover, this evening marks a truly special occasion as we unveil the world premiere of "Meditation No. 2 (The Teacher)" by the esteemed Mexican composer Nubia Jaime Donjuan. Adding to the richness of our program, we're privileged to have Molly Baziuk grace us with a special performance, representing the excellence of our choral arts program. It's also a time to celebrate our graduating seniors in the Instrumental Music Program (Luke Wire, Amelia Ortiz, and Raphael Querubin).
Director Dr. Sixto F. Montesinos, Jr., says, "What sets our instrumental program at Saint Mary’s apart is its unique approach: each semester, the instrumentation in our ensembles—be it our concert ensemble or chamber players—evolves and transforms, allowing us to collaborate with the remarkable arranger, Sam Reider, to craft music tailored specifically for us."
Come and enjoy a delightful evening of music and celebration with us!
Weekend Jazz
On Friday, April 26, and Saturday, April 27, the Jazz Singers will be competing in Folsom's California Jazz Competition, with the hopes of bringing home the first place trophy again!
Then, on Sunday, April 28 at 2 p.m., the Jazz Band and Jazz Singers will combine in concert to pay tribute to Stevie Wonder in LeFevre Theatre. Experience the soulful melodies and infectious rhythms of his timeless classics brought to life by the talented Saint Mary's Jazz Band and Jazz Singers. From "Superstition" to "Isn't She Lovely," immerse yourself in the magic of Stevie Wonder's music. Whether you're a devoted fan or simply love good music, this concert promises to uplift and inspire. See his bio below.
For tickets and more info for both concerts, see stmarys-ca.edu/box-office
Please purchase your tickets online at least an hour before the concert. Otherwise, only cash or check are accepted at LeFevre Box Office half an hour before each performance.
For contributions to the music program: stmarys-ca.edu/musicgives
For contributions to the choir tour for the World Choir Games: stmarys-ca.edu/choirgives
Stevie Wonder and His Music
Stevie Wonder, born Stevland Hardaway Judkins on May 13, 1950, in Saginaw, Michigan, is a legendary American singer-songwriter, musician, and record producer. Blind from birth, Wonder showed exceptional musical talent from a young age, mastering several instruments including the piano, harmonica, and drums. He signed with Motown Records at just 11 years old and released his debut album, "The Jazz Soul of Little Stevie," which showcased his remarkable abilities.
Throughout his career spanning over six decades, Stevie Wonder has become one of the most influential figures in popular music. He has won an impressive 25 Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year three times, and has been inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Wonder's extensive discography includes iconic hits such as Superstition, Isn't She Lovely, and I Just Called to Say I Love You, which have left an indelible mark on the music industry.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Stevie Wonder is known for his activism and humanitarian efforts. He has been a vocal advocate for social justice, civil rights, and disability rights, using his platform to address issues of inequality and promote positive change. His legacy as a musical genius and a tireless advocate for equality continues to inspire generations around the world.