◀◀ David Finckel, cello & Wu Han, piano, perform on Thursday, May 27. See page 12.
◀ Amythyst Kiah performs Friday, May 28. See page 14.
▼ Jazz at Lincoln Orchestra Septet with Wynton Marsalis performs Sunday, May 23. See page 9.
TABLE OF CONTENTS Welcome to the 2021 Spring Season!.................................................3 Donors & Supporters.................................................................................4 2021 SPRING SEASON Spring Season at a Glance................................................................8 Sunday, May 23....................................................................................9 Tuesday, May 25................................................................................10 Wednesday, May 26.......................................................................... 11 Thursday, May 27.........................................................................12–13 Friday, May 28.................................................................................... 14 Saturday, May 29............................................................................... 15 Sunday, May 30................................................................................. 16 Safety Protocols & Ticketing Information.................................. 17–18 Purchasing Tickets, Discounts & Policies..................................19–20 Ways to Save, About the Cover..........................................................20 Area Map...................................................................................................... 21 Education Programs............................................................................... 22 SMF Board and Staff............................................................................... 23
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
Welcome to the 2021 Spring Season!
We welcome you to the Savannah Music Festival’s (SMF) 2021 Spring Season, which comes after a series of stops and starts due to the pandemic. SMF has always strived to elevate artists from a wide range of traditions, with a through line of powerful artistic expression in jazz, classical, and American and international roots music. In this reemergence in late May, we welcome you to join us in celebrating a range of artists—albeit with the different setting and composition that 2021 allows—all in the same spirit and with a wholehearted devotion to the music. This season, running from May 23 through 30, reinforces the intimate exchange between audiences and world-class artists for which SMF has become known around the globe. Great care has been taken to ensure safety and instill confidence in attendees and participating artists, with touchless ticketing, staggered entry, social distancing, limited capacities, and fastidious sanitation of stage, venue and shared spaces. We will also be live streaming select performances in this May series, to provide access to those not in attendance due to limited capacities. Due to international travel restrictions, a few important elements of a typical SMF season have been delayed. Associate Artistic Director Philip Dukes and other previously programmed European artists cannot be with us physically, but Dukes will offer virtual performances of two Brahms viola sonatas this April and May, with pianist Peter Donohoe. He will return to Savannah in October of this year to perform with the Escher String Quartet, as part of the first Fall Season ever presented by SMF. Complete fall programming will be announced in the summer, for concerts staged in indoor and outdoor venues.
The full cast of SMF chamber players is set to return for the 2022 season. Additionally, international artists previously programmed, who hail from Mali, Cuba, France, Niger, Israel, Mexico, Canada and elsewhere, will be prioritized when we return for a full festival season in the spring of 2022, March 24 through April 9. For this Spring Season, we have programmed a series celebrating artistic legacies and partnerships, involving masters alongside emerging artists and fostering as much collaboration on stage as possible. In addition to the continued yearround digital expansion of Musical Explorers and SMF Jazz Academy, SMF Education and Community Engagement programs during the Fall Season will include a free outdoor SMF Family Jam. A free community concert to celebrate the generosity of our donors, sponsors and SMF in Unison members is also in the works for the Fall Season, along with co-productions with other Savannah arts organizations. The SMF team is thrilled to get back to live presentations, and we look forward to seeing you at concerts this spring and later in the year!
Ryan McMaken, Artistic Director
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
DONORS & SUPPORTERS For over 30 years, Savannah Music Festival has proudly presented unparalleled live music in beautiful, historic downtown Savannah. As we adjust to the new sociallydistanced format of the 2021 festival, which will help to ensure the health and safety of our patrons, we want to express our gratitude to our donors, sponsors and community for sticking with us. As a nonprofit organization, we rely on the generous support of donors and sponsors to present the festival, as well as to underwrite SMF’s local education programs which serve more than 10,000 children each year at no cost to the participants. More than ever we need your continued support, recognizing, of course, that there are many important causes in need of help at this time. However, as Savannah Music Festival has been such an important part of the cultural fabric of our area, we hope that you can continue your generous giving in support of our varied programming and outreach. Your support truly makes a difference. SMF is pleased to offer a variety of benefits to recognize and thank our individual donors and corporate sponsors for their support. Thank you for considering a gift to SMF!
I N D I V I D UA L DONORS FOUNDER
SILVER
Ron & Susan Whitaker
Walter G. Canipe Foundation The Chatham Foundation Chestnut Family Foundation Willard & Jean Holland Toby W. Hollenberg George & Ann Hubbs Josh & Kelley Keller Karen & Ted Kleisner Dave Lake & Linda Wright The Marjorie E. & B.H. Levy, Jr. Charitable Fund Larry Pike in memory of Bonnie Pike The Solomons Fund Zach Thomas Mr. & Mrs. John L. Tucker Anne P. West *
DIAMOND R. Scott & Meredith D. Belford in memory of Laura S. Devendorf Bob Faircloth Charles & Rosalie Morris Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly PLATINUM Dorothea & Tim Coy Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Marla & Morris Geffen Dayle & Aaron Levy Tom & Ruth McMullin Wilson & Linda Fisk Morris
WAYS TO GIVE:
Dave & Sylvaine Neises
•
Donate securely online: weblink.donorperfect.com/supportSMF
Shelby G. Schavoir
•
Donate by phone: 912.234.3378 x106
Pamela & Peter Voss
•
Set up recurring monthly gifts with your credit card
•
Transfer a gift of stock
GOLD
•
Contact your employer for corporate matching gifts
•
Contact us for information about in-kind sponsorships
•
Join the Festival’s Legacy Society to include Savannah Music Festival in your estate plans
Curt & Libba Anderson The Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation Joan & Jim Hunter David & Caroline Johnson Robert M. & Diane v.S. Levy Mr. & Mrs. Jerry McElreath Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Stephanie & Michael Reardon Gail & Paul Wickes
For more information on ways to give, donor benefits and giving levels, contact the Development Department at 912.234.3378 x106.
♪ Thank you to these donors and sponsors who gave in whole
Robin & Sandy Stuart May Wall & Walter Lynch
or part to support SMF’s education programs. Please see page 22 for more information.
*Gift includes cash and additional in-kind. Donor and Sponsor listings as of 3/25/2021.
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
Harold & Peggy Yellin
BRONZE Ira P. Berman & Helen A. Borrello Mr. & Mrs. Daniel H. Bradley Carole & Gene Brogdon Byck-Rothschild Foundation, Inc. Joan & Gary Capen Steve & Carter Eagle Find Your Light Foundation Friends of Savannah Music Festival The Hodge Foundation The Hunter Foundation Bill & Bev Jaques Bob & Alice Jepson Jill Kammermeyer & Robert Hochstetler Bill & Becky Keightley Richard K. Lane Mrs. Robert O. Levitt Joann McElravy Tim & Kathleen Mercier Jim & Bunny Montag Mrs. Ellen O’Bannon Roger & Rachel Page Elizabeth C. Peeples Regina & Rick Roney Jacqueline & Ken Sirlin Marti & Austin Sullivan The Sussman Family in memory of Seymour Sussman Michael & Peggy Towson
C O R P O R AT E SPONSORS
I N-K I N D C O R P O R AT E S P O N S O R S
DIAMOND
DIAMOND
PLATINUM
THE ANDREW W.
MELLON FOUNDATION
HunterMaclean A T T O R N E Y S
PLATINUM GOLD *
SILVER GOLD
BRONZE
SILVER
& KH Kaufman-Heinz LLC
T
ER
G
EN SC
CO .U NI
E A SA L
TED
SAVANNAH
OF
CO C
O A-CO L A B
TT
LI
N
FESTIVAL SOCIETY
BRONZE
John Davis Florist, Lake Champlain Chocolates
MEDI A SPONSORS
FESTIVAL SOCIETY D’Addario Foundation
♪ box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
SPECIAL THANKS
LIFETIME GIV ING $1.5+ MILLION Bob Faircloth $1+ MILLION Gulfstream Aerospace Corp. $500,000+ Curt & Libba Anderson Anonymous Connect Savannah / Morris Multimedia Inc. Ron & Susan Whitaker
Robert (Bob) Faircloth has been
$250,000+ Atlanta Gas Light Critz Auto Group Floor & Decor Charles A. Frueauff Foundation Nancy & Larry Fuller The Courtney Knight Gaines Foundation Bob & Alice Jepson Tom & Ruth McMullin
Memorial Health Wilson & Linda Fisk Morris Dave & Sylvaine Neises Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Shelby G. Schavoir Visit Savannah Wet Willie’s Management Corp.
$100,000+ Anonymous R. Scott & Meredith D. Belford in memory of Laura S. Devendorf David & Linda Bush Byck-Rothschild Foundation, Inc. The Chatham Foundation Dorothea & Tim Coy Maria & Bill Dascombe Julius & Danyse Edel First City Capital Management Friends of Savannah Music Festival Marla & Morris Geffen Georgia Ports Authority Georgia Power Mr. & Mrs. Robert L. Harrison Willard & Jean Holland
George & Ann Hubbs Kole Management Company Dayle & Aaron Levy Robert M. & Diane v.S. Levy Levy Jewelers Carolyn Luck McElveen Mercer University School of Medicine Mid-Atlantic Arts Foundation John T. Neises Publix Super Markets Charities Jackie & Stephen Rabinowitz Barbara Ruddy Savannah College of Art & Design Savannah Distributing
Savannah Economic Development Authority Savannah Morning News The Solomons Fund South Arts and The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation South State Bank The Albert Tenenbaum Family Fund Lorlee Tenenbaum The Alice M. & Thomas J. Tisch Foundation Mr. & Mrs. John Tucker Pamela & Peter Voss Doug & Lamar Webb Wells Fargo Foundation Anne P. West Gail & Paul Wickes Harold & Peggy Yellin
one of Savannah Music Festival’s (SMF) longtime champions. Joining the SMF board in 2006, he was the Board Chairman for two terms from 2009 to 2012. He is a permanent fixture of the board as Chairman Emeritus. Faircloth is a retired international business executive and resided in Canada, England and the United States. He has lived in Savannah for 26 years and has been an active supporter of many arts organizations, healthcare initiatives and charities and has served on the boards of many organizations in both Savannah and New Hampshire. Driven by his love of music, especially jazz, Bob is a shining example of one of SMF’s most dedicated supporters. Over the years, Bob has not only sponsored the festival but has also been an advocate of SMF’s education program, Swing Central Jazz, a three-day big band jazz workshop and competition for high school jazz bands from across the country. Bob’s sponsorship of the annual Jean Faircloth Prize, named for his late wife, has been an essential element to the competition. We salute Bob for his extraordinary support and friendship with all SMF team members, past and present.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROSITY & ESSENTIAL SUPPORT! SMF in Unison is a group of patrons who donated their 2020 Savannah Music Festival ticket purchase back to the organization, helping to support our ongoing operations during these challenging times.
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West • Vincent & Lisa West • David Westberry • James O. Westby • Paul Wetenhall • Wet Willie’s Management Corp. • Gail L. Wexler • David M. Wheeler & Mary A. Villeponteaux • Steven Wheeler • Janis Whelan • Ron & Susan Whitaker • Allison White • Karen White & Lynn Krinsky • Kathryn White • Lisa White • Mr. & Mrs. Pendleton P. White • Bruce Whitlow • Jeff Whitlow • Laura Whitney-Thomas • Gail & Paul Wickes • Andrew & Brooke Wilford • Peter Wilkinson • Alan Williams • Chester Williams • Margaret Willis • William Willis • Marcia & Larry Wills • Jack Wilson • Kathleen Wilson • Marie Wilson • Pat Wilson • Ellen Wiseman • Kevin Wolfgram • Betty Womack • Jimmy Wong • Bruce Wood • Chandler Woodland • Becky & Jeff Woodruff • Sandra Worman • Deborah & David Wright • Larry Wright • Rick Wright & Cathy Jarman • Rudolf Wunsch • Karen Yaun • Harold & Peggy Yellin • Bob & Vicky Young • Brian Young • Mr. & Mrs. David A. 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box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
SPRING SEASON AT A GLANCE SUN 5/23
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Septet with Wynton Marsalis 4 AND 7:30 PM METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN See page 9
TUE 5/25
Performance Today’s “Piano Puzzler” with Bruce Adolphe and Fred Child 6 PM METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN See page 10
WED 5/26
Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y / Camille Thurman & the Darrell Green Quartet 7:30 PM METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN See page 11
David Finckel, cello & Wu Han, piano 5:30 PM TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
THU 5/27
See page 12
Rodney Crowell 8 PM METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN See page 13
FRI 5/28 SAT 5/29
Amythyst Kiah / Jontavious Willis 7:30 PM METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN See page 14
Paul Huang, violin & Anne-Marie McDermott, piano 3 PM TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH See page 15
SUN 5/30
Jeremy Denk, piano 3 PM TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH See page 16
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
S U N DAY, M AY 2 3
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Septet with Wynton Marsalis Pianos by Steinway & Sons 4 AND 7:30 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 1 HR METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN Tickets start at $39
Under Music Director Wynton Marsalis, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (JLCO) performs a vast repertoire, from rare historic compositions to Jazz at Lincoln Center commissioned works, including compositions and arrangements by Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Fletcher Henderson, Thelonious Monk, Mary Lou Williams, Dizzy Gillespie, Benny Goodman, Charles Mingus and many others. Performing two separate shows for this intimate engagement, the JLCO Septet with Wynton Marsalis appear in a rare small group configuration that will leave audiences inspired and uplifted with the full vigor, vision and depth of America’s music. Since its first downbeat as a summer concert series at Lincoln Center in 1987, the JLCO has stayed true to its mission, which is to entertain, enrich and expand a global community for jazz through performance, education and advocacy. Over the past three decades, the JLCO has performed in more than 446 cities in 41 countries on five continents, including their last SMF performance in 2012.
“…from the jaunty to the heartfelt, there are gospel shouts, group counterpoint and declamatory lines, and the featured soloists match the trumpeter leader for virtuosity and vigour.” FINANCIAL TIMES (UK)
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
T U E S DAY, M AY 2 5
Performance Today’s “Piano Puzzler” with Bruce Adolphe and Fred Child Pianos by Steinway & Sons
Don’t miss this opportunity to participate in an episode of “Piano Puzzler,” the hugely popular weekly American Public Media (APM) program hosted by Fred Child as part of APM’s Performance Today. A proven hit among Savannah Music Festivalgoers in 2014, “Piano Puzzler” features composer, scholar, author and educator Bruce Adolphe at the piano, challenging the audience to identify popular tunes performed in the style of classical composers. Adolphe is a renowned composer whose multifaceted career includes concurrent positions as resident lecturer and director of family concerts for The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, New York; composer-in-residence at the Brain and Creativity Institute, LA; founding creative director of The Learning Maestros education company; and artistic director of Off the Hook Arts Festival, Colorado. Child’s CD reviews appear on All Things Considered and his classical music reports appear on Morning Edition and Weekend Edition. He is a contributor to Billboard, a commentator for BBC Radio 3 and host for Live From Lincoln Center.
6 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 1 HR METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN Tickets start at $25
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
W E DN E S DAY, M AY 2 6
Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y / Camille Thurman & the Darrell Green Quartet Pianos by Steinway & Sons 7:30 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 2 HRS 45 MINS Includes a 30-minute intermission METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN Tickets start at $25
Drummer/bandleader Ulysses Owens Jr. has performed and recorded with many acclaimed jazz artists, including Nicholas Payton, Christian McBride, Wynton Marsalis, Mulgrew Miller and others. Through his relationships with these great bandleaders, he learned a great deal about Art Blakey and Betty Carter, both of whom had bands that became educational institutions and launched the careers of many of today’s paradigm-shifting musicians in jazz. In the past five years, Owens’ career has shifted him from being a “young lion” to grooming the next generation of talent through his performance, production and educational work. Generation Y is the result of those efforts, for which he has selected a new crop of young musicians from his professorship at The Juilliard School. Ulysses Owens Jr. has performed at SMF in previous years with the Christian McBride Trio and Joey Alexander Trio, and currently serves as the Artistic Educator In Residence for SMF Jazz Academy (see page 22). As a composer, multi-instrumentalist, vocalist and unique interpreter of the jazz tradition, Camille Thurman is quickly becoming one of the standard bearers for the form, making a dynamic contribution to the legacy of jazz while paying tribute to its heroes. Fluid and powerful on the tenor saxophone and highly inventive as a vocalist, she also plays bass clarinet, flute and piccolo. Her rich sax sound has been compared to Joe Henderson and Dexter Gordon, while her vocal approach— including an impressive scatting ability—has been classified alongside those of Ella Fitzgerald and Betty Carter. Thurman tours internationally with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra; she is the first woman in 30 years to tour and perform full time two seasons as a saxophonist with the world-renowned orchestra (20182020). She is also a featured artist with the Darrell Green Quartet, with which she has performed at The Kennedy Center, Alice Tully Hall and numerous respected international jazz festivals and venues.
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
“In the chamber music world they are rock stars.” CHAMBER MUSIC AMERICA
T H U R S DAY, M AY 2 7
David Finckel, cello & Wu Han, piano
The first chamber music concert of SMF’s 2021 Spring Season is the incomparable duo of David Finckel and Wu Han, with a program entitled “The Immortals.” They are recipients of Musical America’s Artist of the Year Award, one of the highest honors granted by the music industry. The energy, imagination and integrity they bring to their multifaceted endeavors as concert performers, artistic directors (The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, Music@Menlo, Chamber Music Today in Seoul), recording artists and label founders (ArtistLed), educators and cultural entrepreneurs continues to inspire musicians and listeners around the world. PROGRAM “The Immortals”
Pianos by Steinway & Sons
BACH Sonata for Viola da gamba (Cello) and Harpsichord (Piano) No. 2 in D Major, BWV 1028 BEETHOVEN Sonata No. 3 in A Major for Cello and Piano, Opus 69
5:30 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 1 HR 45 MINS Includes a 30-minute intermission TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Tickets start at $55
BRAHMS Selected intermezzi for Solo Piano from Six Klavierstücke, Opus 118 I. Intermezzo (A minor) II. Intermezzo (A Major) Sonata No. 1 in E minor for Cello and Piano, Opus 38
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
T H U R S DAY, M AY 2 7
Rodney Crowell
8 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 1 HR 15 MINS
Renowned singer-songwriter and sage Rodney Crowell, whose astute commentary helped propel the 2019 Ken Burns documentary, Country Music, last appeared at the Savannah Music Festival in 2013 with longtime collaborator Emmylou Harris at the Johnny Mercer Theatre. A protégé of Guy Clark and Mickey Newbury, and bandmate of Vince Gill and Tony Brown in The Notorious Cherry Bombs, Crowell was recognized in 2006 by the Americana Music Association with a Lifetime Achievement Award for Songwriting. The Houstonborn, Nashville-based musician’s 2019 recording, Texas, features an all-star lineup that includes Willie Nelson, Lee Ann Womack, Lyle Lovett and Ringo Starr.
“There’s no doubt that Crowell was an architect of Americana as we know it.” NPR MUSIC
METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN Tickets start at $25
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
F R I DAY, M AY 2 8
Amythyst Kiah / Jontavious Willis
7:30 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 2 HRS 30 MINS Includes a 30-minute intermission METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN Tickets start at $25
Originally scheduled to play the first concert of SMF 2020, Tennessee native Amythyst Kiah is one of the brightest new stars on the acoustic/Americana scene. Equally adept on banjo and acoustic guitar, Kiah draws on an eclectic range of influences from old-time music and alternative rock to folk, country and blues. Her recent collaboration with Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla and Allison Russell on the album Songs of Our Native Daughters has put Kiah in the spotlight as a vocalist and songwriter of rare power, with characteristics akin to Odetta and Nina Simone. On that project, the Kiah-penned standout song “Black Myself” earned a Grammy Award nomination for Best American Roots Song and won Song of the Year at the Folk Alliance International Awards. Hailing from Greenville, Georgia, Jontavious Willis grew up singing gospel music at the Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church with his grandfather. From an early age, he had the talent and passion for the music and the ability to sharpen his skills fast. When he was 14 years old, he came across a video of Muddy Waters playing “Hoochie Coochie Man” and was instantly hooked on the blues. Now ten years later, Willis has toured with Taj Mahal and recently released a Grammy nominated album with Spectacular Class. His love of country blues is deeply rooted in Delta, Piedmont, Texas and gospel styles. He appeared in the Georgia Soul & Blues concert presented by SMF in 2018, with Roosevelt Collier in the 2020 release of Southbound’s festival IPA, and more recently took part in the SMF-produced episode of The Kennedy Center’s Arts Across America series (presented in partnership with South Arts).
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
S AT U R DAY, M AY 2 9
Paul Huang, violin & Anne-Marie McDermott, piano
Pianos by Steinway & Sons 3 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 1 HR 50 MINS Includes a 30-minute intermission TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Tickets start at $55
Recipient of a 2015 Avery Fisher Career Grant and a 2017 Lincoln Center Award for Emerging Artists, violinist Paul Huang makes recent and forthcoming appearances with the Mariinsky Orchestra with Valery Gergiev, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra with Leonard Slatkin, and the Houston Symphony with Andrés Orozco-Estrada. Mr. Huang earned both bachelor’s and master’s degrees at The Juilliard School. He plays on the legendary 1742 ex-Wieniawski Guarneri del Gesù on loan through the Stradivari Society of Chicago. For over 25 years, Anne-Marie McDermott has played concertos, recitals and chamber music in hundreds of cities throughout the United States, Europe and Asia. In addition to performing, she also serves as Artistic Director of Bravo! Vail and Ocean Reef Music Festivals, as well as Spotlight Chamber Music Series Curator for the Mainly Mozart Festival in San Diego. She studied at the Manhattan School of Music and was the winner of the Mortimer Levitt Career Development Award for Women, the Young Concert Artists auditions and an Avery Fisher Career Grant. PROGRAM PÄRT Spiegel im Spiegel PROKOFIEV Violin Sonata No. 1 in F minor, Opus 80 BRAHMS Violin Sonata No. 2 in A Major, Opus 100 CORIGLIANO Sonata for Violin and Piano
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
S U N DAY, M AY 3 0
Jeremy Denk, piano
Jeremy Denk is one of America’s foremost pianists. Winner of a MacArthur “Genius” Fellowship and the Avery Fisher Prize, Denk was recently elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. Denk returns frequently to Carnegie Hall and in recent seasons has appeared with the Chicago Symphony, New York Philharmonic, Los Angeles Philharmonic, San Francisco Symphony and Cleveland Orchestra, as well as on tour with Academy of St Martin in the Fields, and at the Royal Albert Hall as part of the BBC Proms. This recital follows up his 2016 performance at SMF. PROGRAM BACH Partita No. 5 in G Major, BWV 829 SCHUBERT Four Impromptus, D. 935
Pianos by Steinway & Sons 3 PM RUNTIME: APPROX. 2 HRS 15 MINS Includes a 30-minute intermission TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Tickets start at $55
COLERIDGE-TAYLOR 24 Negro Melodies, Opus 59, No. 4 “They Will Not Lend Me a Child” BLIND TOM WIGGINS The Battle of Manassas JOPLIN-CHAUVIN Heliotrope Bouquet RZEWSKI Four North American Ballads: No. 4. Winnsboro Cotton Mill Blues BEETHOVEN Piano Sonata No. 32 in C minor, Opus 111
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
SAFETY PROTOCOLS & TICKETING INFORMATION KEEPING YOU SAFE
CHOOSING SEATS
Although we hope to have better public health conditions in May 2021, SMF’s plans at this time reflect industry best practices to protect patrons, staff and artists. We want the music to continue, so please read the below requirements closely and follow any instructions given to you by security, volunteers or staff.
Reserved tickets will automatically block seats for social distancing between orders. We encourage you to select seats for your entire party when making your purchase.
• Patrons must wear a mask upon entering each venue, when moving around each venue and while inside any buildings. Masks are required at all times in the Metal Building at Trustees’ Garden and Trinity United Methodist Church. Masks will be available if you forget yours. • All staff, vendors, volunteers, and artists and their support staff will be subject to a daily screening process and will stay home if they exhibit COVID-19 symptoms or test positive for COVID-19. Staff, vendors and volunteers will wear appropriate Personal Protective Equipment, depending on their position. • Patrons may not enter if, within the past 14 days, they have been diagnosed with COVID-19, have exhibited symptoms of COVID-19, or had contact with a person who has or is suspected to have COVID-19. Additionally, patrons who are high risk should follow CDC guidelines. • SMF has increased the number of patron entries to and exits from each venue to prevent crowded entries. • All tickets will be electronic. • Social distancing markers will be placed on the ground where lines may form. • Janitorial staff will frequently clean and disinfect common surfaces around each venue, including restrooms.
In an effort to avoid long lines for public health and safety, you will be assigned a specific entry point on your digital ticket and arrival time in your confirmation e-mail. See next page for seat maps and read more on our website about designated entry points.
LIVE STREAMED CONCERTS Due to limited ticket availability and to provide you with alternative ways to enjoy live music, a select number of concerts will be available to stream live. Please visit our website for more information on live-streamed concerts.
• Hand sanitizing stations will be available to patrons throughout each venue, and all staff, vendors and volunteers will be required to wash or sanitize their hands regularly. • Reserved seats are automatically distanced between orders to provide ample distance between groups. • To reduce contact, we encourage cashless forms of payment for tickets and merchandise. Point of sale systems will be sanitized regularly. Please note all performances and policies are dependent on local and state guidelines and may be subject to change. For the safety of all audience members, ushers and SMF staff will be available at both venues. If you see anything that warrants attention for the common good, please alert a red-shirted usher or SMF staff. SMF staff reserves the right to ask patrons to leave if they are violating our safety protocols.
Visit our website for more information about detailed safety protocols, parking and policies. savannahmusicfestival.org
By purchasing a ticket to our event you voluntarily assume all risk and liability for any damage or injury to person or property, including exposure to or infection with COVID-19. Please stay home if you are at high risk, sick, or if you have knowingly been exposed to COVID-19.
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SEAT MAP FOR THE METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN
TICKET PRICES INCLUDE ALL TAXES & FEES*!
TICKET PRICING FOR THE METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN
*excluding box office service fees
GOLD CIRCLE
TIER 1
TIER 2
TIER 3
TIER 4
Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra Septet with Wynton Marsalis Sunday, May 23 (two shows)
$146
$126
$106
$86
$39
Performance Today’s “Piano Puzzler” with Bruce Adolphe and Fred Child Tuesday, May 25
$75
$65
$55
$45
$25
Ulysses Owens Jr.’s Generation Y / Camille Thurman & the Darrell Green Quartet Wednesday, May 26
$75
$65
$55
$45
$25
Rodney Crowell Thursday, May 27
$75
$65
$55
$45
$25
Amythyst Kiah / Jontavious Willis Friday, May 28
$75
$65
$55
$45
$25
Please note: Due to the nature of the venue, select seats in Tiers 1-3 have obstructed views. All seats in Tier 4 have obstructed views.
SEAT MAP FOR TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
TICKET PRICING FOR TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
GOLD CIRCLE
TIER 1
TIER 2
David Finckel, cello & Wu Han, piano Thursday, May 27
$75
$65
$55
Paul Huang, violin & Anne-Marie McDermott, piano Saturday, May 29
$75
$65
$55
Jeremy Denk, piano Sunday, May 30
$75
$65
$55
unavailable
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
PURCHASING TICKETS, DISCOUNTS & POLICIES ONLINE SAVANNAHMUSICFESTIVAL.ORG 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
BY PHONE SAVANNAH BOX OFFICE 912.525.5050 Monday to Thursday 10 AM to 3 PM Hours subject to change
AT THE DOOR ONE HOUR PRIOR TO SHOWTIME AT THE PERFORMANCE VENUE. Subject to availability
PR E-S A L E : A PR I L 1 2–19, 2 0 2 1 SMF donors, sponsors and SMF in Unison members are eligible for pre-sale ticket access. To take advantage of the exclusive pre-sale, call Savannah Music Festival at 912.234.3378 to order your tickets. Pre-sale phone hours: • Monday, April 12–Friday, April 16, 10 AM to 5 PM • Saturday, April 17–Sunday, April 18, 10 AM to 3 PM • Monday, April 19, 10 AM to 5 PM Please note: Pre-sale ticket purchases are limited. To check if you’re eligible for presale access, please e-mail kat@savannahmusicfestival.org
T I C K E T S G O O N S A L E T O T H E PU B L I C : A PR I L 2 0, 2 0 2 1 Standard Savannah Music Festival ticket discounts and donor benefits do apply.
AVOID TICKET FEES Published SMF 2021 Spring Season ticket prices include all fees. However, tickets are subject to box office service fee charges. To avoid box office fees, tickets may be purchased by phone at the Savannah Box Office. DIGITAL TICKETS To encourage contactless transactions, all tickets will be digital for SMF 2021; ushers will scan tickets at the door. You will receive your tickets via email with PDF attached. If you do not have access to a phone that supports a PDF, you may print your ticket at home and bring it with you to the concert. CHILDREN SMF strives to provide a welcoming environment for patrons of every age. For questions about the suitability of a performance for your child, please call 912.234.3378 x111. Children 12 years of age or younger receive free admission to concerts at Trinity United Methodist Church. Children 5 years of age or younger receive free admission to concerts at the Metal Building at Trustees’ Garden. Children have to be accompanied by paying adult ticket holders (limit one child per one paying adult). Free tickets for children are available for purchase by calling the SMF office at 912.234.3378 x111. All patrons, regardless of age, must have a valid ticket to enter the venue. This includes infants and children that may normally sit on the lap of a parent. Chamber performances at Trinity United Methodist Church are not recommended for children under the age of 5 years. Older children and young adults, especially those studying to learn an instrument, are invited to take advantage of SMF’s special
discounts at Trinity United Methodist Church. See the WAYS TO SAVE section (page 20) or visit savannahmusicfestival. org/deals for more details. ACCESSIBILITY The Metal Building at Trustees’ Garden is wheelchair accessible, and ADA accessible seats are available. Accessible public restrooms are located inside the Metal Building. Trinity United Methodist Church is wheelchair accessible. Accessible public restrooms are located in the rear of the venue and at the Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center. To request accessible seating or if you have a need that is not addressed, please call the SMF office at 912.234.3378 x111. PATRON CODE OF CONDUCT We are committed to providing an inclusive environment that celebrates exceptional live music, highlights diverse voices and genres and unites our community. We are dedicated to cultivating a safe, comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone who interacts with the Savannah Music Festival. Patrons are expected to contribute to our mutually respectful and welcoming community, supporting the richness of music from around the world and its transformative power. Please refrain from behavior that could disturb other patrons and performers. Patrons may be asked to relocate or leave if their behavior is disruptive to other audience members or if they are violating our safety protocols. Untolerated behavior includes, but is not limited to: • Ignoring requests from SMF staff and security regarding facility operations and emergency response procedures • Verbal or physical harassment, including
abusive language and gestures, threats, cursing or sexual language directed at others • Any form of discrimination or harassment because of race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability or veteran status • Behavior that violates government laws and regulations LATE SEATING Late seating for concerts will take place during the first appropriate pause in the program at the discretion of house management. CANCELLATIONS & REFUNDS Savannah Music Festival does not offer ticket refunds. Tickets can be exchanged or donated to the festival for resale. Exchanges are subject to availability and exchange fees. Tickets for donation must be received by the SMF office at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled performance. You will receive a tax-deductible donation receipt after the festival. If you or someone in your party contracts COVID-19 prior to arriving to a concert, has been exposed to COVID-19, or has received a positive test, please stay home. Your digital tickets are transferable if you’re able to find someone to go in your place. For further questions, please call the SMF office at 912.234.3378 x111. ALL PROGRAMS AND POLICIES ARE DEPENDENT ON LOCAL AND STATE GUIDELINES AND MAY BE SUBJECT TO CHANGE.
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
WAYS T O S AV E I N S M F ’ S S PR I N G S E A S O N LOCALS WEDNESDAY ▶ 15% discount for residents of Chatham County To show appreciation for our local community, we offer a special Locals Wednesday promotion on the performance taking place on Wednesday, May 26! Residents of Chatham County receive a 15% discount when purchasing tickets in advance or on the day of show. Valid ID required. Cannot be combined with other discounts. To purchase tickets using the Locals Wednesday discount, call the SMF office at 912.234.3378 x111. DISCOUNTS SPECIFIC TO CONCERTS AT TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Every patron aged 39 and under can purchase discounted tickets to concerts at Trinity United Methodist Church (limited availability)! Cannot be combined with other discounts. ▶ Patrons 12 and under receive free admission ▶ School children and young adults age 13–19: $10 tickets ▶ Patrons in their 20s (20–29): $20 tickets ▶ Patrons in their 30s (30–39): $30 tickets
GIFT CA R DS Give the gift of live music! Gift cards are available in $25, $50, and $100 amounts at the box office and online at savannahmusicfestival.org.
STANDARD SENIOR, MILITARY, STUDENT & EDUCATOR DISCOUNTS Patrons aged 65+, military personnel, as well as students and educators, are eligible to receive a 10% discount on all single ticket purchases. Limit one ticket per person per performance. Tickets must be purchased by calling the box office at 912.525.5050 or the day of show. Valid ID required. Cannot be combined with other discounts. GROUPS Group discounts are available on a case-by-case basis. Please call the SMF office at 912.234.3378 x111.
About the Cover and the 2021 Festival Poster For the 2021 season poster, the Savannah Music Festival commissioned French illustrator Peggy Nille. Peggy Nille studied drawing and graphic design at the revered Fine Arts School of Paris. She’s been an illustrator for 15 years and specializes in children’s book illustrations, editorial illustrations, and illustrations for wallpapers, decorative fabrics and packaging. About her poster for the 2021 Savannah Music Festival, she says: “It was an honor to work on the poster for the Savannah Music Festival. First, because the subject (music) is inspiring and second because the city is beautiful! I put the focus on the season (spring time) and since I love to create dreamlike illustrations, I placed the musicians among the flora and fauna of Savannah with the river and Historic District as a backdrop.” For more information about the artist, visit peggynille.com or instagram.com/ peggynille. To purchase, please visit savannahmusicfestival.org/smf-shop. Please note: Dates printed on the poster reflect original SMF 2021 plans. Since posters were printed, dates have been adjusted to May 23–30, 2021.
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SAVANNAH RIVER W. RIVER E. RIVER
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AREA MAP
Emmet Park
E. BAY
W. BAY
BRYAN Franklin Square
Ellis Square
Johnson Square
Warren Square
Reynolds Square
Washington Square
Venues
Columbia Square
W. OGLETHORPE
HOUSTON
Greene Square
PRICE
ABERCORN
E. BROUGHTON
1 E. BROAD
YORK
Oglethorpe Square
LINCOLN
STATE Wright Square
DRAYTON
1
E. PRESIDENT
E. OGLETHORPE
Colonial Park Cemetery
HULL Orleans Square
Chippewa Square
Crawford Square
PERRY
W. LIBERTY
RANDOLPH
2
BULL
BARNARD
JEFFERSON
Telfair Square
WHITAKER
W. BROUGHTON
MONTGOMERY
MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.
NGE
HABERSHAM
CONGRESS
E. LIBERTY
W. HARRIS
E. HARRIS Pulaski Square
Madison Square
Lafayette Square
Troup Square
W. CHARLTON
E. CHARLTON
E. JONES
W. TAYLOR
E. TAYLOR Chatham Square
Monterey Square
Calhoun Square
Whitefield Square
E. GORDON
W. GASTON
E. GASTON
E. HUNTINGDON
W. HUNTINGDON Forsyth Park
W. HALL
E. HALL
W. GWINNETT
E. GWINNETT
W. BOLTON
E. BOLTON
W. WALDBURG
B
E. WALDBURG
Accommodations A
RIVER STREET INN 124 East Bay St., (912) 234-6400, riverstreetinn.com
Immerse yourself in Savannah’s History. Built in 1817, the former cotton warehouse which is now known as the River Street Inn is nestled between Bay and River Streets on the beautiful Savannah waterfront. This 5-story grey brick and heart pine construction has been freshly renovated. Industrial attributes and modern amenities blend perfectly with antiques and historic ambiance. Come enjoy Southern charm in style at the River Street Inn!
B
METAL BUILDING AT TRUSTEES’ GARDEN 660 East Broughton St.
Initially built for use as an iron foundry, Kehoe Iron Works was rehabilitated by Charles H. Morris and opened in 2018. Masks are required inside the Metal Building, except when patrons are actively drinking; social distancing is required. Hand sanitizing stations will be available, and housekeeping staff will clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly. A ventilation system is in place to circulate and exchange outdoor air. Craft beer, wine and non-alcoholic beverages will be available. On-site parking is limited.
2
TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 127 Barnard St.
Located on Telfair Square, Trinity United Methodist Church is SMF’s primary classical music venue, now with sociallydistant reserved seating. The sanctuary provides wonderful acoustics and plentiful sight lines. Hand sanitizing stations are available, and housekeeping staff will clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly. A ventilation system is in place to circulate and exchange outdoor air. Additional restrooms are available at the Jepson Center. Parking is limited to city-operated garages and on-street spaces.
S OUTHERN BELLE VACATION RENTALS 1014 Abercorn St., (912) 289-0130, southernbellevacationrentals.com
Southern Belle Vacation Rentals is the place to find hundreds of luxury homes across the City of Savannah and Tybee Island with exceptional service to guests and homeowners, as well as resortstyle amenities! Find rentals in scenic locations within walking distance of local attractions. Available to all guests and homeowners during their stay is a brand new resort-style heated pool.
For more information, visit savannahsafe.com
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
EDUCATION PROGRAMS INVESTMENT BY THE CITY OF SAVANNAH
Musical Explorers Now in its seventh year, Musical Explorers is an unparalleled year-round music education program for children in the coastal region. Reaching more than 10,000 K-2 students and nearly 300 teachers, Musical Explorers teaches students about six different genres of music throughout the year, incorporating music education into every aspect of a child’s schooling. Musical Explorers’ robust digital assets include online curriculum, video lessons, virtual artist “classroom visits” and virtual professional development for teachers. SMF's Musical Explorers is now reaching teachers and families in 15 countries and 34 states! 2020–21 GENRES Music of India Cumbia Calypso
Blues Jazz Klezmer Music
For more information, visit musicalexplorers.savannahmusicfestival.org. Developed in partnership with
SMF Jazz Academy
RON & SUSAN WHITAKER, FOUNDING SPONSORS Ulysses Owens Jr., Artistic Educator in Residence Erez Dessel, Music Director Fellow Aaron Jennings, Community Liaison ARTIST INSTRUCTORS:
“Musical Explorers does an excellent job bringing different cultures and experiences together through music.” K–2 TEACHER, SAVANNAH
Ricardo Pascal, saxophone Marisa Webster, trumpet Federico Foster, trombone David Rosenthal, guitar
Luther Allison, piano Naledi Masilo, melodica Amina Scott, bass Marc Cordray, drums
Launched in January 2020, SMF Jazz Academy is a free after-school jazz program for local students that is unique in Savannah and the region. Forty students in grades 5-12 are enrolled in the program in the 2020-2021 school year, representing twenty schools in the community. Through a series of weekly classes, private lessons and practice support via video conference software, students at all levels learn about blues form, composition, improvisation, music technology, jazz history and more. For more information, visit savannahmusicfestival.org/jazz-academy.
“A big thank you to Mr. Dessel. [Jaden] loved the practice room session today. His smile says it all.” KAREN COOPER, JADEN COOPER’S MOM, PIANO, FALL 2020
S AVA N N A H M U S I C F E S T I VA L S P R I N G S E A S O N M AY 2 3 – 3 0 , 2 0 2 1
Future Festival Dates We look forward to welcoming you at a future Savannah Music Festival!
Board of Directors Chair: Tim Coy Treasurer: Vicki McElreath (Chair Elect) Vice-Chair: Thomas Reilly
Savannah Music Festival Staff EXECUTIVE & ADMINISTRATION Erin Tatum, Interim Executive Director
March 24–April 9, 2022
Vice-Chair: Ron Whitaker
March 23–April 8, 2023
Secretary: Harold Yellin
Luella Sanders, Chief Financial Officer
March 28–April 13, 2024
Melissa Bouchillon Dr. Jessica Carter Mary Dugas Ronald Eidell Bob Faircloth (Chairman Emeritus) John Haslam Holden Hayes Bill Jaques David Johnson Monty Jones, Jr. Josh Keller Ted Kleisner Jeff Kole Dr. Ann Levett B.H. Levy Dayle Levy Joe Marinelli (Ex-Officio) Ruth McMullin Dave Neises (Immediate Past Chairman) David Paddison Larry Pike Kacey Kennickell Ray Shelby Schavoir Emily Dickinson Scrivner Trip Tollison (Ex-Officio) Vincent West Rhegan White-Clemm Gail Wickes
Abbey Matye, Development & Artist Relations Assistant
PHOTO CREDITS: Cover: Artwork by Peggy Nille Page 2: David Finckel and Wu Han by LisaMarie Mazzucco, Amythyst Kiah by Sandlin Gaither, Wynton Marsalis by Lawrence Sumulong Page 6: Bob Faircloth by Elizabeth Leitzell Page 8: Wynton Marsalis by Piper Ferguson, Piano Puzzler photo courtesy of Performance Today, Ulysses Owens Jr. courtesy of the artist, Camille Thurman courtesy of the artist, David Finckel and Wu Han by Lisa-Marie Mazzucco, Rodney Crowell courtesy of the artist, Amythyst Kiah by Sandlin Gaither, Jontavious Willis courtesy of the artist, Paul Huang by Marco Borggreve, Anne-Marie McDermott by Matteo Trisolini, Jeremy Denk by Michael Wilson Page 9: Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis by Justin Bias Page 10: Bruce Adolphe by Yumiko Izu, Fred Child courtesy of the artist Page 11: Ulysses Owens Jr. by Rayon Richards, Camille Thurman courtesy of the artist Page 12: David Finckel and Wu Han by Lisa-Marie Mazzucco Page 13: Rodney Crowell by Greg Ross Page 14: Amythyst Kiah by Sandlin Gaither, Jontavious Willis courtesy of the artist Page 15: Paul Huang by Marco Borggreve, Anne-Marie McDermott by Matteo Trisolini
ARTISTIC & PRODUCTION Ryan McMaken, Artistic Director Philip Dukes, Thomas V. & Susan G. Reilly Associate Artistic Director DEVELOPMENT Kat Clark, Development Coordinator EDUCATION & OUTREACH Jenny Woodruff, Director of Education & Community Engagement Elizabeth Anderson & Charles H. Morris Music Education Chair Jessica Messere, Manager, SMF Jazz Academy Ulysses Owens Jr., Artistic Educator in Residence, SMF Jazz Academy Erez Dessel, Music Director Fellow, SMF Jazz Academy Aaron Jennings, Community Liaison, SMF Jazz Academy Jessica Baynes, Education Intern
Page 16: Jeremy Denk by Michael Wilson
MARKETING
Page 20: 2021 Savannah Music Festival poster featuring an original illustration by Peggy Nille
Larissa Thut Davidson, Marketing & Graphic Design Manager
Page 22: Musical Explorers by Shot by Somi Studios, SMF Jazz Academy by Felicia Bass
Akinyemi Blackshear, Marketing & Patron Services Associate
Back cover: Camille Thurman courtesy of the artist
box office 912.525.5050 | savannahmusicfestival.org
200 East Saint Julian Street Suite 601 Savannah, GA 31401 savannahmusicfestival.org
Where celebrated artists perform in unique historic venues.
About our New Look After an extensive process examining our brand role and purpose, Savannah Music Festival is excited to showcase new branding! The new mark, tagline and slogan highlight our aim to entertain, educate, and unite the community through exceptional live music.
▶ Camille Thurman & the Darrell Green Quartet perform on Wednesday, May 26. See page 11.