Hey again,
Here’s a chance to escape your algorithm and dive into some real experiences. 5 cultural events that you probably didn’t know are happening this week coming right up:
Music of Louis Armstrong @ Bryant Park
What is it: Enjoying the sunset while listening to the sweet sounds of Louis Armstrong start filling the air. The American Symphony Orchestra's jazz ensemble is doing a free gig dedicated to the legendary Satchmo. They'll be playing some classics, like "Coal Cart Blues" and "Do You Know What it Means to Miss New Orleans" (fun fact: he sang that tune on screen in the 1947 film New Orleans with Billie Holiday! Check it out below).
When: Monday, May 12th & Tuesday, May 13th 5:30PM
How Much: Zero. Zilch. Nada. Gratis!
Chamber Music Society @ Alice Tully Hall
What is it: Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center presents a program featuring five living composers from all over the world. Programmed as a part of their Beethoven festival, you’ll notice a complete absence of Ludwig. Much like his own artistic progression, today’s composers are pushing the envelope on what is expected and possible in classical music. Expect some unique and forward-thinking sounds, including a piece by Jörg Widmann, Quartet No. 8, Study on Beethoven III. Think of this concert like a musical family tree, but with some wild untrimmed branches.
When: Tuesday, May 13th 7:30PM
How Much: from $35
Maestros and the Machines @ Mercer Labs
What is it: Okay, this one's a bit of a head-scratcher but in a cool way. Mercer Labs, a space where art and tech are fused at the hip, is asking a big "what if?" What if the artistic legends of the past had today's tech? Think Da Vinci with a tablet or Mozart making music with Timbaland (who actually helped with the sound design of this show!). They've taken famous artworks and given them a digital makeover, making them interactive and ever-changing. It's like stepping into a museum that's also a bit of a video game.
When: It's open now! Go whenever you're feeling adventurous (check Mercer Labs' website for times).
How Much: $55
What is it: Skip the MET’s artifacts for a night and dive into the moving music of Syrian composer Faraj Abyad at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. He blends traditional Arabic music with old and new Arabic poetry, creating something that strangle feels both ancient and brand new at the same time. He'll be playing new stuff inspired by poems written on the walls of The Met's Damascus Room (talk about cool inspiration!) along with other premieres featuring words from top poets in the Arab world.
Why You Go: This isn't your usual MET visit. It's a chance to hear some seriously beautiful music and connect with themes of love, home, and togetherness from a culture nearly 6000 miles away. Plus, the fact that some of the music was inspired by the museum itself is pretty neat. It's a great way to expand your musical horizons and maybe even pick up a bit knowledge of ancient poetry.
When: Wednesday, May 15th
How Much: Tickets from $35
Lena Henke: The City Transformed @ BORTOLAMI
What is it: Prepare for an art show that's a little… out there — but also extremely New York. Lena Henke's "The City Transformed" at BORTOLAMI features these leather panels that look like bits and pieces of Manhattan maps. On these she's burned the street layouts from different periods of New York’s history and text from architecture historian Barry Lewis. These brand new works comment on the city’s life cycle. This is one of a few sets of new work from the artist on display.
When: Opens Thursday, May 16th with a 6-8PM reception. Closes June 21st.
How Much: Free to look (buying is another story!).
Stay cultured, New York!
Greg
P.S. Did you stumble upon a hidden gem or a wonderfully weird event in the city? Don’t keep it to yourself! Share the cultural love in the comments below and let’s keep the NYC adventure going!